Can Bodymaker Ram Assembly With Dynamic Punch Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional can bodymakers face challenges in dynamically aligning the punch/ram with the toolpack during operation, leading to mis-formed cans and premature wear due to droop and thermal effects, requiring frequent stoppages for measurement and adjustment, which disrupts continuous production.
Innovation Solution
A ram assembly with slideways and a carriage that includes electromagnetic or thermodynamic adjustment arrangements, allowing for dynamic realignment of the punch's radial positioning using sensors and control systems to maintain alignment during operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the punch/ram is statically aligned to the toolpack before operation, then initial alignment is achieved, but misalignment occurs during operation due to droop and thermal effects
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the alignment system adaptive and responsive during operation. Sensors continuously monitor the actual position of the punch/ram relative to the toolpack, and the system dynamically adjusts the positioning to compensate for droop and thermal effects that occur during reciprocating motion, transforming static alignment into a dynamic correction process
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback by using sensors to detect the actual position of the punch/ram during operation and feeding this information back to a control system. The control system processes this data and makes real-time adjustments to maintain proper alignment, creating a closed-loop system that continuously corrects for droop and thermal expansion
2Manufacturing precision
If the bodymaker is stopped frequently for measurement and adjustment, then alignment accuracy is maintained, but production continuity is disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables continuous operation by implementing real-time monitoring and adjustment systems that maintain alignment accuracy without requiring production stoppages. Sensors continuously track punch/ram position, and the control system continuously makes corrections, allowing the bodymaker to operate without interruption while maintaining manufacturing precision
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-adjustment through automated sensors and control mechanisms that detect and correct alignment deviations without human intervention. The bodymaker monitors its own alignment status and makes self-correcting adjustments, eliminating the need for manual measurement and adjustment that would require production stoppages
3Productivity
If the punch/ram is misaligned during operation, then production continues, but mis-formed cans are produced and equipment wear increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses feedback from sensors to detect misalignment conditions that would lead to mis-formed cans. The control system receives continuous position data and adjusts the punch/ram positioning to maintain proper alignment with the toolpack, preventing quality defects while allowing continuous production
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual alignment procedures with an automated sensor-based detection and control system. Instead of mechanically stopping and manually adjusting alignment, the system uses electronic sensors and automated control mechanisms to maintain alignment, improving both product quality and production continuity
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
Enables continuous, high-quality can production by dynamically adjusting the punch's position in real-time, reducing misalignment issues and extending equipment lifespan, thus minimizing downtime and improving overall production efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
the carriage includes a plurality of electromagnetic bearings positioned in a cylindrical aperture of the carriage facing the ram body
Implementation Method 2
an adjustment arrangement structured to provide for dynamic adjustment of the radial positioning of the punch with respect to the primary axis
Data Source
AI summary
A ram assembly for a can bodymaker includes a pair of slideways structured to be coupled to a frame of the can bodymaker and a carriage slidingly engaged within the pair of slideways. The ram assembly also includes a ram body having a first end and an opposite second end, the first end supported by the carriage such that the ram body is slidable generally along a primary axis. A punch is positioned at the second end of the ram body. The ram assembly further includes an adjustment arrangement structured to provide for dynamic adjustment of the radial positioning of the punch with respect to the primary axis during normal operation of the can bodymaker producing can bodies.