Patent ID: 9511534
Filing Date: 2016-12-06
CPC Classification: B29C

Claim Text:
1. A thermoforming machine load shaft length adjustment apparatus, comprising: a load shaft having a threaded segment, the load shaft configured to engage between a pair of thermoforming platens of a thermoforming machine and carry forming loads between the pair of platens during a thermoforming operation; a structural support provided on the load shaft proximate the threaded segment; a length adjustment nut threaded onto the threaded segment of the load shaft proximate the structural support and movable to effect length adjustment of the load shaft as engaged between the pair of platens; a collar mounted onto a platen of the thermoforming machine and configured to receive the length adjustment nut for relative rotation; and at least one fastener extending between the structural support and the collar and configured to secure together the structural support and the collar with the length adjustment nut interposed there between and engaged in threaded relationship to impart a preload that urges the height adjustment nut against the collar that is greater than a load received by the load shaft as thermoforming pressure is applied between the platens.