Symmetric Can Necking Base for Reversible Rotation Layouts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional can processing systems require separate bases for 'normal' and 'reverse' rotation configurations, leading to inefficiencies, high costs, and complexity due to the need for reconfiguration and specific mounting of components.
Innovation Solution
A symmetric, modular base that allows components to be mounted on either side, enabling both 'normal' and 'reverse' rotation configurations with a single base design, reducing the need for multiple base designs and facilitating easier assembly and operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional bases are designated as 'right hand,' 'left hand,' 'normal rotation,' or 'reverse rotation' with single-face mounting, then the base can be specifically optimized for one rotation configuration, but multiple base designs are required and the system must be reconfigured depending on rotation needs
Solution Approach 1:
The base is designed with symmetric mounting surfaces on both sides, allowing the same base to be used for both normal and reverse rotation configurations. The mounting openings and component interfaces are positioned symmetrically so that the base can be mounted on either face, eliminating the need for separate 'right hand' and 'left hand' base designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies asymmetry in reverse by creating intentional symmetry in the base design. By making the base symmetric about a center line, the design allows components to be mounted on either face, providing versatility for different rotation configurations without requiring multiple asymmetric base designs.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the entire system is rotated to match infeed and discharge positions, then the system can accommodate different rotation configurations, but the reconfiguration process is time-consuming, expensive, and cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The symmetric base allows the same machine to be installed in both normal and reverse rotation configurations without requiring physical reconfiguration or rotation of the entire system. Operators can simply choose which face of the base to mount on, eliminating time-consuming reconfiguration processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The base design provides dynamic adaptability by allowing the system to switch between rotation configurations through simple component mounting choices rather than requiring physical reconfiguration. This makes the system easily adaptable to different operational requirements.
3Ease of manufacture
If mating parts are mounted to only one specific face, then the base can be optimized for a single configuration, but the system requires reconfiguration and cannot accommodate both rotation types with a single base
Solution Approach 1:
The base incorporates symmetric mounting surfaces with identical opening patterns on both faces, allowing mating parts to be mounted on either side. This universal design enables the same base to accommodate both normal and reverse rotation configurations without requiring different mounting schemes.
Solution Approach 2:
The base design segments the mounting functionality into two identical, symmetric faces, each capable of independently supporting the required components. This segmentation allows flexible mounting choices while maintaining structural integrity and functional equivalence.
Data Source
AI summary
A symmetric, modular base for a can processing system. The base includes a leg portion comprising a plurality of openings adapted for receiving at least one of a transfer star wheel and a turret mechanism configured to perform a working operation on an article. The base further includes a first foot portion extending from a first side of the leg portion. The base further includes a second foot portion extending from the second side of the leg portion. The base further includes a plurality of openings in the first foot portion and the second foot portion, the plurality of openings of the first and second foot portion providing access to an interior portion of the base. The base is generally symmetric about a center line drawn vertically through a midpoint of the leg portion of the base between the first foot portion and the second foot portion to allow for mounting of components on either a first side or a second side of the base.