Container Handling Clutch With Cam Rollers for Slip-Free Gripping

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing container gripping devices in machine lines for manufacturing are prone to slippage and generate dust, interfering with subsequent processing steps.

Innovation Solution

A clutch assembly with cam-actuated rollers that engage the internal surface of a container opening, reducing slippage and dust by securely gripping the container during processing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional gripping devices (cups, belts, toothed rotation jaws) are used to grip containers, then the containers can be handled and moved through processing steps, but slippage occurs and dust is generated that interferes with subsequent processing

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvegrip stabilityVSAvoiddust generation

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces conventional mechanical gripping systems (cups, belts, toothed jaws) with a magnetic field-based gripping system. Magnets embedded in the gripping surface generate magnetic fields that attract and hold ferromagnetic containers, eliminating mechanical contact that causes slippage and dust generation while maintaining secure handling throughout processing operations

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the fundamental parameter of gripping from mechanical force to magnetic force. By using magnetic attraction instead of mechanical pressure, the system achieves slip-free gripping without the friction and wear that generate dust, while the magnetic field can be precisely controlled to maintain optimal grip strength throughout the processing cycle

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If conventional gripping devices are used, then container handling is achieved, but slippage occurs during processing

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvegrip stabilityVSAvoidhandling reliability

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The magnetic gripping system dynamically adjusts to container positioning and movement. The magnetic field automatically adapts to maintain optimal attraction force during acceleration, deceleration, and directional changes, ensuring consistent grip stability without the slippage problems that plague rigid mechanical gripping systems

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

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 minimizes slippage and dust generation, ensuring stable handling and processing of containers.

Implementation Method 1

cam-actuated rollers that engage the internal surface of the container opening

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentEP3980359B1Clutch assembly for handling a container

Publication Date: 2025.09.03 BELVAC PRODUCTION MACHINERY INC

Figure 1A
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Figure 2A

AI summary

Aspects of the disclosure relate to a clutch assembly (100) for handling a container, and an associated method for using the clutch assembly. The clutch assembly includes a shaft (102) 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 (108) 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.