Capping Chuck Radial Gripper Segments Centering

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing capping chuck assemblies struggle to accommodate variations in closure dimensions and exterior features, leading to misapplication issues such as cocking or cross-threading during high-speed automated capping processes.

Innovation Solution

A capping chuck assembly with radially moveable gripper segments and a central guide disc, featuring elastomeric O-rings for biasing and a torsion spring for clearance, ensures proper centering and secure grip of closures with differing dimensions and knurl patterns, using cam drive surfaces to maintain concentric alignment and apply torque effectively.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If moveable jaw-like elements are used to accommodate different closure sizes, then adaptability to different closure dimensions is improved, but closure centering and coaxial alignment deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The capping chuck is divided into multiple independent gripper segments (typically 3-6 segments) that can move radially independently. Each segment contains gripping elements that can accommodate different closure diameters while the segments collectively maintain the closure in centered position through their coordinated arrangement around the central axis.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The invention combines the adaptability function of moveable jaws with the centering function of a fixed central structure. The gripper segments are mounted on a central hub or guide structure that ensures they remain radially aligned, merging the benefits of both moveable and fixed configurations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Productivity

If high-speed automated capping is implemented, then productivity is improved, but misapplication defects such as cocking or cross-threading increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The gripper segments are pre-positioned and biased to engage the closure at predetermined locations before rotation begins. This preliminary engagement ensures proper closure positioning and prevents misalignment during the high-speed capping process, eliminating cocking and cross-threading defects.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The invention replaces complex mechanical centering mechanisms with a simplified radial biasing system using elastomeric elements. This substitution maintains reliability by providing consistent radial force to keep gripper segments centered on the closure without requiring complex mechanical guides or adjustments.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Adaptability or versatility

If radially moveable gripper segments are used, then adaptability to different closure geometries is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The gripper segments are designed with controlled radial mobility, allowing them to move outward to engage closures of different sizes and then return to a centered position during operation. This dynamic capability provides adaptability without requiring completely reconfigurable mechanisms, keeping the overall device complexity manageable.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The invention achieves adaptability through parameter changes in the radial position of gripper segments rather than through structural reconfiguration. By varying the radial engagement position of simple segmented elements, the system can accommodate different closure geometries without increasing mechanical complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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

Facilitates high-speed, accurate application of closures with varying dimensions and features, preventing misapplication defects like cocking or cross-threading by ensuring consistent radial pressure and alignment, accommodating a wider range of closure geometries and knurl patterns.

Implementation Method 1

at least one biasing element collectively urges the plurality of gripper segments inwardly

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

a torsion spring for clearance

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectTorsion spring: Torsion Spring

Implementation Method 3

cam drive surfaces to maintain concentric alignment and apply torque effectively

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectCam mechanism: Cam

Data Source

PatentEP2681151B1Capping chuck assembly

Publication Date: 2017.08.02

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AI summary

A capping chuck assembly embodying the present invention comprises an outer chuck housing, and inner, central guide disc upon which a plurality of circumferentially spaced gripper segments are mounted. Each gripper segment includes an inner jaw portion for engagement with an associated closure, and an outer cam surface. The outer chuck housing defines a plurality of inwardly facing, cam drive surfaces positioned for respective engagement with the outer cam surfaces of the gripper segments, so that rotational drive of the outer chuck housing collectively drives the gripper segments and guide disc to urge the segments radially into engagement with an associated closure.