Method and apparatus for obtaining a quantitative substance for forming an annular seal

Abstract

Apparatus (1) and method for obtaining a quantitative substance (2) intended to form an annular seal (3, 30, 300) within a crown cap (4, 40, 400), wherein the method is: - A step of supplying the entire flow of plastic to exactly N extrusion outlets (6) through an equal number of supply channels (7) in order to obtain a partial flow of extruded plastic coming out of each extrusion outlet (6), wherein each supply channel (7) is arranged in fluid communication with each extrusion outlet (6), - A step of providing at least N-1 adjustment members (10), wherein each adjustment member (10) is operably associated with its respective supply channel (7), - A step of adjusting each partial flow coming out of each extrusion outlet (6), wherein the step of adjusting each partial flow coming out of each extrusion outlet (6) includes a step of adjusting the at least N-1 adjustment members (10), - A step of moving a support element (17) that carries N quantitative separation elements (18) in the forward direction (A) along a closed-loop path so that each quantitative separation element (18) passes in front of its respective extrusion outlet (6) during each rotation, -A step of separating N plastic quantities (2) which are precursors to the annular seals (3, 30, 300) during the movement and each rotation of the support element (17), wherein each of the quantitative separation elements (18) separates the plastic quantities (2) from the extrusion outlet (6), and the separation step is provided after adjusting each partial flow coming out of each extrusion outlet (6), and - The step of depositing N separate quantitative substances (2) inside the crown caps (4, 40, 400) is included, The number N is equal to 3, 4, or 5.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a method and an apparatus for obtaining dose(s) intended to form an inner annular seal (liner) intended to be formed on the inner bottom wall of an annular seal, particularly a crown cap.

[0002] In particular, methods and apparatuses are referred to for obtaining several plastic doses by separating them from a plastic stream and thus depositing them directly into a crown cap, such that at least a part of the deposited doses has an annular arrangement. In fact, such an annular arrangement facilitates the formation of the inner annular seal of the crown cap, particularly by compressing the doses.

[0003] A second aspect of the present invention relates to a forming apparatus for forming an annular seal on the inner bottom wall of a crown cap, particularly to a forming apparatus comprising a cooling circuit through which a cooling fluid flows to keep the temperature of a region of a component intended to form the annular seal low.

Background Art

[0004] From the prior art, methods and apparatuses for obtaining doses for forming an annular seal on a cap, particularly a plastic cap or a cap made of a metal material of the twist-off type, are known. This method includes the steps of separating a plurality of doses from an extruder, depositing the doses in a circular arrangement on the inner bottom wall of the cap, and forming an annular seal by compressing the doses on the inner bottom wall of the cap.

[0005] Obtaining annular seals with the above-described type of cap is relatively easy, given that such caps have a fairly large diameter, and as a result, the width of the circular crown onto which the precursor material for the annular seal is deposited (i.e., the difference between the outer and inner radii of the two circumferences defining the circular crown) is quite large, which makes it possible to deposit several materials with a fairly large maximum base width, especially in diameter.

[0006] European Patent No. 2739449 by the applicant discloses a device for separating a relatively large number of plastic quantities to form an annular seal within a cap, the size of which the cap is such that it can accommodate several quantities, particularly 10 quantities, that have a fairly large maximum base width while remaining stationary within the area intended for forming the seal. Such a separation device comprises several quantitative separation elements that, when in use, advance toward a plurality of corresponding extrusion outlets from which the plastic exits to separate multiple quantities. Such a separation device cannot be readily transferred to a device for obtaining an annular seal within a crown cap because the dimensions of the crown cap are small for the above type of cap, and consequently the dimensions of the annular seal formed on the inner bottom wall of the crown cap are small, and the small dimensions limit the maximum width of the quantities that can be deposited. In practice, apparatus intended to form a crown cap does not allow for having a number of plastic quantitatives (and correspondingly the number of quantitative separation elements and the number of extrusion outlets) exceeding certain limits, due to several structural limitations, particularly those arising from the trajectories of the separation elements, the maximum width of the carousel to which the quantitative separation elements are connected, the maximum width of each quantitative separation element, the maximum width of each quantitative, and the width of the annular seal intended to be obtained (i.e., the difference between the outer and inner radii of the two circumferences defining the circular crown).

[0007] Other devices for forming a seal on a cap are disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2011 / 0100994 and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 3053221.

[0008] Furthermore, referring to Figures 1 and 2, it is known from prior art methods and apparatuses that a seal 2A, starting from a plastic material, is formed within the crown cap 1A, and the seal 2A consists of a central panel 3A and edge regions 4A in the form of a solid disc. Such methods and apparatuses cannot provide a crown cap with only annular seals, i.e., one having a plan view shape similar to a circular crown.

[0009] Furthermore, such a method and apparatus for forming a seal includes a punch 5A suitable for penetrating a crown cap 1A to form a metered material so as to form a central panel 3A of the seal 2A. The punch 5A comprises an annular central element 6A having a front surface 7A suitable for pressing at least one metered material portion against the inner surface of the bottom wall 8A of the crown cap 1A to form the central panel 3A of the seal 2A. Within the punch 5A is a cooling circuit 9A through which a cooling fluid coming from an inlet 10A connected to a cooling fluid supply system flows. The cooling circuit 9A comprises a central channel 11A substantially coaxial with the longitudinal extension axis of the punch 5A, through which the cooling fluid flows downward toward the front surface 7A and thus toward the crown cap 1A during use, and an annular outer channel 12A obtained outside the central channel 11A and separated from the central channel 11A via an annular wall 13A, so that the cooling fluid flows upward toward the front surface 7A and thus toward the crown cap 1A during use. The central channel 11A and the outer channel 12A are in fluid communication, and in particular, the central channel 11A terminates in a cooling chamber 14A obtained at the end of the outer groove 12A.

[0010] Although the cooling chamber 14A is slightly radially widened toward its lower part, the cooling fluid contained within it during use is unable to effectively cool the edge region 4A of the seal 2A.

[0011] Therefore, in light of the above, there is considerable room for improvement in apparatuses and methods for obtaining a quantitative material for forming a known type of annular seal, and in forming apparatuses for forming annular seals on the inner bottom wall of a known type of crown cap. [Overview of the project]

[0012] The object of the present invention is to improve a method and apparatus for obtaining a quantitative substance intended to form a known type of annular seal.

[0013] Another object of the present invention is to provide a method and apparatus intended for forming an annular seal within a crown cap, which enables obtaining a suitable number of quantifiers for obtaining an annular seal within the crown cap, and a suitable size for each quantifier to be deposited in the area of ​​the bottom wall of the crown cap that is intended to be sealed.

[0014] The objective is to improve a forming apparatus for creating an annular seal on the inner bottom wall of a known type of crown cap.

[0015] Another objective is to provide a forming apparatus for forming an annular seal on the inner bottom wall of a crown cap, equipped with an effective system for cooling the annular seal.

[0016] The advantage lies in providing a method for obtaining a quantitative object intended to form an annular seal. The number of quantitative objects obtained is such that it allows for obtaining annular seals of a predetermined size while simultaneously satisfying structural constraints related to the components of the apparatus for obtaining the quantitative object.

[0017] Another advantage lies in providing a method for obtaining quantities intended to form an annular seal, each quantity being of an appropriate size to be deposited in the area of ​​the bottom wall of a crown cap intended to be sealed, thereby preventing the quantities from tipping over or tilting.

[0018] A further advantage lies in providing a quantitative substance having a desired mass.

[0019] Another advantage is that it provides a quantitative substance having a desired shape.

[0020] Another advantage is that it provides the forming apparatus with a cooling circuit that allows a cooling fluid circulating inside to reach the region of the forming apparatus components closest to the forming chamber where the annular seal is formed.

[0021] These and other objectives and advantages are achieved by the method for obtaining a quantitative material for forming an annular seal as described in claim 1, and the apparatus for obtaining a quantitative material for forming an annular seal as described in claim 14.

[0022] In one embodiment, a method for obtaining a quantitative substance intended to form an annular seal within a crown cap is, - A step of supplying the entire flow of plastic to exactly N extrusion outlets through an equal number of supply channels in order to obtain a partial flow of extruded plastic from each extrusion outlet, wherein each supply channel is arranged in fluid communication with its respective extrusion outlet. - A step of providing at least N-1 adjustment members, each adjustment member being operably associated with its respective supply channel, - A step of adjusting each partial flow exiting each extrusion outlet, wherein the step of adjusting each partial flow exiting each extrusion outlet includes a step of adjusting the at least N-1 adjustment members, - A step of moving a support element carrying N quantitative separation elements in the forward direction along a closed-loop path so that each quantitative separation element passes in front of its respective extrusion outlet during each rotation, - A step of separating N quantities of plastic which are precursors to an annular seal during the movement and each rotation of the support element, wherein each of the quantitative separation elements separates the quantities of plastic from the extrusion outlet, and the separation step is provided after adjusting each partial flow coming out of each extrusion outlet, -Includes the step of depositing N separate quantitative substances inside the crown cap, The number N is equal to 3, 4, or 5.

[0023] In one embodiment, an apparatus for obtaining a quantitative substance intended to form an annular seal within a crown cap is, - An extrusion means for a full flow of plastic, comprising: exactly N extrusion outlets from which the full flow of plastic is supplied to obtain a partial flow of the extruded plastic exiting from each extrusion outlet; and the same number of supply channels configured to supply the full flow of plastic to the extrusion outlets, each supply channel being arranged in fluid communication with its respective extrusion outlet; - A flow regulating means configured to adjust each partial flow exiting each extrusion outlet, comprising at least N-1 regulating members, each regulating member operably associated with its respective supply channel, - A quantitative separation means configured to separate N plastic particles that are precursors to the annular seal, -Support elements that are movable in the forward direction along a closed-loop path arranged to pass in front of each extrusion outlet in each rotation, -N quantitative separation elements mounted on a support element to take at least one annular arrangement to enable the discharge of quantitative material in a corresponding annular arrangement, wherein each of the N quantitative separation elements is arranged to separate the plastic quantitative material from its respective extrusion outlet during each rotation of the support element, The number N is equal to 3, 4, or 5. The present invention will be better understood and implemented by reference to the accompanying drawings which show its exemplary and non-limiting embodiments.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0024] [Figure 1] It is a perspective view of a cross-section of a crown cap having a seal according to the prior art. [Figure 2] It is a cross-sectional view of a forming device for forming a known type of seal. [Figure 2A] It is an enlarged detailed view of FIG. 2. [Figure 3] It is a perspective view of a device for obtaining a metered product comprising a plurality of metering and separating elements in a first operating position. [Figure 4] It is a perspective view of the plurality of metering and separating elements of FIG. 3 in a second operating position. [Figure 5] It is a perspective view of the plurality of metering and separating elements of FIG. 3 in a third operating position. [Figure 6] It is a perspective view of the plurality of metering and separating elements of FIG. 3 in a fourth operating position. [Figure 7] It is a perspective view of an extrusion means for a plastic stream for obtaining a plastic metered product, which is supplied to the device for obtaining a metered product of FIG. 3. [Figure 8] It is a view similar to FIG. 7 from another angle. [Figure 9] It is a side view of the extrusion means of FIG. 7. [Figure 10] It is a side view similar to FIG. 9 of the other side of the extrusion means. [Figure 11] It is a front perspective view of the extrusion means of FIG. 7 for emphasizing the flow regulating means of the extruded plastic. [Figure 12] It is a perspective view of the extrusion means of FIG. 7. [Figure 13] It is a perspective view of the metering and separating elements in the metered product deposition position. [Figure 14] It is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 13. [Figure 15] It is a perspective view of a crown cap having a metered product deposited by the separating element of FIG. 13. [Figure 16] This is a perspective view similar to Figure 15, showing the annular seal formed starting from the deposited material, in addition to the quantitative material itself. [Figure 17] Figure 15 is a perspective view of the crown cap in which an annular seal is formed according to the first embodiment. [Figure 18] This is a plan view of the arrangement of three quantitative materials, which are precursors to the annular seal, deposited in a circular region where the annular seal is intended to be formed. [Figure 19] This is a plan view of the arrangement of four quantitative particles, which are precursors to the annular seal, deposited in a circular region intended to form the annular seal. [Figure 20] This is a plan view of the arrangement of five quantitative particles, which are precursors to the annular seal, deposited in a circular region where the annular seal is intended to be formed. [Figure 21] This is a perspective view of a crown cap with an annular seal according to a second embodiment. [Figure 22] Figure 21 is a cross-sectional perspective view. [Figure 23] This is a cross-sectional perspective view of a seal according to a third embodiment. [Figure 24] This is a cross-sectional view of a forming apparatus for forming an annular seal in a crown cap according to a second aspect of the present invention. [Figure 25] This is a magnified detail view of the lower part of Figure 24. [Figure 26] This diagram shows the operating positions of the forming apparatus in Figure 24 in sequence. [Figure 27] This diagram shows the operating positions of the forming apparatus in Figure 24 in sequence. [Figure 28] This diagram shows the operating positions of the forming apparatus in Figure 24 in sequence. [Figure 29] This diagram shows the operating positions of the forming apparatus in Figure 24 in sequence. [Figure 30] This diagram shows the operating positions of the forming apparatus in Figure 24 in sequence. [Figure 31] This diagram shows the operating positions of the forming apparatus in Figure 24 in sequence. [Figure 32]This is a cross-sectional view of the crown cap having an annular seal obtained by the forming apparatus in Figure 24 after it has been moved to the operating positions shown in Figures 26 to 31. [Figure 33] This is a perspective view of another embodiment of an extrusion means for a flow of plastic to obtain a quantity of plastic, supplied to the apparatus for obtaining the quantity of plastic shown in Figure 3. [Figure 34] Figure 33 is a perspective view of the extrusion mechanism. [Figure 35] Figure 33 is a top view of the extrusion mechanism. [Figure 36] This is a cross-sectional view along the line XXXVI-XXXVI in the plane of Figure 35. [Figure 37] This is a cross-sectional view along the line XXXVII-XXXVII in the plane of Figure 35. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0025] For the sake of simplicity, similar elements of different embodiments can be shown below using the same reference numerals.

[0026] Referring to Figures 3 to 14, the whole is shown as 1, which is an apparatus for obtaining a quantity of plastic 2 intended to form an annular seal 3 (liner) inside a crown cap 4 by compression in a forming apparatus 100 according to a second aspect of the present invention, such as shown in Figures 24 to 31, and the forming apparatus 100 is configured to form an annular seal 3 inside a crown cap 4.

[0027] Referring particularly to Figures 14 to 17, the crown cap 4 includes a substantially flat end panel 20 having a circular shape in plan view. A jacket 21, which may be cylindrical in shape, protrudes from around the end panel 20, and a corrugated edge region 22 extends outward from there.

[0028] The annular seal 3 forms a seal within the crown cap 4. In particular, the annular seal 3 is formed on the substantially flat inner bottom wall 8 of the end panel 20 of the crown cap 4.

[0029] On the opposite side of the inner bottom wall 8, the end panel 20 further comprises, for example, a substantially flat outer wall 28.

[0030] In particular, in the first embodiment shown in Figure 17, the annular seal 3 has a ring shape with a pair of substantially flat, opposing inner and outer surfaces 23. The outer surface 23 is shown, for example, in Figure 17.

[0031] Apparatus 1 comprises a full-flow plastic extrusion means 5 having exactly N extrusion outlets 6 to which the entire flow of plastic is supplied in order to obtain a partial flow of extruded plastic coming out of each of the extrusion outlets 6.

[0032] Each extrusion outlet 6 is positioned, in particular, to have a vertically upward direction for the plastic outlet.

[0033] The apparatus 1 for obtaining quantitative material 2 makes it possible to obtain N quantitative material 2 from a plurality of corresponding partial flows of extruded plastic coming out of the extrusion outlet 6 of the extrusion means 5.

[0034] The extrusion means 5 further comprises N supply channels 7 arranged to supply the entire flow of plastic to the extrusion outlet 6. In particular, each supply channel 7 is arranged to be in fluid communication with its respective extrusion outlet 6.

[0035] The apparatus 1 further comprises a quantitative separation means 16 configured to separate N quantities of plastic quantified objects 2 from the extrusion means 5.

[0036] The quantitative substance 2 is a precursor of the annular seal 3. In fact, when the plastic is deposited on the inner bottom wall 8 of the crown cap 4, they form a precursor of the seal, and the precursor is annular.

[0037] The quantitative separation means 16 includes a support element 17 that is movable in the forward direction A along a closed-loop path so as to pass in front of each extrusion outlet 6 of the extrusion means 5 in each rotation.

[0038] In certain cases, the support element 17 can be rotated such that the vertical axis of rotation follows a substantially horizontal circular path.

[0039] The quantitative separation means 16 further comprises N quantitative separation means 18 attached to the support element 17 so as to take at least one annular arrangement to enable the release of the quantitative substance 2 according to the corresponding annular arrangement.

[0040] Each of the quantitative separation elements 18 is configured to separate a quantitative amount of plastic material 2 from its respective extrusion outlet 6 during each rotation of the support element 17.

[0041] Specifically, the quantitative separation element 18 is attached to the support element 17 and is configured to continuously separate the quantitative substance 2, that is, one after another, with each rotation of the support element 17.

[0042] Each quantitative substance 2 may be substantially cylindrical in shape.

[0043] In one embodiment, a plurality of quantitative separation elements 18 are fixed to a support element 17 so that they do not move relative to one another.

[0044] The N extrusion outlets 6 and quantitative separation elements 18 are equal to 3, 4, or 5, respectively, to obtain 3, 4, or 5 quantities of plastic quantified material 2.

[0045] Each quantified material 2 separated by the respective partial flow of extruded plastic exiting each extrusion outlet 6 has, in particular, a ratio of the maximum quantified material width D to the quantified material height H, which falls between 0.35 and 1.7.

[0046] Figure 15 shows the maximum width D and height H relative to the quantitative material 2 deposited on the inner bottom wall 8 of the crown cap 4.

[0047] The maximum width D is the diameter of the quantitative object 2, in particular, when the quantitative object 2 is substantially cylindrical in shape.

[0048] The maximum width D of each quantitative object 2 is a function of the width of the respective extrusion outlet 6 from which it is extruded.

[0049] The ratio between the maximum width D and height H of each quantitative object 2 may, in particular, be between 0.75 and 1.7 or between 0.75 and 1.6. Furthermore, such a ratio may, in particular, be between 0.75 and 1.5. For example, such a ratio may be substantially equal to 1.

[0050] Furthermore, such ratios may particularly fall between 0.75 and 1. More specifically and advantageously, such ratios may fall between 0.35 and 1. For example, the ratio between the maximum width D and height H of each quantitative object 2 may, in particular, fall between 0.45 and 0.9, or between 0.6 and 0.9, or between 0.6 and 0.8. In this way, the quantitative object 2 is more effectively conveyed to the forming apparatus 100 and does not tend to collapse.

[0051] The above-mentioned ratio between the maximum width D and height H of each quantitative object 2, particularly when it falls between 0.35 and 1, allows for obtaining a quantitative object 2 that does not tip over when the quantitative object 2 is deposited on the inner bottom wall 8 and / or when the crown cap 4 with the quantitative object 2 deposited inside is transferred to the forming apparatus, and at the same time does not overflow beyond the annular region 19 (liner profile) of the inner bottom wall 8 that defines the width of the annular seal 3 formed after the compression molding of the quantitative object 2 in the forming apparatus, for example, forming apparatus 100.

[0052] Figures 18 to 20 show embodiments of such annular region 19 that are substantially circular crown-shaped. Such a circular crown may, in particular, have an inner diameter of, for example, about 16.8 mm and an outer diameter of, for example, about 24.8 mm. In this case, the maximum width of the quantitative object 2 must be less than 4 mm.

[0053] The quantitative substances 2 may be arranged on the annular region 19 at angular intervals to provide four quantitative substances and five quantitative substances, as shown, for example, in Figures 19 and 20, respectively.

[0054] Alternatively, the quantitative object 2 does not have to be arranged at an angular distance from each other on the annular region 19, for example, as shown in Figure 18, in order to provide three quantitative objects.

[0055] Furthermore, Figures 18, 19, and 20 show the trajectories of the quantitative separation elements 18 that do not overlap during use, indicated by dashed lines.

[0056] In practice, the number of quantitative objects 2 (3, 4, or 5) is such that it satisfies the structural limitations of the apparatus 1, particularly due to the trajectory of the quantitative separation element 18, the maximum width of the carousel (not shown) to which the quantitative separation element 18 is connected, the maximum width of each quantitative separation element 18, and the width of the annular seal 3 that is intended to be obtained (i.e., the difference between the outer and inner radii of the two circumferences defining the circular crown).

[0057] Furthermore, the apparatus 1 for obtaining the quantitative product 2 includes flow adjustment means configured to adjust each partial flow coming out of each extrusion outlet 6 to obtain the above-mentioned ratio between the maximum width D and height H of each quantitative product 2.

[0058] The flow adjustment means comprises at least N-1 adjustment members 10, each operably associated with each supply channel 7, to selectively increase or decrease the passage section for the flow of plastic within each supply channel 7. In other words, providing at least N-1 adjustment members 10 means that each adjustment member 10 is operably associated with at least one of each supply channel 7.

[0059] The flow adjustment means may include a programmable electronic flow adjustment means configured to change one or more operating parameters of the extrusion means 5 to alter the overall flow of the plastic.

[0060] Each adjustment member 10 is configured to be adjustable to obtain the above-mentioned ratio between the maximum width D and height H of each quantitative object 2 separated from each extrusion outlet 6 of the supply channel 7 to which the adjustment member 10 is operably associated.

[0061] Furthermore, each adjustment member 10 is configured to be adjustable to obtain a desired flow rate for each portion of the extruded plastic from each extrusion outlet 6 of the supply channel 7 to which each adjustment member 10 is operably associated.

[0062] In one embodiment, the flow adjustment means comprises, in particular, N adjustment members 10, each adjustment member 10 operably associated with its respective supply channel 7 to selectively increase or decrease the passage section for partial flow of plastic within its respective supply channel 7.

[0063] In another embodiment, the flow adjustment means comprises, in particular, N-1 adjustment members 10, wherein each of the supply channels 7 except one is operably associated with each adjustment member 10 to selectively increase or decrease the passage section for partial flow of plastic in each of the supply channels 7 except one, and the programmable electronic flow adjustment means is configured to change one or more of the operating parameters of the extrusion means 5 to change the flow of plastic in the supply channels 7 that do not have adjustment members 10.

[0064] Each adjustment member 10 is positioned in the plastic flow path within its respective supply channel 7.

[0065] In particular, each adjustment member 10 is at least partially positioned in its respective supply channel 7.

[0066] In the versions of the flow adjustment mechanism shown in Figures 7 to 12, each adjustment member 10 is axially movable within each supply channel 7 along a direction substantially parallel to the extending direction of each supply channel 7, in particular changing the position of each tapered end 11, thereby changing the flow rate of each portion of plastic within each supply channel 7 or each supply channel 7 except one.

[0067] In the versions of the flow adjustment mechanism shown in Figures 33 to 37, each adjustment member 10 is axially movable substantially laterally, particularly perpendicularly, along the extending direction of each supply channel 7, thereby changing the position of each tapered end 11, particularly the tapered end, within each supply channel 7, and consequently changing the flow rate of each portion of plastic within each supply channel 7 or each supply channel 7 with one exception.

[0068] The position of each adjustment member 10 can be changed, for example, using a manual type actuation mechanism. Such actuation mechanisms may include screw couplings to allow axial displacement of the adjustment member 10 in each supply channel 7.

[0069] In the versions shown in Figures 7 to 12, the flow adjustment means further comprises a plurality of locking elements 12, each locking element 12 configured to interact with its respective adjustment member 10 and lock it in place.

[0070] In the versions shown in Figures 33 to 37, the flow regulating means further comprises a plurality of closure elements 12'. Each closure element 12' is positioned within each supply channel 7, particularly near its end, to prevent the passage of plastic outside the flow regulating means. In other words, each closure element 12' is configured to seal and close the respective supply channel 7 in which it is positioned. Each closure element 12' may or may not have a cap.

[0071] The extrusion means 5 may further include an extruder, which is arranged in fluid communication with each of the supply channels 7.

[0072] The extrusion means 5 may further include a pump, particularly a positive displacement pump, located downstream of the extruder with respect to the flow direction of the entire flow of plastic.

[0073] Operating parameters that can be changed to adjust the overall flow of plastic include the extruder screw speed or the pump motor speed.

[0074] The extrusion means 5 may further include a delivery conduit 13 having an inlet 14 at its end for the entire flow of plastic within the extrusion means 5. The delivery conduit 13 is arranged to be in fluid communication with each supply channel 7 through its respective opening 15.

[0075] In particular, the extruder is positioned to be in fluid communication with the delivery conduit 13 via the inlet 14.

[0076] The extrusion outlet 6 may be located on the same side as the delivery conduit 13. Therefore, adjustment operations for regulating the flow of extruded plastic coming out of the extrusion outlet 6 are facilitated, considering that the adjustment member 10 can be easily reached by the actuation means via the extrusion outlet 6 located on the same side.

[0077] The extrusion outlet 6 may be positioned at a higher height than the delivery conduit 13.

[0078] Each adjustment member 10 is configured to be adjustable, for example, according to the distance between the extrusion outlet 6 corresponding to the supply channel 7 to which the adjustment member 10 is associated and the inlet 14 of the extrusion means 5, so that each portion of the extruded plastic coming out of each of the extrusion outlets 6 has a desired flow rate that may differ when coming out of different extrusion outlets 6.

[0079] The delivery conduit 13 generally extends along a direction substantially parallel to the first direction D1, each of the supply channels 7 generally extends along their respective directions substantially parallel to the second direction D2 which is substantially parallel to the first direction D1, and each of the extrusion outlets 6 generally extends along their respective directions substantially parallel to the third direction D3 which is substantially perpendicular to the first direction D1 and the second direction D2.

[0080] The second direction D2 is, in particular, perpendicular to the first direction D1.

[0081] The second direction D2 may be perpendicular to the third direction D3.

[0082] In the versions of the flow adjustment mechanism shown in Figures 7 to 12, each adjustment member 10 is positioned in a general deployment range direction substantially parallel to the second direction D2.

[0083] In one version, for example, the flow adjustment mechanism shown in Figures 7 to 12, the adjustment member 10 is adjusted by being axially displaced within each supply channel 7 along a direction substantially parallel to the second direction D2 and locked in place, thereby equalizing the flow rate of the partial flow exiting the extrusion outlet 6, and thereby obtaining quantitatively measured substances 2 having substantially the same mass.

[0084] In the versions of the flow regulating means shown in Figures 7 to 12, each locking element 12 can act in particular along a fourth direction D4. The fourth direction D4 is perpendicular to the first direction D1 and the second direction D2. In particular, the fourth direction D4 is perpendicular to the first direction D1 and the second direction D2. The fourth direction D4 may be perpendicular to or parallel to the third direction D3.

[0085] In another version, for example, the flow adjustment mechanism shown in Figures 33 to 37, the adjustment member 10 is adjusted by being displaced axially along the fourth direction D4 and locked in place, thereby equalizing the flow rate of the partial flow of extruded plastic exiting the extrusion outlet 6, thereby yielding quantitatively measured products 2 having substantially the same mass.

[0086] In the version of the flow adjustment mechanism shown in Figures 33 to 34, each adjustment member 10 is positioned within a general range of deployment substantially parallel to the fourth direction D4.

[0087] Therefore, the direction of the plastic exit from each of the extrusion outlets 6 is substantially parallel to the third direction D3, and in particular it is upward.

[0088] The extrusion outlets 6 may be arranged aligned with each other along a direction substantially parallel to the first direction D1. In this case, the extrusion outlets 6 are arranged in a substantially linear configuration.

[0089] By providing the supply channel 7, the extrusion outlet 6 and the delivery conduit 13 are staggered along the second direction D2, or in other words, the extrusion outlet 6 is displaced laterally relative to the delivery conduit 13. Therefore, when the adjustment member 10 is adjusted, the flow of plastic in the delivery conduit 13 is not obstructed. This makes it possible to obtain a quantitative amount of material that flows out with the desired shape.

[0090] In one embodiment, independent adjustment of the partial flow of extruded plastic in the supply channel 7 obtained using adjustment means (this independent adjustment makes it possible to obtain each partial flow of extruded plastic with a desired flow rate coming out of each extrusion outlet 6) makes it possible to arrange quantitative objects 2 that are not angularly spaced apart, for example, in the case of three quantitative objects, as shown in Figure 18.

[0091] The carousel to which the quantitative separation elements 18 are connected can rotate, for example, around a vertical rotation axis and support a plurality of support elements 17, each of which carries three, four, or five of the respective quantitative separation elements 18. The support elements 17 may be mounted on the carousel at an angle (equally) apart from one another. The carousel may be equipped with conveyor wheels for transporting the crown caps 4 along a predetermined path, for example, a circle, with the quantitative material 2 accumulating in each crown cap 4 along the path.

[0092] Next, the crown caps 4 are sent to a forming apparatus for compression molding of a fixed quantity to obtain a seal, for example, they are then sent to a forming apparatus 100, which will be described in more detail below.

[0093] The apparatus 1 may further comprise a known type of programmable electronic control means configured to control the movement of each support element 17, and in particular the speed of each support element 17. The programmable electronic control means may comprise a programmable electronic controller.

[0094] The programmable electronic control means are configured and / or the flow adjustment means are adjusted so that each quantity 2 obtained by each partial flow of extruded plastic exiting each extrusion outlet 6 has a predetermined ratio between its maximum width D and height H.

[0095] As described above, such ratios fall between 0.35 and 1.7. The ratio between the maximum width and height of each quantitative object 2 may, in particular, fall between 0.75 and 1.7 or between 0.75 and 1.6. Furthermore, such ratios may, in particular, fall between 0.75 and 1.5. Furthermore, such ratios may, in particular, fall between 0.75 and 1. More specifically and favorably, such ratios fall between 0.35 and 1. For example, the ratio between the maximum width D and height H of each quantitative object 2 may, in particular, fall between 0.45 and 0.9, or between 0.6 and 0.9, or between 0.6 and 0.8.

[0096] Referring to Figures 3 to 16 and Figure 19, an embodiment of the apparatus 1 for obtaining four quantitative objects 2, i.e., four extrusion outlets 6 and four quantitative separation elements 18, where N is equal to 4. In this case, each of the four quantitative objects 2 may have a height H in the range of 3.8 mm ± 0.2 mm, particularly a height H of 3.8 mm, and a maximum width D in the range of 3.3 mm ± 0.2 mm, particularly a maximum width D of 3.3 mm, particularly a diameter.

[0097] In another embodiment of the apparatus 1 for obtaining five quantitative objects 2, which provides five extrusion outlets 6 and five quantitative separation elements 18, the number N is equal to 5, and each of the five quantitative objects 2 separated by the quantitative separation elements 18 has a height H in the range of 3.3 mm ± 0.2 mm, in particular a height H of 3.3 mm, and a maximum width D in the range of 2.64 mm ± 0.2 mm, in particular a diameter, in particular a maximum width of 2.64 mm.

[0098] In yet another embodiment of the apparatus 1 for obtaining three quantitative objects 2, which provides three extrusion outlets 6 and three quantitative separation elements 18, the number of N is equal to 3, and each of the three quantitative objects 2 separated by the quantitative separation elements 18 has a height in the range of 5.06 mm ± 0.2 mm, in particular a height of 5.06 mm, and a maximum width in the range of 3.3 mm ± 0.2 mm, in particular a diameter, in particular a maximum width of 3.3 mm.

[0099] Each quantitative separation element 18 may be equipped with a discharge means arranged to discharge the quantitative substance 2 in a discharge direction, for example, vertically downward.

[0100] Each quantitative separation element 18 may be open at the bottom to discharge the quantitative substance 2 in a downward (vertical) discharge direction, and may be formed to have a concave surface facing forward with respect to the forward direction A. In particular, each quantitative separation element 18 may have a U-shaped cross-section with a concave surface facing forward. However, it is possible to provide quantitative separation elements 18 of other shapes.

[0101] The operation of the apparatus 1 for obtaining the quantitative substance 2 is clear from the above overview.

[0102] The following describes in detail the operation of the apparatus 1 for obtaining quantitative products, which is equipped with four extrusion outlets 6 and four quantitative separation elements 18 to obtain four quantitative products 2. However, the operation is the same for the apparatus 1 for obtaining quantitative products, which is equipped with three extrusion outlets 6 and three quantitative separation elements 18 to obtain three quantitative products 2, or five extrusion outlets 6 and five quantitative separation elements 18 to obtain five quantitative products 2.

[0103] Each support element 17 is supported and rotated by a rotating carousel.

[0104] During each rotation of the carousel, as each support element 17 moves forward in the forward direction A, the first quantitative separation element 18 separates the first quantitative substance 2 on the first rotation (Figure 3), the second quantitative separation element 18 separates the second quantitative substance 2 on the second rotation (Figure 4), and the third quantitative separation element 18 separates the third quantitative substance 2 on the third rotation (Figure 5).

[0105] In the case of four quantitative substances 2, the fourth quantitative separation element 18 then separates the fourth quantitative substance 2 on the fourth attempt (Figure 6).

[0106] In the case of five quantitative substances 2, the fifth quantitative separation element 18 then separates the fifth quantitative substance 2 for the fifth time.

[0107] After separating the quantitative material 2 from the extrusion outlet 6, each support element 17 advancing in the forward direction A is transported above each crown cap 4, which is positioned with its cavity facing upward, that is, towards the quantitative separation element 18 supported by the support elements 17.

[0108] The transfer of the quantitative material 2 from the quantitative separation element 18 to the inner bottom wall 8 of the crown cap 4 is caused by the relative displacement between the quantitative separation element 18 and the crown cap 4, which is made possible by the fact that the inner bottom wall 8 of the crown cap 4 has a greater ability to adhere to the molten plastic forming the quantitative material 2 than the quantitative separation element 18. For example, a suitable lacquer can be applied to the inner bottom wall 8 to enable the quantitative material 2 to adhere to the crown cap 4. Optionally, the support element 17 that holds the corresponding quantitative material 2, and therefore the separation element 18 fixed to it, is displaced toward the respective crown cap 4, for example, vertically.

[0109] The accumulation of the quantitative material 2 having an annular arrangement occurs simultaneously for all four (or three or five) quantitative material 2 (Figures 13 and 14), and can be facilitated by a discharge means that flows downward according to the command of the operating device and pushes the quantitative material 2 downward on the support surface, i.e., the inner bottom wall 8 of the crown cap 4.

[0110] During the deposition of the quantitative material 2, the crown cap 4 and the support element 17 can move along predetermined paths, particularly along a circular path and along the forward direction A, respectively.

[0111] The movement of the support element 17 and the crown cap 4 is synchronized using programmable electronic control means so that the quantitative material 2 is correctly deposited inside the crown cap 4.

[0112] Following the deposition of the quantitative material 2, the crown cap 4 (Figure 15), on which the quantitative material 2 is placed in the annular region 19 of the inner bottom wall 8, is sent to a forming device, for example, forming device 100.

[0113] The annular seal can have a different shape from the annular seal 3, for example, because the type of crown cap molded to it is different from that of the crown cap 4, but it can be formed starting from 3, 4, or 5 quantitative objects 2 obtained by the apparatus 1 for obtaining quantitative objects 2.

[0114] Similarly, the forming apparatus 100 enables compression molding of the annular seal 3 on the crown cap 4, but also enables the molding of annular seals with shapes different from the annular seal 3 on other types of crown caps. Several examples of different shapes of annular seals and different types of crown caps are shown in Figures 21, 22, and 23.

[0115] Figures 21 and 22 show a second embodiment of an annular seal 30 molded on a crown cap 40. The end panel 20 of the crown cap 40 provides an annular groove 34 that is recessed toward the interior of the crown cap 40. The annular seal 30 includes a raised region 35 located on a portion of the inner bottom wall 8, the portion of which is rounded because it is located in the annular groove 34. The raised region 35 is adjacent to two substantially flat annular edges 36.

[0116] Figure 23 shows a third embodiment of an annular seal 300 molded on a crown cap 400. The end panel 20 of the crown cap 400 is provided with a groove 340 projecting outward from the crown cap 400 and accommodating at least partially the annular seal 300. In this case, the annular seal 300 also includes a central annular projection 350 provided in part of the inner bottom wall 8, which is located in the groove 340 and adjacent to two substantially flat annular edges 360. The thickness of the annular seal 300 measured at the annular projection 350 may be significantly greater than the thickness measured at the annular edges 360.

[0117] The annular seals 3, 30, and 300 produced by the forming apparatus 100 may be formed starting from a single type of plastic, or they may be obtained starting from a compound of different types of plastics, or they may have a multilayer structure.

[0118] The quantitative material 2 deposited in a ring configuration can form polymer ring seals 3, 30, and 300 made of low-density polyethylene (LDPE), linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE), ultra-low-density polyethylene (ULDPE), or mixtures of similar products, or compounds based on ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) or polyvinyl chloride (PVC).

[0119] Alternatively, to obtain quantitative product 2, sealant materials containing thermoplastic elastomers and their compounds may be used, such as a combination of polyolefin and styrene-based block copolymer, or a combination of rigid polymer and elastomer, such as polypropylene and ethylene-propylene (PP / EPR) or polypropylene and ethylene-propylene diene monomer (PP / EPDM).

[0120] In particular, the density of the sealant material (polymer or mixture) used to form seals 3, 30, and 300 may be between 0.87 and 0.94 g / cm³, especially between 0.88 and 0.92 g / cm³. In particular, the hardness of the sealant material (polymer or mixture) used to form seals 3, 30, and 300 may be between 40 Shore A and 90 Shore A, especially between 55 Shore A and 85 Shore A.

[0121] A method for obtaining a quantitative product 2 intended to form annular seals 3, 30, 300 within crown caps 4, 40, 400 includes the steps of supplying the entire flow of plastic to exactly N extrusion outlets 6 through an equal number of supply channels 7 in order to obtain a partial flow of extruded plastic coming out of each extrusion outlet 6, wherein each supply channel 7 is arranged in fluid communication with its respective extrusion outlet 6.

[0122] A method for obtaining a quantitative substance 2 intended to form annular seals 3, 30, 300 within crown caps 4, 40, 400 further comprises the step of providing at least N-1 adjusting members 10, each adjusting member 10 operably associated with its respective supply channel 7.

[0123] A method for obtaining a quantitative substance 2 intended to form annular seals 3, 30, 300 within crown caps 4, 40, 400 further includes the step of adjusting each partial flow coming out of each extrusion outlet 6. Such a step for adjusting each partial flow coming out of each extrusion outlet 6 includes the step of adjusting at least N-1 adjusting members 10.

[0124] A method for obtaining a quantitative substance 2 intended to form annular seals 3, 30, 300 within crown caps 4, 40, 400 further includes the step of moving a support element 17 carrying N quantitative separation elements 18 along a closed-loop path in the forward direction A such that each quantitative separation element 18 passes in front of its respective extrusion outlet 6 at each rotation.

[0125] During the step of moving the support element 17, and in each rotation of the support element 17, the method further includes the step of separating N pieces of plastic of quantitative material 2 which are precursors to the annular seals 3, 30, 300, and each of the quantitative separation elements 18 separates the plastic of quantitative material 2 from the extrusion outlet 6.

[0126] The step of separating the N quantities of material 2 is provided in particular after the step of adjusting each partial flow coming out of each extrusion outlet 6.

[0127] A method for obtaining a quantitative substance 2 intended to form annular seals 3, 30, 300 within crown caps 4, 40, 400 further comprises the step of depositing N separated quantitative substances 2 within crown caps 4, 40, 400, where the number N is equal to 3, 4, or 5.

[0128] For each separated material 2, the ratio of the maximum width D of the material to the height H of the material is particularly within the range of 0.35 to 1.7. Such a ratio may particularly be within the range of 0.75 to 1.7. Each partial flow exiting each extrusion outlet 6 is adjusted, particularly via flow adjustment means, to obtain such a ratio.

[0129] Such ratios may, in particular, fall between 0.75 and 1.6. Furthermore, such ratios may, in particular, fall between 0.75 and 1.5. More specifically, such ratios may fall between 0.75 and 1, and, particularly favorably, between 0.35 and 1. For example, the ratio between the maximum width D and height H of each quantitative object 2 may, in particular, fall between 0.45 and 0.9, or between 0.6 and 0.9, or between 0.6 and 0.8.

[0130] The separation step may include obtaining four plastic quantities 2, each of which has a height H in the range of 3.8 mm ± 0.2 mm, particularly a height H of 3.8 mm, and a maximum width D in the range of 3.3 mm ± 0.2 mm, particularly a maximum width D of 3.3 mm, particularly a diameter.

[0131] Alternatively, the separation step may include obtaining five plastic quantities 2, each of which has a height H in the range of 3.3 mm ± 0.2 mm, particularly a height H of 3.3 mm, and a maximum width D in the range of 2.64 mm ± 0.2 mm, particularly a maximum width D of 2.64 mm, particularly a diameter.

[0132] Alternatively, the separation step may include obtaining three plastic quantifiers 2, each of which has a height H in the range of 5.06 mm ± 0.2 mm, particularly a height H of 5.06 mm, and a maximum width D in the range of 3.3 mm ± 0.2 mm, particularly a maximum width D of 3.3 mm, particularly a diameter.

[0133] A method for obtaining a quantified material 2 intended to form annular seals 3, 30, 300 within crown caps 4, 40, 400 may further include the step of adjusting each partial flow out of each extrusion outlet 6 to obtain the ratio between the maximum quantified material width D and the quantified material height H reported above.

[0134] The steps to adjust each partial flow may include, in particular, adjusting the adjustment members 10 located in each supply channel 7, or changing the entire flow and adjusting the adjustment members 10 located in each of the supply channels 7, except for one.

[0135] The step of adjusting the adjustment member 10 located in each supply channel, or the step of adjusting the adjustment member 10 located in each supply channel with one exception, may include the step of displacing each adjustment member 10 in the axial direction to change the position of each tapered end 11 in each supply channel 7, thereby changing the flow rate of each portion of plastic in each supply channel 7 or each supply channel 7 with one exception.

[0136] The step of axial displacement may include displacing each adjustment member 10 along a direction (D2) substantially parallel to the general range direction of each supply channel 7.

[0137] The step of displacing in the axial direction may include displacing each adjustment member 10 along a direction substantially perpendicular to the general range direction of each supply channel 7, particularly a vertical direction (D4).

[0138] After the step of displacing in the axial direction, each adjustment member 10 can be provided to be locked in a predetermined position by, for example, each locking element 12.

[0139] The step of changing the entire flow may include changing one or more operating parameters of the whole flow extrusion means 5 in order to change the flow rate of a partial flow in at least one supply channel 7 that does not have the adjustment member 10.

[0140] The step of changing one or more of the operating parameters of the extrusion means 5 may include the step of changing the speed of the extruder screw, or the step of changing the rotational speed of the motor of a pump located downstream of the extruder with respect to the flow direction of the entire flow of plastic, in particular a positive displacement pump.

[0141] The step of adjusting each partial flow exiting each extrusion outlet 6 may include the step of obtaining each partial flow having the same flow rate exiting all extrusion outlets 6. This can be achieved, in particular, by appropriately adjusting the flow adjustment means.

[0142] Alternatively, the step of adjusting each partial flow exiting each extrusion outlet 6 may include the step of obtaining each partial flow exiting all extrusion outlets 6, each having a different flow rate. In particular, different flow rates may be provided for one or more of the partial flows as a function of the position of the quantitative material 2 obtained by each partial flow deposited in the annular region 19. In this case as well, this can be obtained by appropriately adjusting the flow adjustment means in particular.

[0143] The step of supplying the entire flow of plastic to a plurality of extrusion outlets 6 may include the step of supplying the entire flow of plastic to a delivery conduit 13 of the extrusion means 5, the delivery conduit 13 having an inlet 14 on one side and being arranged to be in fluid communication with the supply channel 7 through its respective openings 15. The extrusion outlets 6 may be located on the same side as the delivery conduit 13.

[0144] The step of supplying the entire flow of plastic to a plurality of extrusion outlets 6 may include guiding the flow of plastic in sequence along a first direction D1 corresponding to the general range direction of the delivery conduit 13, along a second direction D2 substantially perpendicular to the first direction D1 and substantially perpendicular to the general range direction of each supply channel 7, and along a third direction D3 substantially perpendicular to both the first direction D1 and the second direction D2.

[0145] The direction of the plastic exit from each of the extrusion outlets 6 may be substantially parallel to the third direction D3, or it may be positioned upward.

[0146] A method for obtaining a quantitative product 2 intended to form annular seals 3, 30, 300 within crown caps 4, 40, 400 may include the step of aligning the extrusion outlet 6 along a direction substantially parallel to a first direction D1.

[0147] The forming apparatus 100 may include a forming carousel 101 comprising a plurality of forming units 102, of which only one is shown in Figures 24 to 31.

[0148] Each forming unit 102 includes a support member 103 positioned to support, for example, a crown cap 4, 40, 400 on which three, four, or five plastic quantities 2 are deposited, forming precursors for the annular seals 3, 30, 300.

[0149] The support member 103 may be driven by an actuator (not shown) in a forming direction F that is substantially vertical in the illustrated embodiment.

[0150] Each forming unit 102 further comprises a punch element 104 positioned to form precursors within the crown caps 4, 40, 400 so as to form the annular seals 3, 30, 300.

[0151] The punch element 104 of the forming unit 102 extends longitudinally along the longitudinal axis L.

[0152] The punch element 104 includes an inner sleeve 105 having a particularly annular front surface 106, which is suitable for contacting the inner bottom walls 8 of the crown caps 4, 40, and 400.

[0153] The inner sleeve 105 comprises a first sleeve portion 125 and a second sleeve portion 126 connected by a connecting portion 127, the first sleeve portion 125 being positioned closest to the support member 103 relative to the second sleeve portion 126. The first sleeve portion 125 has a longitudinal extension that is greater than the longitudinal extension of the second sleeve portion 126, along a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L. In other words, the first sleeve portion 125 extends radially furthest from the second sleeve portion 126 relative to the longitudinal axis L.

[0154] The connecting portion 127 defines a kind of stepped connection between the first sleeve portion 125 and the second sleeve portion 126.

[0155] The punch element 104 further comprises an intermediate sleeve 107 positioned outside the inner sleeve 105, furthest from the longitudinal axis L relative to the inner sleeve 105. The intermediate sleeve 107 is defined by a forming surface 108 having a shape corresponding to the shape of the seals 3, 30, 300 intended to be obtained. In particular, in the illustrated embodiment, the forming surface 108 coincides with the lower surface of the intermediate sleeve 107.

[0156] The punch element 104 further comprises an outer sleeve 109 positioned outside the intermediate sleeve 107 furthest from the longitudinal axis L, and has an annular end 110 suitable for contacting the inner bottom wall 8 of the crown caps 4, 40, 400 during use, particularly when the support member 113 moves along the forming direction F.

[0157] The outer sleeve 109 is coaxial with the intermediate sleeve 107.

[0158] The inner sleeve 105, the intermediate sleeve 107, the outer sleeve 109, and the inner bottom wall 8 are configured such that they define the molding chamber 112, for example, a substantially annular, and in particular a closed operating configuration, and the quantitative object 2 is formed by compression.

[0159] The outer sleeve 109 and the inner sleeve 105 define the forming chamber 112 (Figure 28) circumferentially (laterally) in which the annular seals 3, 30, and 300 can be formed. During forming, the inner sleeve 105 actually obstructs the flow of compressed molten plastic into the interior (i.e., towards the longitudinal axis L), while the outer sleeve 109 obstructs the flow of compressed molten plastic outwards (i.e., moving away from the longitudinal axis L).

[0160] The intermediate sleeve 107 defines the area above the molding chamber 112. During use, the outer sleeve 109 and inner sleeve 105 are movable relative to the intermediate sleeve 107 so that they can exert a compressive effect on the material 2.

[0161] The forming unit 102 may further include elastic means 111 that are mounted to act on the inner sleeve 105 so as to push the inner sleeve 105 toward the support member 103. The elastic means 111 may comprise one or more springs.

[0162] The forming unit 102 may further include a spring element 113 that is mounted so as to act on the outer sleeve 109 to push it toward the support member 103. The spring element 113 may comprise one or more springs.

[0163] The elastic means 111 and the spring element 113 may be at least partially compressed during use following the movement of the support member 103 along the forming direction F.

[0164] The inner sleeve 105, the intermediate sleeve 107, and the outer sleeve 109 are attached to the forming unit 102 such that, in particular, when the forming unit 102 is inoperable, i.e., not operating, the front surface of the inner sleeve 106 of the inner sleeve 105 protrudes downward relative to the forming surface 108 of the intermediate sleeve 107 and the annular end 110 of the outer sleeve 109. In this way, when in use, the front surface of the inner sleeve 106 of the inner sleeve 105 is first made contact with the crown caps 4, 40, and 400.

[0165] Furthermore, the inner sleeve 105, intermediate sleeve 107, and outer sleeve 109 are mounted within the forming unit 102 such that, in particular, when the forming unit 102 is inoperable, i.e., not operating, the forming surface 108 of the intermediate sleeve 107 is set back relative to the front surface of the inner sleeve 106 of the inner sleeve 105 and the annular end 110 of the outer sleeve 109, with the latter (annular end 110) being in an intermediate position between the forming surface 108 of the intermediate sleeve 107 and the front surface of the inner sleeve 106 of the inner sleeve 105.

[0166] The forming unit 102 includes a cooling circuit 114 for circulating a cooling fluid, which comes from an inlet provided to the forming unit 102 and terminates outside the forming unit 102 from an outlet provided to the forming unit 102. The cooling fluid inlet may be connected in particular to an inlet pipe 115, and the cooling fluid outlet may be connected in particular to an outlet pipe 116.

[0167] The paths and directions of the cooling fluid within the cooling circuit 114 are shown by arrows in Figure 25.

[0168] The punch element 104 is given a central chamber 117 which is part of the cooling circuit 114 and extends longitudinally, particularly coaxially, around the longitudinal axis L, and such a central chamber 117 is arranged in fluid communication with an inlet (and thus an inlet pipe 115) to receive a cooling fluid that flows downward within the central chamber 117 when in use, i.e., approaching the forming surface 108.

[0169] Furthermore, the punch element 104 provides an annular chamber 118, which is part of the cooling circuit 114, coaxial with the central chamber 117, and separated from the central chamber 117 by an annular element 119 made of thermal sealing material. The annular chamber 118 is positioned in fluid communication with an outlet (and thus an outflow pipe 116) for discharging the cooling fluid from the forming unit 102. During use, the cooling fluid flows upward within the annular chamber 118, i.e., moves away from the support member 103.

[0170] The punch element 104 is connected to the inner sleeve 105 so as to be closest to the longitudinal axis L with respect to the inner sleeve 105 and movable along the forming direction F together with the inner sleeve 105, and further comprises a central element 120 which is fixed and located within the inner sleeve 105.

[0171] The central element 120 is positioned in the lower region of the punch element 104.

[0172] The central element 120 includes an annular portion 121 connected to the inner surface portion of the second sleeve portion 126 of the inner sleeve 105. The annular chamber 118 is laterally defined in its lower region by the annular portion 121 and the sealing annular element 119.

[0173] The central element 120 further comprises an extension connecting element 122 positioned through which the cooling fluid passes. The extension connecting element 122 is fluidly connected to both the central chamber 117, which receives the cooling fluid, and the annular chamber 118, through which the cooling fluid exiting the extension connecting element 122 flows. In other words, the extension connecting element 122 fluidly connects the central chamber 117 and the annular chamber 118 so that the cooling fluid can flow from the central chamber 117 to the annular chamber 118 through the extension connecting element 122.

[0174] The annular portion 121 is connected to the expanding connecting element 122 downward, that is, toward the support member 103.

[0175] The central element 120 further comprises a contact element 128 connected to an expansion connecting element 122 and positioned to prevent cooling fluid from flowing downward from the expansion connecting element 122.

[0176] The contact element 128 and the annular portion 121 are positioned at both ends of the central element 120.

[0177] In one embodiment, the central element 120 is made from a single component.

[0178] The expanding connecting element 122 is formed to extend radially, i.e., away from the longitudinal axis L, toward the inner sleeve 105, in particular toward the first sleeve portion 125. This allows the cooling fluid to contact or approach the area of ​​the components of the punch element 104 that form the annular seals 3, 30, 300, in particular the vicinity of the first sleeve portion 125 adjacent to the lower end of the intermediate sleeve 107, in order to keep them cool. In fact, the cooling fluid flows downward through the central chamber 117, i.e. toward the support member 103 (or forming surface 108), and then in the expanding connecting element 122, it flows through the first portion of the radial path, moving away from the longitudinal axis L. This allows the fluid to reach the vicinity of the first sleeve portion 125 and the vicinity of the contact element 128. The cooling fluid also flows upward in the second portion of the path within the expanding connecting element 122, i.e., moving away from the support member 103 (or forming surface 108), approximately next to the first sleeve portion 125. In particular, the extension connecting element 122 has a longitudinal extension that is larger than the longitudinal extension of the annular portion 121, along a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L. In other words, the extension connecting element 122 extends radially furthest from the longitudinal axis L relative to the annular portion 121.

[0179] The expanding connecting element 122 allows the cooling fluid to approach the first sleeve portion 125 and thus cool the first sleeve portion, and conduction cools the lower end of the intermediate sleeve 107, which is in direct contact with the annular seals 3, 30, 300 during the compression molding step, through the first sleeve portion. The cooling fluid directly cools a portion of the first sleeve portion 125, particularly the portion closest to the connecting portion 127, by conduction, while the second portion of the first sleeve portion 125, particularly the portion furthest from the connecting portion 127 and closest to the front surface 106 of the inner sleeve 105, is cooled by conduction through the contact element 128.

[0180] Next, the cooling fluid flows through a third portion of the path within the expanded connecting element 122 toward the longitudinal axis L, then into the annular chamber 118, from where it flows toward the outlet of the cooling circuit 114 to which the outlet pipe 116 is connected.

[0181] The expanded connecting element 122 is provided with a substantially cylindrical body 129, which gives rise to a plurality of through openings 130 arranged, for example, circumferentially, for the passage of cooling fluid.

[0182] Due to the shape of the central element 120, which houses part of the cooling circuit 114, particularly part of the expanding connecting element 122, the cooling fluid is in contact with or near the region of the components of the punch element 104 that are directly involved in the formation of the annular seals 3, 30, 300. In this way, once formed, the annular seals 3, 30, 300 cool faster than seals formed with conventional forming apparatuses, thereby reducing the cycle time, i.e., the time used to obtain the annular seals 3, 30, 300, and thus increasing the production volume of annular seals 3, 30, 300. In other words, the forming apparatus 100 is more productive compared to forming apparatuses provided for forming annular seals in conventional crown caps.

[0183] Next, the operation of the forming apparatus 100 will be described.

[0184] During operation, a transfer device (not shown) transports the crown caps 4, 40, and 400 from the apparatus 1 for obtaining the quantitative product 2 to the forming unit 102.

[0185] As described above, the quantitative material 2 was pre-deposited on the inner bottom wall 8 of the crown caps 4, 40, and 400 in a peripheral annular arrangement around the central region of the inner bottom wall 8.

[0186] The crown caps 4, 40, and 400 are passed by corresponding actuators to a support member 103 positioned spaced apart from the punch element 104. Thus, the forming unit 102 is in a first operating configuration (Figure 26) in which the inner sleeve 105, intermediate sleeve 107, and outer sleeve 109 are spaced apart from the support member 103 and the crown caps 4, 40, and 400.

[0187] Next, the actuator of the support member 103 moves the crown caps 4, 40, and 400 closer to the punch element 104, particularly upward along the forming direction F, until the front surface 106 of the inner sleeve 105 contacts a portion of the central region of the inner bottom wall 8 of the crown caps 4, 40, and 400. Thus, the forming unit 102 reaches a second operating configuration (Figure 27) in which the inner sleeve 105 is in contact with the inner bottom wall 8 of the crown caps 4, 40, and 400, while the intermediate sleeve 107 and outer sleeve 109 are separated from the support member 103 and retracted relative to the inner sleeve 105. The inner sleeve 105 of the compression punch element 104 obstructs the flow of plastic to prevent the plastic from spreading along the longitudinal axis L during the molding of the annular seals 3, 30, and 300.

[0188] Next, the support member 103, and therefore the crown caps 4, 40, 400, are moved further upward along the forming direction F, that is, closer to the outer sleeve 109, until the annular end 110 abuts against a portion of the inner bottom wall 8 of the crown caps 4, 40, 400 near the peripheral region of the inner bottom wall 8 of the crown caps 4, 40, 400. As the support member 103 moves further along the forming direction F, it displaces the inner sleeve 105 along the forming direction F. Thus, in the third operating configuration, the elastic means 111 is at least partially compressed. Thus, the forming unit 102 reaches the third operating configuration (Figure 28), in which the inner sleeve 105 and the outer sleeve 109 are in contact with the inner bottom wall 8 of the crown caps 4, 40, 400, and the intermediate sleeve 107 is in a retracted position relative to the inner sleeve 105 and the outer sleeve 109. The outer sleeve 109 of the compression punch element 104 obstructs the flow of plastic to prevent the plastic from spreading toward the jacket 21 of the crown caps 4, 40, 400 during the molding of the annular seals 3, 30, 300. In this configuration, the inner sleeve 105, the intermediate sleeve 107, the outer sleeve 109, and the inner bottom wall 8 of the crown caps 4, 40, 400 cooperate to define the molding chamber 112 in which the annular seals 3, 30, 300 are formed.

[0189] The intermediate sleeve 107, defined above the molding chamber 112, compresses the material 2 at the position where it is deposited by applying a compressive force to the material 2 while the support member 103 moves further along the molding direction F. Thus, the molding unit 102 reaches a fourth operating configuration (Figure 29) in which the inner sleeve 105 and outer sleeve 109 contact the inner bottom walls 8 of the crown caps 4, 40, and 400, and the support member 103 reaches a predetermined stroke end position.

[0190] As the support member 103 moves further along the forming direction F, the outer sleeve 109 is also displaced along the forming direction F. Thus, in the fourth operating configuration, both the elastic means 111 and the spring element 113 are compressed at least partially.

[0191] In the fourth operating configuration shown in Figure 29, the inner sleeve 105 and / or the outer sleeve 109 may have reached the stroke end position.

[0192] During the molding of the annular seals 3, 30, 300, a cooling fluid is configured to flow through the cooling circuit 114, particularly continuously through the central chamber 117, the expanding connecting element 122, and the annular chamber 118, to cool the plastic forming the annular seals 3, 30, 300 by cooling the areas of the components of the punch element 104 that cooperate to form the annular seals 3, 30, 300.

[0193] Once the annular seals 3, 30, and 300 are formed and have stabilized in shape after being sufficiently cooled by the cooling fluid, the support member 103 moves along a direction opposite to the forming direction F, which moves it away from the intermediate sleeve 107 and the outer sleeve 109, while the inner sleeve 105 remains in contact with the inner bottom wall 8 of the crown caps 4, 40, and 400 for a given period of time (Figure 30).

[0194] Next, the actuator moves the support member 103 away from the punch element 104 (Figure 31), allowing the crown caps 4, 40, and 400 to be removed from the punch element 104.

[0195] Therefore, the crown caps 4, 40, and 400 can move away from the support member 103 (Figure 32), and the support member 103 is ready to receive the new cap to be processed.

[0196] The attached drawings disclose and show, for illustrative purposes only, the innovative features of the apparatus 1 and forming apparatus 100 for obtaining the quantitative substance 2.

[0197] Modifications and / or additions are possible to those disclosed and illustrated in the attached drawings.

Claims

1. A method for obtaining a quantitative substance (2) intended to form an annular seal (3, 30, 300) within a crown cap (4, 40, 400), - A step of supplying the entire flow of plastic to exactly N extrusion outlets (6) via an equal number of supply channels (7) in order to obtain a partial flow of extruded plastic coming out of each extrusion outlet (6), wherein each supply channel (7) is arranged in fluid communication with each extrusion outlet (6), - A step of providing at least N-1 adjustment members (10), wherein each adjustment member (10) is operably associated with its respective supply channel (7), - A step of adjusting each partial flow coming out of each extrusion outlet (6), wherein the step of adjusting each partial flow coming out of each extrusion outlet (6) includes a step of adjusting the at least N-1 adjustment members (10), - A step of moving a support element (17) that carries N quantitative separation elements (18) in the forward direction (A) along a closed-loop path so that each quantitative separation element (18) passes in front of its respective extrusion outlet (6) during each rotation, - A step of separating N plastic quantities (2) which are precursors to the annular seals (3, 30, 300) during the movement and each rotation of the support element (17), wherein each of the quantitative separation elements (18) separates the plastic quantities (2) from the extrusion outlet (6), and the separation step is provided after adjusting each partial flow coming out of each extrusion outlet (6), - The process includes the step of depositing the N separate quantitative substances (2) inside the crown caps (4, 40, 400), The number N is equal to 3, 4, or 5. method.

2. For each individual material (2), the ratio between the maximum material width (D) and the material height (H) is between 0.35 and 1.7, and each partial flow exiting each extrusion outlet (6) is adjusted to obtain the aforementioned ratio. The method according to claim 1.

3. The ratio between the maximum width (D) and the height (H) is between 0.35 and 1, in particular between 0.45 and 0.9, and more specifically between 0.6 and 0.9, or between 0.6 and 0.

8. The method according to claim 2.

4. The separation step includes obtaining three plastic quantifiers (2), each of which has a height (H) in the range of 5.06 mm ± 0.2 mm, particularly a height (H) of 5.06 mm, and a maximum width (D) in the range of 3.3 mm ± 0.2 mm, particularly a maximum width (H) of 3.3 mm, particularly a diameter, or the separation step includes obtaining four plastic quantifiers (2), each of which has a maximum width (D) in the range of 3.8 mm ± 0.2 mm. The separating step comprises obtaining five plastic quantities (2), each of the five quantities (2) having a height (H) in the range of 3.3 mm ± 0.2 mm, in particular a maximum width (D) in the range of 3.3 mm ± 0.2 mm, in particular a diameter, The method according to claim 2 or 3.

5. The step of adjusting each partial flow coming out of each extrusion outlet (6) includes adjusting an adjustment member (10) located in each supply channel (7), or changing the entire flow and adjusting an adjustment member (10) located in each of the supply channels (1) except for one. The method according to any one of the claims described above.

6. The step of adjusting the adjustment member (10) includes moving each adjustment member (10) axially to change the position of its respective tapered end (11), thereby changing the flow rate of each portion of plastic in each supply channel (7) or each supply channel (7) except one, the step of moving axially includes moving each adjustment member (10) along a direction substantially parallel to the general range of the respective supply channels (7), and after the step of moving axially, each adjustment member (10) is provided to be locked in place by its respective locking element (12). The method according to claim 5.

7. The step of adjusting the adjustment member (10) includes moving each adjustment member (10) axially to change the position of its respective tapered end (11), thereby changing the flow rate of each portion of plastic in each supply channel (7) or each supply channel (7) except one, the step of moving axially includes moving each adjustment member (10) along a direction substantially perpendicular to the direction of the general range of each supply channel (7), particularly a vertical direction, and after the step of moving axially, the provision is made to lock each adjustment member (10) in place using its respective locking element (12). The method according to claim 5.

8. The step of changing the entire flow includes changing one or more operating parameters of the extrusion means (5) of the entire flow in order to change the flow rate of a portion of the supply channel (7) that does not have the adjustment member (10). The method according to any one of claims 5 to 7.

9. The step of changing one or more operating parameters of the extrusion means (5) includes the step of changing the speed of the extruder screw, or the step of changing the rotational speed of the motor of a pump located downstream of the extruder with respect to the flow direction of the entire flow of plastic, in particular a positive displacement pump. The method according to claim 8.

10. The step of adjusting each partial flow coming out of each extrusion outlet (6) includes the step of obtaining each partial flow having the same flow rate coming out of all of the extrusion outlets (6), The method according to any one of the claims described above.

11. The step of supplying the entire flow of plastic to a plurality of extrusion outlets (6) includes supplying the entire flow of plastic to a delivery conduit (13) which is provided with an inlet (14) on one side and is arranged in fluid communication with the supply channel (7) by its respective opening (15), wherein the extrusion outlets (6) are located on the same side as the delivery conduit (13). The method according to any one of the claims described above.

12. The step of supplying the entire flow of plastic to a plurality of extrusion outlets (6) includes guiding the flow of plastic in succession along a first direction (D1) corresponding to a general range of directions of the delivery conduit (13), along a second direction (D2) substantially perpendicular to the first direction (D1) and substantially parallel to a general range of directions of each supply channel (7), and along a third direction (D3) substantially perpendicular to both the first direction (D1) and the second direction (D2), wherein the outlet direction of the plastic from each of the extrusion outlets (6) is substantially parallel to the third direction (D3) and upward. The method according to claim 11.

13. The further step includes aligning the extrusion outlet (6) along a direction substantially parallel to the first direction (D1), The method according to claim 12.

14. Apparatus (1) for obtaining a quantitative substance (2) intended to form an annular seal (3, 30, 300) within a crown cap (4, 40, 400), in particular an apparatus intended to perform the method according to any one of claims 1 to 12, - An extrusion means (5) for a full flow of plastic, comprising: exactly N extrusion outlets (6) from which the entire flow of plastic is supplied to obtain a partial flow of extruded plastic exiting from each extrusion outlet (6); and the same number of supply channels (7) arranged to supply the entire flow of plastic to the extrusion outlets (6), each supply channel (7) being in fluid communication with its respective extrusion outlet (6); - A flow adjustment means configured to adjust each partial flow exiting each extrusion outlet (6), wherein the flow adjustment means comprises at least N-1 adjustment members (10), each adjustment member (10) operably associated with its respective supply channel (7), - A quantitative separation means (16) arranged to separate N plastic quantitative items (2) which are precursors to the annular seal (3, 30, 300), wherein the quantitative separation means (16) is - A support element (17) that is movable in the forward direction (A) along a closed-loop path arranged to pass in front of each extrusion outlet (6) in each rotation, - N quantitative separation elements (18) attached to the support element (17) to take at least one annular arrangement, enabling the discharge of the quantitative material (2) in the corresponding annular arrangement, wherein each of the N quantitative separation elements (18) is arranged to separate the plastic quantitative material (2) from its respective extrusion outlet (6) during each rotation of the support element (17), The number N is equal to 3, 4, or 5. Device (1).

15. For each separate quantitative object (2), the ratio between the maximum quantitative object width (D) and the quantitative object height (H) is between 0.35 and 1.7, and the flow adjustment means is configured to adjust each partial flow coming out of each extrusion outlet (6) to obtain the said ratio. The apparatus according to claim 14.

16. The ratio between the maximum width (D) and the height (H) is between 0.35 and 1, in particular between 0.45 and 0.9, and more specifically between 0.6 and 0.9, or between 0.6 and 0.

8. The apparatus (1) according to claim 15.

17. The N quantitative objects (2) are equal to 3, and each quantitative object (2) has a height (H) in the range of 5.06 mm ± 0.2 mm, particularly a height (H) of 5.06 mm, and a maximum width (D) in the range of 3.3 mm ± 0.2 mm, particularly a maximum width (H) of 3.3 mm, particularly a diameter, or the N quantitative objects (2) are equal to 4, and each quantitative object (2) has a height (H) in the range of 3.8 mm ± 0.2 mm, particularly a height of 3.8 mm, and a maximum width (D) in the range of 3.3 mm ± 0.2 mm, particularly a maximum width (D) of 3.3 mm, particularly a diameter, or the N quantitative objects (2) are equal to 5, and each quantitative object (2) has a height (H) in the range of 3 mm ± 0.2 mm, particularly a height of 3.3 mm, and a maximum width (D) in the range of 2.64 mm ± 0.2 mm, particularly a maximum width of 2.64 mm, particularly a diameter, Apparatus (1) according to any one of claims 14 to 16.

18. The aforementioned flow adjustment means is - N adjustment members (10), each adjustment member (10) being operably associated with each supply channel (7) to selectively increase or decrease the through-flow section of the partial flow of plastic in each supply channel (7), or -N-1 adjustment members (10), which, with one exception, are operably associated with each of the N-1 adjustment members (10) in each supply channel (7), to selectively increase or decrease the through-flow section of the partial flow of plastic in each of the supply channels (7), with one exception. - A programmable electron flow adjustment means configured to change one or more operating parameters of the extrusion means (5) and thereby change the overall flow of the plastic, The apparatus according to any one of claims 14 to 17.

19. The programmable electronic control means is configured to control the movement of the support element (17), wherein the programmable electronic control means is configured such that each quantity (2) obtained from each partial flow of extruded plastic coming out of each extrusion outlet (6) has the ratio, and / or the flow adjustment means is adjustable. The apparatus (1) according to any one of claims 15 to 18, in which claims 17 and 18 refer to claim 15 or 16.

20. Each adjustment member (10) is positioned within the path of the partial flow of plastic, and each adjustment member (10) is axially movable to change the position of its respective tapered end (11), thereby changing the flow rate of each partial flow of plastic in each supply channel (7) or each of the supply channels (7) except one, and the flow adjustment means further comprises a plurality of locking elements (12), each locking element (12) is arranged to interact with its respective adjustment member (10) and lock it in place. The apparatus (1) according to claim 18 or 19, in which claim 19 refers to claim 18.

21. The extrusion means (5) further comprises an extruder arranged in fluid communication with each supply channel (7), and a pump, particularly a positive displacement pump, located downstream of the extruder in the direction of flow of the entire flow of plastic, wherein the operating parameters include the speed of the extruder screw or the rotational speed of the pump motor. The apparatus according to any one of claims 18 to 20, in which claim 19 refers to claim 18.

22. The extrusion means (5) further comprises a delivery conduit (13) having an inlet (14) at its end for the entire flow of plastic, and arranged to be in fluid communication with each supply channel (7) through its respective opening (15), and the extrusion outlet (6) is located on the same side as the delivery conduit (13). Apparatus (1) according to any one of claims 14 to 21.

23. The delivery conduit (13) generally extends along a first direction (D1), each of the supply channels (7) generally extends along a direction substantially parallel to a second direction (D2) substantially perpendicular to the first direction (D1), each of the extrusion outlets (6) generally extends along a direction substantially parallel to a third direction (D3) substantially perpendicular to the first direction (D1) and the second direction (D2), the exit direction of the plastic from each of the extrusion outlets (6) is upward, and the extrusion outlets (6) are aligned along a direction substantially parallel to the first direction (D1). The apparatus (1) according to claim 22.

24. Each adjustment member (10) is positioned in its respective supply channel (7) within a general range of deployment substantially parallel to the second direction (D2), and is axially movable substantially parallel to the second direction (D2). The apparatus (1) according to claim 23.

25. Each adjustment member (10) has a general range of motion substantially parallel to a fourth direction (D4) substantially perpendicular to the second direction (D2), and is axially movable substantially perpendicular to the fourth direction (D4). The apparatus (1) according to claim 23.

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