Patent Publication Number: US-2013241222-A1

Title: Take out jaws with seated componentry

Description:
PRIORITY CLAIM 
     The present application is a National Phase entry of PCT Application No. PCT/US2011/052199, filed Sep. 19, 2011, which claims priority from U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/384,125, filed Sep. 17, 2010, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/384,099, filed Sep. 17, 2010, the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein in their entirety. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates in general to glassmaking and, in particular, to an improved system, method, apparatus, and components relating to tong assemblies used in transferring hot glass bottles and like articles during the glass article manufacturing process. More particularly, the invention relates to tong assemblies with replaceable components such as inserts for grasping the glass articles. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Glass manufacturing has been around for centuries and has been and continues to be an important aspect of the world economy. In recent years, glass manufacturing has been overshadowed by the use plastics and other alternative materials in many product packaging and distribution markets. However, as concerns over the environment have increased, glass manufacturing has again been brought into the spotlight due to the recycling capacity of glass and the use of “natural” material. Glass requires a lower amount of embodied energy to produce, re-melts at a lower temperature and reduces landfill and water contamination when recycled properly. However, while glass may be more earth-friendly, the production of glass still suffers from production-line downtime and maintenance issues, sterility issues, and quality of glass, and strength of glass issues often due to the extreme age of the glass manufacturing equipment. Moreover, margins are very thin exacerbating issues associated with equipment down time and quality control. 
     Hot glass, especially when formed into various shapes in the manufacture of glass containers (e.g., bottles), is susceptible to being damaged by contact with glass processing equipment that is made of materials that have high conductivity properties such as metal. Metals engaged with near molten glass conduct heat away from the glass, causing uneven cooling, thus affecting the chemical bonds and resultant structure and strength of the glass formed in the molds. Thus, in various areas of the hot end processing of glass bottles, jars, and the like, it has been found desirable to utilize non-metallic materials such as graphite, asbestos, plastics or carbon fibers for engagement of just molded glass articles. 
     Conventionally, referring to  FIGS. 28-31 , tong assemblies  30  each with cooperating pairs of takeout jaw assemblies  32  are used to lift hot, newly formed bottles  34  or other articles from the mold in which they are formed and move them and release them on an air pad for cooling before being conveyed to an annealing furnace. Cooperating tongs  35  utilize non-metallic inserts  36  retained in takeout jaws  38 . The non metallic inserts reduce the scratching or checking by contact with the hot formed bottles. While takeout jaws utilize graphite inserts to contact the bottles in many installations, the takeout jaw members may still break from the forces associated with the continual opening and closing of the takeout mechanism, the continual grasping of the glass articles and the conveyance of the glass articles. Conventional takeout jaws require frequent replacement of parts that become worn out due to this routine use in the glass article/bottle-forming process. 
     In conventional takeout jaws, the inserts are often received in receivers  38  on the takeout jaws that capture the top, bottom, lateral sides, and back side of the inserts, see  FIGS. 20-23 . The inserts are inserted into the receiving in a direction opposite to the grasping motion of the tongs, in the z direction as illustrated in  FIG. 20 . The inserts are inserted in a rearward horizontal direction and removed in a forward horizontal direction. The inserts are typically then held within the receivers by steel detent balls, or resistive curled springs  39  which are affixed to the takeout jaw via a screw  40 . The receiver is configured as an arcuate channel with an upper wall  41 , a lower wall  42 , a back wall  44 , and lateral walls  45 ,  46 . The forces conveyed on the insert by the grasping, lifting, and conveyance of the glass articles are transferred to the takeout jaws and tongs by way of the engagement of the insert in the insert receiver and are transferred almost exclusively by surface to surface contact at the walls  41 ,  42 ,  44 ,  45 ,  46 , specifically the horizontal surfaces and vertical surfaces. Notably the insert is constrained upwardly by upper wall  41 . 
     The detent balls may fail due to wear and fouling caused by the accumulation of grease, oil, and other foreign matter. Failure may occurs when the detent balls fail to descend into the takeout jaw aperture thereby permitting the insert to fall out, causing loss of the insert and potential damage to the newly formed glass bottles. In addition, the resistive springs often times lose their effectiveness over time, due to the grease, oil and foreign matter, as well as to the loss of retaining capacity due to the extreme temperature differential and the repeated bending of the resistive spring member. Thus, as the take out jaw is used in the manufacturing process, where the resistive spring is unable to retain the insert in the takeout jaw aperture, failure of the tong-insert engagement occurs and production is interrupted. A further issue is the loss of the retaining screw that retains the resistive spring member in operational contact with the takeout jaw and insert by the screw coming loose or if the screw otherwise fails or breaks. Such failure can result in the screw or parts getting into the glass assembly line machinery requiring stoppage and/or causing damage. In addition, where the screw fails, the threaded portion of the screw may be retained in the takeout jaw thus requiring the takeout jaw itself to be replaced which can be costly and time consuming. Moreover, any failed components have the possibility of ending up in the bottles or glass articles being manufactured. 
     Further, while prior designs of takeout jaws attempted to provide a single design that could handle both “floating” (some movement in the insert allowed) and “fixed” (no movement in insert allowed) the designs still result in significant downtime due to their complexity and the number of parts, which may include the detent balls, resistive spring with screw or a combination of both. Thus, while prior designs may allow use of a single takeout jaw design with variable insert widths in situations where a fixed or floating takeout jaw is required, current designs are insufficient in providing enough manufacturing “uptime” and takeout jaw reliability. Over time the inserts in current takeout jaw may still produce wear on the detent balls and retaining springs thus allowing inserts to disengage during glass article manufacturing and be lost. 
     Takeout jaws typically require custom machining due to their relatively low volume of production, special materials, and specific application. Thus, the reliability of the takeout jaw is of the utmost importance. The longer the wear on the takeout jaw assembly, the better, as custom machined takeout jaws can be expensive and may further increase downtime if the wear is not anticipated. 
     If a takeout jaw tong assembly loses function, the glass assembly line has to be shut down, deeply cutting into the line&#39;s production, thus affecting margins. Any means for expediting replacement of worn or damaged components can minimize the down time. 
     Due to at least the issues presented above, a need exists for a takeout jaw that is reliable, light weight, able to be utilized in both fixed and float assembly lines, low-cost, easily machined, easily serviceable and simple to maintain. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     In an embodiment of the invention, a tong assembly for handling glass articles such as bottles, jars, and the like during the manufacture of same, has a pair of jaws that utilizes replaceable matched pairs of components that vertically seat and are captured on features on the pair of tongs in an interlocking, gravity seated engagement and that may be replaced by lifting the components vertically out of their interlocking engagement, horizontally unengaging the components, then removing them and replacing same by lowering the replacement components into the interlocking engagement whereby the replacement components are then captured. The matched pair of components are movable toward and away from one another as the tongs are closed and opened for grasping and releasing the upper portions of glass articles such as bottles and jars. 
     In an embodiment of the invention, utilizing the x-y-z coordinate axis, a pair of tongs are suspended downwardly, in the y direction, and close and open in the z direction. Each of the takeout jaws, also known as an insert holder, has a base for receiving inserts and tong attachment portions extending upwardly in the y direction. Matching pairs of components may be attached to the insert holders by vertically lowering them into position and providing component to insert holder constraint to fix the location in the x-z plane, to provide an upwardly facing constraint (which precludes downward motion by the component) in they direction by gravitational seating by the component on and in the insert holder. The constraints that fix the location in the x-z plane provide vertical or upright face to face engagement in at least two upright and transverse planes which limits any rotation about a horizontal axis. Such vertical face to face engagement may be provided in the x-y plane restricting movement of the component in the z direction and in the y-z plane limiting movement in the x direction. A range of rotational movement about an axis extending in the z direction may be permitted in certain embodiments, for example, less than 2 degrees, or less than 4 degrees, or less than 6 degrees, or less than 10 degrees. Such may be provided by one or a pair of curved upward constraints with each curvature extending about an axis in the z direction. 
     In an embodiment of the invention, a pair of face to face engagements between the component to be seated and the insert holder are present in the x-y plane, another pair of face to face engagements are present in the z-x plane and another pair of face to face engagements in the y-z plane. Each pair of engagements has the component engaging face and the insert component face oriented in opposite directions thereby providing precluding any relative motion between the component and insert holder in a direction transverse to the plane. The face to face engagement between the component and insert holder with the insert holder engagement face oriented upwardly provides a seating surface for the component. 
     In an embodiment of the invention, a tong assembly for handling glass articles such as bottles, jars, and the like during the manufacture of same, utilizes replaceable glass engaging components passively interlocked in place on a pair of takeout jaws by cooperating constraining and constrained surfaces, the glass engaging components being removable and replaceable by vertically raising the components to unseat same and lowering new components into engagement with the takeout jaws. The tong assembly may comprise a pair of cooperating jaws, each jaw comprised of a tong bracket, a takeout jaw attached to the bracket, and a removable and replaceable insert for engagement with the glass article. Said insert being one of a pair with a cooperating insert on the cooperating takeout jaw whereby the two cooperating inserts grasp an upper outer circumferential surface of the glass article, such as a bottle. Each of the inserts having an inner or front portion configured as a article interface-grasping portion and a rear interlocking portion configured for interfacing and interlocking with the takeout jaw at an interface portion of the takeout jaw. The insert at said interlocking portion seatable vertically with the insert interface portion of the takeout jaw by lowering the insert into an interlocking engagement. Said interlocking engagement providing bottom, lateral, forward, backward, and rotational constraints. The insert may be secured in place solely by gravity and substantially constrained against any movement with respect to the takeout jaw except a vertical takeout movement and then a horizontal movement to release the insert from the interlocking engagement. 
     In particular embodiments, the face to face engagements may be formed with curved faces rather than planar faces. Such cooperating curved surfaces then can avoid cooperating pairs of planar faces to provide appropriate constraints to allow the insert to be removable upwardly but otherwise secured in position. 
     In an embodiment, the interlocking portion comprises forwardly, inwardly and rearwardly outwardly facing vertical planar surfaces, as well as lateral vertical planar surfaces, all of which confront cooperating planar surfaces on the takeout jaw. Said planar surfaces extending the vertical thickness or substantially the vertical thickness of the insert. The insert is secured within or about the takeout jaw by said confronting surfaces. Said confronting surfaces providing a fixed seating of the insert with respect to the takeout jaw. Unseating accomplished by a straight upward motion, without rotational components and a further horizontal motion may then completely remove the insert from the takeout jaw. In certain embodiments of the invention, there are no detents, mechanical attachments brackets or physical barriers to removal of the insert, that is, the unseating of the insert, other than overcoming the minor gravitational pull effecting the seating and providing a force and motion in the proper direction for unseating and another force and motion in a second direction for removing the insert. 
     A feature and advantage of the invention is that the applicants have recognized that the normal forces associated with grasping, lifting, conveying, and releasing glass articles, such as bottles and jars, do not impart a distinct vertical force to the insert and therefore a downward constraint on the insert with respect to its engagement with the takeout jaw is not needed and in fact the lack of such constraint is utilized for unseating, removing, and replacing inserts in the takeout jaws. 
     A feature and advantage of embodiments of the invention is that worn or damaged inserts may be removed by lifting the insert up vertically to unseat the insert, without a rotational component, and said insert may be replaced by positioning the new insert over the takeout jaw insert seat and then by the new lowering vertically the replacement insert, again, with no rotation component. 
     A feature and advantage of embodiments of the invention is that no fasteners or brackets or other parts are utilized in retaining the inserts within the takeout jaw and all features that provide the interlocking and retention are part of the insert and the takeout jaw. 
     A feature and advantage of embodiments of the invention is that a quick and simple replacement of inserts may be accomplished required fewer steps and/or effort than known replacement methods. 
     A feature and advantage of embodiments of the invention is that there is no or minimal risk of components, screws, or brackets being dropped or falling into the equipment or glass articles as compared to the prior art. 
     In an embodiment of the invention, the confronting constraining and constrained surfaces may have curvature. Said curvature may be complex and may be on vertical surfaces, surfaces angled from vertical, horizontal surfaces, on horizontal surfaces. Such curvatures may be partial frusto-conical, partial frusto-spherical, partial frusto-bowl shaped, or combinations of these. The takeout jaw will have surfaces that confront these shapes and will, in embodiments, such surfaces of the insert may be concave and the corresponding cooperating and confronting surfaces of the takeout jaw will be convex. 
     A feature and embodiment of the invention is that multiple cooperating coextensive engagement surfaces minimize stresses on the components minimizing breakage and failures. 
     In an embodiment of the invention, the insert of the takeout jaw assembly has an I-shaped portion with the middle portion of the “I” resting on a bottom seating surface of the takeout jaw with the upper legs and lower legs of the “I” restricting any movement between the insert and takeout jaw other than a vertical removal motion. 
     In an embodiment of the invention, the insert of the takeout jaw assembly has a pair of C-shaped cutouts on the lateral sides of each insert, the surfaces that define the C-shaped cutout confronting vertical cooperating portions of the takeout jaw. The C-shaped cutout portions positioned at or adjacent to an outer portion of the insert that is opposite the inner portion having the grasping, in proximity to the side. The C-shaped cutout portions can face inwardly or outwardly. When facing outwardly the insert may seat within an aperture of the takeout jaw. When the C-shaped cutout portions are facing inwardly, they may wrap around the body of the takeout jaw. 
     In an embodiment of the invention the insert has a T-shaped portion extending and at the side opposite the article grasping side, the T-shaped portion insertable into an aperture in the takeout jaw, said aperture configured to receive the lower leg of the T with the upper two legs positioned on one side of the takeout jaw and the article grasping portion on the opposite side. 
     In an embodiment of the invention the insert is engaged with the takeout jaw such that it cantilevers out from the takeout jaw towards the cooperating insert on the cooperating takeout jaw. 
     In an embodiment of the invention, respective interlocking portions of the takeout jaws and inserts may be utilized for removable attaching protective covers. In that the covers do not engage the hot glass, they may be of metal. The cover may have a takeout jaw interface portion with a substantially rectangular aperture for placement over the takeout jaw bracket attachment portion to rest on shoulders configured in the body portion of the takeout jaw. 
     In an embodiment of the invention, the interlocking engagement between the takeout jaw and inert can be configured to provide a certain amount of float as desired. The float can be in the form of a partial capability of the insert to partially rotate about one or more axis, or the float can be a capability of the inert to move in an upward direction. 
     A feature and advantage of the invention is that the applicants have recognized that the normal forces associated with grasping, lifting, conveying, and releasing glass articles, such as bottles and jars, do not impart a distinct vertical force to the insert and therefore a downward constraint on the insert with respect to its engagement with the takeout jaw is not needed and in fact the lack of such constraint is utilized for unseating, removing, and replacing inserts in the takeout jaws as well as adding considerable simplicity to the attachment and retention features associated with inert holders and inserts. 
     In an embodiment, an insert is retained in a takeout jaw by utilizing a novel tooth and notch system. This system functions similarly to previous embodiments; however, the insert must be rotated prior being inserted into a slot in the takeout jaw. Once inserted, the insert is rotated back to a substantially horizontal position, and a tooth towards the outside of the insert engages a notch towards the outside of the slot in the takeout jaw. Notably, the insert is effectively cantilevered from the takeout jaw, so that the weight of the insert and the weight of a glass object held by the insert, if present, applies a moment on the insert, thereby pressing the insert tooth portion into the notch, securing the insert to the takeout jaw. Z-direction movement is also constrained; a vertical notch member abuts insert hook portion which prevents inward z-direction movement, and the insert shoulder abuts takeout jaw inner surface which prevents outward z-direction movement. 
     In an embodiment of the invention an insert holder assembly for a pair of tongs utilizes one or more arcuate spring clips with attachment tabs. The spring clips removably secure inserts in an insert receiving slot of an insert holder. The arcuate spring clips utilize a spring clip interface portion such as pairs of holes on each side of the insert holders. The holes are suitably spaced and the spring configured to require the respective spring to be flexed, such as compressed inwardly to allow the tabs to be inserted in the holes. The tension in the respective spring is released after the tabs are extending through the holes, thereby capturing the spring securing the spring in place. The arcuate shape of the spring at the midportion of the spring extends into the insert slot providing an interference with inserts that are received by the slot. A cutaway or arcuate recess positioned on the side of the inserts cooperates with the arcuate spring when the insert is fully received in the insert holder such that the insert is secured in place. Opposing spring clips on opposite sides of the insert holder slot may cooperate to further enhance the retention of the insert within the slot. 
     A feature and advantage of embodiments of the invention are the very limited number of parts that comprise the takeout jaw assembly, no supplemental fasteners are utilized for the insert retention mechanism. 
     A feature and advantage of embodiments of the invention is that the spring resiliency of the spring clips provides for the entrapment of the spring clip to the insert holder, that is the retention of the spring clip in the insert holder without an insert therein, as well as providing resiliency for retention of the inserts when installed in the insert holder. 
     A feature and advantage of certain embodiments of the invention in which the arcuate spring clips have tabs arranged to extend outwardly, when said spring clips are seated in the insert holder, and when an insert is being inserted therein, the arcuate spring extends, that is, the arcuate shape flattens, whereby the tabs are urged outwardly, in the direction opposite to the direction needed to release the spring from the insert holder. This effectively locks the spring clips in place when they are being utilized for retention of the inserts. That is, the flexing of the spring clips upon installation of an insert extends the spring clip lengthwise which is opposite to the compression needed to remove the spring clips from the retention holes in the insert holder. 
     A feature and advantage of the invention is that the strength of the retention of the insert within the insert holder, as well as the rigidity of the insert with respect to the insert holder can be adjusted by utilizing different spring clips with slightly different dimensions and characteristics, specifically spring force. 
     The takeout jaw assemblies address issues presented by current and prior art takeout jaws discussed in the BACKGROUND. The interior spring takeout holder takeout jaw assembly may be lighter than conventional takeout jaws, is able to be utilized in nearly any assembly line, is easily machined and producible in small quantities, is easily serviceable, is of relatively low cost, is a simple form, and requires no external fasteners, or retaining balls. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of a tong assembly according to an embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG. 2  is a perspective view of a takeout jaw assembly according to one embodiment; 
         FIG. 3  is an exploded perspective view of the takeout jaw assembly of  FIG. 2 ; 
         FIG. 4   a  is a perspective view of an insert form before halving, according to one embodiment; 
         FIG. 4   b  is a perspective view of the opposite side of the insert form of  FIG. 4   a;    
         FIG. 5  is a plan view of cooperating inserts in association with their respective takeout jaws in partial section; 
         FIG. 6  is a plan view of cooperating takeout jaw assemblies including inserts and protective covers; 
         FIG. 7   a  is a side elevational view and partial sectional view (taken at line  7 - 7  of  FIG. 5 ) of cooperating takeout jaw assemblies of  FIG. 6 ; 
         FIG. 7   b  is a side elevational view and partial sectional view (taken at line  7 - 7  of  FIG. 5 ) of cooperating takeout jaw assemblies utilizing the dual thickness inserts as illustrate in the forms of  FIGS. 4   a  and  4   b;    
         FIG. 8   a  is a perspective view of a takeout jaw in which the insert may be attached externally according to an embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG. 8   b  is a front elevational view of the takeout jaw of  FIG. 8   a;    
         FIG. 9  is a top plan view of the takeout jaw of  FIGS. 7 and 8 ; 
         FIG. 10  is a perspective side view of cooperating inserts suitable for the takeout jaw of  FIGS. 7 ,  8 , and  9 ; 
         FIG. 11  is a cross sectional view taken at the line  11 - 11  of  FIG. 10 ; 
         FIG. 12  is a perspective view of a pair of cooperating takeout jaws with an externally attached insert and protective cover attached to one jaw and the insert and protective cover shown in an exploded view with respect to the other jaw; 
         FIG. 13  is a perspective view of cooperating takeout jaw assemblies; 
         FIG. 14  is a side elevational view of the takeout jaw assemblies of  FIG. 13 ; 
         FIG. 15   a  is an exploded perspective view of protective covers and takeout jaws; 
         FIG. 15   b  is a perspective view of the protective covers and takeout jaws of  FIG. 15   a  in engagement; 
         FIG. 16   a  is a perspective view of a protective cover and takeout jaw according to an embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG. 16   b  is a perspective view of the protective cover and takeout jaw of  FIG. 16   a  assembled; 
         FIG. 17  is a side view of a the takeout jaw assemblies of  FIG. 16 ; 
         FIG. 18  is a top plan view of the takeout jaw assemblies of  FIG. 16 ; 
         FIG. 19  is a perspective view of an insert in accord with an embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG. 20  is a perspective view of a takeout jaw with the insert of  FIG. 19  seated on and attached thereto by an interlocking arrangement; 
         FIG. 21  is a rear perspective view of the assembly of  FIG. 20 ; 
         FIG. 22  is a plan view of assembly of  FIGS. 20 and 21 ; 
         FIG. 23  is an exploded perspective view of an insert holder and insert in accord with embodiments of the invention; 
         FIG. 24  is the insert and takeout jaw of  FIG. 23  assembled with the insert seated and interlocked with the insert holder; 
         FIG. 25  is a front elevational view of the takeout jaw assembly of  FIG. 24 ; 
         FIG. 26  is the front elevational view as in  FIG. 25  but with the insert showing partial rotation about a horizontal axis; 
         FIG. 27  is a plan view of the assembly of  FIG. 24 ; 
         FIG. 28  is a PRIOR ART pictorial view of the takeout area of a bottle-making machine showing takeout jaws in position over recently molded glass bottles; 
         FIG. 29  is a perspective view of a PRIOR ART takeout jaw and insert; 
         FIG. 30  is a cross-sectional view of the PRIOR ART insert of  FIG. 29  being inserted into the receiver of the takeout jaw; 
         FIG. 31  is a cross-sectional view of the PRIOR ART insert of  FIG. 29  fully inserted and retained by a spring clip; 
         FIG. 32  is perspective view of a takeout jaw and insert assembly in accord with an embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG. 33  is an exploded view of the assembly of  FIG. 32 ; 
         FIG. 34  is a cross-sectional view of the assembly of  FIG. 32 , taken along plane  34  as shown in  FIG. 32 ; 
         FIG. 35   a  is a detail view of the cross-sectional view of  FIG. 34 , illustrating an insert partially installed into a takeout jaw, in accord with an embodiment of the invention; and 
         FIG. 35   b  is a detail view of the cross-sectional view of  FIG. 35 , illustrating an insert fully installed into a takeout jaw, in accord with an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 36  is a perspective view of the takeout area of a bottle-making machine showing takeout jaws in position over recently formed glass bottles according to an embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG. 37  is a perspective side view of a tong set with interior spring takeout holder assemblies according to an embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG. 38  is a perspective side view of an insert holder with an insert in place according to an embodiment of the invention, the view from the opposite side being a mirror image thereto; 
         FIG. 39  is a front elevational view of an insert holder according to an embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG. 40  is an exploded perspective view showing an insert holder and pair of arcuate spring clips with engagement tabs according to an embodiment of the invention, the view from the opposite side being a mirror image thereto; 
         FIG. 41  is an exploded perspective view showing an insert holder and insert according to an embodiment of the invention, the view from the adjacent front corner being a mirror image thereto; the view from the bottom side of the insert being identical to the view from the top side; 
         FIG. 42  is an elevational view of the back of the insert holder of  FIGS. 5 ,  6 , and  7 ; 
         FIG. 43  is a cross sectional view of the insert holder of  FIG. 4  taken at line  8 - 8  with a single spring in place; 
         FIG. 44  is the cross sectional view of  FIG. 8  with two spring clips and an insert in place; 
         FIG. 45  is a perspective view of an arcuate spring with engagement tabs according to an embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG. 46  is a front elevational view of an insert in accord with the invention herein; 
         FIG. 47  is a perspective view of an insert holder in accord with the invention herein; and 
         FIG. 48  is a perspective view of a further embodiment of an insert holder in accord with the invention herein. 
         FIG. 49  is a perspective view of a further embodiment of an insert holder and insert in accord with the invention herein. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS 
     Embodiments of the tongs and takeout jaw assemblies of the present invention address the issues presented by prior art takeout jaws presented above. The takeout jaw assemblies of the inventions herein are light weight, are readily utilized in most exiting bottle production lines, are readily machined, are easily producible in small quantities, provide easily serviceability, are relatively low cost and are of a simple form. 
       FIG. 1  illustrates a tong assembly  52  with takeout jaw assemblies  56  in accord with embodiments of the invention suitable for use in bottling apparatuses such as that shown in  FIG. 28 . The takeout jaw assemblies  56  each include a takeout jaw  58 , an insert  62 , and a protective cover  66 . The takeout jaws  58  attach to brackets  68  and may interface with hot glass bottles  34  or other glass articles which have been removed by tong assembly  52  from a hot glass mold. The tong assembly  52  conveys the hot glass bottles  34  or articles to cooling regions and/or a conveyor for transfer to an annealing furnace or other process used to further refine the cooled glass bottles  34  or articles. 
     In  FIGS. 2 and 3 , a single takeout jaw  58  and cooperating insert  62  is illustrated. Takeout jaw  58  may be milled, forged or stamped of metals such as steel, iron, aluminum, bronze and alloys of same. Takeout jaw  58  has a takeout jaw insert interlock or interface portion  72  and a tong assembly interface portion  74  for attachment to the tong bracket  68 . The takeout jaw insert interface portion  72  has an opening  76  in its center, which may be “T” shaped, and may include upper receiving slot  88  and lower seating slot  94 . The opening  76  may further include a plurality of substantially circular corner openings  78  to minimize manufacturing tolerance issues and aid in easy assembly of the components. In addition, the opening  76  may allow for a maintenance worker to quickly change inserts, due to the absence of any detents, clips or other modes of maintaining a configuration. In many embodiments, interface portion  72  is configured to utilize only gravity to maintain engagement between the takeout jaw insert  62  and the takeout jaw  58 . Takeout jaw  58  may further include a shoulder  82  for retaining a protective cover; see discussion relating to  FIGS. 15-18 , below. 
     In  FIGS. 2-5 , key features of insert  62  are illustrated. A form  140  with two thicknesses  142 ,  144 , is cut along center line  141  to form corresponding inserts  62   a  and  62   b . Inserts  62   a  and  62   b , respectively, comprise body portion  92  of thickness  142 , and interface portion  90  of thickness  144 . Because the moment exerted on takeout jaw  58  by the weight of the bottle  34  that is grasped by insert  62  is supported by both the back face  122  and by the front interface portion  72  of takeout jaw  58 , thickness  144  of insert interface portion  90  can be less thick than thickness  142  of insert body portion  92 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 2 ,  3 ,  5 , and  7   a , the details of the interlocking relationships between takeout jaws  58  and inserts  62  are illustrated. Interlocking portion  72  of takeout jaw  58  has an insert receiving slot  88  into which the interlocking portion  90  of insert  62  may be horizontally inserted. The interlocking portion  90  may appropriately be T-shaped and projecting from the body portion  92  of the insert  62 . The receiving slot  88  of the takeout jaw  58  is sized to allow the insert interlocking portion  90  to pass therethrough. The receiving slot  88  may also have a seating slot  94  that is sized to cooperate with the lower leg of the T, that is, the neck portion  96  of the insert. The seating slot  94  is defined by a horizontal seating surface  98  that confronts the lower surface  97  of the insert and by vertical surfaces  104 ,  106 . The vertical surfaces  104 ,  106  may be planar and confront the vertical surfaces  108 ,  110  of the insert neck portion  96 . The forward facing vertical surfaces  114 ,  116  of the arms of the “T” of insert  62  confront the rearwardly or outwardly facing surface  120  of the back side  122  of the takeout jaw. Similarly, the rearwardly or outwardly facing vertical surfaces  126 ,  128  of the T of insert  62  confront and engage the vertical surfaces  132 ,  136  of the takeout jaw body adjacent the opening  76  of takeout jaw interface portion  72 . Along with the seating of the neck  96  on the horizontal seating surface  98 , the forward-backward confrontation and engagement of the vertical surfaces is the primary structural support providing resistance to the force provided by the weight of the bottles  34  when grasped by the inserts  62 . The grasping and support of the bottles  34  provides both a compression and a moment at the engagements between the inserts  62  and takeout jaws  58 . Notably these forces are lateral, downward, or in the form of a moment and the interlocking engagement and seating engagement effectively resist these forces. The forces do not normally impart a pure upward force that would unseat the insert  62  from the takeout jaws  58 . 
     In maintenance, an operator may insert a takeout jaw insert  62  by simply directing the takeout jaw interface portion  90  into the upper insert receiving portion  88  of the takeout jaw opening  76  and then dropping the takeout jaw insert  62  into the lower interlocking portion  90  of the takeout jaw opening  76 . Thus, the operator need not utilize a significant amount of force in inserting takeout jaw inserts  62 . Similarly, in removing the takeout jaw insert  62 , an operator need only lift the takeout jaw insert  62  from the lower interlocking portion  90  of the takeout jaw opening  76  to the upper receiving portion  88  of the opening  76  and slide the takeout jaw insert  62  clear. As such, the takeout jaw insert  62  requires minimal effort in insert and removal while utilizing force such as gravity and friction to retain the takeout jaw insert  62  in tight configuration with the takeout jaw  58 . 
     Now referring to  FIGS. 8   a - 14 , an alternate embodiment of the cooperating takeout jaw assemblies  175  are depicted. In this embodiment, each takeout jaw  180  has a takeout jaw insert interface portion  182  that is offset rearwardly in an outward direction by a horizontally extending midportion  187 , thereby increasing clearance between opposing interface portions of a set of jaws  180  as part of a tong assembly  175 . This allows for takeout jaws  180  to accommodate jars, or glass articles with large openings. The takeout jaw  180  may still be milled from a metal or metal alloy such as steel, iron, aluminum, bronze or the like. The takeout jaw insert interfaces  182  may include a slight bevel  184  and may have a plurality of insert seats  186 . The beveled edges  184  and seats  186  act to allow for more efficient insert installation and maintenance. 
       FIGS. 12-14  depict a cover system  190  for takeout jaws  180  according to another embodiment. In this embodiment, the cover system  190  interfaces with the horizontally extended portion  187  of the takeout jaw  190  and comprises a cover  193 . The takeout jaw cover system  190  may utilize forces such as gravity, friction, and constraining surfaces to secure itself to the takeout jaw  180 . The cover system  190  of this embodiment provides protection from grease, oil, and other foreign matter as well as acting as a tong assembly stop if needed. In various embodiments the cover system  190  is not permanently affixed to the takeout jaw  180 , which allows the covers  193  to be removed or replaced. In this way, the cover system  190  may protect the molded glass from debris and can be readily replaced in a situation where cover  193  is damaged. 
       FIGS. 10 and 11  depict an alternate embodiment of a takeout jaw insert  196  suitable for the takeout jaw  180  of  FIGS. 8   a  and  8   b . As mentioned above, the takeout jaw insert  196  may be formed of a non-conductive, yet strong, insulating material such as graphite. The takeout jaw insert  196  may have a takeout jaw interface portion  197  and a molded glass interface portion  188 . The takeout jaw interface portion  197  may be substantially rectangular or may be substantially “C” shaped. The takeout jaw interface portion  197  may have opened corners  198  on the interior corners of the “C” so as to allow increased tolerance in maneuvering and aligning the takeout jaw insert  196  for interface with the takeout jaw  180 . Further the takeout jaw interface portion  197  may have a plurality of takeout jaw retaining portions  195  that interface with the takeout jaw  180  and secure the takeout jaw insert  196  utilizing force such as friction and/or gravity. The takeout jaw insert  196  may have a plurality of takeout openings  199 . These openings  199  may reduce the weight of the takeout jaw insert  196 . 
     In maintenance, an operator may insert a takeout jaw insert  196  by simply directing the takeout jaw interface portion  197  over the takeout jaw insert interface portion  182  and then dropping the takeout jaw insert  196  into the lower portion of the takeout jaw insert interface portion  182  to the takeout jaw insert interface seat  186 . Thus, the operator need not utilize a significant amount of force in inserting takeout jaw inserts  196 . Similarly, in removing the takeout jaw inserts  196 , an operator need only lift the takeout jaw insert  196  from the takeout jaw interface seat  186  above the takeout jaw insert interface portion  182  and slide the takeout jaw insert  196  clear. As such, the takeout jaw insert  196  requires minimal effort in insert and removal while utilizing force such as gravity and friction to retain the takeout jaw insert  196  in tight configuration with the takeout jaw  180 . 
     Further, the takeout jaw insert  196  as illustrated has substantially semi-circular molded glass contact edges  188 . The molded glass contact edges  188  may have threaded contact edges, or may be ridged contact edges as depicted in  FIG. 10 . In various embodiments the molded glass contact edge  188  profile design may be altered in order to accommodate various different molded glass designs. In this way, the takeout jaw  180  may be utilized in a variety of assembly lines that form a variety of glass types. Further, variations in the glass contact edges  188  allow for varying amounts of play and float that are required on various production lines. 
       FIGS. 15-18  illustrate a takeout jaw cover system  200  with protective covers  202  that may be formed of a metallic material or metal alloy such as steel, iron, aluminum or bronze, or of any suitable polymer-based material. The cover system  200  may act to prevent grease, oil and other debris from contacting the takeout jaw  58  or molded bottles  34 . As mentioned above, the prevalence of the grease, oil and other debris is a significant issue in glass assembly lines as it may cause the assembly line machinery to wear quickly and more importantly, the foreign material may affect the molded glass sterility and strength. As such, the cover system  200  may act to increase the longevity of the takeout jaw  58  while at the same time increasing the quality of the molded glass produced on the assembly line. In various embodiments the cover system  200  will seat on the takeout jaw shoulder  204 . The cover system  200  may be formed in such a manner that it will utilize forces such as gravity and friction to secure itself to the takeout jaw  58 . For example the vertical surfaces of the cover  202  and the takeout jaw  58  engage on one another in close tolerances. The covers  202  have a takeout jaw engagement portion  206  that includes an aperture  208  that fits over the tong assembly interface portion  74  to seat on the shoulders  204 . Thus, in various embodiments the cover system  200  is not permanently affixed to the takeout jaw  58 , which allows the cover system  200  to be removed or replaced. In this way, the cover system  200  may protect the molded glass from debris and can be readily replaced in a situation where the cover  202  is damaged. Utilizing the cover system  200  may help increase the wear life of the takeout jaws  58  and takeout jaw inserts  62 . 
       FIGS. 16   a  and  16   b  illustrate an embodiment of the covers  224  that attach to takeout jaws  240  in the manner as described in the text associated with  FIGS. 2-5 . The interface portion  220  of the cover  224  has C-shaped cutout  228 . The cutout  228  has an opening width  232 . The takeout jaw  240  has a neck portion  242  with a width  246 , which is smaller than the width  232  of the opening  228  of the cover. The cover  224  may seat on shoulders  250  at which level the width  254  of the neck portion  242  is within close tolerance to, but slightly smaller than the width  260  of the inside of the C-shaped cutout  228 . The cover  224  and takeout jaw  240  may have vertical surface-to-surface engagements in the x-y plane on opposing sides of the takeout jaw  240  to secure the cover  224  at an appropriate angle to the takeout jaw  240 —typically a right angle. In certain embodiments, the vertical surface-to-surface engagements may have a slight inward orientation that is tilted at the upward surfaces to provide a progressively tight fit as the cover  224  is lowered onto the seating position. Notably, gravity as well as friction between the pieces can maintain the engagement between the cover  224  and takeout jaw  240 . The embodiment of  FIGS. 16   a  and  16   b  allows the cover  224  to be removed without removal of the takeout jaw  240  from the tong brackets  68 . Similarly, the takeout jaw  240  and insert  62  can have tapered or tilted vertical or near vertical surfaces to promote a locking arrangement. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 19-26 , further embodiments are illustrated in which the insert holder  310  has additional engagement features as compared to the various takeout jaws described above.  FIGS. 19-21  illustrate an insert holder  310  with forwardly extending arms  314  that provide underneath support for insert  312 , but provide no support in the z direction. The underneath support provided by arms  314  comprises a pair of curved surfaces  316  that engage cooperating curved surfaces  318  of the insert  312 . The insert  312  has rearwardly extending arms  320  that together provide an insert attachment structure with a “C” shape or individually an “L” shape, both extending in a horizontal plane. The insert holder  310  has a narrowed portion  326  which allows horizontal insertion of the insert  312  into a surrounding relationship with the insert holder  310  at a level L 1  and then lowered to a seating level L 2  where three pairs of engagement faces  334  in the x-y plane are provided, as well as a pair of engagement faces  338  in the x-z plane, best illustrated in  FIG. 22 . The insert  310  will have a suitable cutout  346  for grasping a glass article as illustrated by the dashed lines in  FIGS. 19 and 22 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 23-27 , an embodiment is illustrated where the insert holder  410  has forwardly extending arms  414  and the insert  412  has a single rearwardly extending projection  420  with a “T” shape. The T-shaped portion  420  is insertable into the insert holder  410  at the T-shaped aperture  422  at a level L 3  to be lowered to a level L 4  whereby the insert may seat on surface  424  at the bottom of the aperture  422 , and whereby surfaces  418  on insert  412  may seat on cooperating curved surfaces  433  on arms  414 . Once seated, constraint in the z direction is provided by engagement surfaces  438  of insert  412  that abut front surface  440  of insert holder  410 . The interface between curved surfaces  433  on insert holder arms  414  and cooperating insert surfaces  433  allows partial rotation of insert  412  about axis A 1  when a moment is applied to the insert. Such moment may occur when the insert holders  410  and inserts  412  are grasping a glass article with a center of gravity below the article grasping cutouts  460 , and motion is initiated in the x direction. The amount of rotation may be controlled by the gap G 1  between the neck  464  of the T-shaped projection of the insert  412  and the vertical surfaces  468  of the slot  472  within which the neck  464  seats ( FIG. 27 ). Such rotation can further or alternatively be controlled by gap G 2  defined by the vertical surface  482  of the insert  412  and a cooperating confronting vertical surface  486  of the insert holder arm  414  ( FIGS. 25 ,  26 ). 
     Referring to  FIGS. 32-35 , a further embodiment is illustrated that utilizes a novel tooth and notch system to retain insert  550 , as opposed to a T-shaped insert feature. Similar to previous embodiments, takeout jaw  510  includes inner surface  512 , outer surface  514 , and insert receiving slot  530 . Receiving slot  530  includes a bottom portion  532 , which may be substantially planar. The top portion of slot  530 , however, includes a notch, which is defined by horizontal notch portion  534  that extends inward from outer takeout jaw surface  514  and vertical notch portion  536  that extends downward therefrom. Top inclined portion  536  extends from the bottom-most portion of vertical notch portion  536  to inner takeout jaw surface  512  at a slightly upward angle. 
     Insert  550  is similar to previously described inserts in that it includes substantially horizontal top surface  564  and may include molded glass interface portion  552  which may be altered to accommodate various molded glass designs. Again, insert  550  may be formed of a non-conductive, yet strong, insulating material such as graphite. In this particular embodiment, insert  550  includes tooth  558  which is shaped so as to engage with notch  535  of takeout jaw  510 , and includes top inclined portion  560  which is shaped so as to engage with top inclined portion  538  of takeout jaw  510 . Insert  550  further includes bottom inclined portion  562  which effectively narrows insert  550  near outer face  554  of insert  550  to facilitate the placement of insert  550  into slot  530  of takeout jaw  510 . 
       FIGS. 35   a  and  35   b  illustrate the installation of insert  550  within slot  530  of takeout jaw  510 . As depicted in  FIG. 35   a , insert  550  must be rotated about the x-axis so that tooth  558  of insert  550  is rotated downward to facilitate installation. Insert  550 , specifically the tongue  551 , is then pushed into slot  530  in the direction of the dashed arrow shown in  FIG. 35   a  until shoulder  566  contacts inner takeout jaw surface  512 , at which time catch or tooth  558  will extend slightly beyond vertical notch member  536 . Insert  550  is then rotated back to its original position so that top surface  564  is substantially horizontal.  FIG. 35   b  depicts insert  550  in its final installation position within slot  530  of takeout jaw  510 . 
     The present embodiment provides significant benefits in terms of material usage, ease of assembly, and insert retaining strength. The tooth and notch design foregoes the need for a “T” member, thereby decreasing insert  550  size and providing cost savings due to less material used. Insertion and removal is also easy; one need only rotate an insert  550  and pull it out of or push it into takeout jaws  510 . Notably, insert  550  is effectively cantilevered from takeout jaw  510 , so that the weight of the insert and the weight of a glass object held by the insert, if present, applies a moment on insert  550 , thereby pressing insert tooth portion  558  into notch  535 , securing insert  550  to takeout jaw  510 . Z-direction movement is also constrained; vertical notch member  536  abuts insert hook portion  558  which prevents inward z-direction movement, and shoulder  566  abuts takeout jaw inner surface  512  which prevents outward z-direction movement. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 36-49  an embodiment utilizing insert springs for securing the inserts are illustrated. Referring specifically to  FIG. 36 , a robotic bottle handling arm  620  is illustrated as part of a takeout area of a glass article manufacturing facility. The arm supports three tong assemblies  624 , with an exemplary single tong assembly illustrated in  FIG. 37 . Each tong assembly  624  has a pair of takeout jaw assemblies  656  comprising a take out jaw or insert holder  658  and inserts  662 . The jaw assemblies are secured to tong brackets  668  by way of machine screws  670  and wing nuts  672 . The tong assembly has a body portion  674  and actuator  676  for operating the clamping action of the jaws  658 . The takeout jaws interface with just molded hot glass bottles or other glass articles, grasping and conveying the bottles or other articles to a suitable conveyor or other location as part of the manufacturing process. 
     Now referring to  FIGS. 38-44 , details of the insert holder and insert according to an embodiment of the invention are illustrated. The insert holder  658  may be milled, stamped, cast or otherwise formed out of a metal or metal alloy such as steel, iron, aluminum, bronze and the like. The insert holder has a body portion  680 , configured as a takeout jaw insert interface portion  682 , and a tong assembly interface portion  684  configured as attachment forks for attachment to the bracket of the tong assembly. The takeout jaw insert interface portion has an insert receiving slot or pocket  690 . The slot is defined by a lower shelf  692 , side walls  694 , back wall  696 , and upper shelf  698 . 
     The insert slot  690  is open at the front and substantially closed at the rear, except for an optional takeout jaw access port  702  which may be located on the back wall  696  of the insert interface portion  682 . The side walls  694  at the insert interface portion have a plurality of spring clip interface portions  706  configured as through holes  710 . A pair of arcuate springs  722 , configured as spring clips, are attachable to the holes. Each spring clip  722  has a midportion  726  that provides the arcuate shape and end portions  730  configured as tabs with corner portions  732  and end tab portion  734  for securement to the sidewalls of the insert holder at the holes therein. The spring resiliency provides for the entrapment of the spring clip to the insert holder as well as providing resiliency for retention of the insert in the insert holder. 
     Continuing to refer to  FIGS. 38-44 , depict a configuration of the spring clip connection portions  636  according to an embodiment of the invention. The spring clip connection portions  706  may be oriented towards the front of and vertically centered in the insert interface slot  690 . In this configuration, the majority of the insert would be oriented behind the center of the spring clips  722 . This will facilitate the retention of the insert within the pocket during the potential thousands of cycles of the jaws opening and closing and the inserts clamping on bottles or other glass articles. 
     Referring in particular to  FIGS. 43-45 , the arcuate springs  722  may be positioned on each side  740  of the insert holders utilizing the pairs of holes  710  on said sides of the insert holders. The holes are suitably spaced and the spring configured to require the respective spring to be flexed, such as having the end portions compressed inwardly to allow the tabs to be inserted in the holes. The lengthwise dimension d 1  of the end tab portion is sized to be less than the diameter d 2  of the through holes  710  allowing the insertion of the end portions through the holes, see in particular  FIG. 43 . The tension in the respective spring is released after the tabs are extending through the holes, whereby the end tab portions  734  confront the outside surface  740  of the side walls  694  thereby securing the spring in place. The holes have a spring engagement surface  746  which engage or confront the spring clips when the spring clip is released. The engagement surface may also engage the spring clip, at an insert holder engagement surface  747 , when the spring is flexed during insertion of an insert and when the insert is fully seated. The arcuate shape of the spring at the midportion of the spring extends into the insert slot providing an interference fit with inserts that are received by the slot. The inserts  662  each have a flat and parallel top side  750  with a top surface  752 , a lower side  753  with a lower surface  754 , a front side  755  with a front surface  756 , and a pair of sides  758  with side surfaces  760 . A cutaway or arcuate recess  764  positioned on each of the sides of the inserts cooperates with the arcuate spring when the insert is fully received in the insert holder such that the insert is secured in place. The recess may conform to the shape of the mid portion of the spring clip. 
     The opposing spring clips on opposite sides of the insert holder slot cooperate to enhance the retention of the insert within the slot. That is removal of the insert from the slot configured as illustrated, will require deflection of the arcuate midportion of both of the spring clips. This occurs when the rear corner portions  762  are pulled toward the spring clips and out the front of the slot. The corner portions have a greater cross width dimension d 3  than the cross width dimension d 4  of the narrow portion of the insert at the deepest portion of the pair of side recesses  764 . Moreover, the shape of the spring clip may ideally be configured to conform to the shape of the recesses in the inserts. 
     In an embodiment, the arcuate springs have tabs arranged to extend outwardly, when said springs are seated in the insert holder, and when an insert is being inserted therein, the arcuate spring extends, that is, the arcuate shape flattens, whereby the tabs are urged outwardly, in the direction opposite to the direction needed to release the spring from the insert holder. This effectively locks the springs in place when they are being utilized for retention of the inserts. 
     Referring to  FIG. 47 , in this takeout jaw  858 , the spring clips  822  may engage the insert holder by way the spring clip interface portion  810  configured as a pair of slots  812  extending downwardly from the top side of the insert holder, for example, downwardly from the upper side at the side walls  894 . A pair of slots can be provided for which the spring clip needs to be flexed, for example compressed, in order for the spring clip to fit therein. When in place the force providing the flexing is released and the spring clip is captured in the takeout jaw. In this embodiment the spring clip engagement portion has a seating portion  814  and a placement slot  816 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 48 , another embodiment is illustrated in which the dashed lines indicate possible locations for the spring clip interface portions  910  of the insert holder  958  and an insert  962  is illustrated with a recess  964  positioned on the top side  950  at the top surface  952 . The spring clips are typically arranged to have their lengthwise dimension be parallel to the direction of insertion of the inserts. 
     The takeout jaw access slot  690  as depicted in the figures is utilized to allow for the efficient replacement and maintenance of the inserts. In some embodiments, for example the embodiment of  FIG. 41 , the support personnel could utilize the open areas  772 ,  774  on the insert holder to quickly remove the insert  662  from the insert interface pocket  690  simply by manually grasping the insert and pulling the insert out. Additionally or alternatively, the support personnel may utilize a small takeout jaw insert push tool or a screwdriver or other tool capable of passing through the takeout jaw access port  702  on the back of the insert holder. In this way the support personnel may be able to replace an insert  662  quickly and efficiently, thus reducing assembly line downtime. 
     The takeout jaw insert  662  may be formed of a very low conductive, yet strong, insulating material such as graphite. Graphite is a rigid insulator and enables the molded glass to cool slowly, as the graphite does not transmit heat away from the molded glass as readily due to its chemical structure. Further, graphite is strong enough to resist cracking after repeated use and repeated contact with molded glass. Finally graphite is readily formed and lightweight, thus reducing lead time in creation and cost of replacement parts. Various grades of graphite are commercially available. One particularly desirable material is a fine particle, high strength, isotropic graphite available from PCO Graphite, Inc. which is sold as GLASSMATE® graphite contact material which is available in various grades. 
     The takeout jaw insert  662  may have glass contact edges  695 . The glass contact edges  695  may be semi-circular. Further, the molded glass contact edges  695  may be threaded contact edges, or may be ridged contact edges as depicted in  FIG. 46 . In various embodiments the molded glass contact edge  695  profile design may be altered in order to accommodate various different molded glass designs. In this way, the takeout jaw insert  662  may be utilized in a variety of assembly lines that form a variety of glass types. Further, variations in the glass contact edges  694  allow for varying amounts of play and float that are required on various production lines. 
     Referring to  FIG. 49 , another embodiment is illustrated in the spring clip interface is used in conjunction with the gravity seated aspects. Insert  992  seats in the insert holder  996  with the tongue  995  being inserted into the slot  994  as discussed above in the text associated with  FIGS. 32-35   b . When the insert is rotated downward to seat, further retention is provided by the springs  922  engaged in notches  997 . The spring may be retained as discussed above in association with  FIGS. 36-48  or in certain embodiments may be as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,995,896, incorporated herein by reference. Also, the configurations of the other inserts such as in  FIGS. 2-26 , may be used in conjunction with the springs as disclosed herein. 
     The embodiments above are intended to be illustrative and not limiting. Additional embodiments are within the claims. In addition, although aspects of the present invention have been described with reference to particular embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that changes can be made in form and detail without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, as defined by the claims. 
     Persons of ordinary skill in the relevant arts will recognize that the invention may comprise fewer features than illustrated in any individual embodiment described above. The embodiments described herein are not meant to be an exhaustive presentation of the ways in which the various features of the invention may be combined. Accordingly, the embodiments are not mutually exclusive combinations of features; rather, the invention may comprise a combination of different individual features selected from different individual embodiments, as understood by persons of ordinary skill in the art. 
     Any incorporation by reference of documents above is limited such that no subject matter is incorporated that is contrary to the explicit disclosure herein. Any incorporation by reference of documents above is further limited such that no claims included in the documents are incorporated by reference herein. Any incorporation by reference of documents above is yet further limited such that any definitions provided in the documents are not incorporated by reference herein unless expressly included herein. 
     For purposes of interpreting the claims for the present invention, it is expressly intended that the provisions of Section 212, sixth paragraph of 35 U.S.C. are not to be invoked unless the specific terms “means for” or “step for” are recited in a claim.