Note : Les descriptions sont présentées dans la langue officielle dans laquelle elles ont été soumises.
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RAM SYSTEM AND KNOCK-OUT RAM ASSEMBLY FOR PROCESSING
CONTAINERS
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
100011 This application claims the benefit or and priority to U.S.
Provisional Patent
Application No. 63/229,887, filed August 5, 2021, and titled, "RAM SYSTEM AND
KNOCK-
OUT RAM ASSEMBLY FOR PROCESSING CONTAINERS," which is hereby incorporated
by reference herein in its entirety.
FIELD
100021 The present invention relates generally to the field of
forming or processing an
article, such as a container. More specifically, the invention relates to an
apparatus for handling
and processing a metal container, such as an aluminum beverage container or a
preform thereof.
BACK GROUND
100031 Conventional ram systems have traditionally been used in
machinery for processing
containers, such as extruded steel or aluminum beverage containers or preforms
thereof. For
example, such conventional ram systems are used in machinery for various steps
in processes
for producing aluminum beverage containers from aluminum container preforms,
and even in
steps for handling the aluminum beverage containers thereafter. As a matter of
convenience,
reference herein to a container can interchangeably refer to a container or a
preform used in the
process of producing the container. Such conventional container processing
machinery with
conventional ram systems can be used at maximum output speeds of about 3600
containers per
minute with containers of a certain size, generally referred to herein as
"small containers."
Such small containers are generally known in the industry as 211 diameter
containers, which
have a diameter of about 66 millimeters (mm) and a height of less than about
190 mm. Such
small containers allow for smaller physical dimensions in the conventional ram
systems, but
also smaller operational dimensions in the conventional ram systems. For
example, the stroke
length of ram systems for use with small containers is about 35 centimeters
(cm) to about 44
cm.
100041 As the size of the containers increases, so too do the
challenges of processing the
containers. For example, conventional ram systems as a whole, or elements
thereof, can be re-
sized to handle the larger dimensions of "large containers." Such large
containers are generally
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known in the industry as 300 containers, which have diameters of about 66 mm
or larger and a
height of about 88 mm or larger, such as containers with a diameter of about
70 mm to about
87 mm, a height of about 88 mm to about 211 mm. Stroke lengths for these large
containers
typically are about 6.4 cm or larger. However, the speed at which the large
containers can be
processed by the re-sized conventional ram systems cannot similarly increase
because of the
increased loads experienced by the ram systems at the higher speeds. As a
result, conventional
container processing machinery processing large containers using conventional
ram systems
are restricted to a maximum output speed of about 1800 containers per minute
(CPM), with
typical speeds of about 1000 CPM to about 1800 CPM. A more detailed
explanation of the
limitations of conventional ram systems for use with large containers is
described below with
respect to FIGS. 1-3.
100051 FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a conventional ram system
100. The ram system
100 includes a knock-out ram assembly 102 and a push ram assembly 104 The
knock-out ram
assembly 102 includes a bushing 106 surrounding a knock-out ram 108. Attached
to the knock-
out ram 108 facing the push ram assembly 104 is a knock-out 110.
100061 During operation of the ram system 100, the knock-out ram
108 translates relative
to the bushing 106 in a direction parallel to the line 111, which allows the
knock-out ram
assembly 102 to retain and release a container (not shown) within the ram
system 100. The
additional elements necessary for the operation of the knock-out ram assembly
102, along with
a general description of the operation thereof, is known to those skilled in
the art and is not
discussed herein as a matter of convenience.
100071 Similar to the knock-out ram assembly 102, the push ram
assembly 104 includes a
bushing 112 surrounding a push ram 114. Attached to the push ram 114 facing
the knock-out
ram assembly 102 is a push plate 116. The push plate 116 can be made out of
metal, such as
tool steel, and weigh about 0.12 kg to about 0.18 kg. During operation of the
ram system 100,
the push ram 114 translates relative to the bushing 112 in a direction
parallel to the line 111,
which allows the push ram assembly 104 to retain and release a container (not
shown) within
the ram system 100 in combination with the knock-out ram assembly 102. The
additional
elements necessary for the operation of the push ram assembly 104, along with
a general
description of the operation thereof, is known to those skilled in the art and
is not discussed
herein as a matter of convenience.
100081 FIG. 2 is a partial cross-sectional side view of the ram
system 100 of FIG. 1, and
FIG. 3 is a partial cross-sectional perspective view of the ram system 100 of
FIG. 1. Referring
first to the knock-out ram assembly 102, the knock-out ram 108 extends through
the bushing
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106, as described above. The line 118 represents the outer diameter of the
knock-out ram 108
where it extends through the bushing 106. The outer diameter is substantially
the same as the
inner diameter of the bushing 106, except for a minimal difference that allows
the knock-out
ram 108 to translate within the bushing 106. For example, the outer diameter
of the knock-out
ram 108 can be about 47 mm to about 50 mm. The line 120 represents the
smallest outer
diameter of the bushing 106 through which the knock-out ram 108 extends. For
example, the
outer diameter of the bushing 106 can be about 70 mm.
100091 Referring next to the push ram assembly 104, the push ram
114 extends through the
bushing 112, as described above. The push plate 116 is connected to the push
ram 114 so that
it faces the knock-out ram assembly 102. The push ram 114 includes a recess
126 that is sized
to accommodate the push plate 116 and a retainer 128 that fastens the push
plate 116 to the
push ram 114. The line 122 represents the outer diameter of the push ram 114
where it extends
through the bushing 112 The outer diameter is substantially the same as the
inner diameter of
the bushing 112, except for a minimal difference that allows the push ram 114
to translate
within the bushing 112. For example, the outer diameter of the push ram 114
can be about 50
mm. The line 124 represents the smallest outer diameter of the bushing 112
through which the
push ram 114 extends. For example, the outer diameter of the busing can be
about 70 mm.
100101 Referring back to the knock-out ram assembly 102, the knock-
out 110 is coupled to
the knock-out ram 108. Surrounding the outside of the knock-out 110 is a die
200 used in the
processing of containers (not shown) retained in the ram system 100. The knock-
out 110
surrounds a knock-out retainer 202 connected to the knock-out ram 108. An
inwardly facing
threaded portion 214 of the knock-out retainer 202 engages a corresponding
outwardly facing
threaded portion 216 of the knock-out ram 108. The knock-out retainer 202
retains the knock-
out 110 on the knock-out ram 108.
100111 As discussed above, the knock-out ram assembly 102 can be
configured to allow
for large containers. For example, the dimensions of the aforementioned die
200, knock-out
110, and knock-out retainer 202 can be increased to accommodate the larger
dimensions of the
large containers. Indeed, the conventional ram system 100 shown in FIGS. 1-3
is configured
to process large containers. The larger dimensions of the knock-out 110 and
the knock-out
retainer 202 adds additional weight. Because the knock-out 110 and the knock-
out retainer
202 are moving during operation of the knock-out ram assembly 102, the knock-
out ram
assembly 102 as a whole experiences larger forces that reduce the ability to
run container
processing machinery that include the knock-out ram assembly 102 at speeds of
about 2400
containers per minute. Instead, the container processing machinery that
includes the knock-
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out ram assembly 102 must run at speeds of only about 1800 containers per
minute. This
reduction in processing speed has a large impact on the cost effectiveness of
the container
processing machinery using the knock-out ram assembly 102.
100121 Beyond the weight limitations, other limitations exist in
the conventional ram
system 100 shown in FIGS. 1-3 and described above that limit container
processing machinery
using the ram system 100 for running at high speeds (e.g., 2400 containers per
minute). Such
other limitations include, for example, the need to pressurize the ram system
100 for retaining
the containers.
100131 Specifically, and as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, a conduit 210
runs through the knock-
out ram 108 and leads to a conduit 212 that runs through the knock-out
retainer 202. The
combined conduits 210 and 212 provide for pressurization of the knock-out ram
assembly 102
during use to retain a container (not shown). Pressure is generated for
controlling and
supporting containers within the knock-out ram 108 The pressurized area is the
empty area of
the knock-out ram assembly 102, which is generally defined by areas 204, 206,
and 208
surrounding and between the die 200, the knock-out 110, and the knock-out
retainer 202. More
specifically, the area 204 is defined by the die 200 extending further beyond
the knock-out 110.
The area 206 is defined by a radial gap between the knock-out 110 and the
knock-out retainer
202. The area 208 is defined by the knock-out 110 extending beyond the knock-
out retainer
202. The increased dimensions of the die 200, the knock-out 110, and the knock-
out retainer
202 result in increased dimensions of the areas 204, 206, and 208. The
increased dimensions
of the areas 204, 206, and 208 increases the pressurization requirements when
processing large
containers. The increased requirements contributes to the inability to run
container processing
machinery with the ram system 100 at speeds of about 2400 containers per
minute. For
example, there is not enough time to create the necessary pressure for the
larger area defined
by areas 204, 206, and 208. Instead, such container processing machinery must
run at reduced
speeds, such as about 1800 containers per minute. Again, this reduction in
processing speeds
has a large impact on the cost effectiveness of the container processing
machinery using the
conventional knock-out ram assembly 102.
100141 The conventional push ram assembly 104 suffers from similar
limitations based on
modifying the push ram assembly 104 to handle large containers. For example,
the larger
dimensions of conventional push ram assemblies 104 sized to accept large
containers results in
weights and weight distributions that prevent running the conventional push
ram assemblies
104 at high processing speeds.
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[0015] Accordingly, needs exist for ram systems used in the
processing of containers that
do not suffer from the above limitations, while still accommodating large
containers.
SUMMARY
100161 One exemplary embodiment of the invention relates to a knock-
out ram assembly
that includes a bushing and a knock-out ram extending through the bushing. The
knock-out
ram is configured to translate relative to the bushing. The knock-out ram
assembly further
includes a die coupled to the bushing at one end of the knock-out ram
assembly. A knock-out
retainer assembly is coupled to the knock-out ram at the one end. The knock-
out retainer
assembly includes a retainer and a filler body. The knock-out ram assembly
further includes a
knock-out retained against the knock-out ram at the one end by the knock-out
retainer
assembly.
[0017] An aspect of the assembly includes a retaining ring and a
bias spring. The retaining
ring and the bias spring maintain the filler body biased under tension on the
retainer.
10018] Another aspect of the assembly includes the filler body
forming an interference fit
with the knock-out such that there is no radial gap between the filler body
and the knock-out.
[0019] Another aspect of the assembly includes the knock-out
retainer assembly weighing
about 0.37 kg to about 0.46 kg.
[0020] Another aspect of the assembly includes proximal ends of the
knock-out retainer
assembly and the knock-out being generally flush.
100211 Another aspect of the assembly includes the retainer having
a tapered nozzle. A
further aspect is that a conduit passes through the knock-out ram and the
knock-out retainer
assembly for pressurizing an area defined by the die, knock-out retainer
assembly, and the
knock-out during use of the knock-out ram assembly. A further aspect includes
the filler body
having a taper that complements the tapered nozzle.
[0022] Another aspect of the assembly includes the knock-out ram
including an inwardly
facing threaded portion, and the retainer including an outwardly facing
threaded portion. The
inwardly facing threaded portion engages the outwardly facing threaded portion
to couple the
knock-out retainer assembly to the knock-out ram.
[0023] Another aspect of the assembly includes the knock-out having
an annular groove
facing the bushing.
[0024] Another aspect of the assembly includes an outer diameter of
the knock-out ram
within the bushing being about 34 mm to about 42 mm.
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100251 Another aspect of the assembly includes the filler body
being formed of a polymer.
100261 Another aspect of the assembly includes the knock-out ram
assembly being
configured to process containers having a diameter of about 66 mm to about 87
mm, a height
of about 88 mm to about 211 mm, or a combination thereof.
100271 Another exemplary embodiment of the invention relates to a
ram system having a
knock-out ram assembly and a push ram assembly. The knock-out ram assembly
includes a
first bushing and a knock-out ram extending through the first bushing. The
knock-out ram is
configured to translate relative to the first bushing. The knock-out ram
assembly further
includes a die coupled to the first bushing at one end of the knock-out ram
assembly. The
knock-out ram assembly further includes a knock-out retainer assembly coupled
to the knock-
out ram at the one end. The knock-out retainer assembly includes a retainer
and a filler body.
The knock-out ram assembly further includes a knock-out retained against the
knock-out ram
at the one end by the knock-out retainer assembly. The push ram assembly
includes a second
bushing and a push ram extending through second first bushing. The push ram is
configured
to translate relative to the second bushing. The push ram assembly further
includes a push
plate coupled to the push ram facing the knock-out ram assembly. The knock-out
ram assembly
and the push ram assembly are configured to cooperate together for retaining
and releasing a
container.
100281 An aspect of the system includes the push ram being hollow
beyond where the push
plate connects to the push ram.
100291 Another aspect of the system includes the ram system being
configured to process
containers having a diameter of about 66 mm to about 87 mm, a height of about
88 mm to
about 211 mm, or a combination thereof, and the push ram weighs about 3.9 kg
to about 4.8
kg.
100301 Another aspect of the system includes the push plate being a
single piece.
100311 Another aspect of the system includes the filler body
forming an interference fit
with the knock-out such that there is no radial gap between the filler body
and the knock-out.
100321 Another aspect of the system includes proximal ends of the
knock-out retainer
assembly and the knock-out being generally flush.
100331 Another aspect of the system includes the retainer having a
tapered nozzle and the
filler body having a taper that complements the tapered nozzle.
100341 It is to be understood that both the foregoing general
description and the following
detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not
restrictive of the invention
as claimed.
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BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
100351 These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the
present invention will
become apparent from the following description, appended claims, and the
accompanying
exemplary embodiments shown in the drawings, which are briefly described
below.
100361 FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a conventional ram system
for processing metal
containers.
100371 FIG. 2 is a partial cross-sectional side view of the
conventional ram system of FIG.
1.
100381 FIG. 3 is a partial cross-sectional perspective view of the
conventional ram system
of FIG. 1.
100391 FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a ram system for processing
metal containers,
according to an embodiment of the present invention.
100401 FIG. 5 is a partial cross-sectional side view of the ram
system of FIG. 4, according
to an embodiment of the present invention.
100411 FIG. 6 is a partial cross-sectional perspective view of the
ram system of FIG. 4,
according to an embodiment of the present invention.
100421 FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of the knock-out ram
of the ram system of
FIG. 4, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
100431 FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the knock-out of the ram
system of FIG. 4, according
to an embodiment of the present invention.
100441 FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view of the knock-out
retainer assembly of the
ram system of FIG. 4, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
100451 While the invention is susceptible to various modifications
and alternative forms,
specific forms thereof have been shown by way of example in the drawings and
will herein be
described in detail. It should be understood, however, that it is not intended
to limit the
invention to the particular forms disclosed, but, on the contrary, the
intention is to cover all
modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and
scope of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
100461 Objects of the present invention are directed to a ram
system that can be used for
processing large containers within container processing machinery running at
speeds
traditionally only suitable for small containers.
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100471 FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a ram system 400 for use in
processing metal
containers, such a metal beverage cans, according to an embodiment of the
present invention.
The general operation of the ram system 400 is similar to the conventional ram
system 100
described above. The ram system 400 includes a knock-out ram assembly 402 and
a push ram
assembly 404. The knock-out ram assembly 402 includes a bushing 406
surrounding a knock-
out ram 408. Attached to the knock-out ram 408 and configured to face the push
ram assembly
404 is a knock-out 410.
100481 During operation of the ram system 400, the knock-out ram
408 translates relative
to the bushing 406 in a direction parallel to the line 411, which allows the
knock-out ram
assembly 402 to retain and release a container (not shown) within the ram
system 400. The
additional elements necessary for the operation of the knock-out ram assembly
402, along with
a general description of the operation thereof, is known to those of ordinary
skill in the art and
is not discussed herein for convenience
100491 Similar to the knock-out ram assembly 402, the push ram
assembly 404 includes a
bushing 412 surrounding a push ram 414. Attached to the push ram 414 and
configured to face
the knock-out ram assembly 402 is a push plate 416. The push plate 416 can be
made out of
metal, such as tool steel, or a ceramic, and weigh about 0.3 kg. In one or
more embodiments,
the push plate 416 may be fixed, i.e., not adjustable like conventional push
plates, to save
additional weight. Preferably, the push plate 416 is made from a single piece
of, for example,
metal or ceramic.
100501 During operation of the ram system 400, the push ram 414
translates relative to the
bushing 412 in a direction parallel to the line 411, which allows the push ram
assembly 404 to
retain and release a container (not shown) within the ram system 400. The
additional elements
necessary for the operation of the push ram assembly 404, along with a general
description of
the operation thereof is known to those of ordinary skill in the art and is
not discussed herein
for convenience.
100511 While the overall setup of the ram system 400 is similar to
the conventional ram
system 100, differences described below allow the inventive ram system 400 to
operate within
container processing machinery at increased speeds and provide various
processing efficiencies
while processing the above-described large containers.
100521 FIGS. 5 and 6 are a partial cross-sectional side view of the
ram system 400 of FIG.
4 and a partial cross-sectional perspective view of the ram system 400 of FIG.
4, respectively.
Referring first to the knock-out ram assembly 402, the knock-out ram 408
extends through the
bushing 406, as described above. The knock-out 410 is connected to the knock-
out ram 408
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so that it faces the push ram assembly 404 during use of the ram system 400 in
container
processing machinery.
100531 The line 518 represents the outer diameter of the knock-out
ram 408 through the
bushing 406, which is substantially the same as the inner diameter of the
bushing 406, except
for a minimal difference that allows the knock-out ram 408 to translate within
the bushing 406.
The outer diameter of the knock-out ram 408 can be about 34 mm to about 42 mm,
such as
about 38 mm. The line 520 represents the smallest outer diameter of the
bushing 406, such as
about 70 mm.
100541 Referring next to the push ram assembly 404, the push ram
414 extends through the
bushing 412, as described above. The push plate 416 is connected to the push
ram 414 so that
it faces the knock-out ram assembly 402 during use of the ram system 400 in
container
processing machinery. The line 522 represents the outer diameter of the push
ram 414 through
the bushing 412, which is substantially the same as the inner diameter of the
bushing 412,
except for a minimal difference that allows the push ram 414 to translate
within the bushing
412. The outer diameter of the push ram 414 can be about 45 mm to about 56 mm,
such as
about 50 mm. The line 524 represents the smallest outer diameter of the
bushing 412. The
outer diameter of the bushing 412 can be about 70 mm.
100551 Referring back to the knock-out ram assembly 402,
surrounding the knock-out 410
is a die 500 used for processing containers (not shown) retained in the ram
system 400.
Although labeled as die 500, the die 500 according to an embodiment of the
present invention
can be the same die 200 as described above within the conventional ram system
100. For
example, the shape, the materials, etc. can be the same as the conventional
die 200.
100561 The conventional knock-out 110 within the conventional ram
system 100 is made
of metal, such as steel and, particularly, tool steel. However, the knock-out
410 of the ram
system 400 instead is made of a ceramic. The knock-out 410 includes an annular
groove 418
where the knock-out 410 interfaces with the knock-out ram 408. The annular
groove 418 is
formed in the knock-out 410 to reduce the weight of the knock-out 410, as
further described
below with respect to FIG. 8.
100571 A knock-out retainer assembly 502 is connected to the knock-
out ram 408 via a
threaded portion 516 on the knock-out ram 408 that engages a threaded portion
on the knock-
out retainer assembly 502 (FIG. 9). The knock-out retainer assembly 502 is
surrounded by the
knock-out 410. Unlike the conventional ram system 100, the knock-out retainer
assembly 502
extends generally the same distance into the die 500 as the knock-out 410.
Thus, the proximal
ends 502a and 410a of the knock-out retainer assembly 502 and knock-out 410
are generally
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flush. As a result, there is no equivalent space, or a minimal equivalent
space, in the knock-
out ram assembly 402 as the area 206 in the conventional knock-out ram
assembly 102.
Further, unlike the conventional ram system 100, there is no equivalent space
in the knock-out
ram assembly 402 as the area 208 in the knock-out ram assembly 102 because the
knock-out
retainer assembly 502 generally forms an interference fit with the knock-out
410 along an entire
length of the knock-out retainer assembly 502. Thus, the knock-out ram
assembly 402 has less
empty space around the knock-out 410 and the knock-out retainer assembly 502
despite the die
500 being substantially the same size as the die 200, and despite the
dimensions of the knock-
out ram assembly 402 being sized to handle the same size containers as the
conventional knock-
out ram assembly 102.
100581 The knock-out ram assembly 402 includes a conduit 510
through the knock-out ram
408 and a conduit 512 through the knock-out retainer assembly 502. The
combined conduits
510 and 512 pressurize the knock-out ram assembly 402 during use to retain a
container (not
shown). The lack of equivalent spaces in the knock-out ram assembly 402 as the
areas 206 and
208 in the conventional knock-out ram assembly 102 reduces the pressurization
requirements
during use of the knock-out ram assembly 402. The reduced requirements allow
large
containers to be processed within container processing machinery using the
knock-out ram
assembly 402 at speeds similar to speeds used for small containers, such as at
about 2400
containers per minute rather than about 1800 containers per minute.
100591 Still further, despite the reduced amount of empty space,
the weight of the knock-
out retainer assembly 502 is the same or even weight as the conventional knock-
out retainer
202. For example, the inventive knock-out retainer assembly 502 weighs about
0.37 kilograms
(kg) to about 0.46 kg, such as 0.40 kg. In contrast, the conventional knock-
out retainer 202
weighs about 0.45 kg. Thus, the bulk density of the knock-out retainer
assembly 502 assembly
is less than the bulk density of the conventional knock-out retainer 202. The
difference is
primarily based on the different materials used to form the knock-out retainer
assembly 502
versus the conventional knock-out retainer 202. For example, the knock-out
retainer 202 is
formed of metal, such as steel and, particularly, tool steel. In contrast, the
inventive knock-out
retainer assembly 502 is formed of multiple different materials to save
weight, as further
described below with respect to FIG. 9.
100601 Referring back to the knock-out ram 408, as described above,
the outer diameter
represented by the line 518 is smaller than the outer diameter of the
conventional knock-out
ram 108, represented by the line 118 in FIG. 2. As a result, the weight of the
knock-out ram
408 is less than the weight of the conventional knock-out ram 108, even if
both are made of
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the same material. For example, the weight of the knock-out ram 408 can be
about 2.3 kg. In
contrast, the weight of the conventional knock-out ram 108 can be about 4.6
kg.
100611 Referring to the push ram assembly 404, the outer diameters
of the push ram 414
and the conventional push ram 114 can be substantially similar. However, the
push ram 414
is substantially hollow beyond where the push plate 416 connects to the push
ram 414 along a
majority of the push ram 414 based on the presence of a hollow portion 514. In
contrast, and
referring back to FIG. 2, the conventional push ram 114 does not include an
equivalent hollow
portion and is instead substantially solid. The hollow portion 514 in the push
ram 414 allows
the push ram 414 to have a significant weight advantage as compared to the
conventional push
ram 114. For example, the weight of the push ram 414 can be about 3.5 kg to
about 4.8 kg. In
contrast, the weight of the conventional push ram 114 can be about 5.1 kg.
100621 Referring to FIG. 7, an exploded perspective view of the
knock-out ram assembly
402 is shown according to an embodiment of the present invention The knock-out
410 and
the knock-out retainer assembly 502 connect to the knock-out ram 408 at the
end 408a of the
knock-out ram 408. This connection arrangement allows the knock-out 410 and
the knock-out
retainer assembly 502 to move with the knock-out ram 408. The die 500 connects
to the
bushing 406 at the end 406a of the bushing 406. This connection arrangement
allows the die
500 to remain stationary with the bushing 406 as the knock-out ram 408
translates relative to
the bushing 406.
100631 FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the knock-out 410 of the
knock-out ram assembly
402 of FIG. 4, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Specifically, the knock-
out 410 includes the annular groove 418 that reduces the overall weight of the
knock-out 410
by removing unnecessary material. The wall thickness of the knock-out 410 can
be about 6
mm. By being able to be made from other materials than tool steel, such as
ceramic, the knock-
out 410 can also be less expensive to manufacture.
100641 FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view of the knock-out
retainer assembly 502 of
the knock-out ram assembly 402 of FIG. 4, according to an embodiment of the
present
invention. The knock-out retainer assembly 502 includes a retainer 900, a bias
spring 902, a
filler body 904, and a retaining ring 906. The retaining ring 906 maintains
the filler body 904
on the retainer 900. The bias spring 902 maintains the filler body 904 biased
under tension on
the retainer 900. The retainer 900 maintains the knock-out retainer assembly
502 connected to
the knock-out ram 408 by the threaded portion 908 engaging with the knock-out
ram 408. The
threaded portion 908 is configured to outwardly engage a corresponding
threaded portion 516
the knock-out ram 408 (FIG. 5). This differs from the knock-out retainer 202
of the knock-out
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ram assembly 402, in which the conventional knock-out retainer 202 includes
the inwardly
facing threaded portion 214 configured to engage the outwardly facing
corresponding threaded
portion 216 of the knock-out ram 108.
100651 The retainer 900 includes a nozzle 910 through which the
conduit 512 (FIG. 5)
extends. The nozzle 910 is tapered to reduce the amount of material needed to
form the nozzle
910, which reduces the weight of the retainer 900, as described below. The
filler body 904 has
a complementary taper (FIG. 5) where the filler body 904 abuts the retainer
900.
100661 The retainer 900 can be formed of metal, such as steel and,
particularly, tool steel.
In contrast, the primary role of the filler body 904 is to occupy space so
that less space must be
pressurized during use of the knock-out ram assembly 402. Accordingly, the
filler body 904
can be formed of a material that is lighter than steel, such as a polymer. In
one or more
embodiments, the material can be Nylon, Delrin, acrylonitrile butadiene
styrene (ABS),
polypropylene, and the like Thus, despite its overall size, the filler body
904 can weigh about
0.1 kg to about 0.2 kg, depending on the size of the corresponding necking
stages associated
with the filler body 904. The retainer 900 can weigh about 0.19 kg.
100671 Based on the foregoing differences in weight, relocation of
weight, and reduced
empty space, the ram system of the present invention can handle large
containers at speeds
traditionally reserved for small containers within container processing
machinery. For
example, where conventional container processing machinery must run at about
1800
containers per minute as a result of the increased size of the containers of
the included
conventional ram systems, container processing machinery with the ram system
of the present
invention can instead run at about 2400 containers per minute or even higher.
The increased
speeds result in increased economics of the container processing machinery
because the
container processing machinery can produce more containers for a given amount
of time than
the conventional processing machinery. The container processing machinery of
the present
invention can also meet a customer's demands with fewer machines and/or
container lines.
100681 Each of these embodiments and obvious variations thereof are
contemplated as
falling within the spirit and scope of the claimed invention, which is set
forth in the following
claims. Moreover, the present concepts expressly include any and all
combinations and sub-
combinations of the preceding elements and aspects.
100691 As utilized herein, the terms "approximately," "about,"
"substantially",
"generally-, and similar terms are intended to have a broad meaning in harmony
with the
common and accepted usage by those of ordinary skill in the art to which the
subject matter of
this disclosure pertains. It should be understood by those of skill in the art
who review this
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disclosure that these terms are intended to allow a description of certain
features described and
claimed without restricting the scope of these features to the precise
numerical ranges provided.
Accordingly, these terms should be interpreted as indicating that
insubstantial or
inconsequential modifications or alterations of the subject matter described
and claimed are
considered to be within the scope of the invention as recited in the appended
claims.
100701 It should be noted that the terms -exemplary" and "example-
as used herein to
describe various embodiments are intended to indicate that such embodiments
are possible
examples, representations, and/or illustrations of possible embodiments (and
such terms are
not intended to connote that such embodiments are necessarily extraordinary or
superlative
examples).
100711 Any references herein to the positions of elements (e.g.,
"top," "bottom," "above,"
"below," etc.) are merely used to describe the orientation of various elements
in the Figures
It should be noted that the orientation of various elements may differ
according to other
exemplary embodiments, and that such variations are intended to be encompassed
by the
present disclosure.
100721 Although only a few embodiments have been described in
detail in this disclosure,
those skilled in the art who review this disclosure will readily appreciate
that many
modifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures,
shapes and
proportions of the various elements, values of parameters, mounting
arrangements, use of
materials, colors, orientations, etc.) without materially departing from the
novel teachings and
advantages of the subject matter described herein. For example, elements shown
as integrally
formed may be constructed of multiple parts or elements, the position of
elements may be
reversed or otherwise varied, and the nature or number of discrete elements or
positions may
be altered or varied. The order or sequence of any process or method steps may
be varied or
re-sequenced according to alternative embodiments. Other substitutions,
modifications,
changes, and omissions may also be made in the design, operating conditions,
and arrangement
of the various exemplary embodiments without departing from the scope of the
present
invention
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