Patent Description:
Machine lines for container manufacturing generally have multiple machine arrangements that perform the various processing steps during formation of the containers. The machine arrangements have various different gripping devices or systems for gripping the containers. For example, the arrangements have cups, belts, or toothed rotation jaws that engage the containers. However, these current gripping devices or systems have the potential for slippage and/or can create dust (e.g., small particles of the container) that can interfere with subsequent processing steps.

Examples of gripping devices are disclosed in <CIT>, <CIT> and <CIT>.

It would be desirable to have a better way to grip the containers that reduces or eliminates the slippage, the dust, or both, among solving other issues associated with conventional gripping devices and systems.

According to one aspect, the present invention relates to a clutch assembly for handling a container having an opening as claimed in claim <NUM>.

According to another aspect, the invention provides a spindle shaft assembly for handling a container as claimed in claim <NUM>.

Another aspect of the invention is a machine arrangement as set out in claim <NUM>.

Another aspect of the invention includes a method of trimming a container as defined in claim <NUM>.

It is to be understood that the following detailed description is exemplary and explanatory only and is not restrictive of the invention as claimed.

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.

While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, a specific embodiment thereof has 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.

Machine arrangements are required to handle containers, such as a can, a jar, a bottle, a food or beverage container, any other similar article, or the like during various processing steps. The containers generally have an open end, an opposing closed end, and a sidewall extending from the open end to the closed end. Alternatively, the containers may be open at both ends. The present invention provides a clutch assembly configured to handle the containers. The clutch assembly reduces or eliminates slippage with the container and/or the creation of dust experienced by conventional devices that handle containers.

The clutch assembly includes a clutch at one end of a shaft. The clutch can be inserted at least partially into an opening at a first end of a container. The clutch includes cam-actuated rollers that engage an internal surface of the opening of the container as the clutch rotates. Subsequent processing on the container can then occur. For example, a plastic container can be rotated by the clutch during the trimming of excess plastic material and/or removing domes, as just one example. The shaft and the clutch can be driven (e.g., rotated) by a system that handles containers during processing.

Although the below-described embodiments focus on the removal of excess plastic from a plastic container, the present clutch assembly can have various other applications, such as any application that requires handling a container with a cylindrical or similar opening. The clutch assembly described herein may also be used for handling containers made of other materials including, but not limited to, metal.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, a schematic view and a side view, respectively, are shown of a clutch assembly <NUM> for gripping a container, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The clutch assembly <NUM> includes a shaft <NUM> having a first end 102a and a generally opposing second end 102b. The shaft <NUM> can be formed of any material conventionally used for machine arrangements, such as steel, aluminum, another metal, combinations thereof, and the like. Although shown as being cylindrical with a generally circular cross-section, the shaft <NUM> alternatively can have various other shapes and cross-sections, such as a triangular, square, rectangular, etc. The shaft <NUM> connects the clutch assembly <NUM> to a machine arrangement at the second end 102b, as further discussed below in <FIG>.

Connected to the first end 102a of the shaft <NUM> is a clutch <NUM>. The clutch <NUM> is configured by its size and shape to be inserted into the open end of a container (discussed below). The cross-sectional profile of the clutch <NUM> is generally the same as the opening of the container with which it is to be used (e.g., circular). However, the clutch <NUM> can have various other suitable profiles without departing from the scope of the present invention.

The clutch <NUM> includes a cam <NUM>, a plurality of clutch rollers <NUM> that interface with the cam <NUM> at a plurality of cam surfaces <NUM>, and a plurality of slots <NUM>. In one or more embodiments, the cam <NUM> can be formed of any material conventionally used for machine arrangements, such as steel, aluminum, another metal, combinations thereof, and the like. In one or more alternative embodiments, the cam <NUM> can be formed of one or more elastic materials, such as rubber, to assist in gripping a container, as discussed below. In one or more embodiments, the cam <NUM> can be formed of one or more non-elastic materials, such as steel, and the cam surfaces <NUM> can be formed of one or more elastic materials, such as rubber. For example, the cam surfaces <NUM> can be one or more inserts that are affixed to the cam <NUM>.

The rollers <NUM> can be formed of any material conventionally used for machine arrangements, such as steel, aluminum, another metal, combinations thereof, and the like. In one or more alternative embodiments, the rollers <NUM> alternatively can be formed of an elastic material, such as rubber, to assist in gripping a container, as discussed below. The rollers <NUM> are generally vertically arranged and sit within and between the slots <NUM>. The rollers <NUM> are guided by and configured to roll along and between the slots <NUM>. Pins <NUM> extend from the tops and bottoms of the rollers <NUM> and fit within the slots <NUM>. The pins <NUM> assist in guiding the rollers <NUM> as the rollers <NUM> move within the slots <NUM>. Corresponding rollers <NUM>, cam surfaces <NUM>, and slots <NUM> can be generally uniformly spaced around the clutch <NUM>.

In one or more embodiments, a first end 104a of the clutch <NUM> includes a pilot <NUM>. The pilot <NUM> assists in inserting the clutch <NUM> into the container opening. The pilot <NUM> includes an edge <NUM> (<FIG>) that can contact the container and guide the container and/or the clutch <NUM> into the correct alignment for inserting the clutch <NUM> into the container opening. The edge <NUM> can be generally rounded, chamfered, tapered, or include any other geometry or profile that assists in aligning the clutch <NUM> with the container.

In one or more embodiments, the clutch <NUM> can include a lip <NUM> at a second end 104b, generally opposite from the first end 104a. The lip <NUM> can contact the open edge of a container within which the clutch <NUM> is inserted. The lip <NUM> therefore prevents or inhibits the clutch <NUM> from being inserted too far into the container, such as beyond a point at which the rollers <NUM> can engage an inner diameter of the container opening.

Referring to <FIG>, illustrated is a cross-sectional view of the clutch <NUM> along the line 1C-1C of <FIG>, according to an embodiment disclosed herein. The slots <NUM> are configured relative to the periphery <NUM> of the clutch <NUM> adjacent to the rollers <NUM> so that the edges 108a of the rollers <NUM> extend beyond the periphery <NUM> at a first end 112a of the slots <NUM> and do not extend beyond the periphery <NUM> at a second end 112b of the slots <NUM>. This configuration causes the rollers <NUM> to contact an inner surface of an opening of a container when the roller <NUM> are positioned towards the first end 112a of the slots <NUM> and to permit insertion of the clutch <NUM> into the opening of the container when the rollers <NUM> are positioned towards the second end 112b of the slots <NUM>. The cam surfaces <NUM> have configurations corresponding with those of the slots <NUM> so that the rollers <NUM> contact against the cam surfaces <NUM> as the rollers <NUM> travel along the lengths of the slots <NUM>. In one or more alternative embodiments, the cam surfaces <NUM> can be arranged relative to the slots <NUM> so that the rollers <NUM> contact against the cam surfaces <NUM> along only a portion of the slots <NUM>. Specifically, in one example, the cam surfaces <NUM> can be positioned generally radially and arranged relative to the slots <NUM> so that the rollers <NUM> contact against the cam surfaces <NUM> where the slots <NUM> approach the periphery <NUM> of the clutch <NUM>.

Although three sets of the rollers <NUM>, cam surfaces <NUM>, and slots <NUM> are shown in <FIG>, the clutch <NUM> can have more or less than three sets. For example, the clutch <NUM> can have two, four, five, six, or more sets of the rollers <NUM>, cam surfaces <NUM>, and slots <NUM>, depending on the size of the container opening and/or other properties of the container. Some applications of the clutch <NUM> have more sets of the rollers <NUM>, cam surfaces <NUM>, and slots <NUM> if, for example, greater gripping strength is required and/or more gripping contact between the rollers <NUM> and the inner surface of the opening is required.

The clutch <NUM> of <FIG> is configured as an internal drive clutch. As an internal drive clutch, the cam surfaces <NUM> are generally radially inward of the rollers <NUM>, and an inner surface of an opening of a container is radially outward relative to the rollers <NUM>. In one or more embodiments, the clutch <NUM> can alternatively be configured as an external drive clutch. As an external drive clutch, the rollers <NUM> can instead contact the outer surface of the opening of the container. In such an embodiment, the outer surface of the opening of the container is radially inward relative to the rollers <NUM>, and the cam surfaces <NUM> are radially outward of the rollers <NUM>.

In one or more embodiments, the plurality of cam surfaces <NUM> and the plurality of slots <NUM> can be combined such that the plurality of slots <NUM> are configured to also act as the plurality of cam surfaces <NUM>. For example, the radially interior surfaces 112c of the slots <NUM> can also act as the plurality of cams surfaces <NUM>. In which case, the plurality of cam surfaces <NUM> can be omitted.

In one or more embodiments, the plurality of slots <NUM> can instead be a pair of continuous slots <NUM> that extend around the clutch <NUM>. For example, there may be one continuous bottom slot <NUM> and one continuous top slot <NUM> on opposite sides of the rollers <NUM>. In which case, the travel distance of the rollers <NUM> can be limited by the cam surfaces <NUM> rather than by each of the first and second ends 112a and 112b, respectively, of the slots <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates side views of different, non-limiting arrangements 200a-200c between the clutch assembly <NUM> and a container <NUM>, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The illustrated container <NUM> is a plastic bottle. However, the container <NUM> can be various other types of containers (e.g., having a different shape, being formed from a different material, etc.) depending, for example, on the intended function of the machine arrangement that includes the clutch assembly <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the illustrated beginning arrangement is a loading arrangement 200a. In the loading arrangement 200a, the clutch assembly <NUM> is initially positioned above the container <NUM>, with the shaft <NUM> and the clutch <NUM> of the clutch assembly <NUM> generally vertically aligned with the opening <NUM> of the container <NUM>. In the loading arrangement 200a, the clutch assembly <NUM> translates generally downward according to arrow A1 so that the clutch <NUM> is at least partially inserted into the opening <NUM> of the container <NUM> (see arrangement 200b). As the clutch assembly <NUM> translates generally downward, the shaft <NUM> and the clutch <NUM> rotate in the direction of the arrow A2. Rotation of the clutch <NUM> in the direction of arrow A2 ensures that the rollers <NUM> are positioned towards the second ends 112b of the slots <NUM> so that the rollers <NUM> do not obstruct insertion of the clutch <NUM> into the opening <NUM> of the container <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a projected cross-section of the clutch <NUM> and the container <NUM> in the loading arrangement along the line 2B-2B of <FIG>. As shown, the rollers <NUM> are towards the second ends 112b of the slots <NUM> and retracted relative to the periphery <NUM>. As shown in the enlarged portion, a gap <NUM> exists between the roller <NUM> and the inner surface <NUM> of the container <NUM>. The gap <NUM> is formed as a result of the rollers <NUM> being retracted towards the second end 112b of the slots <NUM> so that the clutch <NUM> can be inserted into the opening <NUM> of the container <NUM>.

Referring back to <FIG>, the clutch <NUM> and the container <NUM> then proceed to the drive arrangement 200b where, after insertion of the clutch <NUM> into the opening <NUM> of the container <NUM>, the shaft <NUM> and the clutch <NUM> rotate in the direction of arrow A3, generally opposite from the direction of arrow A2. Rotation of the clutch <NUM> in the direction A3 causes the rollers <NUM> to slide along the slots <NUM> and contact the inner surface <NUM> of the container opening <NUM>. Continued rotation of the clutch <NUM> causes the rollers <NUM> to engage the inner surface <NUM> of the opening <NUM> and the cam surfaces <NUM> at a first location within the slots <NUM>. The first location can be at the first end 112a of the slots <NUM>. Alternatively, the first location can be along the slots <NUM> but not at the first end 112a. Engagement occurs when the rollers <NUM> become fixed against the inner surface <NUM>. More specifically, engagement occurs when the rollers <NUM> become fixed against the inner surface <NUM> and the cam surfaces <NUM>, which causes the clutch <NUM> to grip the container <NUM>. Upon engagement, the container <NUM> begins rotating with the clutch <NUM> and the shaft <NUM> in the direction of arrow A3.

<FIG> illustrates a cross-section of the clutch <NUM> and the container <NUM> in the drive arrangement 200b along the line 2C-2C of <FIG>. As shown, the rollers <NUM> are towards the first ends 112a of the slots <NUM> and engaged against the inner surface <NUM> of the opening <NUM> of the container <NUM> such that the gap <NUM> no longer exists.

Referring back to <FIG>, when the handling of the container <NUM> is complete, the drive arrangement 200b transitions to the unloading arrangement 200c for releasing the container <NUM>. To release the container <NUM>, the shaft <NUM> and the clutch <NUM> rotate in a generally opposite direction from the arrow A3, as shown by arrow A4 (similar to the direction of arrow A2). The reverse rotation disengages the roller <NUM> from being engaged against the inner surface <NUM> of the opening <NUM> of the container <NUM>. Disengagement of the rollers <NUM> causes them to lose their grip on the inner surface <NUM> and release the container <NUM>. The shaft <NUM> and the clutch <NUM> can be translated generally upward, as shown by arrow A5, while they rotate to withdraw the clutch <NUM> from the opening <NUM>. Alternatively, the shaft <NUM> and the clutch <NUM> can be translated upward after they have stopped rotating and/or have released the container <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a projected cross-section of the clutch <NUM> and the container <NUM> in the unloading arrangement 200c along the line 2D-2D of <FIG>. As shown, the rollers <NUM> are towards the second ends 112b of the slots <NUM> and retracted relative to the periphery <NUM> so as to release the container <NUM>. The gap <NUM> is again between the roller <NUM> the inner surface <NUM> of the opening <NUM> of the container <NUM>.

Although <FIG> illustrates the clutch assembly <NUM> arranged in a vertical orientation, other orientations are possible. For example, the clutch assembly <NUM> can be arranged in a horizontal orientation or orientations between horizontal and vertical. The other orientations may be used depending on the arrangement of a container within a machine arrangement that includes the clutch assembly <NUM>.

Although the present disclosure describes the clutch assembly <NUM> as translating relative to the stationary container <NUM>, the present invention contemplates that the container <NUM> may instead translate relative to the stationary clutch assembly <NUM>. For example, the container <NUM> may be on or connected to a device (e.g., a pusher device) that can move the container <NUM> (e.g., raise and lower) relative to the clutch assembly <NUM>, as the clutch assembly <NUM> remains generally stationary. Moreover, the present invention also contemplates that the container <NUM> and the clutch assembly <NUM> may both translate towards each other. For example, the container <NUM> can be connected to a pusher device translates the container <NUM> relative to the clutch assembly <NUM>, while the clutch assembly <NUM> also translates towards the container <NUM>.

The mechanics of causing the clutch assembly <NUM> to translate generally upward and downward and rotate clockwise and counter-clockwise can vary depending on the configuration of the machine arrangement that includes the clutch assembly <NUM>. Various configurations of belts, gears, motors, actuators, hydraulic and pneumatic cylinders, other similar mechanical structures, and any combination thereof, can be used to control the translation and/or rotation of the clutch assembly <NUM>. One exemplary, non-limiting structure for actuating the clutch assembly <NUM> is shown in <FIG>.

<FIG> illustrates a spindle shaft assembly <NUM> that includes the clutch assembly <NUM>, according to an embodiment described herein. The spindle shaft assembly <NUM> includes elements for actuating the clutch assembly <NUM> within a machine arrangement (e.g., as discussed with respect to <FIG> below). One such element is a rotary ball spline <NUM>. The rotary ball spline <NUM> is connected to an end of the shaft <NUM> opposite from the clutch <NUM>. The rotary ball spline <NUM> is configured to provide the shaft <NUM> of the clutch assembly <NUM> with two degrees of motion. According to a first degree of motion, the rotary ball spline <NUM> allows the shaft <NUM> to translate, generally upward and downward. According to a second degree of motion, the rotary ball spline <NUM> allows the shaft <NUM> to rotate, generally clockwise and counter-clockwise.

In one or more embodiments, the rotary ball spline <NUM> is connected to a drive pulley <NUM>. In one or more alternative embodiments, the drive pulley <NUM> instead can connect directly to the shaft <NUM>. The drive pulley <NUM> is a drive mechanism (e.g., a first drive mechanism) that is configured to impart a rotation to the clutch assembly <NUM>. The circumference of the drive pulley <NUM> includes a plurality of splines <NUM> that can interface with, for example, a belt, a gear, or similar mechanical structure for imparting rotational movement to the drive pulley <NUM>. However, although illustrated as being a plurality of splines, the drive pulley <NUM> can have other configurations. For example, the drive pulley <NUM> can be a gear or have some other type of outer surface that can be used to impart rotation to the drive pulley <NUM>.

The drive pulley <NUM> is one exemplary embodiment of a drive mechanism configured to impart a rotational motion to the clutch assembly <NUM>. Other drive mechanisms configured to impart the rotational motion can be used, such any type of gear, pulley, wheel, motor, any combination thereof, or the like.

The second end 102b (see <FIG>) of the shaft <NUM> is connected to a translation wheel <NUM>. The translation wheel <NUM> is an another drive mechanism (e.g., a second drive mechanism) but is instead configured to transfer a translational motion to the shaft <NUM> and the clutch <NUM> of the clutch assembly <NUM>. As discussed further below, the translation wheel <NUM> is configured to override an undulating surface that causes the shaft <NUM> to rise and fall, thereby imparting the translation.

The translation wheel <NUM> is one exemplary embodiment of a drive mechanism configured to translate the clutch assembly <NUM>. Other drive mechanisms configured to cause the translational motion can be used, such any type of gear, pulley, wheel, pneumatic or hydraulic cylinder, linear actuator, motor, any combination thereof, or the like.

In one or more embodiments, the spindle shaft assembly <NUM> further includes anti-rotation rods <NUM>. The anti-rotation rods <NUM> are configured to connect the spindle shaft assembly <NUM> to a machine arrangement, as discussed further below. Connection of the anti-rotation rods <NUM> to a machine arrangement, or an element within a machine arrangement, prevents or inhibits the spindle shaft assembly <NUM> from moving (e.g., rotating and/or translating) during rotation and translation of the shaft <NUM> and the clutch <NUM>, as discussed further below. Although a pair of anti-rotation rods <NUM> are shown, in one or more embodiments, there may be one, three, four, or more anti-rotation rods <NUM>.

In embodiments in which the clutch assembly <NUM> is configured to remain stationary as a container is brought to the clutch assembly <NUM>, the rotary ball spline <NUM> and the translation wheel <NUM> may be omitted from the spindle shaft assembly <NUM>. Instead, the spindle shaft assembly <NUM> may have a mechanism that is configured to only cause the clutch assembly <NUM> to rotate according to the second degree of motion. For example, the drive pulley <NUM> may be directly connected to the shaft <NUM> without the rotary ball spline <NUM>.

<FIG> is a schematic view of a machine arrangement <NUM> with multiple spindle shaft assemblies <NUM> for handling a container, such as the container <NUM> of <FIG>, according to one embodiment. <FIG> is another schematic view of the machine arrangement <NUM> of <FIG> from a different perspective. <FIG> are detailed views of other portions of the machine arrangement <NUM>.

The machine arrangement <NUM> includes a primary turret <NUM> supported by a frame <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiment of <FIG> and <FIG>, the frame <NUM> includes three legs 402a and a frame plate 402b that spans between the legs 402a. However, it is contemplated that the frame <NUM> can vary from the frame <NUM> illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>. For example, the frame <NUM> can be attached to a ceiling or another machine arrangement (such as the machine arrangement that drives the primary turret <NUM>, can have fewer or more legs 402a, a combination thereof, or the like).

The primary turret <NUM> includes a main turret shaft <NUM>. The main turret shaft <NUM> provides the primary rotational movement of the elements of the machine arrangement <NUM>, as discussed further below. The main turret shaft <NUM> is configured to connect at the first end 406a to a motor, such as a servo motor (not shown), which causes the main turret shaft <NUM> to rotate. The main turret shaft <NUM> is configured to connect to the frame plate 402b at a second, generally opposite end 406b.

The primary turret <NUM> also includes a support plate <NUM> that holds multiple spindle shaft assemblies <NUM>. The support plate <NUM> is connected to and rotates with the main turret shaft <NUM>. The combination of the main turret shaft <NUM> and the support plate <NUM> rotates the elements of the machine arrangement <NUM>, such as the spindle shaft assemblies <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiment, the spindle shaft assemblies <NUM> connect to the support plate <NUM> at the rotary ball splines <NUM> so that part of the shaft <NUM> and the clutch <NUM> can extend below the support plate <NUM> and independently rotate and translate relative to the support plate <NUM>. The anti-rotation rods <NUM> of the spindle shaft assemblies <NUM> are connected to the support plate <NUM> to inhibit or prevent the spindle shaft assemblies <NUM> from rotating and translating relative to the support plate <NUM>, while the shafts <NUM> and the clutches <NUM> move.

As illustrated, the support plate <NUM> includes six spindle shaft assemblies <NUM>, each of which is generally uniformly spaced along the perimeter of the support plate <NUM>. However, the support plate <NUM> can alternatively be configured to hold more or less than six spindle shaft assemblies <NUM>, such as one, two, three, four, five, seven, eight, and so forth, according to the desired specifications of the machine arrangement <NUM>.

The machine arrangement <NUM> further includes tension shafts <NUM> that extend down from the frame plate 402b. At ends of the tension shafts <NUM> are idler pulleys <NUM>. The tension shafts <NUM> and the idler pulleys <NUM> support a stationary belt <NUM> that is wrapped around the idler pulleys <NUM>. The opposing ends of the tension shafts <NUM> connect to the frame plate 402b at respective apertures <NUM>. The apertures <NUM> determine the positions of the tension shafts <NUM> and the idler pulleys <NUM>, which, in turn, determines the position of the stationary belt <NUM> around the circumference of the support plate <NUM>. Accordingly, there may be multiple apertures <NUM> in the frame plate 402b for controlling the positions of the tension shafts <NUM> and the idler pulleys <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, the stationary belt <NUM> can be connected at a first end 414a to a joint <NUM> that extends from the frame plate 402b. The stationary belt <NUM> is a drive mechanism that is configured to come into contact with the drive pulleys <NUM> of the spindle shaft assemblies <NUM> as the spindle shaft assemblies <NUM> orbit about the axis of the main turret shaft <NUM> within the machine arrangement <NUM>. The contact between the stationary belt <NUM> and the drive pulleys <NUM> causes the drive pulleys <NUM> to rotate, which, in turn, causes the shafts <NUM> and the clutches <NUM> to rotate.

As shown in the illustrated embodiments, the stationary belt <NUM> is positioned about only a portion of the circumference of the support plate <NUM>. Accordingly, the stationary belt <NUM> causes rotation of the drive pulley <NUM> only when the respective spindle shaft assembly <NUM> of the drive pulley <NUM> is adjacent to the stationary belt <NUM> as the respective spindle shaft assembly <NUM> rotates about the main turret shaft <NUM> with the support plate <NUM>. Thus, having the ability to position the tension shafts <NUM> and the corresponding idler pulleys <NUM> at selected ones of the plurality of apertures <NUM> allows a user to control where along the circumference of the support plate <NUM> the rotation is imparted on the drive pulleys <NUM> by the stationary belt <NUM> (i.e., the stationary belt <NUM> timing).

As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, a second, generally opposite end 414b of the stationary belt <NUM> can be coupled to a tensioner <NUM>. The tensioner <NUM> can be any device that can extend and contract in length, such as a pneumatic, hydraulic, or mechanical cylinder. A first end 418a of the tensioner <NUM> can be coupled to the joint <NUM>, and a second, opposite end 418b of the tensioner <NUM> can be coupled to the stationary belt <NUM>. The tensioner <NUM> is configured to adjust the tension of the stationary belt <NUM>, as needed, by extending or retracting the second end 418b. The tensioner <NUM> also can be used to adjust the effective length of the stationary belt <NUM>, as needed, depending on the location of the tension shafts <NUM>. For example, the arm 418c of the cylinder can extend or retract depending on the required length of the stationary belt <NUM> as needed depending on the number and/or position of the spindle shaft assemblies <NUM> engaging the stationary belt <NUM>. Although not changing the length of the stationary belt <NUM>, the length of the stationary belt <NUM> that can be used to rotate the drive pulleys <NUM> increases.

As shown in <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>, the machine arrangement <NUM> includes a reverse rotation plate <NUM>. The reverse rotation plate <NUM> is coupled to the primary turret <NUM> but does not rotate with the main turret shaft <NUM>. Instead, the position of the reverse rotation plate <NUM> is stationary within the machine arrangement <NUM> relative to the rotating main turret shaft <NUM> and support plate <NUM>.

Similar to the stationary belt <NUM>, the reverse rotation plate <NUM> is configured to contact the drive pulleys <NUM> of the spindle shaft assemblies <NUM> as the spindle shaft assemblies <NUM> orbit about the axis of main turret shaft <NUM>. The contact between the reverse rotation plate <NUM> and the drive pulleys <NUM> causes the drive pulleys <NUM> to rotate, which in turn causes the shafts <NUM> and the clutches <NUM> to rotate. The length of the reverse rotation plate <NUM> that contacts the drive pulleys <NUM> can vary depending on for how long the reverse rotation plate <NUM> is required to rotate the drive pulleys <NUM> (i.e., reverse rotation plate <NUM> timing). The reverse rotation plate <NUM> timing is determined based on how much time it takes to disengage the rollers <NUM> from the inner surface <NUM> of the opening <NUM> to release the container <NUM> from the clutch <NUM> (see <FIG>).

The stationary belt <NUM> contacts the drive pulleys <NUM> on the radially outward facing side, with the axis of the main turret shaft <NUM> as the radial frame of reference. In contrast, the reverse rotation plate <NUM> contacts the drive pulleys <NUM> on the radially inward facing side, again with the axis of the main turret shaft <NUM> as the radial frame of reference. Because the stationary belt <NUM> contacts the drive pulleys <NUM> on the opposite side from where the reverse rotation plate <NUM> contacts the drive pulleys <NUM>, the reverse rotation plate <NUM> causes the drive pulleys <NUM> to rotate in an opposite direction as the stationary belt <NUM>. More specifically, the contact between the stationary belt <NUM> and the drive pulleys <NUM> causes the drive pulleys <NUM> to rotate in an opposite direction from the rotation of the main turret shaft <NUM>, and the contact between the reverse rotation plate <NUM> and the drive pulleys <NUM> causes the drive pulleys <NUM> to rotate in the same direction as the main turret shaft <NUM>.

The machine arrangement <NUM> further includes a translation cam <NUM>. The translation cam <NUM> is connected to the primary turret <NUM> but does not rotate with the main turret shaft <NUM>. Instead, the position of the translation cam <NUM> is stationary within the machine arrangement <NUM> relative to the rotating main turret shaft <NUM> and support plate <NUM>.

The translation wheels <NUM> of the spindle shaft assemblies <NUM> are configured to contact and travel over the translation cam <NUM> as the spindle shaft assemblies <NUM> orbit about the axis of the main turret shaft <NUM> (see, e.g., <FIG>). The translation cam <NUM> can have an uneven top surface 422a that causes the translation wheels <NUM> to travel generally upward and downward as they travel across the top surface 422a of the translation cam <NUM>. Alternatively, the translation cam <NUM> can have one or more elements (e.g., inclinations, mounds, bumps, ridges, etc.) that the translation wheels <NUM> ride over. The resulting generally upward and downward motion of the translation wheels <NUM> causes the clutch assemblies <NUM> connected to the translation wheels <NUM> to likewise translate generally upward and downward.

The generally upward and downward motion of the translation wheels <NUM> can be configured to coincide with the insertion and removal of the clutch <NUM> in an opening (e.g., opening <NUM> of <FIG>) of a container (e.g., container <NUM> of <FIG>). Accordingly, the positions of the uneven top surface 422a or the one or more elements on the translation cam <NUM> that cause the translation wheels <NUM> to move generally upward and downward is determined based on the desired location of the generally upward and downward motion of the translation wheels <NUM> (i.e., translation cam <NUM> timing). The translation cam <NUM> timing corresponds to where within the machine arrangement <NUM> the clutch <NUM> engages and disengages from containers.

In embodiments in which the clutch assembly <NUM> is configured to remain stationary as a container is brought to the clutch assembly <NUM>, the translation cam <NUM> may be omitted from the machine arrangement <NUM>. Instead, either a separate machine arrangement may be configured to bring the container up to the clutch assembly <NUM>, or another component within the machine arrangement <NUM> may be configured to bring the container up to the clutch assembly <NUM>, or both, rather than the clutch assembly <NUM> being configured to translate downwardly to the container.

In one or more embodiments, the primary purpose of the machine arrangement <NUM> can be trimming excess material from the opening of a container. For example, the machine arrangement <NUM> can be configured to trim excess plastic material off of a blow-molded plastic container. In such embodiments, the machine arrangement <NUM> includes knives <NUM> (see <FIG>). In one or more embodiments, the knives <NUM> can be coupled to the support plate <NUM> and configured to orbit about the axis of the main turret shaft <NUM>. The knives <NUM> can also be configured to rotate about their respective axes to assist in cutting the plastic. Alternatively, the knives <NUM> can be configured to remain rotationally stationary about their respective axes and, instead, cut the plastic based on the rotation of the clutch assemblies <NUM>, as discussed in more detail below. Alternatively, in one or more embodiments, the knives <NUM> can be within the machine arrangement <NUM> but not connected to the support plate <NUM>. Instead, for example, the knives <NUM> can be connected to and extend from one or more of the legs 402a-402c and contact the plastic containers engaged with the clutch assemblies <NUM>.

The process for trimming excess plastic from the plastic containers (or any material from a respective container, such as metal) begins with a container being placed in a designated position within the machine arrangement <NUM>. After the container is placed at a location within the machine arrangement <NUM> that corresponds to the loading arrangement 200a of <FIG>, a spindle shaft assembly <NUM> is brought over the container (or is already over the container) so that the shaft <NUM> and the clutch <NUM> generally align with the opening of the container. At the same time, or subsequently thereafter, the shaft <NUM> and the clutch <NUM> translate generally downward so that the clutch <NUM> is at least partially inserted into the opening of the container. The translation occurs by the translation wheel <NUM> moving off of a bump or other element of the translation cam <NUM> so that the translation wheel <NUM> translates generally downward.

Once the clutch <NUM> is at least partially within the opening of the container, the shaft <NUM> and the clutch <NUM> rotate by virtue of the drive pulley <NUM> of the spindle shaft assembly <NUM> coming into contact with the stationary belt <NUM>. The rotation of the clutch <NUM> causes the rollers <NUM> to engage against the inner surface of the opening of the container and the cam surfaces <NUM>. Engagement of the clutch <NUM> with the container causes the container to rotate in a first direction. One or more of the knives <NUM> may then contact the container to trim excess plastic from the opening. As discussed above, the knives <NUM> can be configured to rotate about their axes, or the knives can be stationary about their axes and the rotation of the container can assist in the knives <NUM> cutting the plastic.

Rotation of the container is maintained while the drive pulley <NUM> is in contact with the stationary belt <NUM> and as the spindle shaft assembly <NUM> orbits about the axis of the main turret shaft <NUM>. Once the spindle shaft assembly <NUM> moves beyond the stationary belt <NUM>, the drive pulley <NUM> stops rotating. Thereafter, the drive pulley <NUM> contacts the reverse rotation plate <NUM>.

The reverse rotation plate <NUM> causes the shaft <NUM> and the clutch <NUM> to rotate in a second direction, opposite the first direction. As discussed above, rotation in the second direction disengages the rollers <NUM> from the inner surface of the opening of the container, which disengages the container from the clutch <NUM>. At the same time, or thereafter, the translation wheel <NUM> contacts an inclination, bump, or other element on the translation cam <NUM>, which causes the translation wheel <NUM> to translate generally upward. Accordingly, the shaft <NUM> and the clutch <NUM> also translate generally upward with the translation wheel <NUM> such that the clutch <NUM> is withdrawn from the opening of the container. The container can then be removed. The translation wheel <NUM> can subsequently translate back in a downward direction when the spindle shaft assembly <NUM> is over a new container to be trimmed, and the process may then repeat.

Although the spindle shaft assemblies <NUM> are disclosed as being rotated clockwise once and rotated counterclockwise once during a single rotation of the support plate <NUM>, it is contemplated that the spindle shaft assemblies <NUM> can rotate clockwise and/or counterclockwise more than once for each rotation of the support plate <NUM>. For example, the spindle shaft assemblies <NUM> can be rotated clockwise and counterclockwise twice or more per rotation of the support plate <NUM>. Such an embodiment may be associated with each spindle shaft assembly <NUM> mating with two containers for each rotation of the support plate <NUM>. For such an embodiment, the machine arrangement <NUM> can include, for example, a separate stationary belt <NUM>, a separate reverse rotation plate <NUM>, or both to cause the multiple clockwise and counterclockwise rotations. Alternatively, each discrete rotation of the spindle shaft assembly <NUM> can include different portions of the same stationary belt <NUM>, reverse rotation plate <NUM>, or both. The spindle shaft assemblies <NUM> can come into contact with the different portions of the same stationary belt <NUM>, reverse rotation plate <NUM>, or both when the rotation is desired.

Each of these embodiments and obvious variations thereof is contemplated as falling within the 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.

As utilized herein, the terms "approximately," "about," "substantially", 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 invention pertains. It should be understood by those of skill in the art who review this 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.

The terms "coupled," "connected," "attached," and the like, as used herein, mean the joining of two members directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary (e.g., permanent) or moveable (e.g., removable or releasable). Such joining may be achieved with the two members or the two members and any additional intermediate members being integrally formed as a single unitary body with one another or with the two members or the two members and any additional intermediate members being attached to one another.

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 invention.

Claim 1:
A clutch assembly (<NUM>) for handling a container (<NUM>) having an opening (<NUM>), the clutch assembly (<NUM>) comprising:
a shaft (<NUM>) configured to rotate in a first direction and a second direction, opposite from the first direction; and
a clutch (<NUM>) at a first end (102a) of the shaft (<NUM>) configured to at least partially fit within the opening (<NUM>) of the container (<NUM>), the clutch (<NUM>) including:
a cam (<NUM>) having at least two cam surfaces (<NUM>);
characterized in that the clutch also includes:
at least two pairs of slots (<NUM>);
at least two pins (<NUM>), each pin (<NUM>) extending between one of the at least two pairs of slots (<NUM>); and
at least two rollers (<NUM>), each roller (<NUM>) including one of the at least two pins (<NUM>) extending therethrough to retain the roller (<NUM>) between a corresponding one of the at least two pairs of slots (<NUM>),
and in that the at least two pairs of slots (<NUM>) are oriented within the clutch (<NUM>) to cause the at least two rollers (<NUM>) to engage against an inner surface (<NUM>) of the opening (<NUM>) of the container (<NUM>) and a cam surface (<NUM>) of the at least two cam surfaces (<NUM>) when the shaft (<NUM>) rotates in the first direction, and disengage from against the inner surface (<NUM>) of the opening (<NUM>) of the container (<NUM>) when the shaft (<NUM>) rotates in the second direction.