Clutch assembly for handling containers

Abstract

Aspects of the present disclosure relate to a clutch assembly for handling containers, and an associated method for using the clutch assembly. The clutch assembly includes a shaft configured to rotate in a first direction and a second direction opposite the first direction. The clutch assembly further includes a clutch coupled to a first end of the shaft. The clutch includes at least two rollers configured to move to a first position extending radially beyond the periphery of the clutch and extend from a first position extending flush with or inwardly radially from the periphery of the clutch.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 857,996, filed June 6, 2019, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to the field of equipment for container processing systems. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a clutch for gripping an open end of a container. [Background technology]

[0003] Machine lines for container manufacturing typically have multiple machine configurations that perform various process steps during the formation of the container. The machine arrangements have a variety of different gripping devices or systems for gripping the container. For example, the devices may be cups, belts, or toothed rotating jaws that engage the container. However, these existing gripping devices or systems may be subject to slippage and / or produce dirt (e.g., small particles of the container) that may interfere with subsequent process steps. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Among other problems associated with conventional gripping devices and systems, it would be desirable to create a better way to grip containers that can reduce or eliminate slippage, dust, or both. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] One exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a clutch assembly for handling a container having an opening. The clutch assembly includes a shaft configured to rotate in a first direction and a second direction opposite the first direction. The clutch assembly also includes a clutch at a first end of the shaft configured to fit at least partially within the opening of the container. The clutch includes a cam with at least two cam surfaces and at least two rollers. Each roller of the at least two rollers is configured (i) to engage an inner surface of the opening of the container and a cam surface of the at least two cam surfaces when the shaft rotates in the first direction, and (ii) to disengage from the inner surface of the opening of the container and the cam surface when the shaft rotates in the second direction.

[0006] Another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a clutch assembly for handling containers. The clutch assembly includes a shaft configured to rotate in a first direction and a second direction opposite the first direction. The clutch assembly further includes a clutch coupled to a first end of the shaft. The clutch includes at least two rollers configured to move to a first position extending radially beyond an outer periphery of the clutch and to extend radially, flush or inwardly relative to the outer periphery of the clutch away from the first position.

[0007] Another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure provides a spindle shaft assembly for handling a container. The spindle shaft assembly includes a rotating ball spline and a clutch assembly connected to the rotating ball spline. The clutch assembly includes a shaft configured to translate and rotate based on the rotating ball spline. The clutch assembly also includes a clutch coupled to a first end of the shaft. The clutch is configured to at least partially fit into an opening of the container. The clutch includes a cam with at least two cam surfaces and at least two rollers. Each roller of the at least two rollers is configured to (i) engage an inner surface of the opening of the container and a cam surface of the at least two cam surfaces when the shaft rotates in a first direction, and (ii) disengage from the inner surface of the opening of the container and the cam surface when the shaft rotates in a second direction. The spindle shaft assembly further includes a first drive mechanism configured to translate the clutch assembly and a second drive mechanism configured to rotate the clutch assembly.

[0008] Another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure provides a machine arrangement having a support plate configured to rotate. The support plate includes at least one spindle shaft assembly coupled to the support plate. The at least one spindle shaft assembly is configured to handle a container and includes a rotating ball spline, a clutch assembly connected to the rotating ball spline and configured to translate and rotate, a first drive mechanism configured to impart translational motion to the clutch assembly, and a second drive mechanism configured to impart rotational motion to the clutch assembly. The machine arrangement further includes a counter-rotating plate configured to contact the second drive mechanism to impart rotational motion to the second drive mechanism in a first direction, and a stationary belt configured to contact the second drive mechanism to impart rotational motion to the second drive mechanism in a second direction opposite the first direction.

[0009] Another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure includes a method of trimming a container. The method includes inserting a clutch at least partially into an opening of the container. The clutch has at least two rollers and a cam with at least two cam surfaces. Each roller of the at least two rollers corresponds to a respective cam surface of the at least two cam surfaces. The method further includes rotating the clutch in a first direction to engage the at least two rollers with an inner surface of the opening of the container and the at least two cam surfaces. The method further includes trimming the container by engaging the container with the at least two rollers and rotating with the clutch to apply at least one cutting device to the container. The method further includes rotating the clutch in a second direction generally opposite the first direction upon completion of the trimming to disengage the at least two rollers from the inner surface of the opening of the container. The method further includes withdrawing the clutch from the opening of the container.

[0010] It is to be understood that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the invention, as claimed.

[0011] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description, appended claims, and the accompanying illustrative embodiments illustrated in the drawings, which are briefly described below. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1A] 1 is a schematic diagram of an apparatus for gripping a container according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 1B] FIG. 1B is a side view of the device shown in FIG. 1A according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 1C] FIG. 1C is a cross-sectional view taken along line 1C-1C of FIG. 1B according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2A] 1A-1C are side views illustrating insertion and withdrawal of a device for gripping a container according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2B]FIG. 2B is a cross-sectional view taken along line 2B-2B of FIG. 2A according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2C] 2C is a cross-sectional view taken along line 2C-2C of FIG. 2A according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2D] FIG. 2D is a cross-sectional view taken along line 2D-2D of FIG. 2A according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 3] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a spindle shaft assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4A] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an apparatus configuration with multiple spindle shaft assemblies for handling containers according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4B] FIG. 4B is another schematic diagram of the device configuration shown in FIG. 4A according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4C] FIG. 4B is a partial detailed view of the device configuration shown in FIG. 4A according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4D] FIG. 4B is a detailed view of another portion of the device configuration shown in FIG. 4A according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4E] FIG. 4B is a detailed view of another portion of the device configuration shown in FIG. 4A according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0013] While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments have been shown by way of example in the drawings and are herein described in detail, it being understood, however, that it is not intended to limit the invention to the particular forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0014] Various process steps require machine configurations for handling containers, such as cans, jars, bottles, food or beverage containers, and other similar articles. Containers generally have an open end, an opposed closed end, and a sidewall extending from the open end to the closed end. In some cases, both ends of the container may be open. The present disclosure provides a clutch assembly configured to handle the containers. The clutch assembly reduces or eliminates container slippage and dust generation that occurs with conventional devices that handle containers.

[0015] The clutch assembly includes a clutch on one end of the shaft. The clutch can be at least partially inserted into an opening in a first end of the container. The clutch includes a cam-actuated roller that engages an inner surface of the opening of the container when the clutch rotates. Processing on the container can then be performed. For example, a plastic container can be rotated by the clutch during, as an example, trimming of excess plastic material and / or removal of a dome. The shaft and clutch can be driven (e.g., rotated) by a system that processes the container during processing.

[0016] Although the embodiments described below focus on the removal of excess plastic from plastic containers, the present clutch assemblies can be used in a variety of other applications, such as any application requiring handling of containers having cylindrical or similar openings. The clutch assemblies described herein can also be used to handle containers made of other materials, including, but not limited to, metals.

[0017] 1A and 1B are schematic and side views, respectively, of a clutch assembly 100 for gripping a container, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The clutch assembly 100 includes a shaft 102 having a first end 102a and a generally opposed second end 102b. The shaft 102 can be formed of any material conventionally used in mechanical construction, such as steel, aluminum, another metal, combinations thereof, etc. The shaft 102 is shown as cylindrical with a generally circular cross-section, but can instead have a variety of other shapes and cross-sections, such as triangular, square, rectangular, etc. The shaft 102 connects the clutch assembly 100 to the mechanical construction at the second end 102b, as described below in FIGS. 3-4E.

[0018] Connected to the first end 102a of the shaft 102 is a clutch 104. The clutch 104 is configured by its size and shape to be inserted into an open end of a container (described below). The cross-sectional shape of the clutch 104 is generally the same as the opening of the container in which it will be used (e.g., circular). However, the clutch 104 can have a variety of other suitable shapes without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0019] The clutch 104 includes a cam 106, a number of clutch rollers 108 that interface with the cam 106 at a number of cam surfaces 110, and a number of slots 112. In one or more embodiments, the cam 106 is formed of any material conventionally used in mechanical construction, such as steel, aluminum, other metals, or combinations thereof. In one or more alternative embodiments, the cam 106 may be formed of one or more resilient materials, such as rubber, to aid in gripping a container, as described below. In one or more embodiments, the cam 106 may be formed of one or more non-resilient materials, such as steel, and the cam surfaces 110 may be formed of one or more resilient materials, such as rubber. For example, the cam surfaces 110 may be one or more inserts attached to the cam 106.

[0020] The rollers 108 may be formed of any material conventionally used in mechanical construction, such as steel, aluminum, other metals, or combinations thereof. In one or more alternative embodiments, the rollers 108 may be formed of a resilient material, such as rubber, to aid in gripping the container, as described below. The rollers 108 are disposed generally vertically and are positioned within and between the slots 112. The rollers 108 are guided and configured to roll along and between the slots 112. Pins 116 extend from the top and bottom of the rollers 108 and fit within the slots 112. These pins 116 help guide the rollers 108 as they move within the slots 112. The corresponding rollers 108, cam surfaces 110, and slots 112 may be spaced generally uniformly around the clutch 104.

[0021] In one or more embodiments, the first end 104a of the clutch 104 includes a pilot 118. The pilot 118 assists in inserting the clutch 104 into the opening of the container. The pilot 118 includes an edge 120 (FIG. 1B) that can contact the container to guide the container and / or the clutch 104 into the correct alignment position for inserting the clutch 104 into the container opening. The edge 120 can generally be rounded, chamfered, tapered, or have any other shape or profile that helps align the clutch 104 with the container.

[0022] In one or more embodiments, the clutch 104 has a lip 122 at a second end 104b generally opposite the first end 104a. The lip 122 can contact the open edge of a container into which the clutch 104 is inserted. Thus, the lip 122 prevents or inhibits the clutch 104 from being inserted too far into the container, such as beyond the point where the rollers 108 can engage the inside diameter of the container opening.

[0023] 1C is a cross-sectional view of the clutch 104 along line 1C-1C of FIG. 1B according to an embodiment disclosed herein. The slot 112 is configured with an engagement with an outer peripheral edge 114 of the clutch 104 adjacent the roller 108 such that an edge 108a of the roller 108 extends beyond the outer peripheral edge 114 at a first end 112a of the slot 112, but does not extend beyond the outer peripheral edge 114 at a second end 112b of the slot 112. This configuration allows the roller 108 to contact the inner surface of the container opening when the roller 108 is positioned toward the first end 112a of the slot 112, and allows the clutch 104 to enter the container opening when the roller 108 is positioned toward the second end 112b of the slot 112. The cam surface 110 has a configuration corresponding to the configuration of the slot 112 such that the roller 108 contacts the cam surface 110 as the roller 108 moves along the length of the slot 112. In one or more alternative embodiments, the cam surface 110 may be positioned relative to the slot 112 such that the roller 108 contacts the cam surface 110 along only a portion of the slot 112. Specifically, as an example, the cam surface 110 may be positioned generally radially and relative to the slot 112 such that the roller 108 contacts the cam surface 110 where the slot 112 approaches an outer circumferential edge 114 of the clutch 104.

[0024] 1C, clutch 104 may include more or less than three sets. For example, clutch 104 may have two, four, five, six, or more sets of rollers 108, cam surfaces 110, and slots 112, depending on the size of the container opening and / or other characteristics of the container. If the application of clutch 104 requires, for example, greater gripping strength and / or more gripping contact between rollers 108 and the inner surface of the opening, more sets of rollers 108, cam surfaces 110, and slots 112 may be provided.

[0025] 1C is configured as an internal drive clutch. As an internal drive clutch, the cam surface 110 is generally radially inward of the rollers 108, and the inner surface of the container opening is radially outward relative to the rollers 108. Alternatively, in one or more embodiments, the clutch 104 can be configured as an external drive clutch. As an external drive clutch, the rollers 108 can instead contact the outer surface of the container opening. In such an embodiment, the outer surface of the container opening is radially inward relative to the rollers 108, and the cam surface 110 is radially outward of the rollers 108.

[0026] In one or more embodiments, the cam surfaces 110 and the slots 112 can be combined such that the slots 112 are configured to also function as the cam surfaces 110. For example, the inner surface 112c of the slot 112 can also function as the cam surfaces 110. In this case, the cam surfaces 110 can be omitted.

[0027] Alternatively, in one or more embodiments, the multiple slots 112 may be a pair of continuous slots 112 that extend around the clutch 104. For example, there may be one continuous lower slot 112 and one continuous upper slot 112 on opposite sides of each roller 108. In this case, the travel distance of the rollers 108 may be limited by the cam surface 110 rather than by each of the first and second ends 112a, 112b of the slots 112.

[0028] 2A is a side view illustrating different non-limiting arrangements 200a-200c of a clutch assembly 100 and a container 202, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The illustrated container 202 is a plastic bottle. However, the container 202 can be a variety of other types of containers (e.g., having a different shape, formed from a different material, etc.) depending, for example, on the intended function of the mechanical configuration including the clutch assembly 100.

[0029] As shown in FIG. 2A, the starting configuration is the loading configuration 200a. In the loading configuration 200a, the clutch assembly 100 is initially positioned above the container 202, with the shaft 102 and the clutch 104 of the clutch assembly 100 being aligned substantially vertically with the opening 204 of the container 202. In the loading configuration 200a, the clutch assembly 100 moves substantially downward according to the arrow A1, so that the clutch 104 is at least partially inserted into the opening 204 of the container 202 (see configuration 200b). As the clutch assembly 100 translates substantially downward, the shaft 102 and the clutch 104 rotate in the direction of the arrow A2. The rotation of the clutch 104 in the direction of the arrow A2 ensures that the roller 108 is positioned toward the second end 112b of the slot 112 so that the roller 108 does not impede the insertion of the clutch 104 into the opening 204 of the container 202.

[0030] 2B illustrates a cross-sectional projection of the clutch 104 and container 202 along line 2B-2B in the loading configuration illustrated in FIG. 2A. As shown, each roller 108 is recessed toward the second end 112b of the slot 112 relative to the outer periphery 114. As shown in the enlarged portion, a gap 208 exists between the rollers 108 and the inner surface 206 of the container 202. The gap 208 is formed as a result of the rollers 108 being recessed toward the second end 112b of the slot 112 such that the clutch 104 may be inserted into the opening 204 of the container 202.

[0031] Returning to FIG. 2A, the clutch 104 and container 202 advance to drive arrangement 200b, where after inserting the clutch 104 into the opening 204 of the container 202, the shaft 102 and clutch 104 rotate in the direction of arrow A3, which is generally opposite the direction of arrow A2. Rotating the clutch 104 in direction A3 causes the roller 108 to slide along the slot 112 and contact the inner surface 206 of the opening 204 of the container. Continued rotation of the clutch 104 causes the roller 108 to engage the inner surface 206 of the opening 204 and the cam surface 110 at a first position within the slot 112. This first position can be the first end 112a of the slot 112. Alternatively, the first position can be along the slot 112 but not at the first end 112a. Engagement occurs when the roller 108 is fixed against the inner surface 206. More specifically, engagement occurs when roller 108 is secured against inner surface 206 and cam surface 110, causing clutch 104 to grip container 202. Upon engagement, container 202 begins to rotate with clutch 104 and shaft 102 in the direction of arrow A3.

[0032] Figure 2C shows a cross section of the clutch 104 and container 202 in drive arrangement 200b taken along line 2C-2C of Figure 2A. As shown, roller 108 is toward first end 112a of slot 112 and engages against inner surface 206 of opening 204 of container 202 such that gap 208 no longer exists.

[0033] 2A, once handling of the container 202 is completed, the drive arrangement 200b transitions to the unload arrangement 200c for releasing the container 202. To release the container 202, the shaft 102 and clutch 104 rotate in a direction indicated by arrow A4 (similar to arrow A2), which is generally opposite to arrow A3. This reverse rotation releases the roller 108 from engagement with the inner surface 206 of the opening 204 of the container 202. As the roller 108 disengages, it loses its grip on the inner surface 206 and releases the container 202. The shaft 102 and clutch 104 can move generally upwards, as indicated by arrow A5, while rotating to withdraw the clutch. Alternatively, the shaft 102 and clutch 104 can move upwards after they stop rotating and / or after releasing the container 202.

[0034] 2D shows a projected cross section along line 2D-2D of the clutch 104 and container 202 in the unloading configuration 200c of FIG. 2A. As shown, the roller 108 is toward the second end 112b of the slot 112 and is retracted against the outer periphery 114 to release the container 202. A gap 208 is again created between the roller 108 and the inner surface 206 of the opening 204 of the container 202.

[0035] 2A shows the clutch assembly 100 in a vertical orientation, other orientations are possible. For example, the clutch assembly 100 can be in a horizontal orientation or an orientation between horizontal and vertical. Other orientations can be used depending on the placement of the receptacle within the machine configuration that includes the clutch assembly 100.

[0036] While the present disclosure describes the clutch assembly 100 as translating relative to a stationary container 202, the present disclosure contemplates that the container 202 may instead translate relative to a stationary clutch assembly 100. For example, the container 202 may be on or connected to a device (e.g., a pusher device) that can move (e.g., raise and lower) the container 202 relative to the clutch assembly 100 while the clutch assembly 100 remains substantially stationary. Additionally, the present disclosure contemplates that both the container 202 and the clutch assembly 100 may translate toward one another. For example, the container 202 may be connected to a pusher device, which translates the container 202 relative to the clutch assembly 100 while the clutch assembly 100 also translates toward the container 202.

[0037] The mechanisms for generally translating clutch assembly 100 upward and downward and rotating clockwise and counterclockwise may vary depending on the configuration of the device that includes clutch assembly 100. Various configurations of belts, gears, motors, actuators, hydraulic and pneumatic cylinders, other similar mechanical structures, and any combination thereof may be used to control the translation and / or rotation of clutch assembly 100. One exemplary non-limiting structure for actuating clutch assembly 100 is shown in Figures 3-4E.

[0038] FIG. 3 illustrates a spindle shaft assembly 300 including the clutch assembly 100 according to embodiments described herein. The spindle shaft assembly 300 includes elements for actuating the clutch assembly 100 within a machine configuration (e.g., as described with respect to FIGS. 4A-4E below). One such element is a rotary ball spline 302. The rotary ball spline 302 is connected to an end of the shaft 102 opposite the clutch 104. The rotary ball spline 302 is configured to provide two degrees of motion to the shaft 102 of the clutch assembly 100. Through a first degree of motion, the rotary ball spline 302 allows the shaft 102 to translate generally upwards and downwards. Through a second degree of motion, the rotary ball spline 302 allows the shaft 102 to rotate generally clockwise and counterclockwise.

[0039] In one or more embodiments, the rotating ball spline 302 is connected to a drive pulley 304. In one or more alternative embodiments, the drive pulley 304 may be directly connected to the shaft 102. The drive pulley 304 is a drive mechanism (e.g., a first drive mechanism) configured to impart rotation to the clutch assembly 100. The outer periphery of the drive pulley 304 includes a number of splines 312 that may be in contact with, for example, a belt, gear, or similar mechanical structure to impart rotational motion to the drive pulley 304. However, although the drive pulley 304 is shown as having a number of splines, it may have other configurations. For example, the drive pulley 304 may have a gear or other type of outer surface that may be used to impart rotation to the drive pulley 304.

[0040] Drive pulley 304 is one embodiment of a drive mechanism configured to impart rotational motion to clutch assembly 100. Other drive mechanisms configured to impart rotational motion may be used, such as any type of gear, pulley, wheel, motor, or any combination thereof.

[0041] A second end 102b of shaft 102 (see FIGS. 1A and 1B) is connected to a translation wheel 306. Translation wheel 306 is another drive mechanism (e.g., a second drive mechanism) but instead transfers translational motion to shaft 102 and clutch 104 of clutch assembly 100. As described further below, translation wheel 306 is configured to overcome an undulating surface that raises and lowers shaft 102, thereby providing translation.

[0042] The translation wheel 306 is one example embodiment of a drive mechanism configured to translate the clutch assembly 100. Other drive mechanisms configured to cause translational motion can be used, such as any type of gear, pulley, wheel, pneumatic or hydraulic cylinder, linear actuator, motor, any combination thereof, etc.

[0043] In one or more embodiments, the spindle shaft assembly 300 further includes an anti-rotation rod 308. The anti-rotation rod 308 is configured to connect the spindle shaft assembly 300 to a mechanical structure, as described further below. As described further below, the connection of the anti-rotation rod 308 to the mechanical structure or an element within the mechanical structure prevents or inhibits the spindle shaft assembly 300 from moving (e.g., rotating and / or translating) during the rotation and translation of the shaft 102 and clutch 104. Although a pair of anti-rotation rods 308 are shown, in one or more embodiments, one, three, four, or more anti-rotation rods 308 may be provided.

[0044] In embodiments where the clutch assembly 100 is configured to remain stationary as the container is delivered to the clutch assembly 100, the rotational ball spline 302 and translation wheel 306 may be omitted from the spindle shaft assembly 300. Instead, the spindle shaft assembly 300 can have a mechanism configured to only rotate the clutch assembly 100 through the second degree of motion. For example, the drive pulley 304 can be directly connected to the shaft 102 without the rotational ball spline 302.

[0045] Figure 4A is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of a machine arrangement 400 including multiple spindle shaft assemblies 300 for handling containers, such as container 202 of Figure 2A. Figure 4B is another schematic diagram of the machine arrangement 400 of Figure 4A from another perspective. Figures 4C-4E are detailed views of other portions of the machine arrangement 400.

[0046] The mechanical arrangement 400 includes a primary turret 404 supported by a frame 402. In the embodiment shown in Figures 4A and 4B, the frame 402 includes three legs 402a and a frame plate 402b spanning between the legs 402a. However, frames 402 different from those shown in Figures 4A and 4B are contemplated. For example, the frame 402 can be mounted to a ceiling or other mechanical arrangement (a mechanical arrangement that drives the primary turret 404 and can have fewer or more legs 402a, combinations thereof, etc.).

[0047] The primary turret 404 includes a main turret shaft 406. The main turret shaft 406 provides the primary rotational movement of the elements of the machine configuration 400, as described below. The main turret shaft 406 is configured at a first end 406a to connect to a motor, such as a servo motor (not shown), which rotates the main turret shaft 406. The main turret shaft 406 is configured at a generally opposite second end 406b to connect to the frame plate 402b.

[0048] The primary turret 404 also includes a support plate 408 that holds the multiple spindle shaft assemblies 300. The support plate 408 is connected to and rotates with the main turret shaft 406. The combination of the main turret shaft 406 and the support plate 408 rotates the elements of the machine configuration 400, such as the spindle shaft assemblies 300. In the illustrated embodiment, the spindle shaft assemblies 300 connect to the support plate 408 at a rotating ball spline 302, such that a portion of the shaft 102 and the clutch 104 extend below the support plate 408 and can independently rotate and translate relative to the support plate 408. An anti-rotation rod 308 of the spindle shaft assembly 300 is connected to the support plate 408 to inhibit or prevent the spindle shaft assembly 300 from rotating and translating relative to the support plate 408 while the shaft 102 and clutch 104 move.

[0049] As shown, the support plate 408 includes six spindle shaft assemblies 300, each of which is generally evenly spaced along the circumference of the support plate 408. However, the support plate 408 may alternatively be configured to hold more or less than six spindle shaft assemblies 300, such as 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, etc., according to the desired specifications of the machine arrangement 400.

[0050] The machine configuration 400 further includes tension shafts 410 extending downwardly from the frame plate 402b. An idler pulley 412 is provided at the end of each tension shaft 410. The tension shafts 410 and idler pulleys 412 support a stationary belt 414 wrapped around the idler pulleys 412. The opposite ends of the tension shafts 410 connect to the frame plate 402b at respective openings 416. The multiple openings 416 determine the position of the tension shafts 410 and idler pulleys 412, and thus the position of the stationary belt 414 around the periphery of the support plate 408. Thus, there may be multiple openings 416 in the frame plate 402b to control the position of the tension shafts 410 and idler pulleys 412.

[0051] 4C, the stationary belt 414 can be connected at a first end 414a to a joint 415 extending from the frame plate 402b. The stationary belt 414 is a drive mechanism configured to contact the drive pulley 304 of the spindle shaft assembly 300 as the spindle shaft assembly 300 orbits about the axis of the main turret shaft 406 in the machine configuration 400. Contact between the stationary belt 414 and the drive pulley 304 causes the drive pulley 304 to rotate, which in turn causes the shaft 102 and clutch 104 to rotate.

[0052] As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the stationary belt 414 is disposed around only a portion of the circumference of the support plate 408. Thus, the stationary belt 414 causes rotation of the drive pulley 304 only when each spindle shaft assembly 300 rotates with the support plate 408 about the main turret shaft 406 such that the respective spindle shaft assembly 300 of the drive pulley 304 is adjacent the stationary belt 414. Thus, the tension shaft 410 and corresponding idler pulley 412 can be positioned in a selected one of the plurality of apertures 416, allowing a user to control where along the circumference of the support plate 408 the rotation is imparted to the drive pulley 304 by the stationary belt 414 (i.e., the timing of the stationary belt 414).

[0053] As shown in FIGS. 4B and 4D, a second end 414b, generally the opposite end, of the stationary belt 414 can be coupled to a tensioner 418. The tensioner 418 can be any device capable of expanding or contracting in length, such as a pneumatic, hydraulic, or mechanical cylinder. A first end 418a of the tensioner 418 can be coupled to the joint 415, and an opposite second end 418b of the tensioner 418 can be coupled to the stationary belt 414. The tensioner 418 is configured to adjust the tension of the stationary belt 414 by expanding or contracting the second end 418b, as needed. The tensioner 418 can also be used to adjust the effective length of the stationary belt 414, as needed, depending on the position of the tensioning shaft 410. For example, the arm 418c of the cylinder can expand or contract to correspond to the required length of the stationary belt 414 depending on the number and / or position of the spindle shaft assemblies 300 that engage the stationary belt 414. The length of the stationary belt 414 does not change, but the length of the stationary belt 414 available to rotate the drive pulley 304 increases.

[0054] 4A, 4C, and 4E, the mechanical arrangement 400 includes a counter-rotating plate 420. The counter-rotating plate 420 is coupled to the primary turret 404, but does not rotate with the main turret shaft 406. Instead, the position of the counter-rotating plate 420 is stationary within the mechanical arrangement 400 relative to the rotating main turret shaft 406 and support plate 408.

[0055] The counter-rotating plate 420, like the stationary belt 414, is configured to contact the drive pulley 304 of the spindle shaft assembly 300 as the spindle shaft assembly 300 orbits about the axis of the main turret shaft 406. Contact between the counter-rotating plate 420 and the drive pulley 304 rotates the drive pulley 304, which in turn rotates the shaft 102 and the clutch 104. The length of the counter-rotating plate 420 that contacts the drive pulley 304 can vary depending on the time required for the counter-rotating plate 420 to rotate the drive pulley 304 (i.e., the timing of the counter-rotating plate 420). The timing of the counter-rotating plate 420 is determined based on the time it takes for the roller 108 to disengage from the inner surface 206 of the opening 204 and release the container 202 from the clutch 104 (see FIGS. 2A-2C).

[0056] The stationary belt 414 contacts the drive pulley 304 on a radially outer side, with the axis of the main turret shaft 406 as a radial frame of reference. In contrast, the counter-rotating plate 420 contacts the drive pulley 304 on a radially inner side, also with the axis of the main turret shaft 406 as a radial frame of reference. Because the stationary belt 414 contacts the drive pulley 304 on a side opposite the side on which the counter-rotating plate 420 contacts the drive pulley 304, the counter-rotating plate 420 rotates the drive pulley 304 in the opposite direction to the stationary belt 414. More specifically, contact between the stationary belt 414 and the drive pulley 304 causes the drive pulley 304 to rotate in a direction opposite to the rotation of the main turret shaft 406, and contact between the counter-rotating plate 420 and the drive pulley 304 causes the drive pulley 304 to rotate in the same direction as the main turret shaft 406.

[0057] The mechanical arrangement 400 further includes a translation cam 422. The translation cam 422 is connected to the primary turret 404 but does not rotate with the main turret shaft 406. Instead, the position of the translation cam 422 is stationary within the mechanical arrangement 400 relative to the rotating main turret shaft 406 and support plate 408.

[0058] A plurality of translation wheels 306 of the spindle shaft assembly 300 are configured to move in contact with a translation cam 422 as the spindle shaft assembly 300 orbits about the axis of the main turret shaft 406 (see, e.g., FIG. 4C ). The translation cam 422 can have a non-uniform upper surface 422a, such that the translation wheels 306 move generally up and down as they move across the upper surface 422a of the translation cam 422. Alternatively, the translation cam 422 can have one or more elements (e.g., slopes, mounds, bumps, ridges) that the translation wheels 306 overcome. The resulting generally up and down movement of the translation wheels 306 causes the clutch assembly 100 connected to the translation wheels 306 to translate generally up and down as well.

[0059] The generally up-down movement of the translating wheel 306 can be configured to coincide with the insertion and withdrawal of the clutch 104 from an opening (e.g., opening 204, FIG. 2B) of a container (e.g., container 202, FIG. 2A). Thus, the location of one or more elements on the uneven upper surface 422a or translation cam 422 that move the translating wheel 306 generally up-down is determined based on the desired location of the up-down movement of the translating wheel 306 (i.e., the timing of the translation cam 422). This timing of the translation cam 422 corresponds to where in the machine configuration 400 the clutch 104 engages and disengages the container.

[0060] In embodiments in which the clutch assembly 100 is configured to remain stationary as the container is delivered to the clutch assembly 100, the translating cam 422 may be omitted from the mechanical arrangement 400. Instead, rather than the clutch assembly 100 being configured to move downwardly to the container, a separate mechanical arrangement may be configured to deliver the container to the clutch assembly 100, or another component within the mechanical arrangement 400 may be configured to deliver the container to the clutch assembly 100, or both.

[0061] In one or more embodiments, the primary purpose of the machine arrangement 400 may be to trim excess material from a container opening. For example, the machine arrangement 400 may be configured to cut off excess plastic material from a blow molded plastic container. In such an embodiment, the machine arrangement 400 includes knives 424 (see FIGS. 4A-4C). In one or more embodiments, each knife 424 may be coupled to the support plate 408 and configured to orbit about the axis of the main turret shaft 406. Each knife 424 may also be configured to rotate about its respective axis to assist in cutting the plastic. Alternatively, the knives 424 may remain rotationally stationary about their respective axes and instead be configured to cut the plastic based on the rotation of the clutch assembly 100, as described in more detail below. Alternatively, in one or more embodiments, the knives 424 may be within the machine arrangement 400 but not connected to the support plate 408. Alternatively, for example, the knife 424 may be connected to and extend from one or more of the legs 402 a - 402 c to contact a plastic container that is engaged with the clutch assembly 100 .

[0062] The process for trimming excess plastic (or material from each container, such as metal) from plastic containers begins with the container being placed in position within the machine configuration 400. After the container is placed in the machine configuration 400 in a position corresponding to the loading position 200a of FIG. 2, the spindle shaft assembly 300 is brought over the container (or is already on the container) so that the shaft 102 and clutch 104 are generally aligned with the opening of the container. Simultaneously, or thereafter, the shaft 102 and clutch 104 translate generally downward, such that the clutch 104 is at least partially inserted into the opening of the container. The translation occurs by the translation wheel 306 moving away from a bump or other element of the translation cam 422, such that the translation wheel 306 translates generally downward. The translation occurs by the translation wheel 306 moving away from a bump or other element of the translation cam 422, such that the translation wheel 306 translates generally downward.

[0063] Once the clutch 104 is at least partially within the opening of the container, the shaft 102 and clutch 104 are rotated by the drive pulley 304 of the spindle shaft assembly 300, which is in contact with the stationary belt 314. The rotation of the clutch 104 causes the roller 108 to engage the inner surface of the opening of the container and the cam surface 110. Once the clutch 104 engages the container, the container rotates in a first direction. One or more knives 424 can then contact the container to cut excess plastic from the opening. As described above, each knife 424 can be configured to rotate about their axis, or each knife can be stationary relative to their axis and the container can rotate to assist the knife 424 in cutting the plastic.

[0064] Rotation of the container is maintained while the drive pulley 304 contacts the stationary belt 414 and as the spindle shaft assembly 300 orbits about the axis of the main turret shaft 406. When the spindle shaft assembly 300 moves past the stationary belt 314, the drive pulley 304 stops rotating. The drive pulley 304 then contacts the counter-rotating plate 420.

[0065] The counter rotating plate 420 rotates the shaft 102 and clutch 104 in a second direction opposite to the first direction. As described above, rotation in the second direction disengages the roller 108 from the inside surface of the container opening, thereby disengaging the container from the clutch 104. Simultaneously, or thereafter, the translation wheel 306 contacts a ramp, ridge, or other element on the translation cam 422, which causes the translation wheel 306 to translate generally upward. Thus, the shaft 102 and clutch 104 also translate generally upward with the translation wheel 306, and the clutch 104 is withdrawn from the container opening. The container can then be removed. When the spindle shaft assembly 300 is over a new container to be trimmed, the translation wheel 306 can be translated downward, which is substantially the opposite direction, and the above process can then be repeated.

[0066] Although the spindle shaft assembly 300 is disclosed as rotating once clockwise and once counterclockwise during a single rotation of the support plate 408, it is contemplated that the spindle shaft assembly 300 may rotate clockwise and / or counterclockwise more than once for each rotation of the support plate 408. For example, the spindle shaft assembly 300 may rotate clockwise and counterclockwise more than once for each rotation of the support plate 408. Such an embodiment may be associated with each spindle shaft assembly 300 mating with two receptacles for each rotation of the support plate 408. In such an embodiment, the machine configuration 400 may include, for example, separate stationary belts 414, separate counter-rotating plates 420, or both, to cause multiple clockwise and counterclockwise rotations. Alternatively, the separate rotations of the spindle shaft assembly 300 may include different portions of the same stationary belts 414, counter-rotating plates 420, or both. The spindle shaft assembly 300 may contact different portions of the same fixed belt 414, counter-rotating plate 420, or both when rotation is desired.

[0067] Each of these embodiments and obvious variations thereof is believed to be within the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the following claims. Moreover, the present concepts expressly include all combinations and subcombinations of the elements and aspects described above.

[0068] As used herein, the terms "approximately," "about," "substantially," and similar terms are intended to have a broad meaning consistent with the usage generally accepted by those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains. Those skilled in the art who review this disclosure should understand that these terms are intended to enable the description of the specific features described and claimed without limiting them to the precise numerical ranges provided. Thus, these terms should be interpreted as indicating that insubstantial or insignificant modifications or variations of the described and claimed subject matter are considered to be within the scope of the invention as set forth in the appended claims.

[0069] It should be noted that the term "exemplary" as used herein to describe various embodiments is intended to indicate that such embodiments are possible examples, representations, and / or illustrations of possible embodiments (nor is such terminology intended to imply that such embodiments are necessarily particularly superior or superlative examples).

[0070] As used herein, terms such as "coupled," "connected," and "attached" mean that two members are joined directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be fixed (e.g., permanent) or movable (e.g., removable or releasable). Such joining may be achieved by the two members, or the two members and any additional intermediate members, being integrally formed with one another as a unitary body, or by the two members, or the two members and any additional intermediate members, being attached to one another.

[0071] References herein to the location of elements (e.g., "top", "bottom", "upper", "lower", etc.) are merely used to describe the orientation of the various elements in the figures. It should be noted that the orientation of the various elements may vary in other exemplary embodiments, and such variations are intended to be included in the present disclosure.

[0072] It is important to note that the structure and arrangement of the machine modules and / or machine configurations as shown in the various exemplary embodiments are illustrative only. Although only a few embodiments are described in detail in this disclosure, those skilled in the art who review this disclosure will readily appreciate that many modifications (e.g., variations in size, dimensions, structure, shape, proportions of various elements, parameter values, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.) are possible without substantially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter described herein. For example, elements shown as integrally formed may be composed of multiple parts or elements, the location of elements may be reversed or changed, and the nature or number or location of each element may be modified or changed. The order or sequence of any process or method steps may be altered or resequenced by alternative embodiments. Other substitutions, modifications, changes, and / or omissions may also be made in the design, operating conditions, and arrangements of the various exemplary embodiments without departing from the scope of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0073] 100 Clutch assembly 102 Shaft 104 Clutch 106 Cam 108 Clutch roller 108a Edge 110 Cam surface 112 Slots 114 Outer rim 202 Container 204 Aperture 208 Gap 300 Spindle shaft assembly 302 Rotating Ball Spline 304 Drive pulley 306 Translation Wheel 308 Anti-rotation rod 400 Machine Configuration 402 Frames 404 Primary Turret 406 Main Turret Shaft 408 Support Plate 412 Idle pulley 414 Stationary Belt 418 Tensioner 420 Reverse Rotation Plate 422 Translation Cam 424 Knife

Claims

1. 1. A clutch assembly for handling a container having an opening, comprising: a shaft configured to rotate in a first direction and in a second direction opposite the first direction; a clutch at a first end of the shaft configured to fit at least partially within the opening of the container, the clutch comprising: a cam having at least two cam surfaces; at least two pairs of slots; at least two pins, each pin extending between one of the at least two pairs of slots; at least two rollers, each roller including one of the at least two pins extending therethrough to retain the roller between a corresponding one of the at least two pairs of slots; the at least two pairs of slots are oriented within the clutch to engage the at least two rollers against an inner surface of the opening of the container and against cam surfaces of the at least two cam surfaces when the shaft rotates in the first direction and disengage the at least two rollers from the inner surface of the opening of the container when the shaft rotates in the second direction. Clutch assembly.

2. 2. The clutch assembly of claim 1, wherein said at least two rollers include three rollers approximately equally spaced around said clutch.

3. A clutch assembly as described in claim 2, wherein the at least two pairs of slots include three pairs of slots and the at least two pins include three pins.

4. 4. The clutch assembly of claim 3, wherein each pair of said at least two pairs of slots is positioned such that a first end of each slot is closer to a circumference of the clutch than a second end of each slot.

5. 5. The clutch assembly of claim 4, wherein the at least two cam surfaces include three cam surfaces arranged such that a first end of each cam surface is closer to a circumference of the clutch than a second end of each cam surface.

6. 2. The clutch assembly of claim 1, wherein said at least two cam surfaces are positioned such that a first end of each cam surface is closer to a circumference of the clutch than a second end of each cam surface.

7. 1. A spindle shaft assembly for handling a container, comprising: A rotating ball spline; 2. The clutch assembly of claim 1 connected to said rotating ball spline, said shaft configured to translate and rotate relative to said rotating ball spline; a first drive mechanism configured to move the clutch assembly; a second drive mechanism configured to rotate the clutch assembly; and A spindle shaft assembly comprising:

8. 8. The spindle shaft assembly of claim 7, wherein said first drive mechanism is a translation wheel coupled to said shaft.

9. 8. The spindle shaft assembly of claim 7, wherein said second drive mechanism is a drive pulley coupled to said rotating ball spline.

10. 8. The spindle shaft assembly of claim 7, further comprising a pair of anti-rotation rods coupled to said rotating ball spline.

11. A mechanical configuration, a support plate configured to rotate, the support plate including at least one of the spindle shaft assemblies of claim 7 coupled thereto; a counter-rotating plate configured to contact the second drive mechanism to impart rotational motion to the second drive mechanism in a first direction; a stationary belt configured to contact the second drive mechanism to impart rotational motion to the second drive mechanism in a second direction opposite to the first direction; A machine configuration comprising:

12. The machine arrangement of claim 11 comprising a translation cam having a non-uniform top surface that causes translational motion by the first drive mechanism.

13. 13. The machine arrangement of claim 12, wherein the first drive mechanism is a translation wheel coupled to the clutch assembly and configured to move across one or more elements of the translation cam to produce the translational motion.

14. a main turret shaft configured to rotate the support plate within the machine arrangement; 12. The machine arrangement of claim 11, wherein rotation of the main turret shaft causes the second drive mechanism of each spindle shaft assembly to contact the counter-rotating plates and the stationary belt to impart the rotational motion in the first and second directions, respectively.

15. The machine arrangement of claim 11 , wherein the second drive mechanism is a drive pulley coupled to the rotating ball spline.

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