Cap Edge Bending with Multi-Point Deformation for Inclined Closures
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing apparatuses for bending 'Talog' type caps are imprecise and unreliable due to the possibility of inclined edges in the closure casing, leading to faulty caps, especially when shape or positioning defects occur.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus includes a support unit, a locking unit, and a deforming element that moves transversally to deform the perimeter edge of the closure casing, allowing for precise bending even with inclined edges, and features multiple deforming elements positioned symmetrically to enhance precision and speed, integrated into a machine with synchronized movements for continuous cap bending.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single deforming unit is used to flatten the closure casing, then the device structure is simple, but the bending precision deteriorates when the closure casing has inclined edges or positioning defects
Solution Approach 1:
The single deforming unit is divided into multiple deforming units (at least two), each capable of independently deforming the closure casing. This segmentation allows each unit to focus on specific areas, compensating for inclined edges and positioning defects to achieve precise bending even when the closure casing is not perfectly positioned.
2Device complexity
If the deforming unit moves only along the longitudinal axis, then the mechanism is simple, but the productivity is insufficient to bend enough caps in a predetermined time
Solution Approach 1:
The deforming units are given movement capabilities in multiple dimensions: they can move along the longitudinal axis AND rotate around it. This dimensional enhancement allows the deforming units to process multiple areas of the closure casing simultaneously or in sequence, significantly increasing the bending speed and productivity without excessive complexity.
3Strength
If the deforming element applies force directly to the perimeter edge, then the deformation is effective, but the closure casing may be damaged when it has shape defects or is incorrectly located
Solution Approach 1:
A cushioning element is introduced between the deforming element and the closure casing. This cushioning element absorbs excess forces and prevents direct transmission of damaging forces to the closure casing, especially when shape defects or incorrect positioning are present. It allows effective deformation while protecting against damage, thereby improving reliability.
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 enables precise and efficient bending of caps with inclined edges, reducing the risk of faulty production and increasing the number of caps that can be bent within a predetermined time, thus improving the reliability and efficiency of the cap bending process.
Implementation Method 1
plastically deforming the closure casing towards the longitudinal axis so as to form a constraining seat housing the security seal
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2A
AI summary
Described is an apparatus (1) for bending a cap equipped with a security seal and a closure casing defining a perimeter edge housing the security seal on a perimeter edge, comprising a support unit (2), including a seat (201) for receiving a closure casing, and a locking unit(3); the support unit (2) and the locking unit (3) are oriented along a longitudinal axis (X) and movable relative to each other along the longitudinal axis (X) between a spaced-apart position and a close-together position wherein the locking unit (3) engages the closure casing positioned in the seat (201) of the support unit. A deforming element (303) is positioned laterally to f the longitudinal axis (X) and is movable, away from and towards the longitudinal axis (X), between an inactive position and an active position, wherein it presses outside the perimeter edge of the closure casing to deform it plastically towards the longitudinal axis (X); the deforming element (303) is also movable by rotating about the longitudinal axis (X).