Power-Tool Can Seamer for Low-Cost Small-Batch Double Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current can seaming equipment is either too large and costly for small batch production or requires extensive training and is expensive to operate, lacking a cost-effective and efficient solution for forming double seam can seals.
Innovation Solution
A can seaming apparatus comprising a frame, can handling assembly, and seaming assembly that utilizes a power tool, allowing for manual operation with a single user to efficiently and inexpensively seal cans by attaching a power tool directly to the axle of the can handling assembly without additional components, gears, or drive systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If automated continuous can sealing equipment is used, then sealing productivity is improved, but equipment size and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the can sealing process into discrete manual operations using separate components (upper and lower chucks, roller frame with first and second rollers) that can be independently positioned and operated, eliminating the need for large automated continuous sealing equipment while maintaining functional capability for small batch production
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts the essential sealing function from complex automated equipment by using a simplified apparatus that attaches directly to a power drill, removing unnecessary automation components, gears, and drive systems while retaining the core can sealing capability
2Productivity
If automated continuous can sealing equipment is used, then sealing productivity is improved, but operational cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs inexpensive, simple components that can be easily manufactured and replaced, such as the roller frame, chucks, and linkage mechanisms, eliminating the high operational costs associated with maintaining expensive automated sealing equipment while providing sufficient functionality for small batch production
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus is designed to be easily assembled, operated, and maintained by the end user without requiring specialized training or expensive service contracts, with components that can be manually adjusted and replaced using basic tools
3Ease of operation
If simplified can sealing equipment is used, then ease of operation is improved, but sealing precision may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates adjustable and movable components including the roller frame that can pivot to apply sealing force, and linkage mechanisms that allow dynamic positioning of the lower chuck, enabling precise sealing control while maintaining ease of operation through manual adjustment rather than complex automation
Solution Approach 2:
The invention combines multiple sealing control functions into integrated mechanical linkages and the roller frame assembly, where the movement of handle (104) simultaneously controls both the positioning of the lower chuck and the application of sealing force through the rollers, simplifying operation while maintaining precision
Data Source
AI summary
A can seaming apparatus comprising a frame, a can handling assembly and a can seaming assembly. The frame has a bottom end and a top end, an upper mounting plate and a lower mounting member. The can handling assembly has an upper chuck and a lower chuck, the upper and lower chucks configured to releasably retain a can and top therebetween. The can seaming assembly includes a roller frame with a first and second roller, wherein the first and second rollers are directable into contact with the can and top while being retained by the upper and lower chucks. The upper chuck is fixed to an axle that extends through the upper mounting plate, and is rotatably coupled to the upper mounting plate. The axle extends beyond the upper mounting plate and structurally configured to be free from obstruction sufficient to allow a for the operable attachment of a chuck of a power tool. A combination can seaming apparatus and power tool is likewise disclosed, as are methods of operation.