Adjustable dome door for can bodymaker

Abstract

A domeer device includes a sub-frame for coupling to a frame of a can former and a domeer assembly. The domeer assembly includes a domeer door having a first end and a second end. The domeer door is adapted to have a domeer die coupled thereto. The assembly further includes first and second spacer members each having first and second faces spaced apart from one another, the first face engaging the sub-frame and the second face engaging the domeer door at or about the first and second ends of the domeer door. The domeer assembly further includes a fastening device rigidly coupling the domeer door to the sub-frame such that the domeer door is fixed at a predetermined location relative to the sub-frame according to the respective thicknesses of the first and second spacer members.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 18 / 601082, entitled "Adjustable Dome Door for Tank Manufacturing Machine", filed on March 11, 2024. Technical Field

[0003] The disclosed concepts generally relate to dome devices for use in can manufacturing machines, and more particularly, to dome devices having adjustable dome doors. The disclosed concepts also relate to can manufacturing machines including such dome devices. Background Technology

[0004] Typically, aluminum can production begins with aluminum sheets from which circular blanks are cut. These blanks are then formed into "cup-shaped" objects with a bottom and overhanging sidewalls. The cup-shaped objects are fed to a can-forming machine (often called a "canbodymaker" or "bodymaker"), which passes the cup-shaped objects through an additional circular die that thins and elongates them. In other words, the cup-shaped objects are positioned on a punch mounted on an elongated punch. The punch is configured to reciprocate and pass the cup-shaped objects through the circular die, which (re)draws and thins them. That is, in each forward stroke of the punch, the cup-shaped objects are passed through the circular die, which further shapes them into cans. On the return stroke, the now elongated can is removed from the punch, and a new cup-shaped object is placed on it. After subsequent finishing operations such as trimming, cleaning, and printing, the cans are sent to a filling machine for filling. Subsequently, the top cover is attached to the tank body and sealed against the tank body, thus completing the tank.

[0005] More specifically, the die assembly in the can manufacturing machine has multiple spaced-apart dies, each with a generally circular opening. Each die opening is slightly smaller than the next adjacent upstream die. Thus, as the punch draws the cup through the first die (the redrawing die), the aluminum cup is deformed on the generally cylindrical punch. Because the openings in subsequent dies in the die assembly have smaller inner diameters (i.e., smaller openings), the aluminum cup is thinned as the punch moves it through the remaining dies of the die assembly. The spacing between the punch and the redrawing die is typically less than about 0.010 inches, and at the last thinning drawing die, this spacing is less than about 0.004 inches. After the cup has moved through the last die, the bottom and sidewalls of the cup have the desired thickness; the only other deformation required is to shape the bottom of the cup into an inwardly extending dome.

[0006] In other words, the distal end of the punch is concave. A "dome" is located at the maximum extension of the punch. This dome includes a dome gate rigidly connected to the frame of the can-making machine and a dome mold rigidly connected to the dome gate, the dome mold having a generally convex dome and a shaped perimeter. When the punch reaches its maximum extension, the bottom of the can engages with the dome mold and forms a dome, and the bottom perimeter of the can is shaped as needed; typically angled inwards to enhance the strength of the can and allow finished cans to be stacked. As the punch retracts, air is injected into the center of the punch, peeling the can from the end of the punch. The air exits from the end of the punch and loosens the can from the punch. Typically, a mechanical stripper is also provided to prevent the can from remaining on the punch as it retracts through the die assembly. The punch retracts through the die assembly, a new cup is placed on the punch, and the cycle repeats.

[0007] Currently, each dome gate is a unique component, depending on the specific stroke length and the type of dome used on the can manufacturing machine. Multiple stroke lengths are commonly used (e.g., but not limited to (in inches): 18.5, 19, 20, 22, 24, 26, 27, 30). Current dome assembly requires approximately four hours for installation and alignment. Summary of the Invention

[0008] The disclosed embodiments address the shortcomings of existing devices by providing a solution that reduces the number of components required to perform the dome-forming operation, thereby reducing one or more costs while also shortening the time required to install the relevant components. As a first aspect of the disclosed concept, a dome assembly is provided for supporting a dome mold in a tank manufacturing machine. The dome assembly includes: a subframe configured to be coupled to a frame of a can forming machine; and a dome assembly including: a dome door having a first end and a second end opposite the first end, the dome door being configured to have a dome mold coupled thereto between the first end and the second end; a first spacer member having a first face and a second face opposite the first face and spaced apart by a first thickness, the first face of the first spacer member engaging with the subframe, and the second face of the first spacer member engaging with the dome door at or around the first end of the dome door; a second spacer member having a first face and a second face opposite the first face and spaced apart by a second thickness, the first face of the second spacer member engaging with the dome door at or around the second end of the dome door, and the second face of the second spacer member engaging with the subframe; and a fastening device that rigidly connects the dome door to the subframe such that, according to the respective thicknesses of the first and second spacers, the dome door is fixed relative to the subframe at a predetermined position.

[0009] The caisson assembly may further include a hinge mechanism, wherein the caisson door is pivotally and slidably connected to a subframe at or around a first end of the caisson door via the hinge mechanism. The hinge mechanism may include an upper hinge pin and a lower hinge pin, the lower hinge pin being axially aligned with and spaced apart from the upper hinge pin; the first end of the caisson door may include an upper cylindrical recess extending downward from the top surface of the caisson door and a lower cylindrical recess extending upward from the bottom surface of the caisson door and axially aligned with the upper cylindrical recess; a lower portion of the upper hinge pin may be positioned within the upper cylindrical recess at the first end of the caisson door, while an upper portion of the upper hinge pin may be positioned within an elongated slot defined in the subframe; an upper portion of the lower hinge pin may be positioned within the lower cylindrical recess at the first end of the caisson door, while a lower portion of the lower hinge pin may be positioned within another elongated slot defined in the subframe.

[0010] The subframe may include a first support arm and a second support arm; the first support arm may include a first end configured to be coupled to a frame of a can forming machine and a second end selectively coupled to a first end of a dome door via a portion of a fastening device; the second support arm may include a first end configured to be coupled to a frame of a can forming machine and a second end selectively coupled to a second end of a dome door via another portion of a fastening device.

[0011] The fastening device may include: a first sway bolt having a first end and a second end opposite to the first end, the first end being pivotally connected to a subframe, and the second end having a threaded portion extending from the second end to the first end; a second sway bolt having a first end and a second end opposite to the first end, the first end being pivotally connected to a subframe, and the second end having a threaded portion extending from the second end to the first end; a first threaded nut threadedly engaged with the threaded portion of the first sway bolt; and a second threaded nut threadedly engaged with the threaded portion of the second sway bolt, wherein, when both the first and second threaded nuts are tightened onto the respective threaded portions of the first and second sway bolts, the dome door is fixed at a predetermined position depending on the respective thickness of the first and second spacer members. The caisson assembly may further include a first pin connected to a subframe and a second pin connected to a subframe, wherein: a first sway bolt includes an orifice defined therein at its first end; a second sway bolt includes an orifice defined therein at its first end; the first end of the first sway bolt is pivotally connected to the subframe via engagement between the first pin and the orifice defined at the first end of the first sway bolt; and the first end of the second sway bolt is pivotally connected to the subframe via engagement between the second pin and the orifice defined at the first end of the second sway bolt. The caisson door may include a first recessed portion defined in the caisson door, the first recessed portion extending inwardly from a first end of the caisson door; the caisson door may include a second recessed portion defined in the caisson door, the second recessed portion extending inwardly from a second end of the caisson door; the first sway bolt may be positioned in the first recessed portion; and the second sway bolt may be positioned in the second recessed portion.

[0012] The dome assembly may further include a dome mold coupled to a dome door. The dome assembly may also include: a third spacer member having a first face and a second face opposite the first face, the first face of the third spacer member configured to engage with the dome door at or around a first end of the dome door, and the second face of the third spacer member configured to engage with a subframe; and a fourth spacer member having a first face and a second face opposite the first face, the first face of the fourth spacer member configured to engage with the dome door at or around a second end of the dome door, and the second face of the fourth spacer member configured to engage with a subframe, wherein the first face of the third spacer member is spaced apart from the second face by a third distance, the third distance being different from the first distance; wherein the first face of the fourth spacer member is spaced apart from the second face by a fourth distance, the fourth distance being different from the second distance; wherein the third spacer member is configured to be positioned in place of the first spacer member; and wherein the fourth spacer member is configured to be positioned in place of the second spacer member.

[0013] As another aspect of the disclosed concept, a can forming machine is provided. The can forming machine includes: a frame; an operating mechanism coupled to the frame and configured to reciprocate a punch body between a first retracted position and a second extended position; a punch body including an elongated body having a longitudinal axis and a distal end; a punch disposed at the distal end of the punch body; a die assembly coupled to the frame and having at least one die having an opening therein and a longitudinal axis; a punch positioned to move generally horizontally through the opening of the die, wherein the longitudinal axis of the punch body is substantially aligned with the longitudinal axis of the die assembly; and a dome device as described above.

[0014] As another aspect of the disclosed concept, a method is provided for adjusting the positioning of a dome mold assembly of a can forming machine relative to the frame of the can forming machine. The method includes: disengaging a fastening device connecting a dome door to the frame of the can forming machine, the dome door having a dome mold assembly connected thereto; sliding the dome door away from the frame and pivoting a second end of the dome door away from the frame; inserting a first spacer member between a first end of the dome door and the frame; inserting a second spacer member between the second end of the dome door and the frame; pivoting the second end of the dome door toward the frame and sliding the dome door against the first and second spacer members; and connecting the fastening device, the fastening device connecting the dome door to the frame. Attached Figure Description

[0015] A full understanding of the invention can be obtained from the following description of preferred embodiments, in conjunction with the accompanying drawings:

[0016] Figure 1 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a can forming machine according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosed concept;

[0017] Figure 2 This is a standing end view of a portion of a can forming machine according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosed concept;

[0018] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A partial schematic top view of a portion of a can forming machine, showing the dome mold (schematically shown) positioned thereon.

[0019] Figure 4 yes Figure 2 and Figure 3 A partial schematic isometric view of a portion of a can forming machine, showing the dome door and related components disassembled from this portion;

[0020] Figure 5 It is along Figure 3 5-5 cut Figures 2 to 4 A cross-sectional view of a portion of a can forming machine;

[0021] Figure 6A This is a front elevation view of the spacer member according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosed concept;

[0022] Figure 6B yes Figure 6A A perspective view of the spacer components; and

[0023] Figure 7 yes Figure 3 A detailed top view of a portion of the dome mold (not shown), which shows the dome mold in... Figure 3 The dome door in an intermediate position between the indicated position and another position (in which the door is partially swung open from the can forming machine). Detailed Implementation

[0024] It will be understood that the specific elements shown in the accompanying drawings and described in the following description are merely exemplary embodiments of the disclosed concept, provided as non-limiting examples for illustrative purposes only. Therefore, specific dimensions, orientations, components, number of parts used, embodiment configurations, and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed herein should not be considered as limiting the scope of the disclosed concept.

[0025] Directional phrases used herein, such as, for example, clockwise, counterclockwise, left, right, top, bottom, up, down, and their derivatives, refer to the orientation of the elements shown in the accompanying drawings and do not limit the claims, unless expressly stated herein.

[0026] As used herein, the singular forms of “a,” “the,” and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0027] As used herein, “constructed as [verb]” means that the identified element or component has a structure that is shaped, sized, set, connected, and / or configured to perform the identified verb. For example, a component “constructed to move” is movably connected to another element and includes an element that moves that component, or the component is otherwise configured to move in response to another element or component. Thus, as used herein, “constructed as [verb]” describes structure rather than function. Furthermore, as used herein, “constructed as [verb]” means that the identified element or component is intended and designed to perform the identified verb. Therefore, an element that can only perform the identified verb but is not intended and not designed to perform the identified verb is not “constructed as [verb]”.

[0028] As used herein, the term "a certain quantity" should mean an integer of one or more (i.e., a plurality). That is, for example, the phrase "a certain quantity of elements" means one element or more elements. In particular, the term "a certain quantity of [X]" includes a single [X].

[0029] As used in this article, "connection" refers to the link between two or more elements, whether direct or indirect, as long as a connection occurs. An object held in place by gravity on another object is not "connected" to the lower object unless the upper object is otherwise substantially held in place. That is, for example, a book on a table is not connected to the table, but a book glued to the table is connected to the table.

[0030] As used in this article, "direct connection" means that two components are in direct contact with each other.

[0031] As used herein, "fixed connection" or "fixed" means that two components are joined together so as to move as a whole while maintaining a constant orientation relative to each other. Fixed components may or may not be directly connected.

[0032] As used herein, "pivotable connection" refers to a connection of two components such that each component can pivot / rotate relative to the other, but each component is constrained by any other relative movement relative to that component. For example, a door connected to a frame via a number of hinges is "pivotibly connected" to the frame because the door can rotate / pivot relative to the frame about the axis of the hinges (and vice versa), but any other movement relative to the frame is constrained.

[0033] As used herein, the phrase "removable connection" or "temporary connection" refers to a connection between one component and another in a substantially temporary manner. That is, the two components are connected in a way that allows them to be easily joined or separated without damaging them. For example, securing two components to each other with a limited number of easily accessible fasteners (i.e., not hard-to-access fasteners) is a "removable connection," while two components welded together or connected by hard-to-access fasteners are not.

[0034] As used herein, the term "monopoly" refers to a component that is created as a single device or unit. That is, a component that includes devices created separately and then joined together as a single unit is not a "monopoly" component or body.

[0035] As used in this article, “associated” means that the identified components are identical to each other, in contact with each other, and / or interact with each other. For example, a car has four tires and four rims, and each rim is “associated” with a specific tire.

[0036] As used herein, the statement that two or more parts or components “engage” with each other means that these elements directly apply force or bias to each other or through one or more intermediate elements or components. Furthermore, as used herein with respect to moving parts, a moving part may “engage” another element during movement from one position to another and / or a moving part may “engage” another element once it is in the desired position. Therefore, it should be understood that the statements “when element A moves to the first position of element A, element A engages element B” and “when element A is in the first position of element A, element A engages element B” are equivalent statements and mean that element A engages element B when it moves to the first position of element A and / or element A engages element B when it is in the first position of element A.

[0037] like Figure 1 As schematically shown, the can forming machine or can manufacturing machine 10 includes: an operating mechanism 12 configured to provide cyclic and / or reciprocating motion; a punch 14; a die assembly 16; and a dome assembly 18, all of which are generally mounted / connected (directly or indirectly) to a frame 19 by various suitable means. The punch 14 has an elongated, generally cylindrical body 20 with a proximal end 22, a distal end 24, and a longitudinal axis 26. A punch 21 is disposed at or on the distal end 24 of the punch body. The punch 21 is generally cylindrical and has a recessed distal end (not identified), which can be shaped to correspond to a cavity 44 of the dome die 40, discussed further below. The proximal end 22 of the punch body 20 is coupled to the operating mechanism 12. The operating mechanism 12 provides reciprocating motion to the punch body 20, thereby moving the punch body 20 and thus the punch 21 back and forth along its longitudinal axis 26. In other words, the punch 21 is configured to reciprocate between a retracted position and an extended position, during which the punch 21 extends and moves substantially horizontally through the die assembly 16.

[0038] The die assembly 16 includes at least one (three shown) die 30, each having an opening 32 therein. The opening 32 in the first die 30A (the die 30 closest to the operating mechanism 12) is slightly larger than the opening 32 in the second die 30B (the middle die shown). The opening 32 in the second die 30B is slightly larger than the opening 32 in the third die 30C (the die furthest from the operating mechanism 12). That is, the radius of the opening 32 in the first die 30A is approximately 0.010 inches larger than the radius of the punch 21, the radius of the opening 32 in the second die 30B is approximately 0.007 inches larger than the radius of the punch 21, and the radius of the opening 32 in the third die 30C is approximately 0.004 inches larger than the radius of the punch 21. The die assembly openings 32 are arranged along a common axis 34. The die assembly axis 34 is substantially aligned with the longitudinal axis 26 of the punch body 20.

[0039] In this configuration, the can forming machine 10 is configured to transform a cup-shaped object into a can, which may have an added top cover, thereby forming a can. Typically, the cup-shaped object is positioned on the punch 21 when it is in the retracted position. As the punch 21 pushes the aluminum disc through the die assembly 16, the cup-shaped object thins and stretches to the desired length and wall thickness. The elongated cup-shaped object is the can.

[0040] A dome assembly 18 is positioned at the end of the stroke of the punch body 20. The dome assembly 18 includes a sub-frame 36 connected to a frame 19 of the can forming machine 10 and a dome assembly 38 having a dome mold 40 (discussed in detail below). The dome mold 40 is a body 42 having a cavity 44 defining a dome 46. The cavity 44 may include other features configured to form the bottom of the cup after passing through the mold assembly 16. The center of the dome 46 is substantially aligned with the longitudinal axis 26 of the punch body 20. In this configuration, when the punch body 20 is at its maximum extension, the bottom of the cup (i.e., the portion of the cup extending beyond the end of the punch 21) is formed by the punch 21 entering the cavity 44 of the body 42 of the dome mold 40. That is, the bottom of the cup becomes an upwardly extending dome. After the dome is formed in the bottom of the can, the punch body 20 begins the rearward portion of its stroke. A can stripper (not shown) is disposed on the outer surface of the third mold 30C. The can stripper removes the can from the punch 21. As a result, the punch 21 travels backward, wherein there are no cups or other materials between the punch 21 and the molds 30A, 30B, and 30C.

[0041] exist Figure 2 In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG6, the dome assembly 38 includes a fastening device comprising a first sway bolt 50, a second sway bolt 52, and a dome door 54. The first sway bolt 50 includes a first end 56 ( Figure 5 ) and a second end 58 opposite to the first end 56, wherein the first end 56 is pivotally connected to the subframe 36. Figure 5In the exemplary embodiment shown, the first end 56 of the first sway bolt 50 is pivotally coupled to a first support arm 60 of the subframe 36, and more particularly pivotally coupled to or around a second end (unidentified) of the first support arm 60 opposite the first end (unidentified), the first end of the first support arm being coupled (e.g., via fasteners or any other suitable means) to the frame 19 of the can forming machine 10. In this example, the pivotal coupling is accomplished by a fixed coupling (e.g., via partial threaded interaction) in which a pin 62 in an orifice 64 defined in the first support arm 60 interacts with an orifice 66 defined in the first sway bolt 50 at or near the first end 56. The first sway bolt 50 also includes a threaded portion 68 (in... Figure 5 (Schematably shown in cross-section), the threaded portion extends from the second end 58 toward the first end 56. The first threaded portion 68 is configured to receive a first threaded nut 70, which selectively engages with the first threaded portion, as discussed further below. In this example, the second sway bolt 52 has a similar arrangement and connection, except that it is pivotally connected to the second support arm 72 of the subframe 36 and therefore will not be discussed further herein.

[0042] Continue to refer to Figures 2 to 5 The dome gate 54 includes a first end 80 and a second end 82 opposite to the first end 80. The dome gate 54 is configured to have a dome mold 40 ( Figure 2 and Figure 3 The dome mold is connected to the dome door between a first end 80 and a second end 82 (e.g., via one or more conventional or any suitable coupling devices). The first end 80 of the dome door 54 has a first portion 84 disposed around a first sway bolt 50 between a first end 56 and a second end 58 when the dome assembly 38 is assembled and positioned for operation of the can forming machine 10. Similarly, the second end 82 of the dome door 54 includes a second portion 86 disposed around a second sway bolt 52 between the first and second ends, similar to the interaction between the first portion 84 and the first sway bolt 50. In such exemplary embodiments, the first portion 84 and the second portion 86 are in the form of notched portions 88 and 90 defined in the dome door 54 and extending inwardly from the first end 80 and the second end 82 of the dome door 54, respectively.

[0043] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the dome assembly 38 further includes first and second spacer members 100 and 102. Figure 4 and Figure 5 In the example shown, each of the first and second spacer members 100, 102 has the same shape / construction. (Reference) Figure 6A and Figure 6B Each spacer member 100, 102 is a rigid member (e.g., alloy steel or other suitable material) having a first surface 104 and a second surface 106 opposite to the first surface 104. The first and second surfaces 104 and 106 are spaced apart from each other by a first thickness t. Figure 5 As shown in the cross-sectional view, when assembling the dome assembly 38, the first surface 104 of each spacer member 100, 102 engages with the subframe 36 / 60, and the second surface 106 engages directly or indirectly with the surface 108 of the dome door 54 at or around the first portion 84 (or the second portion 86) of the dome door 54. Conversely, the second surface 106 of each spacer member 100, 102 may engage with the subframe 36 / 60, and the first surface 104 engages directly or indirectly with the surface 108 of the dome door 54 at or around the first portion 84 (or the second portion 86) of the dome door 54. Figure 5 In the exemplary embodiment shown, the caisson door 54 includes a pair of protrusions 110, each of which is disposed near a corresponding end 80, 82 of the caisson door for engagement with adjacent spacer members 100, 102 during assembly of the caisson assembly 38. Such protrusions 110 may be integrally formed with the caisson door 54, coupled to the caisson door 54 via any suitable means, or may be omitted without departing from the scope of the disclosed concept. When such protrusions 110 are provided, they provide a means of achieving final alignment of the caisson door 54 by precisely grinding one or more of the protrusions as needed to achieve a desired alignment.

[0044] Although Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 6A and Figure 6B Each of the spacers 100 and 102 in the example is typically shown as a rectangular member 112 having a notch 114 to receive one of the oscillating bolts 50 or 52 therein; however, it is to be understood that spacers of other shapes may be used without departing from the scope of the disclosed concept. When each threaded nut 70 is tightened onto the corresponding threaded portion 58 of each of the first and second oscillating bolts 50 and 52, the dome gate 54 is secured at a predetermined position or distance D relative to the subframe 36 and therefore relative to the frame 19 of the can forming machine 10, depending on the thickness t of the spacers 100, 102 employed. Figure 5It should be understood that by selectively changing the positioning (i.e., distance D) of the dome gate 54 relative to the subframe 36 / frame 19 and thus selectively changing the positioning of the dome gate 54 relative to other components of the can forming machine 10 (e.g., mold assembly 16), single dome gates 54 and dome molds 40 with different stroke lengths can be used to form cans with different heights by employing spacers of different predetermined lengths.

[0045] exist Figures 2 to 5 In the illustrated example embodiment, the dome assembly 38 further includes a hinge assembly 120 that pivotally connects a first end 80 of the dome door 54 to a subframe 36, and more particularly to a first support arm 60. The hinge assembly 120 includes an upper hinge pin 122 and a lower hinge pin 124 axially aligned along a common axis 126 and spaced apart from the upper hinge pin 122. In this embodiment, the first end 80 of the dome door 54 includes an upper cylindrical recess 128 extending downward from the top surface (not labeled) of the dome door 54 and a lower cylindrical recess 130 extending upward from the bottom surface (not labeled) of the dome door 54, the lower cylindrical recess being axially aligned with the upper cylindrical recess 128. The lower portion 132 of the upper hinge pin 122 is positioned (e.g., pressed in) within the upper cylindrical recess 128, and the upper portion 134 of the upper hinge pin 122 is positioned (e.g., to allow rotation / sliding) within the upper opening 136 of the first support arm 60 / subframe 36. The upper portion 138 of the lower hinge pin 124 is positioned (e.g., pressed in) within the lower cylindrical recess 130, while the lower portion 140 of the lower hinge pin 124 is positioned (e.g., to allow rotation / sliding) within the lower opening 142 of the first support arm 60 / subframe 36. Figure 5 Inside, the lower opening is aligned with the upper opening 136 of the first support arm 60 / sub-frame 36. Figures 3 to 5 In the exemplary embodiment shown, each of the upper orifice 136 and the lower orifice 142 is in the form of an elongated slot, within which hinge pins 122 and 124 can slide / rotate, as discussed further below.

[0046] Therefore, having described the components of the dome assembly 38 according to exemplary embodiments of the disclosed concept and arrangement, the following will now be combined with... Figure 3 and Figure 7 Provide a brief discussion of its operation / function. From Figure 3 Initially, the dome assembly 38 is shown assembled / locked in place, wherein the dome door 54 and the dome mold 40 connected to the dome door 54 are fixedly positioned to the sub-frame 36 of the dome assembly and the frame 19 of the can manufacturing machine 10, ready to carry out the can manufacturing operation. Figure 5As shown, at this time, the face of the dome door 54 is positioned at a known distance D from the frame 19 of the can-making machine 10. It should be understood that although the face of the dome door 54 and the frame 19 of the can-making machine 10 are used as reference points in this example, any other suitable desired reference point may be used without departing from the scope of the disclosed concept. When it is necessary to change the height of the can being formed by the can-making machine 10, stop the operation of the can-making machine 10 and unscrew each of the threaded nuts 70 from the first sway bolt 50 and the second sway bolt 52 toward their second end 58. Once the nuts have been sufficiently loosened (e.g., as...), Figure 7 As shown), the swing bolts 50 and 52 rotate outward (as shown). Figure 7 (As indicated by arrow r in the diagram). As the swing bolts 50 and 52 rotate to an unobstructed position, the first end 80 of the dome door 54 can slide outward away from the frame 19 of the can-making machine 10 by a predetermined amount (i.e., by sliding through the upper hinge pin 122 and the lower hinge pin 124 in the upper orifice 136 and the lower orifice 142 until its outermost end). Simultaneously, the dome door 54 can rotate about the hinge pins 122 and 124 in such a manner (as shown by arrow r in the diagram). Figure 7 (As indicated by arrow R in the diagram), allowing the second end 82 of the dome door 54 to swing away from the second support arm 72 of the subframe 36. In an example embodiment of the disclosed concept, the dome door 54 can swing outward by 90° or more. When the dome door 54 is positioned in this "open" position, the dome mold 40 can be easily inserted if needed. Figure 3 The spacers 100 and 102 can be removed from or installed on the dome door 54. Additionally, spacers 100 and 102 can be removed to be replaced with other spacers having a different desired thickness t, which is suitable for the desired height of the cans to be produced by the can manufacturing machine 10.

[0047] Complete the process by reversing the aforementioned steps. Figure 7 The "Open" button shown is located at Figure 3 The "closed" operation positioning is shown. More specifically, the dome door 54 swings to close and slides toward the frame 19 of the can manufacturing machine 10 until it abuts against the desired spacing members 100, 102 corresponding to the height of the can to be produced. Each of the swing bolts 50 and 52 rotates inward (i.e., in relation to...). Figure 7 (in the opposite direction of the middle arrow r) and each of the threaded nuts 70 is tightened and torque is applied to each of the wobbling bolts 50 and 52 according to the appropriate torque specification.

[0048] In summary, it should be understood that the disclosed embodiments provide a can manufacturing machine that can produce cans of different heights simply by switching the spacer members in its dome assembly. It should also be understood that the disclosed embodiments can be readily adapted to can manufacturing machines that do not originally include adjustable dome assemblies as described herein.

[0049] Although specific embodiments of the invention have been described in detail, those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications and substitutions can be made to these details in accordance with the general teachings of this disclosure. Therefore, the specific arrangements disclosed are merely illustrative and not intended to limit the scope of the disclosed concept, which is defined by the appended claims and the full scope of any and all their equivalents.

[0050] In the claims, any reference numerals within parentheses shall not be construed as limiting the claims. The terms "comprising" or "including" do not exclude the presence of other elements or steps besides those listed in the claims. In an apparatus claim listing several devices, several of these devices may be implemented by the same hardware item. The article "a" or "the" preceding an element does not exclude the presence of multiple such elements. In an apparatus claim listing several devices, several of these devices may be implemented by the same hardware item. The fact that certain elements are listed in mutually different dependent claims does not mean that these elements cannot be used in combination.

Claims

1. A dome assembly (18) for supporting a dome mold (40) in a can forming machine (10), the dome assembly comprising: Subframe (36), the subframe being configured to be connected to the frame (19) of the can forming machine. as well as Dome assembly (38), the dome assembly comprising: A dome door (54) comprising a first end (80) and a second end (82) opposite to the first end, the dome door being configured to have a dome mold connected to the dome door between the first end and the second end; A first spacer member (100) has a first surface (104) and a second surface (106) opposite to and spaced apart from the first surface by a first thickness (t). The first surface of the first spacer member engages with the subframe, and the second surface of the first spacer member engages with the dome door at or around the first end of the dome door. A second spacer member (102) has a first surface and a second surface opposite to and spaced apart from the first surface by a second thickness. The first surface of the second spacer member engages with the dome door at or around the second end of the dome door, and the second surface of the second spacer member engages with the subframe. A fastening device that rigidly connects the dome door to the subframe, such that the dome door is fixed relative to the subframe at a predetermined position according to the respective thicknesses of the first and second spacers.

2. The dome assembly according to claim 1, further comprising a hinge device (120), wherein, The dome door is pivotally and slidably connected to the subframe at or around the first end of the dome door via the hinge device.

3. The dome assembly according to claim 2, wherein: The hinge device includes an upper hinge pin (122) and a lower hinge pin (124), wherein the lower hinge pin is axially aligned with and spaced apart from the upper hinge pin; The first end of the dome door includes an upper cylindrical recess (128) extending downward from the top surface of the dome door and a lower cylindrical recess (130) extending upward from the bottom surface of the dome door and axially aligned with the upper cylindrical recess. The lower portion (132) of the upper hinge pin is positioned within the upper cylindrical recess at the first end of the dome door, while the upper portion (134) of the upper hinge pin is positioned within an elongated slot (136) defined in the subframe; and The upper portion (138) of the lower hinge pin is positioned within the lower cylindrical recess at the first end of the dome door, while the lower portion (140) of the lower hinge pin is positioned within another elongated slot (142) defined in the subframe.

4. The dome assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The subframe includes a first support arm (60) and a second support arm (72); The first support arm includes a first end configured to be coupled to the frame of the can forming machine and a second end selectively coupled to the first end of the dome door via a portion of the fastening device; and The second support arm includes a first end configured to be coupled to the frame of the can forming machine and a second end selectively coupled to the second end of the dome door via another portion of the fastening device.

5. The dome assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The fastening device includes: A first sway bolt (50) has a first end (56) and a second end (58) opposite to the first end, the first end of the first sway bolt being pivotally connected to the subframe, and the second end of the first sway bolt having a threaded portion (68) extending from the second end toward the first end of the first sway bolt. The second sway bolt (52) has a first end and a second end opposite to the first end, the first end of the second sway bolt being pivotally connected to the subframe, and the second end of the second sway bolt having a threaded portion extending from the second end toward the first end of the second sway bolt; A first threaded nut (70) engages with the threaded portion of the first swaying bolt; and The second threaded nut engages with the threaded portion of the second swaying bolt. When the first threaded nut and the second threaded nut are tightened onto the corresponding threaded portions of the first swaying bolt and the second swaying bolt, the dome door is fixed at the predetermined positioning position depending on the thickness of the first spacer member and the second spacer member.

6. The dome assembly according to claim 5, further comprising a first pin (62) connected to the subframe and a second pin connected to the subframe, wherein: The first sway bolt includes an opening (66) defined in the first sway bolt at a first end of the first sway bolt. The second sway bolt includes an orifice defined in the second sway bolt at a first end; The first end of the first sway bolt is pivotally connected to the subframe via an engagement between the first pin and the orifice defined at the first end of the first sway bolt; and The first end of the second sway bolt is pivotally connected to the subframe via an engagement between the second pin and the orifice defined at the first end of the second sway bolt.

7. The dome assembly according to claim 6, wherein: The dome door includes a first recessed portion (88) defined therein, the first recessed portion extending inward from a first end of the dome door; The dome door includes a second recessed portion (90) defined therein, the second recessed portion extending inward from a second end of the dome door; The first sway bolt is positioned in the first recessed portion; and The second sway bolt is positioned in the second recessed portion.

8. The dome assembly according to claim 1, wherein the dome assembly further comprises the dome mold connected to the dome door.

9. The dome assembly according to claim 1, further comprising: A third spacer member having a first face and a second face opposite to the first face, the first face of the third spacer member being configured to engage with the dome door at or around the first end of the dome door, and the second face of the third spacer member being configured to engage with the subframe. as well as A fourth spacer member has a first face and a second face opposite to the first face. The first face of the fourth spacer member is configured to engage with the dome door at or around the second end of the dome door, and the second face of the fourth spacer member is configured to engage with the subframe. The first surface of the third spacer member is spaced apart from the second surface by a third distance, which is different from the first distance. The first surface of the fourth spacer member is spaced apart from the second surface by a fourth distance, which is different from the second distance. The third spacer is configured to be positioned to replace the first spacer, and The fourth spacer is configured to be positioned to replace the second spacer.

10. A can forming machine (10), the can forming machine comprising: Framework (19); The hammer body (20) includes an elongated body (20) having a longitudinal axis (26) and a distal end (24). Operating mechanism (12), which is connected to the frame and configured to reciprocate the hammer body (20) between a first retracted position and a second extended position; Punch (21), the punch being disposed at the distal end of the hammer body; A mold assembly (16) is attached to the frame and has at least one mold (30) having an opening (32) therein and a longitudinal axis; The punch is positioned to move approximately horizontally through the opening of the mold, wherein the longitudinal axis of the punch body is substantially aligned with the longitudinal axis of the mold assembly. as well as The dome device (18) as described in any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. A method for positioning a dome mold (40) of a can forming machine (10) relative to a frame (19) of the can forming machine, the method comprising: Disconnect the fastening device of the dome gate (54) from the frame of the can forming machine, the dome gate having the dome mold assembly connected to the dome gate; The dome door is slid away from the frame and the second end (82) of the dome door is pivoted away from the frame; A first spacer member (100) is inserted between the first end (80) of the dome door and the frame. A second spacer member (102) is inserted between the second end of the dome door and the frame. The second end of the dome door is pivoted toward the frame and the dome door slides against the first spacer member and the second spacer member; as well as The fastening device is connected to the dome door and the frame.

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