Lock Ring Mounting for Blow Heads

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing blow head mounting system requires tools for installation and removal, leading to inefficiencies and potential vibration-induced wear, as well as inconsistent force distribution on parison finishes during the manufacturing process of glass containers in IS machines.

Innovation Solution

A lock ring mounting arrangement that allows blow heads to be easily installed and removed using a single hand, featuring a spring-loaded retaining mechanism to secure the blow head in place, preventing vibration and ensuring consistent force application through interlocking mechanisms.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a locking pin mechanism is used to secure the blow head, then the blow head is retained in place, but tools are required for installation and removal, reducing operational efficiency

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveblow head retentionVSAvoidinstallation and removal ease

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The blow head mounting element features self-aligning engagement surfaces that automatically orient the blow head into the correct rotational position during insertion, eliminating the need for tools or manual alignment operations. The spring-loaded retaining mechanism automatically engages when the blow head is inserted, providing secure retention without requiring tool operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The traditional mechanical locking pin system is replaced with a spring-loaded retaining mechanism that uses elastic deformation and automatic engagement surfaces. This substitution eliminates the need for tool-based operations while maintaining secure retention through the spring force and geometric interlocking of the engagement surfaces.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Object-affected harmful factors

If the blow head is securely retained, then vibration is prevented, but the mounting mechanism becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvevibration wearVSAvoidmounting mechanism complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Object-affected harmful factorsVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The retention function and the alignment function are merged into a single integrated mounting mechanism. The spring-loaded retaining mechanism simultaneously provides secure retention and automatic alignment through its geometric design, eliminating the need for separate alignment features or multiple components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The mounting mechanism uses self-aligning engagement surfaces that automatically orient the blow head into the correct rotational position during insertion. The spring force automatically adjusts to provide consistent retention pressure, eliminating the need for complex adjustment mechanisms or multiple components to achieve proper alignment and retention.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Productivity

If the blow head is easily removable, then operational efficiency is improved, but consistent force distribution on the parison finish may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveblow head changeover speedVSAvoidforce distribution consistency

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The spring-loaded retaining mechanism automatically applies consistent force through its elastic properties, ensuring uniform pressure distribution on the parison finish. The self-aligning engagement surfaces automatically orient the blow head to the correct position, eliminating variability in force application while maintaining rapid changeover capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The spring constant and pre-load force are carefully selected to provide consistent retention pressure that ensures uniform force distribution on the parison finish. The geometric parameters of the self-aligning engagement surfaces are designed to automatically position the blow head with precision, ensuring consistent force application regardless of insertion variations.

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 tool-free installation and removal of blow heads, reduces wear, and maintains consistent force distribution, enhancing operational efficiency and reducing maintenance needs.

Implementation Method 1

a spring-loaded retaining mechanism to secure the blow head in place

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSpring: Spring

Data Source

PatentUS10138152B2Lock ring mounting arrangement for blow heads

Publication Date: 2018.11.27 EMHART GLASS SA

AI summary

A blow head mounting arrangement for use to facilitate installation and removal of a blow head from a blow head mounting member. The blow head has a first engagement member for removable engagement with a second engagement member to removably attach the blow head to the blow head mounting member. Once engaged, the blow head is retained on the blow head mounting member by rotating the blow head into a locked position in which it is retained until it is rotated in the opposite direction by a locking mechanism.