Container Handling Clutch Assembly With Cam-Actuated Rollers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional gripping devices for containers in manufacturing processes are prone to slippage and create dust, which interferes with subsequent processing steps.
Innovation Solution
A clutch assembly with a cam-actuated roller mechanism that engages and disengages from the inner surface of a container's opening, reducing slippage and dust creation by securely gripping the container during processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional gripping devices (cups, belts, toothed rotation jaws) are used to grip containers, then the containers can be handled during processing, but slippage occurs and dust is generated that interferes with subsequent processing steps
Solution Approach 1:
The clutch incorporates a flexible gripping surface that conforms to the container opening, providing secure grip without generating dust. The flexible material allows for smooth contact that prevents slippage while avoiding the dust generation associated with rigid toothed jaws or belts.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces conventional mechanical gripping systems (toothed jaws, belts) with a cam-actuated roller mechanism that provides continuous smooth contact. This substitution eliminates the intermittent engagement and friction of traditional mechanical grippers that cause dust generation and slippage.
2Reliability
If conventional gripping devices are used, then container handling is achieved, but slippage occurs during processing
Solution Approach 1:
The clutch mechanism dynamically adjusts the gripping force through cam-actuated rollers that can engage and disengage smoothly. The rollers are positioned to contact the container opening at optimal points, providing consistent grip that adapts to slight variations in container positioning while preventing slippage during rotation.
Solution Approach 2:
The clutch employs periodic engagement of multiple rollers around the container opening, ensuring continuous stable contact. As the container rotates, multiple rollers sequentially engage and maintain grip, providing consistent operation throughout the processing cycle without slippage.
3Reliability
If a clutch mechanism with rollers is used to grip the container opening, then slippage is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The clutch mechanism is segmented into multiple identical roller units distributed around the container opening. Each roller is a simple component, but their collective arrangement provides stable multi-point contact. This segmentation allows the complex gripping function to be achieved through repetition of simple, maintainable units rather than a single complex mechanism.
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 clutch assembly effectively reduces slippage and dust generation, ensuring stable and efficient handling of containers throughout various processing steps.
Implementation Method 1
Each roller of the at least two rollers is configured to engage against an inner surface of the opening of the container and a cam surface of the at least two cam surfaces
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the disclosure relate to a clutch assembly for handling a container, and an associated method for using the clutch assembly. The clutch assembly includes a shaft configured to rotate in a first direction and a second direction, opposite from the first direction. The clutch assembly further includes a clutch coupled to a first end of the shaft. The clutch includes at least two rollers configured to move into a first position, extending radially beyond a periphery of the clutch, and out of the first position, extending radially flush with or inward from the periphery of the clutch.