Base Reformer Roller Die Assembly With Cam Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing necker machines face challenges with the base reformer assembly due to limited space, leading to smaller and less robust forming/drive elements, frequent maintenance needs, lack of friction-reducing sealed elements, and issues with can body ejection.
Innovation Solution
A base reformer assembly with a robust cross-sectional area, a cam actuated roller die unit actuating assembly without gears, incorporating sealed friction-reducing devices, and a can body ejection system to address the limitations of space and functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the base reformer assembly is configured with limited space between the front of the necker machine and the plane in which can bodies move, then the machine footprint is reduced, but the forming/drive elements become smaller and less robust leading to increased wear and maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent repositions the base reformer assembly to operate in the same plane as can body movement rather than perpendicular to it. This dimensional change allows the forming elements to maintain full size and robustness while the machine footprint is controlled through optimized in-plane arrangement of components.
2Ease of operation
If gears are used in the roller die unit actuating assembly, then the mechanism can transmit rotational motion, but wear increases and maintenance frequency increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the gear-based mechanical transmission system with a cam-based mechanism. The cam actuating assembly converts rotational motion directly into the required linear and oscillating motions of the roller die unit without gear engagement, eliminating tooth wear and reducing maintenance requirements while maintaining full motion transmission capability.
3Ease of repair
If bushings are used without sealing, then the friction-reducing elements are accessible for maintenance, but they are exposed to contamination when no can body is present
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces sealed bushings with integral sealing elements that protect the friction-reducing surfaces from contamination while the can body is absent. The seals maintain contamination protection without compromising the accessibility of the bushings for maintenance, as the sealed design allows for straightforward replacement when wear occurs.
4Ease of operation
If the roller die radius is much smaller than the dome radius, then the roller die does not interfere with can body movement, but additional ejection mechanisms are required to prevent can body trapping
Solution Approach 1:
The patent increases the roller die radius to be substantially equal to the dome radius. This parameter change allows the can body to be actively pushed off the roller die during the reforming operation, eliminating the need for separate ejection mechanisms while ensuring smooth can body movement throughout the process.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enhances the durability and efficiency of the base reformer assembly by providing robust elements, reducing wear and maintenance, incorporating sealed friction-reducing elements, and ensuring effective can body ejection, thereby improving the overall performance of the necker machine.
Implementation Method 1
a cam actuated roller die unit actuating assembly without gears
Implementation Method 2
incorporating sealed friction-reducing devices
Data Source
AI summary
A base reformer assembly, and/or a base reformer roller die unit, includes a generally torpid chuck, a roller die, and a roller die unit actuating assembly. The roller die is movably disposed within the chuck. The roller die unit actuating assembly is structured to actuate the roller die. The roller die unit actuating assembly is operatively coupled to the roller die. Further, all elements of the roller die unit actuating assembly have a robust cross-sectional area.