Cam-Driven Can Seamer for Small-Batch Double Seam Forming
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current can seaming equipment is not suitable for small batch production, as it is either too large and costly for continuous automated sealing or requires manual operation, which is inefficient for smaller production runs.
Innovation Solution
A can seamer apparatus comprising a frame, lower and upper chucks, seam forming assemblies, and a motor-driven cam system that allows for adjustable positioning of rollers to form double seams on cans, enabling efficient manual operation for smaller batch production.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If continuous automated sealing equipment is used, then productivity is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The continuous automated sealing system is divided into discrete modular components: a motor-driven cam mechanism for automated roller actuation, interchangeable chucks for different can sizes, and separate seam forming assemblies. This segmentation allows the complex system to be broken into manageable modules that can be assembled and operated independently, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining automated sealing capability for improved productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The seaming apparatus is designed with universal features including interchangeable chucks that accommodate various can diameters, adjustable roller positions for different seam types, and a standardized motor-cam mechanism that can drive multiple rollers. This multi-functionality allows a single device to handle diverse can sealing requirements, maintaining high productivity across different product lines without requiring separate specialized equipment for each can size.
2Device complexity
If manual operation of forming rollers is used, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The cam mechanism is designed to automatically sequence the actuation of multiple rollers through its programmed lobe profiles. As the cam rotates, its varying radius automatically triggers rollers to engage, form seams, and disengage in the correct sequence without requiring manual coordination. This self-service automation maintains operational simplicity while dramatically improving sealing speed and consistency compared to manual roller operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam mechanism serves as an intermediary between the single motor power source and the multiple rollers. The cam translates rotational motion into the coordinated reciprocating motion required by each roller, automatically managing the timing and sequence of multiple sealing operations. This intermediary mechanism enables automated multi-roller operation from a single motor, improving productivity while keeping the control system simple.
3Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable roller positioning is implemented, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The roller positioning system employs dynamic adjustment mechanisms that allow roller locations to be modified during operation or between batches. The cam mechanism itself provides dynamic positioning as its lobe profiles can be changed to alter roller actuation timing and position. This dynamic adaptability enables the same apparatus to handle different can sizes and seam requirements without requiring complex fixed-position reconfiguration, maintaining versatility while keeping adjustment mechanisms relatively simple.
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 apparatus provides an efficient and cost-effective solution for forming double seams on cans, suitable for small batch production, by allowing manual placement and automated sealing with adjustable roller positions, reducing operational costs and improving production efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The seam drive assembly comprises a cam, a first roller follower assembly, a second roller follower assembly and a cam transmission assembly. The cam is rotatable about the axle axis of rotation and has an outer surface. The first roller follower assembly is coupled to a first end of the first rotating shaft, and includes a follower configured to follow the outer surface of the cam.
Implementation Method 2
The motor has an output shaft that is rotatably coupled to the axle.
Implementation Method 3
The cam transmission assembly comprises a drive gear, an idler assembly and a cam gear. The drive gear is rotatably coupled to the axle. The idler assembly has an idler axle that is spaced apart from the axle, and that includes a first idler gear that engages the drive gear, and a second idler gear.
Data Source
AI summary
A can seamer comprising a frame, a lower chuck, an upper chuck, a first and second seam forming assembly, a seam drive assembly and a motor. The upper chuck having an axle. The seam forming assemblies including a first roller. The seam drive assembly includes a cam, a first roller follower and a second roller follower. A cam transmission assembly includes a drive gear rotatably coupled to the axle, an idler assembly and a cam gear coupled to the cam. The idler assembly includes an idler axle that is spaced apart from the axle. A first idler gear engages the drive gear, and a second idler gear with the first and second idler gears being rotatably coupled to the idler axle. The cam gear engages the second idler gear. The motor has an output shaft rotatably coupled to the axle.