Automatic domer positioning in can forming machines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing can forming machines face alignment issues due to ram droop and vibration, leading to misalignment with die packs, causing wear and tear, and requiring frequent replacement of parts, especially in high-production environments where even slight misalignment can result in production halts.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a punch position sensor assembly, control system, and domer positioning assembly that dynamically adjusts the domer assembly to ensure the punch remains concentric with the die pack during the return stroke of the ram, using sensors and motors to maintain alignment and prevent contact between the punch and dies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the ram is made longer to increase production capacity, then productivity is improved, but the ram droop increases causing misalignment with die pack
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses sensors to continuously monitor the position of the punch relative to the die pack during operation. This position data is fed back to a control system that automatically adjusts the domer assembly position to maintain proper alignment, creating a closed-loop control system that compensates for droop in real-time
Solution Approach 2:
The domer assembly is made dynamically adjustable rather than statically fixed. The positioning system allows the domer to be moved along the ram during operation, enabling the system to adapt to changing alignment conditions caused by droop as the ram extends and retracts
2Manufacturing precision
If manual alignment of domer to punch is performed, then alignment precision is improved, but loss of time increases due to frequent realignment needed
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-alignment automatically through the feedback control mechanism. The sensors continuously monitor alignment status and the control system automatically adjusts the domer position without operator intervention, allowing the machine to maintain itself during operation and eliminating the need for frequent manual realignment stoppages
3Productivity
If the ram extends horizontally through the entire die pack, then productivity is improved, but the cantilevered structure causes droop leading to wear and tear
Solution Approach 1:
The system converts the harmful effect of droop into useful information by using sensors to detect the actual position caused by droop. This detection data is then used by the control system to calculate and apply compensatory adjustments to the domer assembly, effectively using the droop phenomenon itself as the basis for automatic correction rather than trying to eliminate the droop physically
Data Source
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AI summary
In a can forming machine a system that determines the position of a reciprocating ram and allows for the domer to be repositioned automatically is provided. The system includes a punch position sensor assembly, a control system, and a domer positioning assembly. The punch position sensor assembly is positioned about the ram, preferably at the domer side of the last die. At this location, the punch position sensor assembly can determine the position of the ram as it enters the dieback during the return stroke. The control system receives data from the punch position sensor assembly and, if the ram is not substantially, concentrically aligned with the die pack on the return stroke, sends a signal to the domer positioning assembly to reposition the domer. This process may be repeated until the ram travels along a path substantially aligned with the die pack on the return stroke.