Integrated Threading Head for Beverage Cans
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional machines for forming threads on beverage containers require significant space and processing time, and do not easily integrate with machine lines, leading to inefficiencies in production.
Innovation Solution
A threading head assembly comprising first and second threading rollers, configured to impart a thread onto a cylindrical container, allowing for efficient thread formation that enables a threaded cap to seal the container, with a container holder to grip and release the container, and a threading turret assembly with a ram to drive the container for threading.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional machines with multiple forming heads and turrets are used, then thread forming capability is achieved, but space requirements and processing time increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple forming operations into a single integrated threading head assembly that performs both internal and external threading simultaneously. The threading head includes multiple rollers arranged to form threads on different surfaces of the container opening in one operation, eliminating the need for separate forming heads and turrets that would require sequential operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The threading head is segmented into multiple independent roller units, each capable of forming threads on specific surfaces. This segmentation allows each roller to perform its threading function independently while being part of a compact integrated assembly, enabling simultaneous multi-surface threading without requiring large space for multiple separate machines.
2Productivity
If conventional threading apparatus with separate machines are used, then thread forming is achieved, but integration with machine line becomes difficult and processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the threading function with the container holding and positioning functions into a single integrated assembly. The threading head is designed to be mounted directly on the machine line equipment, combining what would traditionally be separate machines into one unified device that performs multiple operations in sequence without requiring additional floor space or complex inter-machine coordination.
3Ease of manufacture
If multiple forming heads and turrets are used, then complete thread formation is achieved, but floor space and machine line space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The threading rollers are arranged in a nested configuration where internal rollers operate within the container opening while external rollers operate on the outer surface. This nested arrangement allows multiple threading operations to occur within a compact footprint, with rollers positioned concentrically rather than requiring linear arrangement across large floor space.
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
The solution minimizes space requirements and processing time, enabling efficient thread formation on containers within a machine line, allowing for seamless integration and increased production efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
preparing a stress induced plastically deformed container for use as a threaded sealable container
Implementation Method 2
causing the two threading rollers to contact opposite sides of the curved wall, and automatically orbiting the threading rollers about the container
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3(a)~3(c)
AI summary
A threading head including a first threading roller with a threaded surface, a second threading roller with a threaded surface, a first cam roller, a second cam roller, a first cam with a first cam surface and a second cam with a second cam surface. The first cam is configured so that movement of the first cam roller in one direction along the first cam surface pushes the first cam roller to thereby push the first threading roller toward the second threading roller. The second cam is configured so that movement of the second cam roller in one direction along the second cam surface pushes the second cam roller to thereby push the second threading roller toward the first threading roller. The threading head is configured to impart a thread onto a cylindrical container such that a threaded cap may be screwed onto the container to seal an opening in the container. A rotational axis of the first cam roller is perpendicular to a rotational axis of the first threading roller.