Automated Can Seamer Cam Drive for Compact Double-Seam Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing can sealing equipment is inefficient for small batch production, being either too large and costly for continuous automated use or requiring manual operation, lacking a suitable solution for smaller batches.
Innovation Solution
A can seamer with a frame, lower and upper chucks, seam forming assemblies, and a motor-driven cam system that allows for automated and efficient formation of double seam can seals, suitable for both continuous and small 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 sealing process is divided into two distinct operations: first seam formation by the first roller, and second seam formation by the second roller. This segmentation allows each roller to perform a specific function sequentially, enabling automated operation while keeping the device compact and suitable for small batch production.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus uses a movable upper chuck that can be positioned to engage with the can and cap, allowing the sealing rollers to access the seam area. The dynamic positioning capability enables automated sealing without requiring a large fixed structure, resolving the contradiction between automation and compact size.
2Device complexity
If manual operation is used, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus is designed to perform the sealing operations automatically once the can and cap are positioned. The motor-driven rollers automatically form both seams without requiring manual intervention during the sealing process itself, thereby improving productivity while maintaining relatively simple equipment structure.
3Productivity
If continuous automated sealing is implemented, then productivity is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus is designed to handle both continuous and small batch production requirements with a single device. The universal design allows it to function as an automated seamer for small batches without requiring separate equipment, thereby improving productivity while controlling costs by avoiding the need for multiple specialized machines.
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 efficient and automated formation of double seam can seals, reducing costs and improving productivity for small batch operations while maintaining a compact footprint.
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.
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.