Dynamic Redraw Sleeve Control for Symmetrical Can Forming
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing redraw systems for can bodymakers lack dynamic adjustment capabilities during normal operation, making it difficult to maintain symmetrical loading conditions as can wall thicknesses become thinner, requiring manual adjustments that are inefficient and limited.
Innovation Solution
A dynamically adjustable redraw assembly that includes a hold down body, a redraw sleeve assembly, and a controller to adjust the position and force of the redraw sleeve relative to the hold down body, using cam bolts, actuators, position sensors, load cells, airbags, and hydraulic actuators to enable precise adjustments during operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual adjustment of redraw sleeve is used, then adjustment capability is provided, but adjustment must be made while machine is stopped and efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by transforming the static, manual adjustment system into a dynamic, automated system. The redraw sleeve position and force are now controlled by actuators (hydraulic or electric) that can adjust parameters during machine operation without stopping production. The control system receives feedback from sensors and dynamically modifies the redraw sleeve settings to maintain optimal forming conditions throughout the production cycle.
2Strength
If thicker can walls are used, then structural strength is improved, but material consumption and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by dynamically adjusting the redraw sleeve position and applied force during the forming process. By optimizing these parameters in real-time based on feedback from load cells and position sensors, the system achieves more uniform material distribution and reduced work hardening. This allows thinner gauge materials to be used while maintaining can strength requirements, as the controlled forming process prevents defects that would otherwise require thicker walls for compensation.
3Manufacturing precision
If redraw sleeve force is increased, then forming precision is improved, but work hardening of material increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback control by using load cells to measure the actual force applied by the redraw sleeve and position sensors to monitor sleeve location. This feedback information is fed to the control system, which dynamically adjusts actuator output to maintain optimal forming forces. This closed-loop control ensures precise forming without excessive force that would cause work hardening, as the system continuously adapts to actual material response during the forming process.
Data Source
AI summary
A redraw assembly for a can bodymaker includes a hold down body for slidably coupling to a frame of the bodymaker, a redraw sleeve assembly having a redraw sleeve adjustably coupled to the hold down body and configured to apply a force to a cup engaged with a toolpack of the bodymaker, and a controller programmed to dynamically adjust an aspect of the redraw sleeve with respect to the hold down body during operation of the can bodymaker.


