Image control system and can decorator using same

Abstract

The image control system 600 for the can decorator 100 includes an electronic can decorator control assembly 602, a mechanical can decorator control assembly 604, and several sensors 606. The electronic can decorator control assembly 602 includes a programmable logic circuit 610 and several modules 612. The mechanical can decorator control assembly 604 is configured to be operably coupled to at least one of the fountain inker adjustment assembly 500, the ductor roll assembly duty cycle adjustment assembly 654, the printing plate cylinder assembly axial adjustment assembly 656, or the printing plate cylinder assembly circumferential adjustment assembly 658. The electronic can decorator control assembly 602 is configured to be operably coupled to the mechanical can decorator control assembly 604. Each sensor of the several sensors 606 is configured to measure an applied image characteristic of the can body and generate an image signal including data representative of the applied image characteristic of the can body.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] <CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS> This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 946,027, entitled "IMAGE CONTROL SYSTEM AND CAN DECORATOR EMPLOYING SAME," filed December 10, 2019, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] <Field of the Invention> The disclosed concepts relate generally to an image control system for a can decorator used in the food and beverage packaging industry, and more particularly to an image control system for a can decorator configured to automatically adjust an image as it is applied to a can body. [Background technology]

[0003] High speed continuous motion machines for decorating cans are commonly known and are commonly referred to as "can decoration machines" or simply "can decorators." A can decorator 2 is shown in FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 1, the can decorator 2 includes an infeed conveyor 15 which receives cans 16 from a can feeder (not shown) and directs them into arcuate cradles or pockets 17 disposed along the periphery of spaced parallel rings secured to a pocket wheel 12. The pocket wheel 12 is secured to a continuously rotating mandrel carrier wheel 18 which is keyed to a continuously rotating horizontal drive shaft 19. A plurality of horizontal spindles or mandrels (not shown), each rotatable about its own axis, are mounted on the mandrel carrier wheel 18 adjacent its periphery. Downstream of the in-feed conveyor 15, each spindle or mandrel is closely axially aligned with an individual pocket 17 from which undecorated cans 16 are fed onto the mandrels. Suction applied through the axial passage of the mandrel draws the cans 16 to their final seating position on the mandrel.

[0004] While on the mandrel, each can 16 is decorated by engaging it with a blanket (such as, but not limited to, a replaceable adhesive-backed rubber strip) disposed on a blanket wheel of a multicolor printing unit, generally indicated at 22. Thereafter, while still on the mandrel, the exterior of each decorated can 16 is provided with a protective coat of varnish which is applied by engagement with the outer periphery of a varnishing roll (not shown) rotating on shaft 23 of an overvarnishing unit, generally indicated at 24. The decorated and protectively coated can 16 then passes from the mandrel to suction cups (not shown) mounted adjacent the outer periphery of a transfer wheel (not shown) rotating on shaft 28 of a transfer unit 27. From the transfer unit 27, the cans 16 are placed on generally horizontal pins 29 carried by a chain-type output conveyor 30 which conveys the cans 16 through a curing oven (not shown).

[0005] While moving toward engagement with the undecorated can 16, the blanket engages a number of print cylinders 31, each of which is associated with a respective ink station assembly 32 (eight exemplary ink station assemblies 32 are shown in FIG. 1). Typically, each assembly 32 provides a different color of ink, and each print cylinder 31 applies a different ink image segment to the blanket. All of the "ink image" segments are combined to produce a "main image" that is configured to be applied to a can body. The "main image" is then transferred to the undecorated can 16, becoming, as referred to herein, a "can body applied image."

[0006] Each ink station assembly 32 includes a plurality of rollers, or "rolls," as referred to herein, that are configured to transfer ink from a reservoir, or "ink fountain," as referred to herein, to the blanket. The path along which the ink travels is referred to herein as the "ink train." That is, the rolls along which the ink travels define the "ink train." Additionally, as used herein, the "ink train" is oriented such that the ink fountain is at the "upstream" end of the ink train and the print cylinder 31 is at the "downstream" end of the ink train.

[0007] The ink train spans several rolls, each with its own purpose. Thus, the ink train starts at a reservoir and is initially applied as a film to a fountain roll. The fountain roll intermittently engages a ductor roll. The ductor roll engages the fountain roll to transfer ink to it. The ductor roll also intermittently engages downstream rolls to transfer ink. The ductor roll has a "duty cycle," which, as used herein, means the duration that the ductor roll contacts the fountain roll divided by the time of the complete cycle (ductor roll contacts fountain roll, moves to the first downstream roll, contacts the first steel roll, returns to the fountain roll).

[0008] Other rolls include, but are not limited to, distribution rolls, oscillator rolls, transfer rolls, and the like. Generally, these rolls are configured to deliver ink so that the correct amount of ink is applied generally evenly to the print cylinder 31. For example, oscillator rolls are configured to reciprocate longitudinally about their axes of rotation so that the applied ink can be spread to the next downstream roll. The final roll is the print cylinder 31 which applies ink to the blanket. Each ink station assembly 32 applies an "ink image" of a selected single color to the blanket, it being understood that each ink station assembly 32 must apply an ink image in the proper position relative to the other ink images so that there are no offset ink images in the main image.

[0009] Thus, in this specification, an "ink image" refers to an image of a single ink color that is part of a "main image." In this specification, a "main image" refers to an image that is generated from multiple ink images and that is applied to a can body as a "can body applied image." It is understood that a "main image" includes several, typically multiple, ink images. For example, if the main image is the French flag (a tricolor flag featuring three vertical bands colored blue (hoist side), white, and red), then the blue ink ink station assembly 32 would provide an ink image that is a blue rectangle, the white ink ink station assembly 32 would provide a white rectangle ink image, and the red ink ink station assembly 32 would result in a red rectangle ink image. Further assuming the main image is an image of the French flag with the hoist side to the left, the blue ink ink station assembly 32 will provide a blue rectangular ink image on the left side of the blanket, the white ink ink station assembly 32 will provide a white rectangular ink image in the center of the blanket immediately adjacent to the blue rectangular ink image, and the red ink ink station assembly 32 will provide a red rectangular ink image on the right side of the blanket immediately adjacent to the white rectangular ink image. Once all of the ink images have been applied to the blanket, the main image is formed and applied to the can body.

[0010] Each ink station assembly 32 is configured such that the final roll before the print cylinder 31 applies an appropriate amount of ink to the print cylinder 31. Those skilled in the art will know the amount of ink required to create an image having the intended clarity, resolution, and tone. Thus, as will be understood by those skilled in the art, and as used herein, a "proper" amount of ink is not too little (which would normally result in a pale image) and not too much (which would normally result in a blurred image), i.e., a "proper" amount of ink is an amount of ink that will result in an image having the intended clarity, resolution, and tone. Furthermore, a "proper" amount of ink applied to the print cylinder 31 is also a film that is substantially constant in thickness. It will be understood that those skilled in the art will know the amount of ink that is required to create an image having the intended clarity, resolution, and tone and that should be applied to a substrate such as, but not limited to, a can body.

[0011] Similarly, each ink station assembly 32 is configured such that the print cylinder 31 applies an ink image in the proper location on the blanket. One skilled in the art knows where the ink should be placed on the print cylinder 31 to produce the image as intended. Furthermore, as will be understood by one skilled in the art, and as used herein, the "proper location" of an ink image means that the ink image is applied to the blanket in the intended location relative to other ink images applied by other ink station assemblies 32, and all of the ink images form a main image such that the individual ink images do not overlap in an unintended manner. Furthermore, the "proper location" of an ink image means that the ink image, and thus the main image, has the intended sidelay registration and the intended circumferential registration. As used herein, the "intended" sidelay / circumferential registration means that the sidelay / circumferential registration is such that the can body applied image will be the intended image. As used herein, the "intended image" means the image created by the image creator, as will be understood by one skilled in the art. As used herein, "can body applied image" means the image applied to the can body, i.e., the image on the can body after the printing operation is completed.

[0012] Therefore, in order for the printing plate to impart a sharp, even image to the printing blanket 21 and thus to the final print substrate (e.g., can 16), it is important to provide as uniform an ink film thickness as possible on the printing cylinder 31. An uneven ink film can result in variations in color density across the printed image, resulting in "starvation ghosting" of the image, where a lighter duplicate version or copy of the image is unnecessarily applied to the can 16 in addition to the main image.

[0013] Typically, control of the ink train is achieved by a technician monitoring the output of the can decorator and manually adjusting various elements of the ink station assembly and / or blanket wheel so that the right amount of ink is applied in the right location. For example, each ink reservoir includes several fountain keys, which are elongated members positioned adjacent to the fountain roll. The clearance between the fountain roll and the tips of the fountain keys determines the amount of ink that is applied to the fountain roll; that is, the fountain keys are configured to move collectively or individually toward or away from the fountain roll. The greater the clearance between the fountain roll and the tips of the fountain keys, the more ink is applied to the fountain roll. The smaller the clearance between the fountain roll and the tips of the fountain keys, the less ink is applied to the fountain roll. Typically, a structure such as a threaded rod controls the clearance between the fountain roll and the tips of the fountain keys.

[0014] Additionally, the duty cycle of the ductor roll is adjustable. Generally, the longer the ductor roll and fountain roll are engaged, the greater the amount of ink that is applied to the ductor roll and the greater the amount of ink that passes through the ink train. Thus, adjusting the ductor roll duty cycle to reduce the time the ductor roll is engaged with the fountain roll reduces the amount of ink that is applied to the ductor roll. Conversely, adjusting the ductor roll duty cycle to increase the time the ductor roll is engaged with the fountain roll increases the amount of ink that is applied to the ductor roll.

[0015] Additionally, errors in the can body applied images can occur due to individual ink images not being in the proper position on the blanket, or due to the main image not being in the proper position on the blanket. For example, an ink image or a main image may not be in the proper position longitudinally on the blanket. This is referred to as improper "sidelay registration." That is, as used herein, "sidelay registration" refers to the position of an image relative to the axial direction. That is, an ink image with proper "sidelay registration" is in the intended position relative to other ink images. Furthermore, a main image with proper "sidelay registration" is in the intended position on the can body, that is, the main image is not axially offset toward either can end. Thus, an image with improper "sidelay registration" is "axially offset" as used herein. To allow for longitudinal adjustment of the ink images, i.e., the main image, each print cylinder 31 includes an axial adjustment assembly configured to adjust where each ink image is applied to the blanket. Typically, this adjustment assembly includes a threaded rod that allows for fine adjustment of the axial position of the ink image. A technician manually adjusts the threaded rod.

[0016] Additionally, the ink image or main image may be "circumferentially offset." This is also referred to as improper "circumferential registration." Typically, improper circumferential registration or circumferential registration errors are due to timing mismatch between the blanket and the plate cylinder. However, it will be appreciated that other factors may cause or contribute to circumferential registration errors. For example, but not limited to, when the surface speed of the printing cylinder 31 is not properly matched to the surface speed of the blanket, and / or when the surface speed of the blanket is not properly matched to the surface speed of the printing cylinder 31. When these conditions occur, the can body applied image may not fully extend around the can body or may overlap the axial ends of the can body applied image. Thus, as used herein, "circumferential registration" refers to the position of the image around the circumference of the can body. Images that are not properly "circumferentially registered" are referred to herein as "circumferentially offset images." The circumferential adjustment assembly is configured to change the circumferential registration of the images.

[0017] The circumferential adjustment assembly includes bearings on the printing cylinder shaft that are driven by helical gears mounted on that shaft. The plate cylinder gear is driven by a larger gear mounted on a common shaft with the blanket wheel, also a helical gear. The plate cylinder helical gear is keyed to the shaft but is allowed to move axially on the shaft. A linear screw mechanism is employed to move the helical gear axially on the shaft while the machine is running. The axial movement of the plate cylinder gear causes the shaft to rotate and advance or retard timing in proportion to the gear helix angle. This advances or retards the position of the ink image on the blanket for a particular color.

[0018] It is understood that the technician will observe the output of the can decorator and adjust the various ink images or main image as necessary to correct the printing on the subsequent can body; that is, previously printed cans are not corrected by the can decorator. It is further understood that the adjustments described above are very fine / small; for example, if the sidelay alignment of an ink image is incorrect by even a fraction of an inch, the technician will adjust the position of that ink image or the position of the main image.

[0019] Ink image / main image errors such as those described above and the need to manually correct those errors are problematic. Furthermore, if a can image becomes out of specification during a label start or label run, a large amount of scrap cans can accumulate, potentially resulting in a loss of production in a short period of time. This is problematic, and therefore there is room for improvement in the can decoration apparatus, can decoration method, and ink station assembly. Summary of the Invention

[0020] These and other needs are met by at least one embodiment of the disclosed concept, which provides an image control system for a can decorator, including an electronic can decorator control assembly, a mechanical can decorator control assembly, and a number of sensors. The electronic can decorator control assembly includes a programmable logic circuit and a number of modules. The mechanical can decorator control assembly is configured to be operatively coupled to at least one of a fountain inker adjustment assembly, a ductor roll assembly duty cycle adjustment assembly, a printing plate cylinder assembly axial adjustment assembly, or a printing plate cylinder assembly circumferential adjustment assembly. The electronic can decorator control assembly is configured to be operatively coupled to the mechanical can decorator control assembly. Each of the number of sensors is configured to measure a can body applied image characteristic and generate an image signal including data representative of the can body applied image characteristic. Each sensor is further configured to electronically communicate with the electronic can decorator control assembly and send the image signal to the electronic can decorator control assembly. The electronic can decorator control assembly module includes a database module having decorated can image data and a comparison module. A comparison module of the electronic can decorator control assembly is configured to compare the image signal with associated can image data in the database module to determine whether the image signal is acceptable. If the image signal is not acceptable, the electronic can decorator control assembly is configured to send a correction signal to selected elements of the mechanical can decorator control assembly to adjust at least one of the fountain inker adjustment assembly, the ductor roll assembly duty cycle adjustment assembly, the printing plate cylinder assembly axial adjustment assembly, or the printing plate cylinder assembly circumferential adjustment assembly.

[0021] These and other needs are met by at least one embodiment of the disclosed concept, which provides a can decorator including an inker system, the inker system including a blanket wheel including a wheel frame and a plurality of printing blankets disposed on a radial surface of the wheel frame, and several inking station assemblies, each of which includes an ink reservoir assembly, a fountain roll, a ductor roll assembly, several ink transfer rolls, and a printing plate cylinder assembly, each ink reservoir including an inker adjustment assembly, each ductor roll assembly including a duty cycle adjustment assembly, and each printing plate cylinder assembly including an axial adjustment assembly and a circumferential adjustment assembly. Each inking station assembly is configured to apply a portion of an image to the printing blanket, each printing blanket configured to apply an image to a can body, each can body having an applied image. The can decorator also includes a can transport assembly configured to position several can bodies operatively adjacent to the inker system. The can decorator further includes an image control system including an electronic can decorator control assembly including a programmable logic circuit and several modules, and a mechanical can decorator control assembly configured to operably couple to at least one of the fountain inker adjustment assembly, the ductor roll assembly duty cycle adjustment assembly, the printing plate cylinder assembly axial adjustment assembly, or the printing plate cylinder assembly circumferential adjustment assembly. The electronic can decorator control assembly is configured to operably couple to the mechanical can decorator control assembly. The image control system includes several sensors, each configured to measure a can body applied image characteristic and generate an image signal including data representative of the can body applied image characteristic. Each sensor is in electronic communication with the electronic can decorator control assembly and configured to send the image signal to the electronic can decorator control assembly. The electronic can decorator control assembly module includes a database module having decorated can image data and a comparison module.The electronic can decorator control assembly comparison module is configured to compare the image signal with associated can image data from the database module to determine whether the image signal is acceptable, and if the image signal is not acceptable, the electronic can decorator control assembly is configured to send a correction signal to selected elements of the mechanical can decorator control assembly to adjust at least one of a fountain inker adjustment assembly, a ductor roll assembly duty cycle adjustment assembly, a printing plate cylinder assembly axial adjustment assembly, or a printing plate cylinder assembly circumferential adjustment assembly.

[0022] The can decorator and / or image control system for a can decorator described below solves the above problems. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0023] The invention can be more fully understood from the following description of the preferred embodiments when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0024] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a side view of a can decoration apparatus. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is an isometric view of a portion of a can decoration apparatus and its ink station assembly according to an embodiment of the disclosed concepts. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a schematic isometric view of a portion of one of the ink station assemblies of FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a side view of the ink station assembly of FIG. 3 with one of the side panels removed to reveal the hidden structure. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a side view of the ink station assembly, showing a schematic of the ink train. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is an exploded isometric view of the inker conditioning assembly. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a side cross-sectional view of the inker conditioning assembly. [Figure 8]FIG. 8 is a rear view of a portion of an image control system and its actuators and sensors according to an embodiment of the disclosed concepts. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a pictorial diagram of a can decoration apparatus and its image control system according to the disclosed concepts. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a simplified schematic diagram of a closed loop imaging control system based on the disclosed concepts. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a circuit diagram of an image control system and can decoration device according to an embodiment of the disclosed concepts. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0025] It is understood that the specific elements illustrated in the drawings and described in the following description are merely exemplary embodiments of the disclosed concepts and are provided as non-limiting examples for illustrative purposes only, and thus, the specific dimensions, orientations, assembly, number of components used, configurations of the embodiments, and other physical characteristics of the embodiments disclosed herein should not be considered limitations on the scope of the disclosed concepts.

[0026] Directional terms used herein, such as clockwise, counterclockwise, left, right, up, down, above, below, and derivatives thereof, relate to the orientation of the elements as illustrated and do not limit the claims unless expressly stated in the claims.

[0027] As used herein, the singular forms "a" and "the" include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0028] As used herein, "configured to [verb]" means that the specified element or assembly has a structure that is shaped, sized, arranged, coupled, and / or configured to perform the specified verb. For example, a member "configured to move" may be operatively coupled to another element and may include an element that moves the member, or the member is otherwise configured to move in response to another element or assembly. Thus, as used herein, "configured to [verb]" describes structure, not function. Furthermore, as used herein, "configured to [verb]" means that the specified element or assembly is intended and designed to perform the specified verb. Thus, an element that is merely capable of performing the specified verb, but is not intended and designed to perform the specified verb, is not "configured to [verb]."

[0029] Herein, without limitation, in a term such as "[X] is configured to [verb] [Y]," "[Y]" is not the constituent referred to. Rather, "[Y]" further defines the structure of "[X]." That is, in the following two examples, assume that "[X]" is a "mount" and "[verb]" is "support." In the first example, the complete expression is "a mount configured to support a flying bird." That is, in this example, "[Y]" is a "flying bird." It is known that flying birds, as opposed to swimming / walking birds, typically grasp and support themselves on branches. Thus, for a mount, i.e., "[X]," to be "configured" to support a flying bird, the mount is shaped and sized so that a flying bird can grasp like a branch. However, this does not make the bird a constituent. In the second example, "[Y]" is a house, and thus the second exemplary expression is "a mount configured to support a house." In this example, it is well known that a house is supported by a foundation, and the mount is configured as a foundation. As before, it is not the house that is being made into a component, but the shape, size, and configuration of the mount that is being defined, i.e., the shape, size, and configuration of [X] in "[X] is configured to [verb] [Y]."

[0030] As used herein, "associated" means that the elements are part of the same assembly and / or work together or interact in some way. For example, an automobile has four tires and four hubcaps. Although all the elements are connected to parts of the automobile, each hubcap is understood to be "associated" with a particular tire.

[0031] As used herein, a "coupling assembly" includes two or more couplings or coupling components. The components of a coupling or coupling assembly are generally not part of the same element or other elements. Thus, the components of a "coupling assembly" may not be described simultaneously in the following description.

[0032] As used herein, a "coupling" or "coupling component" is one or more components of a coupling assembly. That is, a coupling assembly includes at least two components configured to be coupled together. The components of a coupling assembly are understood to be compatible with each other. For example, in a coupling assembly, if one coupling component is a snap socket, the other coupling component is a snap plug, and if one coupling component is a bolt, the other coupling component includes a nut or a threaded hole (with an opening through which the bolt extends).

[0033] As used herein, a "fastener" is a separate component configured to join two or more elements. Thus, for example, a bolt is a "fastener," but a tongue-and-groove joint is not a "fastener." That is, the tongue-and-groove element is part of the elements being joined, not a separate component.

[0034] As used herein, the expression "coupled" of two or more parts or components means that the parts are joined or move together directly or indirectly, i.e., through one or more intermediate parts or components, to the extent that a link occurs. As used herein, "directly coupled" means that the two elements are in direct contact with each other. As used herein, "fixedly coupled" or "fixed" means that the two components are coupled so that they move while maintaining a constant orientation relative to each other. Thus, when two elements are coupled, all of the parts of the elements are coupled. However, a statement that a particular part of a first element is coupled to a second element, such as a first end of an axle being coupled to a first wheel, means that the particular part of the first element is located closer to the second element than other parts of the first element. Furthermore, an object that is held in place on another object only by gravity is not "coupled" to the object below, unless the upper object is otherwise held in place substantially in place. That is, for example, a book on a table is not coupled to the table, but a book glued to the table is coupled to the table.

[0035] As used herein, the phrases "removably coupled" or "temporarily coupled" mean that one component is substantially temporarily coupled to another component. That is, two components are coupled in such a way that they can be easily joined or separated from one another without causing damage to the components. For example, two components secured together by a limited number of easily accessible fasteners, i.e., fasteners that are not difficult to access, are "removably coupled" and two components joined by welded or difficult to access fasteners are not "removably coupled." A "difficult to access fastener" is one that requires the removal of one or more other components before access to the fastener, and the "other components" are not access means, such as, but not limited to, a door.

[0036] As used herein, "operably coupled" means that a plurality of elements or assemblies movable between a first position and a second position or arrangement are coupled such that the first element moves from one position / arrangement to the other and the second element also moves between both positions / arrangements. However, a first element may be "operably coupled" to another element, but not vice versa. With respect to electronic devices, a first electronic device is "operably coupled" to a second electronic device if the first electronic device is configured to send a signal or current to the second electronic device to operate or otherwise power or activate the second electronic device.

[0037] As used herein, "temporarily disposed" means that a first element or assembly is in a second element or assembly such that the first element / assembly can be moved without separating or otherwise manipulating the first element. For example, a book that simply rests on a table, i.e., is not glued or secured to the table, is "temporarily disposed" on the table.

[0038] In this specification, the expression that two or more parts or components "engage" each other means that the elements exert a force or bias on each other, either directly or through one or more intermediate elements or components. Furthermore, for moving parts, in this specification, the moving part may "engage" another element during the movement from one position to another and / or may "engage" another element once it has reached the described position. Thus, "element A engages element B when moved to the first position of the element" and "element A engages element B when in the first position of the element" are equivalent expressions and are understood to mean that element A engages element B while moving to the first position of the element and / or engages element B while in the first position of the element.

[0039] As used herein, "operably engage" means "engage and move." That is, when "operably engage" is used in reference to a first component configured to move a second component that is movable or rotatable, it means that the first component applies a force sufficient to move the second component. For example, a screwdriver can be placed in contact with a screw. When no force is applied to the screwdriver, the screwdriver is merely "temporarily coupled" to the screw. When an axial force is applied to the screwdriver, the screwdriver presses against the screw and "engages" the screw. However, when a rotational force is applied to the screwdriver, the screwdriver "operably engages" the screw and turns it. Additionally, in the context of electronic components, "operably engage" means that one component controls another component via a control signal or current.

[0040] As used herein, in the phrases "[x] moves between a first position and a second position" or "[y] is configured to move [x] between a first position and a second position," "[x]" is the name of an element or assembly. Furthermore, when [x] is an element or assembly that moves between multiple positions, the pronoun "the" refers to "[x]," i.e., the element or assembly referred to after the pronoun "the."

[0041] As used herein, "corresponding" indicates that two structural components have a similar size and shape to each other and can be coupled with a minimal amount of friction. Thus, an opening that "corresponds" to a member has a size that is slightly larger than the member so that the member can pass through the opening with a minimal amount of friction. This definition is modified when two components are a "snug" fit. In such a situation, the amount of friction increases due to the smaller dimensional difference between the components. If the elements that define the opening and / or the components that are inserted into the opening are made of a deformable or compressible material, the opening may be slightly smaller than the components that are inserted into the opening. With respect to surfaces, shapes, and lines, two or more "corresponding" surfaces, shapes, or lines have approximately the same size, shape, and contour. With respect to movable or configurable elements / assemblies, "corresponding" means that the elements / assemblies are related such that when one element / assembly is moved / reconfigured, the other element / assembly is also moved / reconfigured in a predetermined manner. For example, a lever, or "see-saw" or "teeter-totter," includes a central fulcrum and an elongated plate, the plate having a first end and a second end. When the first end of the plate is in a raised position, the second end of the plate is in a lowered position. When the first end of the plate moves to the lowered position, the second end of the plate moves to a "corresponding" raised position. Also, the engine's camshaft has a first lobe operatively coupled to a first piston. When the first lobe moves upward, the first piston moves to a "corresponding" upper position, and when the first lobe moves downward, the first piston moves to a "corresponding" lower position.

[0042] As used herein, a "path of travel" or "path" when used in relation to a moving element includes the space through which the element passes during its movement. Thus, a moving element inherently has a "path of travel" or "path". Furthermore, a "path of travel" or "path" refers to the overall movement of one identifiable structure relative to another object. For example, assuming a perfectly smooth road, the rotating wheels of a car (an identifiable structure) move very little relative to the body of the car (another object). That is, the wheels as a whole do not change position relative to, for example, the adjacent fender. Thus, the rotating wheels do not have a "path of travel" or "path" relative to the body of the car. Conversely, the air intake valves of the wheels (an identifiable structure) do have a "path of travel" or "path" relative to the body of the car. That is, while the wheels are rotating and moving, the entire intake valve moves relative to the body of the car.

[0043] As used herein, the term "unitary" refers to a component that is fabricated as a single piece or unit, i.e., a component that includes multiple pieces that are fabricated separately and then joined together as a unit is not a "unitary" component or structure.

[0044] As used herein, "integrated" means that all elements of the assembly are located in a single location and / or in a single housing, frame, or similar structure.

[0045] As used herein, the term "some" means one or more integers (i.e., a plurality). Thus, for example, the phrase "some elements" means one element or more than one element. Note specifically that "some [x]" includes a single [x].

[0046] As used herein, the "radial side / surface" of a circular or cylindrical body is a side / surface that extends around or surrounds its center or a height line through its center. As used herein, the "axial side / surface" of a circular or cylindrical body is a surface that extends in a plane that extends approximately perpendicular to the height line through its center. That is, generally, for a cylindrical soup can, the "radial side / surface" is the approximately circular side wall, and the "axial side / surface" is the top and bottom of the soup can. Furthermore, as used herein, "extending radially" means extending in a radial direction or extending along a radial line. That is, for example, a "radially extending" line extends from the center of a circle or cylinder toward a radial side / surface. Furthermore, as used herein, "extending axially" means extending axially or extending along an axis. That is, for example, an "axially extending" line extends from the base of the cylinder to the top of the cylinder, generally parallel to or along the central longitudinal axis of the cylinder.

[0047] As used herein, a "tension member" is a structure that maximizes its length when exposed to tension but is otherwise substantially flexible, such as, but not limited to, a chain or cable.

[0048] As used herein, "substantially curvilinear" includes elements having multiple curved portions, a combination of curved and flat portions, or multiple straight / flat portions or segments that are arranged at angles to one another to form a curve.

[0049] As used herein, an "elongated" element essentially comprises a longitudinal axis and / or line that extends in the direction of extension.

[0050] As used herein, "centered" in phrases such as "disposed about [element, point, or axis]" or "extends about [element, point, or axis]" or "[X] degrees about [element, point, or axis]" means surrounding, extending, or measured about. When used in connection with measurements or in similar contexts, "about" means "approximately," i.e., an approximate range for the measurement as would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0051] As used herein, "generally" means "in a typical manner" in relation to the term it modifies, as would be understood by a person of skill in the art.

[0052] As used herein, "substantially" means "to a significant amount or degree" in relation to the term it modifies, as would be understood by one of skill in the art.

[0053] As used herein, "at" means at or near the location in relation to the modified term, as understood by one of skill in the art.

[0054] As used herein, "electronically communicating" is used in reference to sending signals with electromagnetic waves or electrical signals. "Electronically communicating" includes both wired and wireless forms of communication. Thus, for example, a "data transfer" or "method of communication" through another component that is "electronically communicating" with another component refers to transferring data from one computer to another (or from one processing assembly to another processing assembly), either by a physical connection, such as a USB or Ethernet connection, or remotely, such as NFC or Bluetooth, and is not limited to a particular device.

[0055] As used herein, "electrically connected" means that electrical current passes or can pass between the identified elements. Being "electrically connected" also depends on the location or arrangement of the elements. For example, in a circuit breaker, a moving contact is "electrically connected" to a fixed contact when the contacts are in a closed position. The same moving contact is not "electrically connected" to a fixed contact when the contacts are in an open position.

[0056] As used herein, a "computer" is a device having at least one input device, such as a keyboard, mouse, or touch panel, at least one output device, such as a display or a graphics card, a communication device, such as an Ethernet card or a wireless communication device, a permanent memory, such as a hard drive, a temporary memory, such as a random access memory, and a processor, such as a programmable logic circuit, configured to process data. A "computer" may be a traditional desktop unit, but also includes, but is not limited to, mobile phones, tablet computers, laptop computers, and devices such as gaming consoles that are suitable for including the above components. Furthermore, a "computer" may include components that are physically located in different locations. For example, a desktop unit may utilize a remote hard disk for storage. Such physically separate elements are also "computers" as used herein.

[0057] As used herein, the term "display" refers to a device configured to show a visible image, where "showing" as used herein means making an image on the display viewable by a user.

[0058] As used herein, "computer readable medium" includes, but is not limited to, hard disks, CDs, DVDs, magnetic tapes, floppy disks, and random access memory.

[0059] As used herein, "permanent memory" refers to a computer-readable storage medium, and more specifically, to a computer-readable storage medium configured to record information in a non-transitory manner. Thus, "permanent memory" is limited to non-transitory, tangible media.

[0060] As used herein, "stored in permanent memory" means that a module of executable code or other data is functionally and structurally embodied in a storage medium.

[0061] As used herein, a "file" is an electronic storage structure intended to contain executable code to be processed or data expressed as text, images, audio, video, or any combination thereof.

[0062] In this specification, a "module" is an electronic structure used by a computer or other processing assembly, including, but not limited to, a computer file used by a processor and stored on a computer-readable medium, or a group of interacting computer files, such as executable code files and data storage files. A module may contain other modules. It is understood that a module may be identified by its functional purpose. Unless otherwise specified, each "module" is stored in the permanent memory of at least one computer or processing assembly. Thus, in this specification, all modules are defined as components and not functional. All modules are shown in the figures as schematics.

[0063] As used herein, "constituted of [the verb]" as used in connection with a module means that the module contains executable computer instructions, code, or similar elements that are designed and intended to accomplish a purpose of the module. As previously mentioned, all modules are embedded in permanent memory and therefore define components and do not indicative of functionality.

[0064] As used herein, "automatic" means a configuration that operates without human input / action. A configuration is "automatic" even if a human must perform initial setup or installation, or maintenance or calibration, so long as the configuration thereafter operates substantially without human input / action.

[0065] As used herein, the term "can" refers to any known or suitable container structured to contain a substance (e.g., a liquid, food, or other suitable contents), and expressly includes, but is not limited to, food cans and beverage cans, such as beer and soda cans.

[0066] 2, the can decoration apparatus 100 (used herein, alternatively, as "can decorator 100") includes a can transport assembly 102 (shown diagrammatically) and an inking system 104. The can transport assembly 102 is substantially similar to the can transport configurations described above, the description of which is incorporated herein. Generally, the can transport assembly 102 is configured to contact a number of undecorated can bodies 300 with the inking system 104, i.e., with the illustrated blanket wheel 112 and / or image transfer segment 11, as described below.

[0067] The inker system 104 is configured to apply ink in a selected pattern to the outside of each can body 300. That is, the inker system 104 includes a plurality of inking station assemblies 200 (eight are shown) and a blanket wheel 112. The blanket wheel 112 is an assembly that includes a wheel frame 113 (i.e., a frame forming a generally disk-shaped body) having a plurality of image transfer segments 114 (shown in phantom in FIG. 4) disposed on a radial surface thereof. Preferably, the blanket wheel 112 is configured to transfer a main image (including multiple combined "ink images") from each image transfer segment 114 to a corresponding one of the can bodies 300.

[0068] As previously mentioned, the can decorator 100 further includes a plurality of ink station assemblies 200. Although the exemplary can decorator 100 depicted and illustrated herein includes eight ink station assemblies 200, it will be understood that the can decorator 100 may alternatively include any known or suitable other number and / or configuration of ink station assemblies (not shown) without departing from the scope of the disclosed invention. Moreover, it will be understood that for efficiency of disclosure and simplicity of illustration, only one of the ink station assemblies 200 will be depicted and described in detail herein.

[0069] 3 and 4 illustrate in greater detail one non-limiting example embodiment of the ink station assembly 200. Specifically, the ink station assembly 200 includes an ink reservoir 202 configured to provide a supply of ink 400 (shown in simplified phantom in FIG. 3; see also FIG. 5). A fountain roll 204 receives the ink 400 from the ink reservoir 202. The ink station assembly 200 further includes a distribution roll 206 and a ductor roll 208 that cooperates with both the fountain roll 204 and the distribution roll 206 to deliver the ink 400 from the fountain roll 204 to the distribution roll 206. That is, the ductor roll 208 is part of a ductor roll assembly 207 that includes a duty cycle adjustment assembly 209 configured to reciprocate the ductor roll 208 between two positions. The two positions are a first position where the ductor roll 208 engages the fountain roll 204 to transfer ink from the fountain roll 204 to the ductor roll 208 and the ductor roll 208 is spaced apart from the distribution roll 206, and a second position where the ductor roll 208 is spaced apart from the fountain roll 204 and engages the distribution roll 206 to transfer ink from the ductor roll 208 to the distribution roll 206. The duty cycle adjustment assembly 209 is configured to change the duty cycle of the ductor roll 208 (see the adjusted positions of the ductor roll 208 shown in phantom in FIG. 4). That is, the duty cycle adjustment assembly 209 is configured to change the amount of time that the ductor roll 208 engages the fountain roll 204.

[0070] Additionally, several oscillator rolls 210, 212 (two shown) each have a longitudinal axis 214, 216. The oscillator rolls 210, 212 are configured to oscillate back and forth along their longitudinal axes 214, 216. By way of example, and not limitation, the oscillator roll 212 oscillates back and forth along the axis 216 in a direction generally indicated by arrow 217. The oscillator roll 210 similarly oscillates back and forth along the longitudinal axis 214.

[0071] The exemplary ink station assembly 200 also includes two transfer rolls 218, 220, each of which cooperates with at least one of the oscillator rolls 210, 212. However, it will be understood that any known or suitable other number and / or configuration of transfer rolls (not shown) other than those shown and illustrated herein may be employed without departing from the scope of the disclosed concepts.

[0072] The printing plate cylinder assembly 221 includes a printing plate cylinder 222 having a printing plate (generally designated 224) and a printing plate cylinder axial adjustment assembly 226 and a printing plate cylinder circumferential adjustment assembly 228, which are shown generally in FIG. 3 and described in more detail below. The printing plate cylinder 222 cooperates with a number of foam rolls 230 to apply ink 400 to the printing plate 224. As described above, the printing plate cylinder 222 engages the blanket wheel 112 and / or the image transfer segment 114. The blanket wheel 112 (FIGS. 2 and 4) and / or the image transfer segment 114 (FIGS. 2 and 4) engage a can body 300 (FIG. 2) to transfer ink to the can body 300 (shown in phantom in simplified form in FIG. 2). Thus, generally, each ink station assembly 200 defines an "ink train 402," as shown in FIG. 5, by which ink 400 is transferred from the fountain roll 204 to the foam roll 230 as described above. Moreover, a primary purpose of the various rolls described above is to spread the ink to form a thin ink film and distribute the ink so that when applied to the printing plate 224, the ink film has a substantially uniform thickness. That is, the ink 400 on the various rolls, such as the distribution roll 206, is successively thinned into a uniformly distributed film on the surface of the roll.

[0073] As best seen in FIG. 3, the ink station assembly 200 further includes opposing first and second side plates 260 and 262, a drive assembly 264, and a housing 266 that at least partially encloses the drive assembly 264. The first side plate 260 has a first side 268 and an opposing second side 270. The fountain roll 204, the distribution roll 206, the ductor roll 208, the oscillator rolls 210, 212, the transfer rolls 218, 220, and the single foam roll 230 are all rotatably disposed between the first side plate 260 and the second side plate 262. The drive assembly 264 is disposed on the second side 270 of the first side plate 260 and is configured to drive at least the fountain roll 204, the distribution roll 206, and the oscillator rolls 210, 212 in a generally well known manner.

[0074] Initially, the thickness of ink 400 applied to the fountain roll 204 is controlled by an inker regulating assembly 500 that is part of each ink reservoir 202. As shown in Figures 6 and 7, the ink reservoir inker regulating assembly 500 (hereinafter "inker regulating assembly 500") is configured to thin or limit the amount of ink applied to the fountain roll 204 or to thin / limit the amount of ink applied to a portion of the fountain roll 204. The inker regulating assembly 500 includes a mount assembly 502, a blade assembly 504, and a regulating structure 506. In the exemplary embodiment, as shown, the mount assembly 502 includes a mount body 510 (hereinafter "mount 510"), a clamp plate 512, a back plate 514, and two side plates 516, 518, as well as several seals (not numbered).

[0075] In the exemplary embodiment, the mount 510 includes a generally planar lower surface 520 and a generally planar upper surface 522. The lower surface 520 and the upper surface 522 of the mount are angled relative to one another in the exemplary embodiment. In the illustration, the angle is approximately 15 degrees. The clamp plate 512 is a substantially rigid plate-like body 530 that is configured to couple to the mount upper surface 522. The back plate 514 is a plate-like body 532 made from resilient spring steel in the exemplary embodiment and is configured to enhance the biasing force of the blade assembly 504.

[0076] As shown in FIG. 6, the blade assembly 504 includes a blade 540 that is a generally plate-shaped elastic body 542 having a first edge 544. The blade first edge 544 includes a plurality of adjustment portions 546. As described below, the blade 440 is disposed adjacent to the outer surface of the fountain roll 204 as shown in FIG. 7. Thus, the adjustment portions 546 of the blade first edge are configured to move between a first position where each of the adjustment portions 546 of the blade first edge is spaced from the outer surface of the fountain roll 204 and a second position where each of the adjustment portions 546 of the blade first edge is closer to the outer surface of the fountain roll 204. That is, it is understood that the first position and the second position are located relative to each other such that the second position is closer to the outer surface of the fountain roll 204. Each of the adjustment portions 546 of the blade first edge is further configured to be disposed at several intermediate positions between the first position and the second position.

[0077] In the exemplary non-limiting embodiment shown in FIG. 6, the blade 540 includes several segments 550 disposed immediately adjacent to each other and extending outward. Each of the blade segments 550 includes one adjustment 546 of the first edge of the blade. In another non-limiting embodiment not shown, the blade body 542 is a monolithic piece including parallel slits (not shown) extending inwardly from the first edge 544 of the blade. That is, the blade body 542 generally resembles a comb, but there are no or minimal gaps between the "teeth" of the comb. In another embodiment not shown, the blade body 542 is a monolithic piece that is highly elastic, such that a biasing force applied to one area of ​​the first edge 544 of the blade is not significantly transferred to another area of ​​the first edge 544 of the blade.

[0078] The adjustment structure 506 in the non-limiting embodiment shown in Figures 6 and 7 includes several adjustment devices 560. Each adjustment device 560 is associated with one adjustment portion 546 of the first edge of the blade and is configured to move between a first position and a second position. That is, in the exemplary embodiment, the number of adjustment devices 560 and the number of adjustment portions 546 of the first edge of the blade are the same. Thus, each adjustment portion 546 of the first edge of the blade has one associated adjustment device 560. As best shown in Figure 6, the adjustment device 560 includes several elongated bodies 562, each having a movable coupling 564 (Figure 7). As shown in Figure 7, each adjustment device body 562 includes a first end 570, a middle portion 572, and a second end 576. The first end 570 of each adjustment device body is configured to couple with an associated blade segment 550. In the exemplary embodiment, first end 570 of each adjusting device body is generally conical and tapered at substantially the same angle as the angle between lower mount surface 520 and upper mount surface 522. Intermediate portion 572 of each adjusting device body includes threaded portion 578. Adjusting device body threaded portion 578 is movable coupling 564, described below. Second end 576 of each adjusting device body includes an actuator, which in the exemplary embodiment is coupling 580.

[0079] Additionally, mount 510 defines a number of elongated passages 590. In an exemplary embodiment, mount passages 590 extend generally parallel to mount lower surface 520. Each mount passage 590 includes a threaded portion 592. Mount passages 590 correspond to adjustment device body 562, such that mount passage threads 592 are configured to couple to adjustment device body threads 578.

[0080] It is understood that the embodiment including threaded elements 578, 592 is exemplary. In another non-limiting embodiment not shown, each adjustment device body 562 and each mount passage 590 is generally smooth. In such an embodiment, each adjustment device body 562 is moved between a plurality of positions by an actuator (not shown), such as, but not limited to, a DC servo motor (not shown). However, it will be understood that pneumatic actuator assemblies are employed with respect to other aspects and embodiments of the disclosed concepts.

[0081] The fountain inker adjustment assembly 500 is assembled as follows: the blade 540 is placed on the mount top surface 522 such that the surface of the blade 540 substantially corresponds to the surface of the mount top surface 522. The backing plate 514 is placed on the blade 540, and the clamping plate 512 is placed on the backing plate 514. The blade 540, the backing plate 514, and the clamping plate 512 are coupled with fasteners (not shown) that extend to the mount 510 in the exemplary embodiment. Each of the adjustment portions 546 of the blade first edge, i.e., each of the first edges 544 of the blade segments, extends beyond the mount top surface 522. Additionally, the adjustment device 560 is placed in the mount passage 590 such that each of the threads 578 of the adjustment device body threads into the threads 592 of the mount passage. As mentioned above, in the exemplary embodiment, there are the same number of blade segments 550 and adjustment devices 560. The mounting passages 590 are positioned such that each of the adjustment devices 560 is generally aligned with the blade segments 550 .

[0082] In this configuration, when the blade 540 and / or blade segment 550 are disposed in a plane substantially parallel to the mount top surface 522, the blade first edge adjustments 546 are in their first positions. That is, when each of the blade first edge adjustments 546 are in their first positions, the entire blade body 542 is generally parallel to the mount top surface 522. The threaded coupling of each adjustment device 560 longitudinally advances or rotates the adjustment device 560 until the adjustment device body first end 570 contacts and engages the blade first edge adjustment 546. Further longitudinal movement of the adjustment device 560 towards the blade first edge adjustment 546 allows the adjustment device body first end 570 to engage the associated blade first edge adjustment 546 and move it towards the second position.

[0083] That is, when the reservoir 202 and reservoir inker adjustment assembly 500 are in the first position, the blade first edge adjustment portion 546 is spaced from the outer surface of the fountain roll 204. As the adjustment device 560 moves longitudinally toward the blade 540, the coupling between the adjustment device 560 and the associated adjustment portion 546 of the associated first edge causes the blade first edge adjustment portion 546 to move toward and into the second position. It is understood that the advancement of the adjustment device 560 may stop at any position between the first position and the second position. It is understood that when the blade first edge adjustment portion 546 is in the first position, the gap between the fountain roll 204 and the blade first edge adjustment portion 546 is larger compared to when the blade first edge adjustment portion 546 is in the second position. Therefore, the thickness of the ink 400 applied to the fountain roll 204 is relatively thicker than the thickness of the ink 400 applied to the fountain roll 204 when the blade first edge adjustment portion 546 is in the second position.

[0084] That is, as described above, the ductor roll 208 reciprocates between a first position where the ductor roll 208 engages the fountain roll 204 to transfer ink from the fountain roll 204 to the ductor roll 208 and is spaced from the distribution roll 206, and a second position where the ductor roll 208 is spaced from the fountain roll 204 and engages the distribution roll 206 to transfer ink from the ductor roll 208 to the distribution roll 206. The period of this reciprocating motion is the "duty cycle" defined above. It will be appreciated that the longer the duty cycle, the closer the duty cycle is to a 1:1 ratio, the more ink 400 is transferred to the ductor roll 208.

[0085] Additionally, as discussed above, the duty cycle adjustment assembly 209 (shown in FIG. 4) is configured to vary the duty cycle of the ductor roll 208. That is, the duty cycle adjustment assembly 209 is configured to vary the amount of time that the ductor roll 208 is engaged with the fountain roll 204. Additionally, the duty cycle adjustment assembly 209 is configured to vary the amount of ink transferred between the fountain roll 204 and the distribution roll 206.

[0086] Thus, as described above, the inkery adjustment assembly 500 and the duty cycle adjustment assembly 209 are configured to vary / limit the amount of ink delivered or applied to the downstream rolls of the ink train 402 and the printing plate 224.

[0087] It is further understood that each inking station assembly 200 applies a single color ink image to the blanket wheel 112 and / or image transfer segment 114. As known in the art, the individual ink images must be substantially "registered" with respect to one another. As used herein, "registration" of "ink images" means that each ink image is in substantially proper position with respect to the other ink images such that the ink images form a main image. It is further understood that each plate cylinder 222 (and / or elements thereof) must be positioned such that the ink images are properly registered. To accomplish this, each printing plate cylinder assembly 221 includes a printing plate cylinder axial adjustment assembly 226 and a circumferential adjustment assembly 228, as described above and shown diagrammatically in FIG. 3.

[0088] Additionally, each ink image, main image, and / or can body applied image requires proper sidelay and circumferential alignment. With reference to FIG. 3, the axial adjustment assembly 226 is configured to move the printing plate cylinder 222 axially relative to the axis of rotation of the printing plate cylinder 222. That is, the axial adjustment assembly 226 is configured to change the sidelay alignment of the main images. That is, moving the axial position of each ink image (while maintaining proper sidelay alignment with the other ink images) moves the position of the main image axially relative to the can body to which the main image is applied.

[0089] In an exemplary non-limiting embodiment, the axial adjustment assembly 226 includes a mount 227 and an actuator 229, which are shown in simplified form in FIG. 3. The axial adjustment assembly mount 227 is configured to rotatably support the printing plate cylinder 222 (and / or the axle (not numbered) of the printing plate cylinder 222). The axial adjustment assembly mount 227 is movably coupled to the printing unit frame assembly 22. The axial adjustment assembly actuator 229 is configured to move the axial adjustment assembly mount 227 relative to the printing unit frame assembly 22 such that the printing plate cylinder 222 moves axially. It is understood that as the printing plate cylinder 222 moves axially, the position of the ink image (and / or the main image) on the blanket wheel 112 and / or the image transfer segment 114 changes. The change in the position of the ink image (and / or the main image) on the blanket wheel 112 and / or the image transfer segment 114 changes the position of the can body applied image on the can body 300 (FIG. 2). That is, the position of the can body applied image on the can body 300 (FIG. 2) moves in the axial direction of the can body 300 (FIG. 2). In other words, the sidelay alignment of the can body applied image is changed by the axial adjustment assembly 226. In this manner, the axial adjustment assembly 226 is configured to change the sidelay alignment of the can body applied image.

[0090] The circumferential adjustment assembly 228 is shown diagrammatically in FIG. 3 and is configured to change the circumferential alignment of the can body applied image. As described above and known in the art, the circumferential adjustment assembly 228 includes a bearing mounted on the print cylinder shaft, which is driven by a helical gear (not shown). The plate cylinder gear (not shown) is driven by a larger gear (not shown) mounted on the blanket wheel, which is also a helical gear. The plate cylinder helical gear is rotationally keyed to the shaft, but is allowed to move axially on the shaft. A linear screw mechanism (not shown) is used to move the helical gear axially on the shaft during machine operation. The axial movement of the plate cylinder gear causes the shaft to rotate to advance or retard timing in proportion to the helix angle of the gear. This advances or lowers the position of the ink image on the blanket for a particular color. These elements are collectively shown diagrammatically in FIG. 3 as box 228. The circumferential adjustment assembly 228 further includes an actuator 233 (shown diagrammatically) configured to actuate the linear screw mechanism.

[0091] The can decoration apparatus 100 and / or the inking system 104 further include an image control system 600 (shown diagrammatically in FIG. 2 ). The image control system 600 is configured to automatically adjust the ink images of each inking station assembly 200 in addition to the main image applied to the blanket wheel 112 and / or the image transfer segment 114. In other words, the image control system 600 is configured to automatically adjust the thickness of the ink 400 in the ink train 402 and the sidelay and circumferential alignment of each ink image and / or the main image.

[0092] The image control system 600 (see FIG. 2 and also shown diagrammatically in FIGS. 9-11) includes an electronic can decorator control assembly 602, a mechanical can decorator control assembly 604, and several sensors 606. The electronic can decorator control assembly 602 includes a programmable logic circuit 610 and several modules 612. The electronic can decorator control assembly 602 is configured to determine whether the can body applied image has the proper amount of ink and whether the ink image / main image is in the proper position.

[0093] In an exemplary embodiment, the electronic can decorator control assembly module 612 includes a database module 620 having decorated can image data and a comparison module 622. As used herein, "decorated can image data" refers to data that represents an intended image. Additionally, the electronic can decorator control assembly database module 620 is configured to include several decorated can image data sets, each decorated can image data set being associated with a particular main image. That is, for example, one decorated can image data set represents a main image of a can that contains a cola beverage, and another decorated can image data set represents a main image of a can that contains a beer beverage. The electronic can decorator control assembly comparison module 622 is configured to compare the image signal with the associated can image data of the database module to determine whether the image signal is acceptable. As used herein, "acceptable" refers to the can body application image / ink image / main image being substantially the intended image, as will be understood by those skilled in the art. For example, and without limitation, acceptable alignment according to embodiments of the disclosed concepts is preferably within about 0.001 inches of the intended image location, and more preferably within about 0.0005 inches of the intended image location. It is understood that one skilled in the art can create can image data, which is an electronic construct representative of the intended image.

[0094] In an exemplary embodiment, the comparison module 622 of the electronic can decorator control assembly is configured to determine whether the image signal indicates either an insufficient amount of ink or an excessive amount of ink in the can body applied image. As used herein, an "insufficient amount of ink" means that the amount of ink in the can body applied image / ink image / main image is less than the amount necessary to create the intended image, as would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. As used herein, an "excessive amount of ink" means that the amount of ink in the can body applied image / ink image / main image is more than the amount necessary to create the intended image, as would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0095] Further, in an exemplary embodiment, the comparison module 622 of the electronic can decorator control assembly is configured to determine whether the image signal indicates that the can body applied image includes an axially offset image. As used herein, an "axially offset image" means that the can body applied image / ink image / main image is not in the proper position. That is, the "axially offset image" does not provide the intended sidelay alignment.

[0096] Further, in an exemplary embodiment, the comparison module 622 of the electronic can decorator control assembly is configured to determine whether the image signal indicates that the can body applied image includes a circumferentially offset image. As used herein, a "circumferentially offset image" means that the can body applied image / ink image / main image is not in the proper position. That is, the "circumferentially offset image" does not provide the intended circumferential alignment.

[0097] Further aspects of the comparison module 622 of the electronic can decorator control assembly are described below following a description of the mechanical can decorator control assembly 604 and several of the sensors 606.

[0098] The mechanical can decorator control assembly 604 is operatively coupled to at least one of the inker adjustment assembly 500, the ductor roll assembly duty cycle adjustment assembly 209, the printing plate cylinder assembly axial adjustment assembly 226, or the circumferential adjustment assembly 228. That is, generally, the mechanical can decorator control assembly 604 includes an actuator 650 (herein, the reference numeral 650 may refer to either the generic actuator or any actuator of the mechanical can decorator control assembly, the specific actuator being described below). The mechanical can decorator control assembly actuator 650 is configured to actuate one of the associated components, i.e., the inker adjustment assembly 500, the ductor roll assembly duty cycle adjustment assembly 209, the printing plate cylinder assembly axial adjustment assembly 226, or the circumferential adjustment assembly 228.

[0099] In an exemplary embodiment, the mechanical can decorator control assembly 604 includes at least one or several actuators 652 of the inker adjustment assembly (schematically shown in FIG. 3). Each actuator 652 of the inker adjustment assembly is configured to operably couple to an adjusting device 560 of the inker adjustment assembly. That is, each actuator 652 of the inker adjustment assembly is configured to move the adjusting device 560 of the inker adjustment assembly between the first and second positions and any intermediate positions. In an exemplary embodiment, each actuator 652 of the inker adjustment assembly is configured to operably couple to a coupling 580 at the second end of the adjusting device body.

[0100] In the exemplary embodiment, the mechanical can decorator control assembly 604 includes a number of ductor roll assembly duty cycle adjustment actuators 654 (shown diagrammatically in FIG. 3). Each ductor roll assembly duty cycle adjustment actuator 654 is configured to actuate a ductor roll assembly's duty cycle adjustment assembly to adjust the amount of ink applied to the printing plate cylinder assembly. That is, each ductor roll assembly duty cycle adjustment actuator 654 is configured to actuate a duty cycle adjustment assembly 209 to change the amount of time that an associated ductor roll 208 is engaged with the fountain roll 204.

[0101] In an exemplary non-limiting embodiment, the mechanical can decorator control assembly 604 includes a number of printing plate cylinder assembly axial adjustment assembly actuators 656 (shown diagrammatically in FIG. 3). In an exemplary non-limiting embodiment, each printing plate cylinder assembly axial adjustment assembly actuator 656 is configured to be operatively coupled to an axial adjustment assembly 226. In another exemplary non-limiting embodiment, each printing plate cylinder assembly axial adjustment assembly actuator 656 is an axial adjustment assembly mount actuator 229. That is, the axial adjustment assembly mount actuator 229 is part of both the axial adjustment assembly 226 and the mechanical can decorator control assembly 604 as described herein.

[0102] In an exemplary, non-limiting embodiment, the mechanical can decorator control assembly 604 includes a number of printing plate cylinder assembly circumferential adjustment assembly actuators 658 (shown diagrammatically in FIG. 3 ). Each printing plate cylinder assembly circumferential adjustment assembly actuator 658 is configured to operatively couple to a circumferential adjustment assembly 228. In another exemplary, non-limiting embodiment, each printing plate cylinder assembly circumferential adjustment assembly actuator 658 is a circumferential adjustment assembly actuator 233. That is, as used herein, the circumferential adjustment assembly actuator 233 is part of both the circumferential adjustment assembly 228 and the mechanical can decorator control assembly 604.

[0103] In an exemplary non-limiting embodiment, some, a plurality, or all of the mechanical can decorator control assembly actuators 650 include an air motor 670 (schematically shown in FIG. 2; see also FIG. 8). As used herein, "air motor" refers to a structure that expands compressed gas to convert the energy of the compressed air into mechanical work, whether through linear, rotational, or other motion. As is known, the area in which the can decoration device 100 operates is often filled with ink particles, including airborne particles. As such, it may be dangerous to operate a motor that may generate flames or sparks that may ignite the airborne particles. Thus, as used herein, "air motor" further excludes motors that utilize combustion or motors that generate / utilize electricity. That is, motors that utilize combustion or motors that generate / utilize electricity are not "air motors" or the like.

[0104] As is known, air motors 670 are not typically used to fine tune other structures. As used herein, "fine tune" means to move an element by less than 0.001 inches, and more preferably less than 0.0005 inches. Thus, and in an exemplary, non-limiting embodiment, each air motor 670 includes a reducer assembly 672 (shown diagrammatically in FIG. 2). As used herein, a "reduction assembly" refers to a structure that reduces the output motion (e.g., but not limited to, measured in revolutions per minute, RPM) generated by the air motor for a given amount of compressed air energy. For example, if an air motor uses "X" amount of compressed air energy to rotate an output shaft 10 times, a "reduction assembly" converts that motion to one rotation when the same air motor uses "X" amount of compressed air energy. Additionally, in an exemplary embodiment, the "reduction assembly" is preceded by a designation in the form of "[number]X" indicating the amount of reduction. For example, a "10X reduction assembly" is configured to reduce the output of the air motor by a factor of 10. That is, if an air motor uses "X" amount of compressed air energy to move the slide 10 inches, then the same air motor plus a "10X reducer assembly" will use "X" amount of compressed air energy to move the slide 1 inch. The reducer assembly 672 described herein is, in a non-limiting exemplary embodiment, at least one of a 30X reducer assembly 672 and a 101X reducer assembly 672. It will be further understood that the disclosed concepts preferably utilize a combination of reducer assemblies 672. For example, and without limitation, in one non-limiting embodiment generally shown in FIG. 8, a first reducer assembly 672 may be a gear box having a 100:1 reduction ratio coupled in series with a second reducer assembly 672 that is a worm gear having a 30:1X reduction ratio for a total ratio of 3,000:1. The output of the worm reducer may drive, for example, a 0.2 inch (5 mm) per revolution ball screw. The position of the alignment adjustment is measured with a high resolution (eg, preferably to about 0.0025 mm accuracy) inductive proximity sensor 606 .However, it will be understood that other known or suitable sensors may be employed in accordance with the disclosed concepts.

[0105] The features and operation of the disclosed image control system 600 may be more fully understood by reference to the schematic depiction of the system overview shown and described in FIG. 9, and FIGS. 10 and 11, which are described in more detail below.

[0106] The number of sensors 606, in an exemplary non-limiting embodiment, includes a number of image sensors 700. As used herein, an "image" sensor refers to a sensor configured to convert an image into data or a signal incorporating data indicative of a characteristic of the can body applied image / ink image / main image. In a non-limiting exemplary embodiment, as shown diagrammatically in FIG. 9, the image sensor 700 is a digital camera 702. In an exemplary embodiment, the image sensor 700 is disposed adjacent to the can body 300 path of the can transport assembly 102. Each sensor 606, i.e., each image sensor 700 / digital camera 702, is configured to generate an image signal including data indicative of a characteristic of the can body applied image. In an exemplary embodiment, the image signal includes data indicative of a thickness of the can body applied image / ink image / main image, i.e., ink thickness characteristic data. In an exemplary embodiment, the image signal includes data indicative of a sidelay alignment of the can body applied image / ink image / main image, i.e., sidelay alignment characteristic data. In an exemplary embodiment, the image signal includes data representative of the circumferential alignment of the can body applied image / ink image / main image, i.e., circumferential alignment feature data. Further, each sensor 606, i.e., each image sensor 700 / digital camera 702, is configured to send an image signal to the electronic can decorator control assembly 602.

[0107] Thus, the electronic can decorator control assembly 602 is configured to receive image signals from the several sensors 606. Additionally, the electronic can decorator control assembly 602, i.e., the electronic can decorator control assembly comparison module 622, is configured to compare the image signal (i.e., data representative of the image feature data embedded in the signal) with associated can image data from the database module 620 to determine whether the image signal is acceptable. That is, for example, the electronic can decorator control assembly comparison module 622 is configured to determine whether the image signal indicates either an insufficient amount of ink or an excessive amount of ink in the can body applied image / ink image / main image. That is, the electronic can decorator control assembly comparison module 622 is configured to compare the ink thickness feature data to records of acceptable ink thicknesses in the electronic can decorator control assembly database module 620.

[0108] Additionally or alternatively, the electronic can decorator control assembly comparison module 622 is configured to determine whether the image signal indicates that the can body applied image / ink image / main image includes an axially offset image. Additionally or alternatively, the electronic can decorator control assembly comparison module 622 is configured to determine whether the image signal indicates that the can body applied image includes a circumferentially offset image.

[0109] If the can body applied image / ink image / main image is unacceptable, the image control system 600, i.e., the electronic can decorator control assembly 602, is configured to send a corrective signal to a selected element of the mechanical can decorator control assembly 604 to adjust at least one of the fountain inker adjustment assembly 500, the ductor roll assembly duty cycle adjustment assembly 209, the printing plate cylinder assembly axial adjustment assembly 226, or the printing plate cylinder assembly circumferential adjustment assembly 228. For example, if the electronic can decorator control assembly comparison module 622 determines that the can body applied image is under-inked or over-inked, the electronic can decorator control assembly 602 is configured to operate the mechanical can decorator control assembly 604 and further operate at least one of the fountain inker adjustment assembly 500 or the ductor roll assembly duty cycle adjustment assembly 209 to adjust the amount of ink applied to the printing plate cylinder assembly. In a further example, if the electronic can decorator control assembly comparison module 622 determines that the can body applied image includes an axially offset image, the electronic can decorator control assembly 602 is configured to operate the mechanical can decorator control assembly 604 to further operate the printing plate cylinder assembly axial adjustment assembly 226 to adjust the axial position of the can body applied image. In a further example, if the electronic can decorator control assembly comparison module 622 determines that the can body applied image includes a circumferentially offset image, the electronic can decorator control assembly 602 is configured to operate the mechanical can decorator control assembly 604 to further operate the printing plate cylinder assembly circumferential adjustment assembly 228 to adjust the circumferential position of the can body applied image.

[0110] FIG. 10 shows a simplified schematic diagram of the closed loop vision control system 600, and FIG. 11 shows a diagram of the vision control system 600 and a circuit for the can decoration apparatus 100, and more specifically for controlling the air motor 670 and position feedback sensor as shown in FIG. 8, in accordance with a non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the disclosed concepts. It will be appreciated that, among other advantages, the air motor 670 provides a robust actuator in harsh environmental conditions, such as, but not limited to, the oil bath environment required for lubrication of the decorator drive gears. Prior art actuators (not shown), such as servo motors, stepper motors, and the like, are prone to oil ingress from the oil bath, which can lead to subsequent electrical malfunctions. The air motor 670 is also advantageous in that it does not present a risk of becoming a fire ignition source.

[0111] Thus, the disclosed concepts provide closed-loop automation and control of several inspection and adjustment operations that previously required manual operation by an operator. Moreover, the precision provided by the disclosed concepts significantly reduces, if not completely eliminates, waste cans and production losses due to image quality defects.

[0112] Although specific embodiments of the invention have been described in detail, those skilled in the art will recognize that various modifications and substitutions to those details may be made in light of the overall teachings of the present disclosure. Accordingly, the particular configurations disclosed are intended to be illustrative only and not limiting on the scope of the invention, which is to be given the full scope of the appended claims and any and all equivalents thereof.

Claims

1. An image control system (600) for a can decorator (100), the can decorator (100) including a can transport assembly (102) configured to position a number of can bodies (300) effectively adjacent to an inker system (104), the inker system (104) including a blanket wheel (112) and a number of inking station assemblies (200), each of the inking station assemblies (200) including an ink reservoir assembly (202), a fountain roll (204), a ductor roll assembly (207), a number of ink transfer rolls (218), and a printing plate cylinder assembly (220), each of the ink reservoir assemblies (202) including an ink transfer roll (218), a fountain roll (204), a ductor roll assembly (207), a number of ink transfer rolls (218), and a printing plate cylinder assembly (220), each of the ink reservoir assemblies (202) including an ink transfer roll (218), a fountain roll (204), a ductor roll assembly (207), a number of ink transfer rolls (218), and a printing plate cylinder assembly (220), each of the ink transfer rolls ... each ductor roll assembly (207) includes a duty cycle adjustment assembly (209); each printing plate cylinder assembly (220) includes an axial adjustment assembly (226) and a circumferential adjustment assembly (228); the blanket wheel (112) includes a wheel frame (113) and a plurality of printing blankets (21) disposed on a radial surface of the wheel frame (113); each inking station assembly (200) is configured to apply a portion of an image to the printing blankets (21); each printing blanket (21) is configured to apply an image to a can body, each can body having an applied image; The image control system (600) an electronic can decorator control assembly (602) including a programmable logic circuit (610) and several modules (612); a mechanical can decorator control assembly (604) configured to be operably coupled to at least one of the inker adjustment assembly (500), the duty cycle adjustment assembly (209), the axial adjustment assembly (226), or the circumferential adjustment assembly (228), wherein the electronic can decorator control assembly (602) is configured to be operably coupled to the mechanical can decorator control assembly (604); a number of sensors (606), each sensor (606) configured to measure a can body-applied image feature and generate an image signal including data representative of the can body-applied image feature; Equipped with each sensor (606) in electronic communication with said electronic can decorator control assembly (602) and configured to send an image signal to said electronic can decorator control assembly (602); The number of modules (612) includes a database module (620) having decorated can image data and a comparison module (622); the comparison module (622) is configured to compare the image signal with associated can image data from the database module (620) to determine whether the image signal is acceptable; if the image signal is unacceptable, the electronic can decorator control assembly (602) is configured to send correction signals to selected elements of the mechanical can decorator control assembly (604) to adjust at least one of the inker adjustment assembly (500), the duty cycle adjustment assembly (209), the axial adjustment assembly (226), or the circumferential adjustment assembly (228); the mechanical can decorator control assembly (604) includes a plurality of actuators (229), at least one actuator (229) operatively coupled to at least one of the axial adjustment assembly (226) or the circumferential adjustment assembly (228); the at least one actuator (229) includes an air motor (670); the at least one actuator (229) includes a reducer assembly (672); the at least one actuator (229) is configured to finely adjust at least one of the axial adjustment assembly (226) or the circumferential adjustment assembly (228) by moving the axial adjustment assembly (226) or the circumferential adjustment assembly (228) in increments of less than 0.001 inches; the comparison module (622) is configured to determine that the alignment of the image signal is acceptable if the location of the image signal is within 0.001 inches of the location of the associated can image data, and to determine that the alignment of the image signal is unacceptable otherwise; In response to the comparison module (622) determining that the alignment of the image signals is unacceptable, the electronic can decorator control assembly (602) is configured to send the correction signal to the at least one actuator (229) to fine-tune at least one of the axial adjustment assembly (226) or the circumferential adjustment assembly (228).

2. 2. The image control system for a can decorator of claim 1, wherein the number of sensors (606) comprises a number of image sensors (700).

3. 2. The image control system for a can decorator of claim 1, wherein the reducer assembly (672) is at least one of a 30X reducer assembly and a 101X reducer assembly.

4. The comparison module (622) is configured to determine whether the image signal indicates that the can body application image has an insufficient amount of ink or an excessive amount of ink; 2. The image control system for a can decorator of claim 1, wherein if the comparison module (622) determines that the amount of ink in the can body applied image is insufficient or excessive, the electronic can decorator control assembly (602) is configured to operate the mechanical can decorator control assembly (604) to operate at least one of the inking adjustment assembly (500) or the duty cycle adjustment assembly (209) to adjust the amount of ink applied to the printing plate cylinder assembly (220).

5. The comparison module (622) is configured to determine whether the image signal indicates that the can body applied image includes an axially offset image; 2. The image control system for a can decorator of claim 1, wherein if the comparison module (622) determines that the can body applied image includes an axially offset image, the electronic can decorator control assembly (602) is configured to operate the mechanical can decorator control assembly (604) to operate the axial adjustment assembly (226) to adjust the axial position of the can body applied image.

6. The comparison module (622) is configured to determine whether the image signal indicates that the can body applied image includes a circumferentially offset image; 2. The image control system for a can decorator of claim 1, wherein if the comparison module (622) determines that the can body applied image includes a circumferentially offset image, the electronic can decorator control assembly (602) is configured to operate the mechanical can decorator control assembly (604) to operate the circumferential adjustment assembly (228) to adjust the circumferential position of the can body applied image.

7. A can decorator using an image control system (600) according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

Images