System for dynamically adjusting the positioning of a tool kit of a canister and canister

Abstract

The application relates to a toolkit device for a can maker having a frame. The toolkit device includes a toolkit having a number of forming dies and an adjustment device. The adjustment device includes a number of adjustment mechanisms coupled between the toolkit and the frame, each adjustment mechanism being dynamically adjustable to adjust the weight of the toolkit as the ram body of the can making machine travels within the toolkit during normal can making operations of the can making machine. The positioning of the toolkit relative to the frame and / or the ram body is selectively adjusted.

Description

[0001] Cross - reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 420,355, filed on October 28, 2022, entitled "System for Dynamically Adjusting the Position of a Toolkit of a Can - Making Machine and a Can - Making Machine Including the System", and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 416,190, filed on October 14, 2022, entitled "System for Sensing and Dynamically Adjusting the Position of One or More Components within a Can - Making Machine and a Can - Making Machine Including the System". Technical field

[0003] The disclosed concepts generally relate to machinery, and more particularly to can - making machines for producing cans used in the food and beverage packaging industry. More specifically, the disclosed concepts relate to arrangements for sensing and adjusting the position of one or more components within a can - making machine, such as a toolkit of the can - making machine. The disclosed concepts also relate to systems utilizing such arrangements for sensing and dynamically adjusting the position of one or more components (such as a toolkit) within a can - making machine, and can - making machines including such systems. Background art

[0004] Typically, an aluminum can begins with an aluminum sheet from which a circular blank is cut. The blank is formed into a "cup - shaped piece" having a bottom and a hanging sidewall. The cup - shaped piece is fed into a can - making machine that moves the cup - shaped piece through a toolkit that thins and elongates the cup - shaped piece to form a can body. That is, the cup - shaped piece is set on a punch mounted on a slender ram. The ram is configured to reciprocate and move the cup - shaped piece through the toolkit that redraws and iron - thins the cup - shaped piece. That is, during each forward stroke of the ram, the cup - shaped piece moves through the toolkit that forms the cup - shaped piece into a can body. Near the start of the return stroke, the now - elongated can body is removed from the ram before moving the punch backward through the toolkit. Before the punch moves forward through the toolkit again, a new cup - shaped piece is set on the punch. After additional finishing operations (such as trimming, cleaning, printing, etc.), each can body is sent to a filling machine that fills the can body with product. Then a top component is attached to the can body and sealed against the can body, thus completing the can.

[0005] The tooling package in a can-making machine has a plurality of spaced-apart dies, each die having a substantially circular opening. The opening of each die is slightly smaller than the immediately upstream die. Thus, as the punch draws a cup-shaped piece through the first die and then the redraw die, the aluminum cup-shaped piece is deformed over the substantially cylindrical punch. Since the openings in the subsequent downstream dies of the tooling package have a smaller inner diameter, i.e., a smaller opening, the aluminum cup-shaped piece thins as the ram moves the punch and the aluminum cup-shaped piece on the punch through the remainder of the tooling package. The space between the ram and the redraw die is typically less than about 0.010 inches, and the space in the final ironing and redraw die is less than about 0.004 inches.

[0006] After the cup-shaped piece (now generally in the shape of a can body) has moved through the final die, the bottom and sidewalls of the cup-shaped piece have the desired thickness; the only other deformation required is to form the bottom of the cup-shaped piece into an inwardly extending (i.e., concave) dome. To achieve this, the distal end of the punch is concave, and at the maximum extension of the ram is a generally convex doming element (with a forming perimeter) commonly referred to as a "dome former". As the ram reaches its maximum extension, the bottom of the can body engages the dome former and is deformed into a dome, and the bottom perimeter of the can body is formed as required (usually inclined inwardly to increase the strength of the can body and allow the resulting cans to stack). As the ram retracts, the can body is stripped from the end of the punch by injecting air into the center of the ram. The air travels through the ram and exits from the end of the punch, releasing the can body from the punch. Typically, there is also a mechanical stripper that prevents the can body from remaining on the punch as the punch retracts back through the tooling package. The ram retracts through the tooling package, a new cup-shaped piece is placed on the punch, and the cycle is repeated.

[0007] The ram and tool kit are typically oriented generally horizontally. However, this orientation causes wear and tear on the ram. That is, the dies in the tool kit must be separated to allow proper deformation of the blank / cup. This means that the ram must extend horizontally across a distance of the entire tool kit that is typically between 18 inches and 30 inches, where the stroke length of the can making machine (i.e., the distance the punch must travel) is slightly greater. This means that the ram is essentially a cantilever. As is known, even very rigid members supported in a cantilever manner will sag at the distal end. While this sagging is generally not a problem for stationary members, it is a problem for a reciprocating punch / ram traveling through a number of dies with a radial clearance of less than about 0.004 inches. To compensate for the sagging of the punch / ram, the tool kit, dome former, and stripper are typically each statically aligned with the punch / ram prior to operation of the can making machine. This process is very critical because misalignment between the punch and one or more dies within the tool kit can result in defective cans / containers, cause tearing of the material, and / or damage the punch and one or more dies. However, when the can making machine is in operation producing cans, this static alignment may be inappropriate for the dynamic characteristics of the moving punch / ram. Moreover, there are other factors (such as but not limited to, thermal growth) that can cause the punch to not operate coaxially with the die centerline of the tool kit. Thus, due to sagging and other reasons, during operation of the can making machine, the punch / ram may not be coaxial with the circular dies of the tool kit. For example, the punch / ram may be closer to or in contact with the lower portion of the die due to sagging, resulting in misformed and unusable cans, and over time, premature wear and / or other damage to one or both of the punch and / or the dies of the tool kit. Similarly, thermal effects and / or other effects can cause the punch / ram to be off center in any direction, resulting in misformed and unusable cans, and over time, premature wear and / or other damage to one or both of the punch and / or the dies of the tool kit. When any of these damage events occur, the damaged components must be replaced. In addition, since replacing these components is a time-consuming process and since a typical can making machine produces over 15,000 cans per hour, having a misaligned punch / ram is a disadvantage. That is, if the punch / ram is misaligned, it is unlikely that any acceptable cans can be manufactured. Thus, the punch / ram should always be aligned (horizontally and vertically) with the centerline of the tool kit.

[0008] In a conventional arrangement, to verify that an acceptable can is being formed, the can-making machine is periodically stopped so that measurements can be performed on a particular can body, in particular measurements of the thickness around the circumference of the can body around a number of cans. Based on the measurement results, the adjustments required for the forming elements (e.g., ram / punch, tool kit, etc.) and / or the need to replace worn parts can be determined. Then such adjustments and / or part replacements are made, and the can-making machine is put back into operation. The time required for these stops to perform the measurements of the cans and the adjustment of the component alignment or part replacement of the can-making machine is time during which the can-making machine is not producing cans for use, and thus is a disadvantage. Therefore, the problem with the known systems and methods for aligning the ram / punch with the tool kit and / or with other components of the can-making machine is that the known systems and methods do not detect the position of the ram / punch in motion and / or the details of the can body formed on the punch by the punch passing through the tool kit, nor do they provide dynamic adjustment of the component positioning of the can-making machine to correct any one or more misalignments. Summary of the Invention

[0009] As an aspect of the disclosed concept, a tool kit device for a can-making machine having a frame is provided. The tool kit device includes: a tool kit having a certain number of forming dies; and an adjustment device including a certain number of adjustment mechanisms configured to be connected between the tool kit and the frame, each adjustment mechanism being configured to dynamically and selectively adjust the positioning of the tool kit relative to the frame and / or the ram body during normal can-making operations of the can-making machine as the ram body of the can-making machine travels within the tool kit.

[0010] The adjustment device may further include a controller in communication with each of the certain number of adjustment mechanisms, the controller being configured to selectively control each adjustment performed by the certain number of adjustment mechanisms. The tool kit device may further include a sensing device in communication with the controller, the sensing device including a certain number of sensors configured to detect the positions of a certain number of components of the can-making machine, and the controller being configured to selectively control each adjustment performed by the certain number of adjustment mechanisms at least in part based on inputs received from the certain number of sensors.

[0011] The certain number of adjustment mechanisms may include a plurality of adjustment mechanisms.

[0012] The tool kit device may further include a bracket for supporting the tool kit, and the certain number of adjustment mechanisms may be coupled to the tool kit via the bracket.

[0013] The certain number of adjustment mechanisms may be driven by one or more of mechanical devices, pneumatic devices, electric devices, and / or hydraulic devices.

[0014] Each of the plurality of adjustment mechanisms can be driven by one or more of a mechanical device, a pneumatic device, an electric device, and / or a hydraulic device.

[0015] As another aspect of the disclosed concept, a can-making machine for forming a plurality of cans is provided. The can-making machine includes: a frame; a ram; an operating mechanism configured to provide a reciprocating motion to the ram; and a tool kit device including: a tool kit having a certain number of forming dies positioned such that the ram travels within the forming dies when the reciprocating motion is provided by the operating mechanism; and an adjustment device including a certain number of adjustment mechanisms coupled between the tool kit and the frame, each adjustment mechanism being dynamically adjustable to selectively adjust the positioning of the tool kit relative to the frame and / or the ram as the ram travels within the tool kit during normal can-making operations of the can-making machine.

[0016] The adjustment device may further include a controller in communication with each of the certain number of adjustment mechanisms, wherein the controller is configured to selectively control each adjustment performed by the certain number of adjustment mechanisms.

[0017] The adjustment device may further include a sensing device in communication with the controller, wherein the sensing device includes a certain number of sensors configured to detect the positions of a certain number of components of the can-making machine, and the controller may be configured to selectively control each adjustment performed by the certain number of adjustment mechanisms based at least in part on inputs received from the certain number of sensors.

[0018] The certain number of adjustment mechanisms may include a plurality of adjustment mechanisms.

[0019] The can-making machine may further include a carriage supporting the tool kit, wherein the certain number of adjustment mechanisms may be coupled to the tool kit via the carriage.

[0020] The certain number of adjustment mechanisms can be driven by one or more of a mechanical device, a pneumatic device, an electric device, and / or a hydraulic device.

[0021] Each of the plurality of adjustment mechanisms is driven by one or more of a mechanical device, a pneumatic device, an electric device, and / or a hydraulic device.

[0022] These and other objects, features, and characteristics of the disclosed concept, as well as the operating methods and functions of the related elements of the structure, and the combination of components and the manufacturing economy, will become more apparent when the accompanying drawings are referred to and considered in conjunction with the following description and the appended claims. All of the drawings form a part of this specification, in which like reference numerals designate corresponding parts in the various figures. However, it should be clearly understood that the drawings are provided for the purpose of illustration and description only and are not intended as a definition of the limits of the concept. Description of the Drawings

[0023] A full understanding of the disclosed concept can be obtained from the following description of the preferred embodiments when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0024] Figure 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a can-making machine according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosed concept;

[0025] Figure 2 is a schematic partial perspective view of a sensing device according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosed concept;

[0026] Figure 3 is Figure 2 a schematic partial front view of the sensing device of;

[0027] Figure 4 is a series of graphs showing exemplary output signals from sensors of a sensing device such as Figure 1 when used in a can-making machine such as Figure 2 and Figure 3 which actively forms / produces can bodies;

[0028] Figure 5 is a perspective view of a part of a can-making machine having a ram assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosed concept;

[0029] Figure 6 is Figure 5 a schematic partial top view of the part of the can-making machine of;

[0030] Figure 7 is Figure 5 and Figure 6 a perspective view of a part of the can-making machine of;

[0031] Figure 8 is Figures 5 to 7 a perspective view of the ram assembly of;

[0032] Figure 9 is as Figure 8 shown in Figure 8 a detail view of a part of the ram assembly of;

[0033] Figure 10 Is Figures 5 to 8 A perspective view of a part of a ram assembly;

[0034] Figure 11 Is of an exemplary embodiment in accordance with the disclosed concept Figure 10 A perspective view of the part of the ram assembly shown in

[0035] Figure 12 A front view of a thermodynamic regulating device according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosed concept;

[0036] Figure 13 A perspective view of a part of a ram assembly according to another exemplary embodiment of the disclosed concept;

[0037] Figure 14 Is Figure 13 A perspective view of a carriage of a part of a ram assembly, showing a part of the ram body positioned in a cylindrical hole of the carriage;

[0038] Figure 15 Is as Figure 14 Indicated in Figure 14 A detail view of a part of the view of

[0039] Figure 16 Is a schematic cross-sectional view of a can-making machine similar to Figure 1 According to another exemplary embodiment of the disclosed concept;

[0040] Figure 17 Is a simplified cross-sectional view of a part of a can-making machine according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosed concept, showing an adjusting device for positioning a tool kit for adjusting the can-making machine;

[0041] Figure 18 Is a simplified cross-sectional view of a part of a can-making machine according to another exemplary embodiment of the disclosed concept, showing an adjusting device for positioning a tool kit for adjusting the can-making machine;

[0042] Figure 19 Is a simplified cross-sectional view of a part of a can-making machine according to yet another exemplary embodiment of the disclosed concept, showing an adjusting device for positioning a tool kit for adjusting the can-making machine; and

[0043] Figure 20 Is a simplified cross-sectional view of a part of a can-making machine according to still another exemplary embodiment of the disclosed concept, showing an adjusting device for positioning a tool kit for adjusting the can-making machine. Detailed Description

[0044] The specific elements shown in the drawings and described herein are merely exemplary embodiments of the disclosed concepts. Accordingly, the specific dimensions, orientations, and other physical characteristics associated with the embodiments disclosed herein should not be considered limiting of the scope of the disclosed concepts.

[0045] As used herein, the term "can" refers to any known or suitable container configured to hold a substance (e.g., but not limited to, a liquid; food; any other suitable substance), and expressly includes, but is not limited to, beverage cans (such as beer cans and soda cans) and cans for food.

[0046] As used herein, a "target position" is a selected position of a component relative to one or more other components.

[0047] As used herein, "dynamically positioning" refers to positioning a component relative to one or more other components based on measurements obtained while the punch of a can former is in motion. This will include adjusting the component while the punch is in motion and while the punch is not in motion, so long as the measurement is obtained while the punch is in motion.

[0048] As used herein, "actively positioning" refers to positioning a component relative to one or more other components while the punch is in motion.

[0049] As used herein, "coupled" refers to a connection between two or more elements, whether directly or indirectly, so long as the connection occurs. An object resting on another object solely by gravity is not "coupled" to the underlying object unless the upper object is otherwise substantially held in place. That is, for example, a book on a table is not coupled to the table, but a book glued to the table is coupled to the table.

[0050] As used herein, "directly coupled" refers to two elements being coupled in direct contact with each other.

[0051] As used herein, "fixedly coupled" or "fixed" refers to two components being coupled so as to move integrally while maintaining a constant orientation relative to each other. Fixed components may or may not be directly coupled.

[0052] As used herein, the word "integral" means components that are created as a single device or unit. That is, components that include devices that are separately created and then joined together as a unit are not "integral" components or bodies.

[0053] As used herein, "associated" means that the identified components are related to each other, in contact with each other, and / or interact with each other. For example, an automobile has four tires and four wheels, and each wheel is "associated" with a particular tire.

[0054] As used herein, when referring to a reference gear or other component having teeth, "engagement" means that the teeth of the gears are in contact with each other, and the rotation of one gear causes the other gear to rotate as well.

[0055] As used herein, the term "quantity" shall mean one or an integer greater than one (i.e., a plurality).

[0056] As used herein, "normal operation" of a can-making machine shall mean operating the can-making machine in full production mode over an extended period of time, with the aim of producing the optimum quantity of cans for a particular can-making machine during that period.

[0057] As used herein, an "electromagnetic regulating device" is an arrangement for regulating the positioning of one or more elements, which utilizes a controlled electromagnetic force to control / regulate that positioning.

[0058] As used herein, a "thermodynamic regulating device" is an arrangement for regulating the positioning of an element among a plurality of elements, which utilizes temperature and temperature changes to control / regulate that positioning.

[0059] As Figure 1 Schematically shown, a can-making machine or can-forming machine 10 according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosed concept includes an operating mechanism 12 configured to provide cyclic and / or reciprocating motion (such as indicated by the double-headed arrow 13), a ram 14, a loading station 16, a die assembly or tool kit 18, a can stripper 20, and a dome assembly 22. In Figure 1 the exemplary embodiment shown, each of the above components is directly or indirectly connected to a frame or housing (generally shown as 24) for maintaining such components and / or selected portions thereof in a known relationship relative to one or more other components among such components.

[0060] Continuing to refer Figure 1, the ram 14 has an elongated, generally cylindrical ram body 26 that is positioned about a longitudinal axis 28 such that the ram 14 moves generally back and forth along the longitudinal axis 28. The ram body 26 includes a proximal end 30 that is closest to and coupled to the operating mechanism 12 and a distal end 32 that is positioned opposite the proximal end 30. A punch 34 is disposed at or above the distal end 32 of the ram 14. The punch 34 is a generally cylindrical body having a recessed distal end 36 that is shaped to correspond to a cavity 38 of a dome tool 40 of the dome assembly 22. The operating mechanism 12 provides reciprocating motion to the ram body 26 such that the ram body 26 and thus the punch 34 move back and forth along the longitudinal axis 28 of the ram body. That is, the punch 34 is configured to reciprocate between a retracted position, in which the punch 34 is positioned between the loading station 16 and the operating mechanism 12, and an extended position in which the ram body extends generally horizontally through the tool kit 18 and the distal end 36 of the punch 34 is disposed adjacent to a convex dome structure 42 and indirectly engages the convex dome structure 42 via the bottom of a canister positioned on the punch 34, the convex dome structure 42 being provided as part of the dome tool 40 of the dome assembly 22 and extending into the cavity 38 of the dome tool 40.

[0061] The tool kit 18 includes a number of (e.g., but not limited to, three are shown in this example) dies 50, each having an opening 52. The opening 52A in the first die 50A (the die 50 closest to the operating mechanism 12) is slightly larger than the opening 52B in the second (intermediate, as shown) die 50B. The opening 52B in the second die 50B is slightly larger than the opening 52C in the third (farthest from the operating mechanism 12) die 50C. That is, in one embodiment, the radius of the opening 52A in the first die 50A is approximately 0.010 inches larger than the radius of the punch 34, the radius of the opening 52B in the second die 50B is approximately 0.007 inches larger than the radius of the punch 34, and the radius of the opening 52C in the third die 50C is approximately 0.004 inches larger than the radius of the punch 34. The one or more openings 52 of the one or more dies 50 are disposed along a common axis 54 that is generally aligned with the longitudinal axis 28 of the ram body 26.

[0062] At Figure 1In the configuration shown, the can-making machine 10 is configured to transform a cup-shaped member into a can body, which can later have a top member added to form a can. As previously described, the loading station 16 sets the cup-shaped member on / above the punch 34 before the punch 34 travels forward through the tool kit 18 from the retracted position to the extended position. When the punch 34 pushes the cup-shaped member through the tool kit 18, ideally, if one or more openings 52 of one or more dies 54 of the die kit 18 are properly aligned with the path of the punch 34, the cup-shaped member thins and stretches to the desired length and wall thickness. The elongated cup-shaped member is the can body.

[0063] The domer assembly 22 is disposed at the end of the ram body 26's stroke. The domer assembly 22 includes a domer die 40 that is coupled to the frame 24 of the can-making machine 10 by a mounting assembly 56, which can be any suitable device. In an exemplary embodiment of the disclosed concept, the mounting assembly 56 is arranged in a manner similar to that disclosed in U.S. Patent US8,713,980, the content of which is incorporated herein by reference, such that the positioning of the domer die 40 can be dynamically adjusted (discussed below). The domer die 40 is a body 44 having a cavity 38 that defines a convex dome structure 42. The cavity 38 can include other features configured to shape the bottom of the cup-shaped member. Ideally, the center of the convex dome structure 42 is substantially aligned with the longitudinal axis 28 of the ram body 26. In this arrangement, when the ram body 26 is at its maximum extension, i.e., in the extended position discussed previously, the bottom of the cup-shaped member (i.e., the portion of the cup-shaped member covering the concave distal end 36 of the punch 34) is shaped by entering the cavity 38 of the domer die 40 through the punch 34. That is, the bottom of the cup-shaped member becomes a dome that extends into the can body. After the dome is formed in the newly formed can body that is still on the punch 34, the ram body 26 begins the backward portion of its stroke from the extended position back toward the retracted position.

[0064] The can stripper 20 is disposed on the outer surface of the stripper partition 60 opposite the tool kit 18. After the dome has been formed in the bottom of the can and the ram 14 has started to move backward, the can stripper 20 removes the can body from the punch 34. Thus, the punch 34 travels backward with no cup or other material between the punch 34 and the die 50 of the tool kit 18. In this configuration, it is possible for the punch 34 to contact the die 50, resulting in damage to the punch 34 and / or the die 50. To prevent or reduce such damage, it is advantageous to substantially align the longitudinal axis 28 of the ram body 26 and the die axis 54. That is, the punch 34 should not vibrate, sag, or otherwise become misaligned with the die axis 54 (e.g., due to thermal effects). The punch 34 disposed on the distal end 32 of the ram body 26 is prone to sag because it is a cantilever body. Additionally, if the dome 42 of the domer die 40 is misaligned with the longitudinal axis 28 of the ram body 26, the punch 34 can be pushed into misalignment with the die axis 54 when entering the cavity 38 of the domer die 40 and then quickly return (i.e., snap back) into alignment when leaving the cavity 38. This action can cause the punch 34 to vibrate. Although the amount of sag and the misalignment caused by vibration and other factors (e.g., thermal effects) are typically small, the tolerance between the punch 34 and the opening 52 of each die 50 of the tool kit 18 is small enough such that any misalignment can result in contact between the punch 34 and one or more of the openings 52.

[0065] Continuing to refer Figure 1 as well as Figure 2 and Figure 3 , the can making machine 10 further includes a sensing system 100 having a sensing device 110 for performing dynamic measurements of the can body formed on the punch 34 and measurements of the positioning of the punch 34 (and the ram body 26) relative to one or more components of the can making machine 10. In Figure 1 the example shown, the sensing device 110 is positioned on or in the stripper partition 60 between the tool kit 18 and the can stripper 20 and is coupled to the stripper partition 60. As discussed elsewhere herein, the sensing device 110 can be positioned elsewhere along the path of the punch 34 (e.g., but not limited to, on, in, or near the tool kit 18) without changing the scope of the disclosed concept. The sensing device 110 includes a frame 112 positioned around an opening 114 through which the punch 34 / ram body 26 can freely travel. The frame 112 is configured to be fixed to a desired component, such as the stripper partition 60 in the example shown, or to any other desired component for a particular application. The sensing device 110 further includes a plurality of sensors 116 coupled to the frame 112 around a sensing axis 118 that travels through the opening 114. In Figures 1 - 3In the exemplary embodiment shown, the sensing device 110 includes four sensors 116 that are substantially identical in structure. Each sensor is spaced a distance R from the sensing axis 118 and is positioned around the sensing axis 118 at 90° increments. In the exemplary embodiment, the distance R by which each sensor 116 is spaced from the sensing axis 118 is 0.030” more than the expected radius of the can body on the punch 34. Although four sensors 116 are shown, it should be appreciated that an arrangement utilizing at least three sensors 116 may be employed without changing the scope of the disclosed concept. Each sensor 116 stores a series of collected samples and communicates with a controller 120 provided as a component of the sensing system 100 to transfer data at a prescribed transmission rate and in a determined protocol via a wired or Bluetooth network. Each sensor 116 is configured to provide a signal to the controller 120 from which a number of characteristics of the punch 34 and the can body positioned on the punch 34 (when the punch 34 and the can body travel through the opening 114 after traveling through the tool kit 18) can be determined. Such characteristics include: the position of the punch 34 (and the ram body 26) relative to each sensor 116 (and the frame 112, components to which the frame 112 is connected, etc.), the presence (or absence) of the can body, the length of the can body present on the punch 34, and the thickness of the can body (including thickness variations along the height of the can body and / or thickness variations around the circumference of the can body when considering multiple sensors).

[0066] In the exemplary embodiment of the disclosed concept, each respective sensor 116 is an inductive proximity sensor that is configured to provide an output signal to the controller 120 that is proportional to the distance D1 from the respective sensor 116 to the surface 122 of the punch 34 (shown in dashed lines in Figure 3 and / or proportional to the distance D2 from the respective sensor 116 to the surface 124 of the can body (shown in dashed lines in Figure 3 ). In some exemplary embodiments of the disclosed concept, the distance D1 is defined by the specifications set forth in the quality standards act, typically in the range between 0.0065” and 0.0040” and as small as 0.038”; where the distance D2 has a safety distance between the OD wall of the container / punch and the physical sensing coil, representing a gap in the range of approximately 0.080” to 0.030”, depending on the wall thickness of the container defined by the quality standards.

[0067] Figure 4 An example of a series of graphs is shown that illustrate when the sensing device 110 is employed in a can maker 10 such as Figure 1 shown, while the can maker 10 is actively forming / producing can bodies, by the sensing device 110 such as Figure 2 and Figure 3Exemplary output signals generated by four sensors 116 (as shown). Each waveform in the figure represents a complete cycle or stroke as the target travels through the sensing device 110. The variations in the output signals are explained in the algorithm of the controller 120 and provide details related to the ironing, drawing, or forming of the container (i.e., the can body). Such explanations include, but are not limited to, ram temperature, ram speed, entry angle / exit angle, position relative to the calculated center, container wall thickness, and the variation of the container wall thickness along the container body. Additionally, these waveforms provide the target position derived from known positions of the sensing coils.

[0068] As Figure 1 schematically shown in, the controller 120 of the sensing system 100 utilizes a programmable logic circuit (PLC) and stored algorithms to analyze the signals from the sensors 116 to provide an output 126. The output 126 can be simply provided to the user as a report that provides details of the can body and / or provides information regarding the positioning of the punch 34 / ram body 26 relative to the sensing device 110. The output 126 can be provided to other systems and / or devices and utilized by other systems and / or devices to control / regulate the operation of the can making machine 10 and / or control / regulate the positioning of one or more components of the can making machine 10, as discussed below. Although shown as a separate component, it should be appreciated that the controller 120 can be a control device for other operations related to the can making machine 10.

[0069] Figures 5 - 15 Some exemplary arrangements of a ram assembly and associated components according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosed concept are shown, which can be used in combination with a sensing device and / or system such as those previously described to provide selective adjustment of the positioning of the ram body / punch located thereon during the normal operation of the can making machine using feedback from such a sensing device / system.

[0070] First referring to Figures 5 - 7 , an exemplary ram assembly 200 according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosed concept is shown positioned within a portion of a can making machine 210 (e.g., having a construction similar to the previously described can making machine 10). The ram assembly 200 includes a carriage 202 (e.g., formed of aluminum or other suitable material or materials), which is slidably engaged within a pair of slides 204 (each labeled 204), both of which are rigidly coupled to the frame 206 of the can making machine 210. The carriage 202 is positioned within the can making machine 210 and is operatively coupled to a suitable operating mechanism 212 ( Figure 6is schematically shown that, similar to the operating mechanism 12) discussed previously, the operating mechanism 212 is configured to translate the carriage back and forth in a reciprocating manner similar to that of a carriage member known in the art. The ram assembly 200 also includes a generally cylindrical and elongated ram body 208 that extends between its first end 208A and an opposite second end 208B. The first end 208A of the ram body 208 is connected to the carriage 202, while the second end 208B of the ram body 208 includes a punch 214 located thereon. The punch 214 may be coupled to the ram body 208 or formed as a part of the ram body 208. The ram body 208 is supported (e.g., via appropriate sealing means and / or bearing means) at a position (not numbered) between the first end 208A and the second end 208B by a main partition 215 that is rigidly coupled to the frame 206 of the can-making machine 210. The position between the first end 208A and the second end 208B where the ram body 208 is supported by the main partition 215 changes due to the reciprocating movement of the ram body 208 relative to the frame 206 of the can-making machine 210. Thus, the carriage 202 (and thus the ram body via the carriage 202) is operatively coupled to the operating mechanism 212 of the can-making machine 210. In operation, the operating mechanism 212 causes the carriage 202 (and the ram body 208 and the punch 214) to translate back and forth generally along the main axis 216 ( Figures 1 - 4 substantially as described above) during the normal can-making operation of the can-making machine 210 (where the ram body is supported by the main partition 215). Figure 5 ).

[0071] Continuing to refer to Figures 5 - 7 and, additionally referring to Figure 8 and Figure 9 , the ram assembly 200 also includes an adjustment device 220 that is configured to provide dynamic adjustment of the radial positioning of the punch 214 (and various parts of the ram body 208) relative to the main axis 216 during the normal can-making operation of the can-making machine 210 as the ram body 208 moves through the main partition 215 and the punch 214 moves generally along the main axis 216. The adjustment device 220 can be of different types. For example, Figures 5 - 9 the illustrated embodiment includes an electromagnetic adjustment device 222 that includes a number of electromagnetic supports 224 (schematically shown) that are positioned in and / or on each slideway 204 facing the carriage 202 for interaction with the carriage 202. More specifically, as Figure 9As shown in the detailed view of, in this exemplary embodiment, each slide 204 is a C-shaped member having three inward-facing surfaces 204A, 204B, and 204C, wherein the electromagnetic support 224 is positioned in and / or on each of the inward-facing surfaces 204A, 204B, and 204C. Each electromagnetic support 224 is coupled to a suitable control device 226 (such as the controller 120 previously discussed with respect to Figure 1 discussed), which is configured to selectively change the electromagnetic force of one or more of the electromagnetic supports 224 as needed, thereby providing a selectively changeable positioning of the carriage 202 relative to the slide 204 (and thus relative to the frame 206 and components of the can-making machine 210 directly or indirectly coupled to the frame). This arrangement of the electromagnetic supports 224 thus allows for the selective adjustment of the path / striking position of the moving punch 214 during normal operation of the can-making machine by adjusting the positioning of the carriage 202 as it moves along the slide 204 using the ram body 208 and the main partition 215 as a lever / fulcrum arrangement. For example: downward movement of the carriage 202 and thus the first end 208A of the ram body 208 causes the second end 208B of the ram body 208 and thus the punch 214 to move upward, movement of the carriage 202 to one side causes the punch 214 to move to the opposite side, and so on. As an alternative to this adjustment device that adjusts via the interaction between the carriage and the corresponding slide, this adjustment can instead be made by adjusting the interaction / positioning of the slide relative to the frame of the can-making machine. In another exemplary embodiment in accordance with the disclosed concept, the geometry / relationship of the slide 204 and the moving carriage 202 is reversed such that the opposite outer edges (not numbered) of the carriage 202 are generally C-shaped, while each slide 204 is a track-like element positioned in a groove formed by the C-shaped sides of the carriage 202. In this arrangement, a number of electromagnetic supports 224 are positioned in and / or on each slide 204 facing the carriage 202 for interaction with the carriage 202. However, due to the reversed geometry, the electromagnetic supports 224 face inwardly towards the C-shaped sides of the carriage 202 relative to each slide 204.

[0072] Figures 13 - 15Shown is a ram assembly 200' in accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the disclosed concept, which also utilizes an electromagnetic adjustment device 222'. Similar to the ram assembly 200, the ram assembly 200' includes a carriage 202' and a generally cylindrical and elongated ram body 208. The carriage 202' is movable back and forth via an operating mechanism (such as operating mechanism 212 or any other suitable device). The ram body 208 has a first end 208A and an opposite second end 208B. The first end 208A of the ram body 208 is supported / carried by the carriage 202', while the second end 208B of the ram body 208 includes a punch 214 located thereon. Different from the electromagnetic adjustment device 222 of the ram assembly 200 that utilizes an electromagnetic support 224 to selectively control / vary the positioning of the carriage 202 (and the ram body 208 and the punch 214) relative to the slideway 204, the electromagnetic adjustment device 222' of the ram assembly 200' includes / utilizes an electromagnetic support 224' that is positioned in and / or on the surface of a cylindrical hole 226 defined in / by the carriage 202' and facing the ram body 208. Each electromagnetic support 224' is coupled to a suitable control device 226' (such as the controller 120 discussed previously or any other suitable device), which is configured to selectively change the electromagnetic force of one or more electromagnetic supports 224' so as to provide a positioning of the first end 208A of the ram body 208 relative to the carriage 202' that is to be selectively changed, and thus provide a positioning of the second end 208B of the ram body 208 and the punch 214 connected thereto that is to be changed similar to Figures 5 - 9 the adjustment device 222.

[0073] As an alternative or addition to the electromagnetic adjustment devices 222, 222' such as the examples discussed previously (or another suitable arrangement), the adjustment device 220 can be a thermodynamic adjustment device 230 that provides a selective manipulation of the temperature distribution at a number of points (currently shown as 4) around the ram body 208 to cause a controlled warping of the ram body 208 (e.g., similar to the way a bimetallic strip works) to selectively control the positioning of the second end 208B of the ram body 208, and thus selectively control the positioning of the punch 214, and potentially correct an undesired straightness error of the ram (e.g., due to sagging or other effects). Referring to Figures 10 - 12 , the thermodynamic adjustment device 230 includes a plurality of thermal control valves 232, each of which communicates with a suitable coolant supply source 240 ( Figure 12 ), and is configured to control the flow rate of such coolant flowing therethrough. The plurality of thermal control valves 232 are positioned in and through a mounting ring 234 around the ram body 208. More specifically, the mounting ring 234 includes a central opening 236 and a plurality of auxiliary holes 238 (inFigure 12 shown in hidden lines), the auxiliary holes are defined in the mounting ring 234 and extend generally perpendicular to the central opening 236 (i.e., radially). The central opening 236 is sized to allow the ram body 208 to travel through the central opening without contact between the mounting ring 234 and the ram body 208, while allowing coolant supplied from a coolant source 240 to flow through the annular space between the mounting ring 234 and the ram body 208 via one or more thermal control valves 232. Each of the auxiliary holes 238 in the plurality of thermal control valves 232 houses the outlet (not numbered) of the corresponding thermal control valve 232 in the plurality of thermal control valves 232. In Figures 10 - 12 the example shown, four thermal control valves 232 are used, which are radially oriented and spaced 90 degrees apart around the central opening 236 through which the ram body 208 travels. However, it should be appreciated that one or more of the number, spacing, and / or positioning / orientation of the thermal control valves 232 (and associated components) may vary to suit the particular needs of a particular application without changing the scope of the disclosed concept. Each thermal control valve 232 is configured such that when one or more particular thermal control valves 232 are activated (i.e., opened), coolant from the coolant source 240 is provided to the corresponding portion of the ram body 208 (i.e., in Figures 10 - 12 the example, the quadrant), thereby selectively cooling the corresponding portion. As a result of this selective cooling, the ram body 208 is selectively bent in a predictable manner, such that the positioning of the punch 214 is selectively adjusted and / or an undesired curvature of the ram body 208 is corrected.

[0074] The positioning of the thermodynamic regulating device 230 along the axis 216 generally depends on the desired sensitivity of the ram impact location to thermal deformation. For example, due to the larger cantilever (i.e., the length of the ram body 208 between the thermodynamic regulating device 230 and the tool kit 218), placing the thermodynamic regulating device 230 farther from the tool kit 218 ( Figure 11 ) will result in a larger impact position deviation for the same induced thermal stress on the ram body 208. Thus, the placement of the thermodynamic regulating device 230 relative to the tool kit 218 can be used as a "sensitivity control" feature, depending on the stroke of the can-making machine and the total length of the ram body.

[0075] From the foregoing example, it can be appreciated that embodiments of the disclosed concept provide dynamic regulation during normal can-making operation of a can-making machine without shutting down the can-making machine by utilizing feedback from a sensing device such as the sensing device 110 and determining / performing regulation via the regulating device 220 in a closed-loop feedback arrangement.

[0076] As an alternative or in addition to adjusting the positioning of the ram body / punch itself as previously described, the positions of other components within the can-making machine can be adjusted to ensure an optimal alignment between the ram body / punch and the tool kit and / or a specific forming die of the tool kit. Figure 16 An example of such an arrangement according to the present invention is schematically shown, which shows a can-making machine 10' similar to Figure 1 the can-making machine 10 shown and previously described. The can-making machine 10' differs from the can-making machine 10 in that the can-making machine 10' includes a sensing system 100' having a sensing device 110' fixedly / connected to the tool kit 18 (similar to the sensing device 110 or any other suitable sensing device). In Figure 16 the specific example shown, the sensing device 110' is shown connected adjacent to the third die 50C (i.e., the last / terminal die through which the cup-shaped piece / formed can travels before leaving the tool kit 18, more specifically on the inner side of the third die 50C). However, it should be appreciated that the sensing device 110' can be connected / fixed to the tool kit 18 at any other location on the opposite side of the third die 50C or on or within the tool kit 18 without changing the scope of the disclosed concept. Additionally, the sensing device 110' can be positioned adjacent / close to the tool kit (e.g., not directly connected to the tool kit) without changing the scope of the disclosed concept. It should also be appreciated that without changing the scope of the disclosed concept, more than one sensing device 110' (and / or 110) can be employed on or within the tool kit 18 and / or outside the tool kit 18 (e.g., but not limited to, as Figure 1 shown). Similar to the sensing device 100, the sensing device 100' includes a controller (e.g., but not limited to, the same or similar to the previously described controller 120) that communicates with the sensing device 110' (and / or one or more other sensing devices).

[0077] Continuing to refer to Figure 16, the sensing system 100’ further includes an adjusting device 80 that communicates with / is controlled by the controller 120. The adjusting device 80 is coupled to the tool kit 18 to selectively adjust (e.g., vertically, horizontally, or in a vertical and horizontal combination at the direction of the controller 120) the position of the tool kit 18 (based on feedback from the sensing device 110’) relative to the frame 24 and / or the ram 14 (or components / parts thereof), and thus determine the position of the opening 52 of the die 50 of the tool kit 18 relative to the ram 14 / punch 34 as the ram 14 / punch 34 travels through the opening 52 during normal can body manufacturing operations of the can making machine 10’. The adjusting device 80 can be mechanically, pneumatically, or hydraulically driven (or via any other suitable means) to physically adjust the tool kit 18 directly or indirectly via one or more elements (not numbered) that support the tool kit 18. It should be appreciated that the adjusting device 80 can include any suitable number (i.e., one or more than one) of mechanisms that adjust the entire tool kit 18 or its individual dies 50 without changing the scope of the disclosed concept. Therefore, it should be appreciated that Figure 16 the arrangement shown provides an adjusting device that dynamically adjusts the positioning of the tool kit 18 (and / or its individual dies 50) via a controlled feedback loop that includes the controller 120 and the sensing device 110’ (and other sensing devices depending on the application) to align the tool kit 18 with the ram 14 / punch 34 as the pitch of the ram 14 varies according to the speed double product during normal can body manufacturing operations of the can making machine 10’.

[0078] Figures 17 to 20 Some views of a non - limiting exemplary embodiment of an adjusting device 80 employed with a can making machine 10 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosed concept are shown. In each such example, the adjusting device 80 includes a number (more specifically, a plurality) of adjusting mechanisms 82 that communicate with / are controlled by a controller, such as Figure 16 the controller 120 shown in the exemplary arrangement of. Each adjusting mechanism 82 can be a suitable arrangement that is mechanically driven, pneumatically driven, hydraulically driven, electrically driven, or driven via any other suitable arrangement to physically adjust the tool kit carriage 84 ( Figure 18 ), which houses the tool kit 18), relative to the frame 24 and / or the ram 14 (or its components) by moving the guide rail 85 that positions the tool kit 18 ( Figure 17 ), or directly adjust the tool kit 18 itself. Some non - limiting examples of suitable arrangements that can be used as one or more adjusting mechanisms 82 include, but are not limited to, a motor and a piston / cylinder arrangement connected to a threaded shaft, where the motor guides the adjusting movement of the tool kit parallel to the axis of the thread, and in the piston / cylinder arrangement, fluid is compressed to drive the movement of the piston.

[0079] The adjustment mechanism 82 can be positioned in several different ways according to the desired adjustability of the positioning of the tool kit 18. In each case, each adjustment mechanism is typically coupled (either directly or via one or more elements coupled between the frame and the tool kit) between the frame 24 of the can making machine 10 (or an element connected to the frame 24 or a combination thereof) and the tool kit 18. As an example, Figure 17 the arrangement shown utilizes four adjustment mechanisms 82, each of which (directly) engages a bracket 84 that supports the tool kit 18, and the bracket typically biases the tool kit 18 against a suitable flexible material 86. In Figure 18 the exemplary arrangement shown, two adjustment mechanisms 82 are utilized to adjust the support rails 85 of the tool kit 18. Figure 19 The example shown in Figure 17 utilizes a flexible material 86 similar to that shown in Figure 20 but uses two adjustment mechanisms 82 that are positioned relative to each other at approximately 90° and engage the tool kit 18 more directly (e.g., via a wear plate 88), which is also shown as potentially being constrained via another wear plate 90. At the same time,

[0080] In accordance with the foregoing, it is thus realized that the disclosed concept provides a can making machine that can dynamically adjust the positioning of components therein to maintain proper alignment between the components during the performance of normal can body manufacturing operations. Such a can making machine can operate more autonomously than traditional devices and requires less downtime.

[0081] Although specific embodiments of the disclosed concept have been described in detail, those skilled in the art should realize that various modifications and alternatives to those details can be developed in accordance with the overall teachings of this disclosure. Accordingly, the specific arrangements disclosed are meant to be illustrative only and do not limit the scope of the disclosed concept, which scope will be given by the full scope of the appended claims and any and all equivalents thereof.

[0082] In a claim, any reference signs placed in parentheses shall not be construed as limiting the claim. The words "comprising" or "including" do not exclude the presence of elements or steps other than those listed in a claim. In a claim for a number of devices, several of these devices may be embodied by one and the same piece of hardware. The word "a" or "an" before an element does not exclude the presence of a plurality of such elements. In any claim for a number of devices, several of these devices may be embodied by one and the same piece of hardware. Merely the fact that certain elements are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not preclude the combination of these elements.

Claims

1. A kit device for a can-making machine having a frame, the kit device comprising: A kit having a certain number of forming dies; and An adjusting device including a certain number of adjusting mechanisms configured to be coupled between the kit and the frame, each adjusting mechanism being configured to dynamically and selectively adjust the positioning of the kit relative to the frame and / or the ram body during normal can body manufacturing operations of the can-making machine as the ram body of the can-making machine travels within the kit.

2. The kit device according to claim 1, wherein, The adjusting device further includes a controller in communication with each of the certain number of adjusting mechanisms, wherein the controller is configured to selectively control each adjustment performed by the certain number of adjusting mechanisms.

3. The kit device according to claim 2, further including a sensing device in communication with the controller, wherein the sensing device includes a certain number of sensors configured to detect the positions of a certain number of components of the can-making machine, and wherein the controller is configured to selectively control each adjustment of the adjusting device at least in part based on inputs received from the certain number of sensors.

4. The kit device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The certain number of adjusting mechanisms includes a plurality of adjusting mechanisms.

5. The kit device according to claim 1, further including a bracket for supporting the kit, wherein the certain number of adjusting mechanisms are coupled to the kit via the bracket.

6. The kit device according to claim 1, wherein, The certain number of adjusting mechanisms are driven by one or more of mechanical devices, pneumatic devices, electric devices, and / or hydraulic devices.

7. The kit device according to claim 4, wherein, Each of the plurality of adjusting mechanisms is driven by one or more of mechanical devices, pneumatic devices, electric devices, and / or hydraulic devices.

8. A can-making machine for forming a plurality of can bodies, the can-making machine comprising: A frame; A ram; An operating mechanism configured to provide reciprocating motion to the ram; and A kit device including: A kit having a certain number of forming dies positioned such that the ram travels within the forming dies when the reciprocating motion is provided by the operating mechanism; and An adjusting device including a certain number of adjusting mechanisms coupled between the kit and the frame, each adjusting mechanism being dynamically adjustable to selectively adjust the positioning of the kit relative to the frame and / or the ram during normal can body manufacturing operations of the can-making machine as the ram travels within the kit.

9. The can-making machine according to claim 8, wherein, The adjusting device further includes a controller in communication with each of the certain number of adjusting mechanisms, wherein the controller is configured to selectively control each adjustment performed by the certain number of adjusting mechanisms.

10. The can-making machine according to claim 9, wherein, The adjusting device further includes a sensing device in communication with the controller, wherein the sensing device includes a certain number of sensors configured to detect the positions of a certain number of components of the can-making machine, and wherein the controller is configured to selectively control each adjustment performed by the certain number of adjustment mechanisms based at least in part on inputs received from the certain number of sensors.

11. The can-making machine according to claim 8, wherein, the certain number of adjustment mechanisms includes a plurality of adjustment mechanisms.

12. The can-making machine according to claim 8, further comprising a bracket for supporting the tool kit, wherein the certain number of adjustment mechanisms are coupled to the tool kit via the bracket.

13. The can-making machine according to claim 8, wherein, the certain number of adjustment mechanisms are driven by one or more of mechanical devices, pneumatic devices, electric devices, and / or hydraulic devices.

14. The can-making machine according to claim 11, wherein, each adjustment mechanism of the plurality of adjustment mechanisms is driven by one or more of mechanical devices, pneumatic devices, electric devices, and / or hydraulic devices.

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