RU2707302C2 - Device and method for orienting end cover of container for beverages and applying signs in predetermined place - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: physics.SUBSTANCE: present invention relates to a method for orienting and decorating an end cap of a beverage container, a device for receiving and orienting a metal end cap of a beverage container. Said method includes the following steps: providing a plurality of metal end covers, feeding the metal end cap into the first end of the arched guide assembly of the alignment device, alignment of orienting device engagement with outer surface of metal end cover, rotation of metal end cover to align it in predetermined orientation, placing the metal end cap on the holder next to the second end of the guiding unit, moving the orienting head out of engagement with the metal end cap and decorating the predetermined portion of the outer surface of the metal end cap.EFFECT: said method is an economical, fast and reliable method of orienting the modified end covers to ensure application of decoration and other preferred signs on specific areas of end covers.15 cl, 18 dwg, 1 tbl

Description

Technical field

The invention relates, in General, to the manufacture of end caps for containers. In particular, the invention relates to methods and apparatus for orienting and aligning a plurality of container end caps with high speed and printing characters on predetermined portions of each end cap.

State of the art

In 2008, the total production of beverages, including soft drinks, beer, cider, spirits and wines, amounted to $ 1.4 trillion. The range of drinks is approximately 1,500 soft drinks and approximately 20,000 beers. Many manufacturers of such drinks pack them in metal containers for drinks. For this reason, manufacturers use approximately 80 billion metal beverage containers every year.

Metal beverage containers provide an opportunity for refineries, distributors and retailers to draw the attention of customers to their products at points of sale, since metal beverage containers have ideal surfaces for decorating with brand names, logos, designs, product information and / or other Preferred marks for identifying, marketing and distinguishing the beverage container and its contents from other products and competitors. Currently, the container body is the main surface of the beverage container to which decoration is applied. However, the container bodies and decoration applied to them are often obscured by the consumer’s hand during the consumption of the beverage. In addition, the alignment between the decoration on the container body and the pouring hole of the container end cap is arbitrary and, therefore, the decoration can be located away from the consumer during the consumption of the beverage.

Metal end caps have a kind of working surface for decorating advertising and marketing information in new non-standard ways. Unlike the container body, consumers naturally align the end cap to open the container and consume beverage from it. Thus, the end cap is positioned so that it is visible to the consumer. In addition, the end cap is not obstructed or blocked during consumption of the beverage. However, end caps often remain undecorated, since known methods for decorating end caps have a number of disadvantages. Consequently, with regard to end caps of containers, there is the possibility of improving their use to distinguish between points of sale and to attract consumers.

The end caps of containers or blanks are made separately from the container body. The manufacture of end caps requires a number of technological operations, collectively referred to as the modification process, and, in general, is shown and described in the article “How Ball Corporation Manufactures End Caps for Beverage Containers,” available at http: //www.ball. com / images / ball_com / product_options_files / How_Ball_Makes_Beverage_Ends.pdf (last accessed June 13, 2014) and in US Pat. No. 6,533,518, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. During the process of modifying the end cap, they are transported to a number of technological posts. A press for manufacturing blanks cuts round blanks from a roll of metal material and forms blanks from blanks. The winding machine forms a peripheral bend around the periphery of the workpieces and forms a chamfer. Devices for applying a sealing composition applies a sealing composition to the workpiece. Then, in the process of modifying the workpiece is converted into end caps. The orientation of the workpieces entering the modification press is arbitrary, since there is no need or reliable method for orienting the workpieces in the existing conversion process. The modification press contains a plurality of sequentially arranged sets of dies and punches that set the rivet in the center of the workpiece, form detachable marks to limit the tear-off panel and the tapping hole, and connect the eye to the rivet. Next, the end caps are packed in bags, laid on pallets and stored until they are needed to seal the filled container body.

Existing manufacturing methods limit the types and locations of decoration that can be used on end caps. According to a known method for decorating end caps, the decoration is applied to the metal starting material before forming blanks. Examples of this method are described in documents WO 2007/007102, GB 2428659 and GB 2428668, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Despite the fact that both rolls and cut sheets of metal source material can be decorated before the formation of blanks during the modification process, marking and printing decoration on rolls and cut sheets are complicated and become unprofitable. In addition, there is a high likelihood of damage to the decoration, when the source material is used to form end caps in the process of modification. For example, if the decoration is not properly aligned with the billet press, part of the decoration may be cut off. The decoration may also intersect and be damaged by marks or may be located in an area that is not visible due to the fact that it is blocked by an ear. In addition, the decoration may be damaged by the tools used in the modification process.

Another known method for decorating end caps comprises decorating blanks before they enter the modification press. However, since the workpieces are not oriented when they enter the modification press, the decoration may intersect with marks located under the ear, or may be partially located on the tear-off panel. As a result, the decoration may be hidden from view or may be damaged when opening the tear-off panel.

Methods for decorating modified end caps after forming the tear-off panel and attaching the eyelet to the central wall are also known. In one such method, optical means are used for orienting the modified end caps before decorating the end caps. However, the known methods for decorating modified end caps are generally slow and / or do not allow decoration to be applied in predetermined areas of the end cap, since the end caps are not oriented before applying the decoration.

Another way of orienting the end cap is described in document US 6524048 (Tsukada et al., Hereinafter - Tsukada), which is incorporated into the description in full by reference. Tsukada, in general, describes a device that detects a mark or pattern on a workpiece and then orientates the workpiece. Subsequently, an eye is attached to the oriented workpiece. Another way to orient the end cap is described in US 4016968 (Stelter et al., Hereinafter - Stelter), which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. A stelter generally describes a method and apparatus that uses the temporary orientation of an eye located on the lower side of the end cap to rotate the end cap to a predetermined position. However, the methods described in the documents of Tsukad and Stelter, in General, are slow and not suitable for the industrial production of containers, which require a device and method for orienting and decorating the end caps with very high performance, at least several thousand end caps per minute .

Due to the many limitations associated with the existing process for producing and decorating end caps, there is an unmet need for an economical, fast, and reliable way to orient modified end caps to allow decoration and other preferred characters to be applied to specific areas of the end caps.

Disclosure of invention

The invention provides methods and apparatus for orienting end caps relative to the base axis in a cost-effective, fast and reliable manner. After orienting the end caps, these covers can be decorated in specific areas that are not obstructed or interrupted by the ear or notched portions of the end cap. One aspect of the invention is to provide a method and apparatus for maintaining the necessary orientation of oriented end caps in order to allow decoration to be applied to specific areas of the end caps. Another aspect of the invention is to provide an improved, economical, and reliable method of applying decoration to oriented, modified end caps. Another aspect of the invention is to provide an orienting device that can quickly and efficiently orient modified end caps during a high-performance manufacturing process. In an embodiment of the invention, the orienting device is adapted to orient the end caps by mechanical contact with a part of the outer surface of the end cap. In another embodiment, the orienting device does not require the use of optical or other sensors to orient the end caps.

An aspect of the invention provides a new method for orienting and decorating the outer surface of the end cap of a beverage container. Said method includes, without limitation, a method which, in general, comprises the steps of: (1) providing an end cap; (2) placing an orienting head for contact when rotating with the outer surface of the end cap; (3) rotate the end cap to a predetermined orientation; (4) securing the end cap in a predetermined orientation; (5) disengage the orienting head from engagement with the end cap; and (6) decorating with the image a predetermined part of the outer surface of the end cap. The end cover may include, without limitation, one or more of the elements, which include: a peripheral bend, a clamping wall extending downward from the peripheral bend, a recess associated with the lower end of the clamping wall, a tear-off panel in the central wall and an eyelet operably connected to the outer surface central wall. In an embodiment of the invention, the end cap comprises a peripheral bend and a central wall. In another embodiment, the lid comprises an eyelet.

In addition, the method may further comprise the steps of: (7) placing an end cap on the stamped cup, wherein the stamped cup is configured to selectively prevent rotation and movement of the end cap; (8) form a recess in one or more printing plates, said recess being configured to receive an eyelet; (9) fixing the printing plates with the possibility of removal on the drum of the device for coating; (10) applying a base coating material to a predetermined portion of the printing plates; (11) transfer the base coating material from the printing plates to a predetermined portion of the outer surface of the end cap.

The method may further comprise stages in which: (12) form a recess in one or more printing plates, said recess being configured to receive an eye; (13) fixing the printing plates with the possibility of removal on the drum of the printing device; (14) forming an image on the print head; (15) apply paint to the image; (16) transferring ink from the print head to a predetermined portion of the printing plates; (17) transferring ink from the printing plates to a predetermined portion of the outer surface of the end cap; and (18) drying the image with an ultraviolet radiation source. In an embodiment, the printhead contains six printheads, and each printhead receives ink of a particular color or type. In another embodiment, the printheads are removably attached in rows of 1 to 10 to the periphery of the drum of the printing apparatus, with 1 to 10 end caps being decorated at the same time. In yet another embodiment, decorating a predetermined portion of an outer surface of a lid comprises decorating a predetermined portion of at least a central wall, a tear-off panel, and an eyelet.

In an embodiment, rotating the end cap to a predetermined orientation also includes rotating the end cap until the Y axis of the end cap is substantially parallel to the base axis. In another embodiment, the angle between the Y axis and the base axis is less than 5 °. In an embodiment, the orienting head is configured to rotate the end cap to a predetermined orientation. In another embodiment, rotating the end cap to a predetermined orientation includes rotating the end cap, while the orienting head remains aligned with the predetermined orientation. The end cap rotates until a predetermined surface element on the outer surface of the end cap engages with the orienting head. After the orienting head engages with the surface element of the end cap, said end cap stops rotation and aligns in a predetermined orientation.

In yet another embodiment, the orienting head comprises a housing, a front part, a pocket formed in the front part for receiving the end cap ear, a tapering part that extends from the front part to the bottom of the pocket, and a wall extending from the bottom of the pocket is substantially vertical to the front part, and when the orienting head rotates, the ear moves with sliding into the pocket and is held in the pocket by the specified wall.

According to another aspect of the invention, a description is given of a device for orienting and decorating the outer surface of an end cap, which is adapted to be connected to the neck of a beverage container, said apparatus configured to simultaneously orient and decorate a plurality of end caps. The device, in General, contains without limitation: (1) a stabilizer for receiving the end cap and placing the end cap in the holder, and the holder is configured to move the end cap through the device and selectively prevent rotation of the end cap; (2) an orienting device, wherein the orienting device is adapted to receive the holder and the end cap and rotate the end cap to a predetermined orientation, and the holder prevents the end cap from rotating from the predetermined orientation; (3) a device for applying a base coating material to a predetermined part of the outer surface of the end cap; (4) a printing device configured to transfer an image to a predetermined portion of the end cap; and (5) at least one drying device configured to dry the base coating material and the image. In an embodiment, the end cap comprises a peripheral bend, a central wall and an eye connected to the outer surface of the central wall. In another embodiment, the end cap comprises a peripheral bend, a clamping wall extending downward from it, a recess mating with the clamping wall, and a central wall mating with the recess.

In an embodiment, the orienting device includes an orienting head having a geometry for positioning the orienting head on an element of the outer surface of the end cap and its engagement with it. In an embodiment, the outer surface member is an eyelet connected to the outer surface of the central wall. In another embodiment, the outer surface element is a tear-off panel of a central wall. In yet another embodiment, the outer surface member is a central wall. In another embodiment, the orienting head comprises a housing, a front part, a pocket formed in the front part for receiving the end cap ear, a tapering part that extends from the front part to the bottom of the pocket, and a wall extending from the bottom of the pocket, essentially vertically of the front part moreover, the orienting head is made to rotate around the longitudinal axis of the housing.

In an embodiment, the orienting head is fixed so that it is aligned in a predetermined orientation. The front part of the orienting head is made with the possibility of contact with part of the outer surface of the end cover and to ensure rotation of the end cover. The orienting head is also configured to stop rotation of the end cap when the end cap is aligned in a predetermined orientation. In another embodiment, the orienting head is rotatable about a longitudinal axis substantially perpendicularly to the front of the orienting head. The orienting head is adapted to engage with a predetermined element of the outer surface of the end cap and rotate the end cap to a predetermined orientation. The orienting head rotates the end cap until the end cap reaches a predetermined orientation.

In an embodiment, the holder comprises a clip that applies pressure to the end cap to hold the end cap in a predetermined orientation. In yet another embodiment, the device is configured to orient and decorate from 1 to 5 end caps at a time.

In an embodiment, the printing apparatus generally includes, without limitation (1), at least one printhead with an image formed thereon; (2) an ink supply device configured to transfer ink to an image on a printhead; and (3) a drum, said drum having a periphery with one or more printing plates attached thereto, and each of the printing plates has a recess configured to receive an eye connected to the outer surface of the end cover, the drum being configured to move the printing plates for contact during rotation with the print head and the outer surface of the end cover, and the image is transferred from the print head to the printing plates and then to a predetermined part of the cover.

Another aspect of the invention is to provide an orienting head for an orienting device used to position the end cap during the decoration process. The orienting head generally comprises: (1) a housing; (2) a front portion, the front portion being oriented in a plane generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the housing; and (3) a pocket formed in a portion of the front portion, said pocket having a size that allows it to receive the eye of the end cover, and the pocket has a bottom substantially parallel to the front portion, a first side inclined upward from the bottom to the front portion, and the second side, forming a substantially vertical wall from the bottom to the front. In an embodiment, the housing is configured to connect to an orientation device used in the process of decorating the end cap.

In an embodiment, the orienting head is rotatable about a longitudinal axis. In another embodiment, the front of the orienting head is slidable on the outer surface of the eye connected to the end cap during rotation of the orienting head. In yet another embodiment, the orienting head does not rotate around the longitudinal axis when the end cap rotates around the longitudinal axis. In yet another embodiment, the face portion is configured to slide the outer surface of the eyelet connected to the end cover over the face when the end cover rotates while the orienting head does not rotate. In another embodiment, the orienting head is fixed in a predetermined orientation and is adapted to engage with a predetermined portion of the surface of the end cap when the end cap rotates to a predetermined orientation.

In another embodiment, the first side is configured to guide the eyelet connected to the end cap from the front to the pocket. In yet another embodiment, the wall is configured to hold the eyelet connected to the end cap in a pocket, and the wall applies force to the side surface of the eye to rotate the end cap to a predetermined orientation. In an embodiment, the front portion comprises a substantially flat surface. In an embodiment, the pocket has a depth greater than the distance between the outer surface of the eye and the end cap to which the eye is connected. Thus, the outer surface of the eye does not come into contact with the bottom of the pocket when the eye is engaged with the orienting head. In another embodiment, the pocket has a depth less than or approximately equal to the distance between the outer surface of the eyelet and the end cap to which the eyelet is connected. Accordingly, the outer surface of the eye can be in contact with the bottom of the pocket when the eye is engaged with the orienting head.

In an embodiment, at least a portion of the pocket is adapted to engage the end cap ear and apply a rotational force to the end cap. In another embodiment, at least a portion of the pocket is adapted to engage the end cap ear to stop rotation of the end cap when the end cap is in a predetermined orientation. In an embodiment, the pocket includes an opening that forms a void in the housing of the orienting head. In another embodiment, the pocket has an asymmetric shape.

Another aspect of the invention is a new way of orienting and decorating the container end cap. The specified method includes, without limitation, the steps in which: (1) provide a variety of end caps, which are made with the possibility of connection with the neck of the container; (2) supplying at least one end cap to the first end of the guide assembly of the orienting device; (3) the orienting head of the orienting device is engaged with the outer surface of the end cap; (4) at least one end cap is rotated to align at least one end cap in a predetermined orientation; (5) place the end cover on the holder near the second end of the guide assembly of the orientation device; (6) disengage the orienting head from engagement with the end cap; (7) decorating a predetermined portion of the outer surface of the end cap. Decoration can be performed in any orientation and anywhere on the outer surface of the end cap. It should be noted that after orienting the end cap in a predetermined orientation, the end cap can be decorated in any way that is known to the person skilled in the art. For example, in an embodiment, the end cap is decorated using one of the printing processes including, but not limited to, offset printing, dry offset printing, intaglio printing, metallography, screen printing, pad printing and inkjet printing. In another embodiment, the end cap is decorated with a laser marking system. Accordingly, in an embodiment of the invention, decorating a predetermined portion of the outer surface of the end cap comprises one or more of the elements, which include an image, laser marking, code, and text message, formed on the end cap by any means. In an embodiment, the end cap comprises a peripheral bend, a clamping wall extending downward from the peripheral bend, a recess mating with the clamping wall, and a central wall mating with the recess.

In an embodiment of the invention, the guide assembly also comprises an inner guide connected to the outer guide. The inner and outer rails are located at a distance approximately equal to the height of the end cover. The inner and outer guides are configured to hold the outer surface of the end cap in contact with the orienting head when the orienting head moves the end cap from the first end to the second end of the guide assembly. In another embodiment, the guide assembly of the orienting device has a substantially arcuate shape.

In an embodiment of the invention, the orienting head of the orienting device is connected to the distal end of the spoke. In another embodiment, the spoke is configured to rotate the orienting head around the longitudinal axis of the spoke. In yet another embodiment, the first end of the spoke is connected to the hub of the orienting device. The hub is rotatable in the axial direction at a predetermined speed. In yet another embodiment, the spoke is arranged to move the orienting head along an arcuate path from the first end to the second end of the guide assembly.

In an embodiment, the spoke is also configured to rotate the orientation head around the longitudinal axis of the spoke when the spoke moves the orientation head from the first end to the second end of the guide assembly. In another embodiment, the spoke is configured to start rotating the orienting head at a first point and stop rotating the orienting head at a second point when the hub of the orienting device rotates in the axial direction. In an embodiment, the first point is located near the first end of the guide assembly, and the second point is located between the first end and the second end of the guide assembly. In yet another embodiment, the spoke also comprises a first gear configured to mesh with the bevel gear of the hub. The first gear and bevel gear are configured to initiate rotation of the orienting head at the first point and stop rotation of the orienting head at the second point.

In an embodiment, the spoke is adapted to rotate the orienting head a predetermined number of times around the longitudinal axis of the spoke. In another embodiment, the spoke is configured to rotate the orienting head once around the longitudinal axis of the spoke. In yet another embodiment, the spoke is configured to rotate the orienting head from about once to about four times about the longitudinal axis of the spoke.

In another embodiment of the invention, the orienting device is configured to rotate the end cap around the longitudinal axis of the spokes, while the orienting head remains aligned in a predetermined orientation. The orienting head is configured to stop rotation of the end cap when the end cap is aligned in a predetermined orientation. In an embodiment of the invention, a predetermined portion of the end cap is in contact with the fixed structure of the orienting device. The contact between the end cap and the fixed structure forces the end cap to rotate around the longitudinal axis of the spoke. In an embodiment, the fixed structure is a friction guide. In another embodiment, one or more of the inner or outer rails is configured to exert a friction force sufficient to rotate the end cap. In yet another embodiment, the drive roller or the moving belt of the orienting device is configured to rotate the end cap.

In another embodiment, the spoke comprises a plurality of spokes connected to the hub of the orienting device. In another embodiment, the spoke contains six spokes. In yet another embodiment, the spoke comprises from two to nine spokes connected to the hub of the orienting device.

In an embodiment, rotating the end cap to align the end cap in a predetermined orientation also comprises rotating the end cap until the Y axis of the end cap is substantially parallel to the base axis. In another embodiment, the angle between the Y axis and the base axis is less than 5 °.

In yet another embodiment, decorating a predetermined portion of the outer surface of the end cap also comprises providing one or more printing plates. Each printing plate comprises a recess configured to receive an eyelet that is connected to the outer surface of the end cap. The printing plates are removably attached to the drum of the printing apparatus. An image is formed on the print head. Paint is applied to the image. Next, the ink is transferred from the print head to a predetermined portion of the printing plates. The ink from the printing plates is transferred to a predetermined part of the outer surface of the end cap.

According to another aspect of the invention, a description is given of a new device for receiving and orienting an end cap, which is configured to connect to the neck of a container. Said device generally comprises: (1) an arcuate guide assembly comprising a first end and a second end, the first end being configured to receive an end cap, and the second end configured to release the end cap; (2) a hub configured to rotate an arcuate guide assembly at a predetermined speed; (3) a plurality of spokes radially connected to the hub; and (4) an orienting head connected to the distal end of each spoke, wherein the orienting head is adapted to engage a portion of the outer surface of the end cap at the first end of the arcuate guide assembly and align the end cap to a predetermined orientation when the orienting head and end cap move axially direction from the first end to the second end of the arcuate guide assembly.

In an embodiment, at least a portion of each of the plurality of spokes is rotatable about the longitudinal axis of each spokes. In another embodiment, the device also comprises a bevel gear, which may be engaged with a hub and gear connected to a spoke. The bevel gear contains a front part oriented essentially perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the hub. Teeth are formed on a portion of an annular portion of a front portion of a bevel gear. Accordingly, the gear teeth are engaged with the teeth formed on the bevel gear to rotate the rotary part of the spoke and the orienting head connected to it for a predetermined part of the time of each rotation of the hub.

In another embodiment, the arcuate guide assembly also comprises an inner portion located at a distance from the outer portion. At least a portion of a portion of the outer surface of the end cap is in contact with the inner part of the arcuate guide assembly. In addition, at least a portion of a portion of the inner surface of the end cap is in contact with the outer portion of the arcuate guide assembly.

In an embodiment, the orienting head also comprises a housing connected to a spoke. The face of the orienting head comprises a substantially flat surface oriented in a plane generally perpendicular to the housing. A pocket is formed in the area of the front part, said pocket having a geometric profile, which allows receiving an eyelet connected to a part of the outer surface of the end cap. In another embodiment, the orienting head is adapted to engage with the outer surface of the end cap. The orienting head rotates the end cap around the longitudinal axis of the spoke when the orienting head and the end cap move between the first end and the second end of the arcuate guide assembly.

In yet another embodiment of the invention, the device is configured to rotate the end cap around the longitudinal axis of the spokes when the orienting head and end cap are moved between the first end and the second end of the arcuate guide assembly. During the movement between the first end and the second end, the orienting head does not rotate around the longitudinal axis of the spoke. The orienting head is configured to stop rotation of the end cap when the end cap is aligned in a predetermined orientation. In an embodiment, a portion of the arcuate guide assembly applies a frictional force to the end cap, which forces the end cap to rotate about the longitudinal axis of the spoke. In an embodiment, a portion of the arcuate guide assembly is a friction guide. In another embodiment, one or more of the inner or outer rails is configured to apply a frictional force to the end cap. In yet another embodiment, the drive roller or the moving belt related to the arcuate guide assembly is configured to rotate the end cap.

In an embodiment of the invention, the device comprises two arcuate guide assemblies and a hub associated with each arcuate guide assembly. In yet another embodiment, the device comprises four arcuate guide assemblies with a hub associated with each arcuate guide assembly. In yet another embodiment, the device comprises one to eight arcuate guide assemblies and hubs. Each hub contains many spokes. In an embodiment of the invention, the plurality of spokes comprises six spokes associated with each hub. In another embodiment, the plurality of hubs comprises from two to ten spokes connected to each hub. Each distal end of the plurality of spokes comprises an orienting head.

In another aspect of the invention, a new method for orienting a metal end cap is provided. This method includes, without limitation, a method that, in general, includes the steps of: (1) providing an orienting device comprising: an arcuate guide assembly including a first end, a second end and means for engaging and maintaining the end cap; a hub configured to rotate at a predetermined speed; many spokes extending radially from the hub; and an orienting head connected to the distal end of each spoke, wherein the orienting head has a front part adapted to engage with a part of the outer surface of the end cap, and each of the plurality of spokes is arranged to move the front part of the orienting head connected to it from the first end to the second the end of the arcuate guide assembly; (2) receiving a cover at the first end of the arcuate guide assembly, the eyelet being connected to a part of the outer surface of the end cap located near the front of one of the orienting heads; (3) the hub is rotated, the front part of the orienting head engages with the end cap and moves the end cap from the first end to the second end of the arcuate guide assembly; and (4) rotating the end cap around the longitudinal axis of the spoke relative to the orienting head, so that the end cap and eye are aligned in a predetermined orientation when the end cap leaves the second end of the arcuate guide assembly. In an embodiment, the method also comprises disengaging the orienting head from the end cap after aligning the end cap in a predetermined orientation. In an embodiment, the end cap is coupled to a beverage container. The end cap may include a peripheral bend, a clamping wall extending downward from the peripheral bend, a recess associated with the lower end of the clamping wall, and a central wall associated with the recess.

In an embodiment of the invention, at least a portion of each of the plurality of spokes is rotatable around the longitudinal axis of the spokes. In another embodiment, the orienting device also comprises a bevel gear connected to the hub and a gear connected to each of the plurality of spokes. The bevel gear contains a predetermined number of teeth formed on a part of the bevel gear. Thus, when the hub rotates, the gear teeth engage with the teeth of the bevel gear, and at least the rotatable part of each spoke and the orienting head connected to it rotate.

In another embodiment, the orienting heads of the orienting device do not rotate around the longitudinal axis of the spoke. The orienting heads are aligned in a fixed position with respect to a predetermined orientation. The arcuate guide assembly is configured to rotate the end cap around the longitudinal axis of the spoke. When the end cap rotates in contact with the front of the orienting head, the eyelet connected to the end cap rotates and engages with the orienting head. The engagement of the eye with the orienting head prevents further rotation of the end cap. In an embodiment, the contact between the portion of the arcuate guide assembly and the end cap causes the end cap to rotate about the longitudinal axis of the spoke. In another embodiment, the arcuate guide assembly includes a friction guide configured to rotate the cover. In another embodiment, the means for engaging and maintaining the arcuate guide assembly is configured to rotate the end cap. In yet another embodiment, the orienting device also comprises one or more drive rollers or moving belts of the orienting device configured to rotate the end cap.

In another embodiment, the spoke is displaced in a radially extending position. Thus, the face of the orienting head applies force to a portion of the outer surface of the end cap when the end cap is engaged with the face of the orienting head.

The arcuate guide assembly can mesh and support the end cap using a number of devices and means. In an embodiment, the means for engaging and maintaining includes at least two guides. In another embodiment, the means for engaging and maintaining includes an inner rail connected to the outer rail. The inner and outer rails are separated from each other by a distance approximately equal to the height of the end cover. In yet another embodiment, the means for engaging and maintaining includes a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is configured to receive an end cap and the second end is configured to release the end cap. In yet another embodiment, the means for engaging and maintaining includes an inner portion located at a distance from the outer portion. The inner and outer parts are arranged to contact predefined parts of the end cap. In yet another embodiment, the means for engagement and maintenance is configured to rotate the end cap.

The above-described embodiments, tasks and arrangements are neither complete nor exhaustive. It should be appreciated that in other embodiments of the invention, one or more of the features described above or described in detail below may be used individually or jointly.

References in the description to “end caps” or “end caps of containers” need not be construed as limiting the invention to a particular size, shape or type of end cap. One skilled in the art will appreciate that the invention can be used to orient and decorate end caps of any kind, size, or type, including end caps with one or more taps or vents, or with other sections or elements. The end cover may include, without limitation, one or more of the elements, which include: a peripheral bend, a clamping wall extending downward from the peripheral bend, a recess associated with the lower end of the clamping wall, a central wall conjugated with a recess, a tear-off panel in the central wall and an eye functionally connected to the outer surface of the central wall. In an embodiment of the invention, the end cap comprises a peripheral bend and a central wall. In another embodiment, the end cap comprises an eyelet connected to a portion of the outer surface of the central wall.

The expressions “at least one”, “one or more” and “and / or” in the context of the description are non-limiting expressions that can be used both joining and separating. For example, each of the expressions “at least one of A, B and C”, “at least one of A, B or C”, “one or more of A, B and C”, “one or more of A, B or C ”and“ A, B and / or C ”means only A, only B, only C, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, or A, B and C together.

References in the description to “decoration” need not be construed as limiting the invention to a particular type or method of printing, improving or decorating end caps. Specialists in this field should take into account that the invention can be used in various decoration processes, including lithographic printing, offset printing, dry offset printing, gravure printing, metallography, screen printing, tampon printing, ink jet printing, flexographic printing, laser printing and their combinations. In addition, the concept of “decoration” in the context of the description refers to any signs placed on the end cap for any purpose, including identification of the contents, place and date of manufacture, recommended date of use, name of the manufacturer of the container or component of the container, trade names, advertising, advertising stocks, etc. In addition, it should be taken into account that the concept of “decoration” may include the application of primers, coatings, and decorative paints of all types to end caps.

References in the description to “lithographic printing” or its aspects need not be construed as limiting the invention to a particular printing method or type. One of skill in the art will appreciate that the invention can be used in other printing processes, such as offset printing, dry offset printing, gravure printing, metallography, screen printing, laser printing and inkjet printing.

One skilled in the art will appreciate that the method and apparatus of the invention can be used to orient and decorate end caps of any material. In addition, the method and apparatus of the invention can be used to orient and decorate end caps of any size, shape and type for containers of any type, including, without limitation, metal containers for drinks and metal containers for food.

Unless otherwise indicated, all numbers indicating quantities, sizes, parameters, etc., used in the description and claims, should be considered in all cases as allowing for changes due to the term "approximately".

In the context of the description, the name of the object, mentioned in the singular, can mean both one object or several objects. Essentially, in the description of the concept of “one”, “one or more” and “at least one” can be used on an equal footing.

In the context of the description, the use of the terms “including”, “comprising” or “having” and their variants means that they relate to the elements listed below and their equivalents, as well as to additional elements. Accordingly, the concepts of “including”, “comprising” or “having” and their variants can be used in the description on an equal footing.

It should be noted that in the context of the description, the term “means” can be used in its broadest interpretation according to 35 U.S.C., Section 112 (f). Accordingly, a claim containing the concept of "means" applies to all structures, materials or actions disclosed in the description, and all their equivalents. In addition, structures, materials or actions and their equivalents should include all structures, materials or actions and their equivalents described in the sections “Disclosure of the invention”, “Brief description of the drawings”, “Embodiments of the invention”, “Summary” and "The claims."

The content of the section "Disclosure of inventions" is not intended and should not be construed as representing the invention in full and in volume. In addition, it should be understood that in the description of the reference to the expression "invention" or its aspects mean certain embodiments of the invention and should not be construed as limiting all embodiments to a specific description. The invention is claimed at various levels of specification in the section "Disclosure of the invention", as well as in the drawings and in the section "Embodiments of the invention", while there are no restrictions on the scope of the invention either by including or by not including elements or components in the description. Additional aspects of the invention will become more apparent from the section "Embodiments of the invention", in particular, with reference to the drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

The drawings, which are included in the description and form part of it, show embodiments according to the invention, which together with the above section of the "Disclosure of the invention" and the following section of the "Options for implementation" are intended to explain the principles of these embodiments. In some cases, detailed information that is not necessary to understand the description or which relates to other aspects that are difficult to understand may be omitted. Of course, it should be appreciated that the invention should not be limited to the specific embodiments presented in the description. In addition, it should be appreciated that the drawings may not be shown to scale.

In FIG. 1 is a block diagram according to an embodiment of the invention, showing a system for orienting and decorating end caps, a schematic view;

in FIG. 2 is a stamped cup according to an embodiment of the invention, which is configured to hold the end cap, perspective view;

in FIG. 3 - the system of FIG. 1, whereby the orientation assembly of the end caps according to an embodiment of the invention is shown in side view;

FIG. 4 is an orienting head according to an embodiment of the invention, perspective view;

in FIG. 5A to 5C show a method for orienting an end cap with an orienting head according to an embodiment of the invention;

in FIG. 6 is a flow chart of a method for orienting and decorating end caps according to an embodiment of the invention;

in FIG. 7 is a flowchart of a manufacturing process according to another embodiment of the invention, showing a system for orienting and decorating end caps;

in FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of an orienting device according to an embodiment of the invention;

in FIG. 9A is a wheel and a guide assembly of the orienting device of FIG. 8 with the removed part of the wheel cover in order to show the bevel gears associated with the spokes of the orienting device, front view;

in FIG. 9B is a wheel and a guide assembly in FIG. 9A, side view;

in FIG. 10A is a wheel and a guide assembly of the orienting device of FIG. 8, connected to a support, while also showing a sensor associated with an orienting device, another front view;

FIG. 10B is a wheel and a guide assembly in FIG. 10A, which also shows two wheels of an orienting device axially connected to a support and a drive of an orienting device, side view;

in FIG. 11 is an orienting device according to the invention, comprising four wheels arranged in two rows in a staggered pattern, while also showing a holder receiving oriented end caps from the orienting device, a perspective view;

in FIG. 12A and 12B are an orienting head according to an embodiment of the invention, two perspective views; and

in FIG. 13 is a flow diagram of a method for orienting and decorating end caps according to an embodiment of the invention.

Similar components and / or elements are identified by the same reference number. Components of the same type may differ in the symbol following the item number. If only the item number is used, the description refers to any of the similar components having the same item number.

For a better understanding of an embodiment of the invention, the following is a list of components and corresponding item numbers in the drawings.

Position number Component 2 Orientation and decoration system 4 Stabilizer 6 Orienting device 8 Coating Device 10 Printing device 12 Drying device 14 Compilation fifteen Inner surface of end cap sixteen End cap 17 The outer surface of the end cap eighteen Modification Press nineteen Peripheral bend twenty Central wall 22 Tear-off panel 23 Auxiliary ventilation panel 24 Ear 25 Side surface of the eye 26 Holder 27 Chain 28 Y axis thirty Base axis 32 Clamping mechanism 34 Drum 35 Gear 36 Offset plates 37 Rows of plates 38 Deepening 40 Application roller 42 Printhead 44 Paint feeder 45 Control post 46 Picture 48 Stamped cup fifty Body 52 Hole 54 Front part 56 Hole 58 Clamp 60 End of clamp 62 Orienting head 64 Chain 66 Wheels 68 Chain 70 Orienting Head Housing 72 Longitudinal axis 74 Head 76 Front part 78 Tapering part 80 Pocket 82 Wall 83 End wall 84 The method of decorating and orienting the end caps 86 Start 88 End cap loading 90 End caps rotation 92 Locking end caps in a predefined orientation 94 Orientation Check 96 End Cover Pretreatment 98 Application and drying of the base coat one hundred Application and drying of decoration 102 Application and drying of additional protective coating 104 Checking End Caps 106 Collection of rejected end caps 108 Litter of decorated end caps 110 Ending 120 Orientation and decoration system 124 Feeder 126 Orienting device 128 Wheel 129 Drive unit 130 Guide assembly 132 Support 133 Axis 134 Mounting plate 136 Bearing 138 Bevel gear 139 Rotation prevention guide 140 Hub 142 Hub holes 144 Spoke 145 Knitting needle 146 Gear 148 First axis 149 Gear bearing 150 Second axis 152 Tension spring 154 Linear splined assembly 156 First end 158 Second end 160 Internal guides 162 The first extensions of the inner rails 164 Second extensions of the inner rails 166 Gear teeth 168 Bevel gear teeth 170 Outdoor guides 172 Guide 174 End of guide 176 Sensor 178 Holder protrusion 180 Way 182 Start 184 End cover compartment with feeder 186 Reception of end caps with an orienting device 188 Rotating end caps with an orienting head 190 The control 192 Collection of rejected end caps 194 Loading end caps into holder 196 Optional pretreatment 198 Precoating Application and Drying 200 Application and drying of decoration 202 Protective coating 204 Decoration Check 206 Passing Assembled End Caps 208 Ending

Embodiments of the invention

The invention has significant advantages in a wide range of issues. The applicant believes that this description and the claims provide the full range of issues in accordance with the scope and essence of the disclosed invention, despite the fact that they can be considered subject to limitations by means of wording that are necessary to refer to specific examples described. To familiarize those skilled in the art that is most closely related to the invention, a preferred embodiment that explains the best mode for putting the invention into practice is described with reference to the drawings as part of the description. The illustrative embodiment has been described in detail without the intention of describing all the various forms and modifications in which the invention may be implemented. Thus, the disclosed embodiments are illustrative and, as should be understood by those skilled in the art, may be modified in various ways within the scope and spirit of the invention.

Although the following text provides a detailed description of numerous specific embodiments, it should be appreciated that the detailed description is to be taken as an example only and it does not describe every possible embodiment, since a description of each possible embodiment would be practically impractical or even impossible. Numerous other embodiments could be implemented using either existing technology or technology developed after the filing date of the application that would be consistent with the scope of the claims. Thus, if any concept given in the claims at the end of the application is mentioned in this application as corresponding to a single meaning, this is done only for clarity of description, so as not to mislead the reader, and it is not assumed that such a concept is given in the claims of the invention is limited to this single meaning indirectly or otherwise.

In FIG. 1 shows a system 2 for orienting and decorating end caps at a predetermined location. The system generally includes a stabilizer 4, an orienting device 6, a coating device 8, a printing device 10, a drying device 12, and a collector 14.

In an embodiment, the stabilizer 4 receives the modified end caps 16 from the modification press 18. In an embodiment, the end caps 16 are moved from the press 18 to the stabilizer 4 in the form of a cylindrical stack (not shown). The cylindrical stack includes a rod with end caps stacked along the axis of the rod. The end caps 16 generally include a peripheral bend 19, a central wall 20, a tear-off panel 22 and an eyelet 24 operatively connected to the outer surface 17 of the end cap 16. Alternatively, other elements, such as an auxiliary, can be formed on the end cap ventilation panel 23. Each cap has a Y-axis 28 aligned with the diameter of the end cap, which generally separates each end cap and tab 24 into substantially symmetrical halves.

In an embodiment, the stabilizer 4 is a mechanical sponge that controls the flow of the end caps 16 between the modification press 18 and the system 2. The stabilizer 4 maintains the proper speed and flow of the end caps 16 to ensure that the end caps are continuously fed into the orientating device 6. The stabilizer 4 collects the end caps 16, coming from the modification press 18, to ensure the supply of the end caps 16 to the system 2 in case of turning off the modification press 18 or other equipment dix the upstream, e.g., for maintenance during unscheduled stops or when loading new rolls of sheet metal in an uncoiler (not shown).

In an embodiment, the stabilizer 4 loads the end caps 16 into the holder 26 with the ear 24 forward. The holders 26 align the end caps 16 and move them through the system and provide support for the end caps 16 when they are decorated and dried. When loading into the holders 26 in place A, the end caps are non-oriented, therefore, the ears 24 and the tear-off panels 22 of all end caps 16 are oriented arbitrarily with respect to the base axis of the system 2. In addition, the Y-axis 28 of the cover 16 cannot be parallel to the other Y-axis covers.

The holders 26 are rotatable through the system from place A to place C. In an embodiment, the holders 26 are connected to a tape or chain 27 forming a continuous loop, which rotates through the system from place A to place C. In another embodiment, two continuous loops form chains 27. Although only three holders 26 are shown, one skilled in the art should appreciate that any number of holders 26 can be used with the system 2 of the invention. The holders 26 are generally located along chain 27 System 2 at equal intervals from each other. In an embodiment, the holders consist of two longitudinal guides connected by short side rails. The guides and bars form pockets in the holders 26, which are configured to receive end caps. The size of each holder 26 may be increased or decreased to hold end caps 16 of any size. The holders 26 are configured to rotate the end caps 16 around the vertical axis when the holders 26 move the end caps through the orienting device 6. The vertical axis is essentially centered on the central wall 20 of the end caps and is perpendicular to the Y-axis 28. In an embodiment, the holders 26 adjust the position of the end caps due to contact with the inner surface of the central wall or contact with the outer surface of the peripheral bend of the end cap.

Although the holders 26 shown in FIG. 1 comprise four end caps 16, one skilled in the art will appreciate that the holders 26 may be configured to move fewer or more end caps. For example, in an embodiment, system 2 is configured to orient and decorate one end cover 16 at a time, and the holders 26 move one end cover. In another embodiment, the system 2 is configured to orient and decorate two end caps at the same time, and the holders 26 move the two end caps. In yet another example, holders 20 can move five end caps 16 through system 2. In yet another embodiment, each holder 26 moves up to 12 end caps 16. Holders 26 move end caps 16 through system 2 relative to a line passing through the center of each end cap, generally perpendicular to the base axis 30 of system 2.

As shown in FIG. 2, the holders may include a stamped cup 48 for receiving the end cap 16. The stamped cup 48 has a generally cylindrical body 50 with a diameter approximately equal to the inner diameter of the end caps 16. One or more ribs may be formed on the body 50 , bulges or protrusions for frictional contact with the inner surface of the end caps. Alternatively, the bulges are movable and can be extended from the housing 50 or retracted into it to increase or decrease the friction between the stamped cup 4 and the end cover 16.

In an embodiment of the invention, the stamped cup 48 is connected to the holder 26 by an axis (not shown) that is held in the hole 52. During the orientation of the end cap 16, the stamped cup 48 can rotate around the hole 52. After the end cap 16 is oriented, the stamped cup can fix the axis to avoid inadvertent or spontaneous rotation of the stamped cup 48 to maintain the orientation of the end cover 16. The stamped cup 48 has a generally flat or substantially linear face 54 I, in general, is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the housing 50. In the embodiment of the invention, one or more openings 56 are formed in the front portion 54. The openings 56 are connected to a vacuum pump and adapted to apply a suction force to the inner surface of the end cover to prevent movement of the end cover 16. Alternatively, another opening 56A is connected to a tank with compressed gas, such as air. To release the end cap 16 from the stamped cup 48, a stream of compressed gas flows from the tank through the hole 56A to the end cap 16 on the stamped cup 48. In addition, a rotary clamp 58 may be located on the housing 50. The rotary clamp 58 is shown in a contact position in which the end of the clamp 60 exerts a force on the peripheral surface of the end cap (not shown) to prevent the end cap 16 from rotating on the stamped cup 48. The clamp 58 can be rotated to the released position so that the end 60 does not come into contact with the end a lid 16. In the embodiment provided with the three clips 58 spaced about each other on the periphery of the housing 50. In this embodiment, each clip 58 can be independently moved in contact or releasing position.

In FIG. 3 shows an orienting device 6 according to an embodiment. The orienting device 6 includes orienting heads 62 that come into contact when rotating with the outer surface of the non-orientated end caps 16. In an embodiment, the orienting heads 62 are connected to a belt or chain. In an embodiment, the chain 64 is located above the path of the holders 26 through the system 2. The orienting heads 62 are located on the chain 64 at a distance from each other, which corresponds to the distance between the holders 26. The orienting device 6 includes a sufficient number of orienting heads 62 for contacting each end cap located in each holder 26. The chain 64 forms a continuous loop around the wheels 66. The movement of the alignment heads 62 on the chain 64 is synchronized using a belt or chain 68, function connected to the chain 27 to which the holders are attached, so that the orienting heads 62 move along the system 2 at the same speed as the holders 26. When the chain 64 is rotated, the orienting heads 62 are lowered and come into contact with end caps 16 at location A, oriented arbitrarily.

When the holders 26 move the end caps 16 through the orienting device 6, the end caps 16 rotate in a preferred orientation with respect to the base axis 30. In an embodiment of the invention, as described below with reference to FIG. 5A through 5C, the orienting heads 62 rotate the covers in a preferred orientation. In another embodiment, the holders 26 are configured to rotate the end caps, while the orienting heads do not rotate and remain aligned with the preferred orientation. The orienting heads 62 have a geometry that allows these heads to be placed and make contact with the outer surface element of the end caps 16. In the embodiment, the outer surface element is an eyelet 24 connected to the outer surface 17 of the central wall 20. In another embodiment, the outer surface element a tear-off panel 22 of the central wall 20. In another embodiment, the outer surface element is a central wall 20. In yet another embodiment In an embodiment, the outer surface member is a rivet that connects the eye 24 to the central wall 20. In yet another embodiment, the outer surface member is an embossed portion formed in the central wall 20. In another embodiment, the outer surface member is an incision formed on end cap 16. When the holders 26 exit the orienting device near location B, the end caps 16 are aligned in the preferred orientation.

Despite the fact that in FIG. 3 shows an embodiment according to the invention in which the orienting heads are lowered for contact with the non-oriented end caps 16, one skilled in the art will appreciate that other methods for contacting the orienting heads 62 with the end caps can be used in the invention. In an embodiment, the orienting heads 62 are located on a lever that moves the orienting heads 62 into contact with the non-oriented end caps 16. Upon completion of the orientation of the end caps, the lever moves the orienting heads 62 away from the end caps 16.

It will be appreciated that although in FIG. 3 shows only one orienting device 6, any number of orienting devices 6 can be used in the system 2 according to the invention. For example, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, system 2 comprises four orienting devices 6. In another embodiment, system 2 comprises six orienting devices 6.

In FIG. 4 shows an orienting head 62 according to the invention for orienting an end cover 16. The orienting head 62 has a housing 70 connected to a chain 64 of the orienting device 6. In an embodiment, the housing 70 has a generally cylindrical shape. The housing 70 has a head 74 at the end farthest from the circuit 64. In an embodiment, the head 74 has a diameter larger than the diameter of the housing 70. In another embodiment, the head 74 has a diameter smaller than the diameter of the housing 70. The head 74 has a face portion 76 that is generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 72 of the body 70. The face portion 76 is configured to providing sliding of the outer surface of the ear 24 of the end cover 16 over the front part 76 when the orienting head 62 and / or the end cover 16 rotates without applying a rotational force to the ear 24. An element is formed on the front part 76, which is engaged with a predetermined portion of the cap. In an embodiment, an element representing a pocket 80 is formed in the front portion 76. In an embodiment, the pocket 80 grips and rotates the eyelet 24 and applies force to the portion of the eyelet 24 to rotate the end cap 16 in a predetermined orientation. In another embodiment, pocket 80 engages with eyelet 24 and applies force to part of eyelet 24 to stop the end cap from rotating after turning the end cap in a predetermined orientation. In an embodiment, the pocket includes a tapering part 78, which is beveled into the front part 76 to the housing 70 and forms the first side of the pocket 80. The tapering part 78 is capable of sliding the eyelet 24 into the pocket 80. The pocket 80 is adapted to receive the eyelet 24, when the orienting head 62 or the end cap rotates around the longitudinal axis 72. The wall 82 extends substantially vertically upward from the pocket 80 to the front part 76 and forms the second side of the pocket 80. The wall 82 is meshable and attached I force to the side surface of the tab 24. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 5A and 5B, the face portion 76 has a diameter substantially equal to the diameter of the center wall 20 of the cover 16. In another embodiment, which is not shown, the face portion 76 has a diameter substantially equal to the diameter of the end cover 16.

As shown in FIG. 5A to 5C, the end cap 16 rotates in a preferred orientation with the orienting head 62 through a series of sequential operations. As shown in FIG. 5A, the end cap 16 is located on the stamped cup 48 with the tab 24 facing away from the stamped cup. The y-axis 28 of the end cover 16 is positioned at an arbitrary angle with respect to the base axis 30. The end cover 16 is moved to a position where the vertical axis of the cover substantially coincides with the longitudinal axis of the orienting head 62.

The front part 76 of the orienting head 62 is moved into contact with the outer surface of the eyelet 24, as shown in FIG. 5B. The orienting head 62 exerts a small force on the end cap 16. The contact between the orienting head 62 and the eye 24 is used to rotate the Y-axis 28 of the end cap 6 in a preferred orientation relative to the base axis 30. In particular, after contact with the end cap 16, the orienting head 2 rotates around the longitudinal axis 72. The orienting head 62 rotates in a direction that allows the eye 24 to move from contact with the front part 76 into the pocket 80. The front part 76 of the orienting head 62 slides over the ear 24 until or until the eye reaches the tapering part 78 formed in the front part 76. The orienting head 62 continues to rotate and moves closer to the outer surface of the central wall 20 when the eye 24 slides along the tapering part 78 in the pocket 80. When the orienting head 62 continues to rotate, the side surface 25 of the ear 24 is in contact with the wall 82 holding the eye 24 in the pocket 80. The orienting head 62 continues to rotate, and the wall 82 exerts force on the side surface 25 of the ear 24, while turning the end cover 16 and head poval cup 48. The force applied by the alignment head 62 is sufficient for rotation of the end cap 16 and tab 48 pressed cup 24 without free rotation on the end cap 16. Although, FIG. 5B shows the orienting head 62 and the end cap 16 rotating counterclockwise, the orienting head 62 can rotate clockwise if the position of the tapering part 78 and the wall 82 on the front part 76 of the orienting head 62 are reversed.

As shown in FIG. 5C, the orienting head 62 stops rotation after approximately one rotation about the longitudinal axis 72. Regardless of the initial orientation of the Y-axis 28, one rotation of the orienting head 62 is generally sufficient to rotate the Y-axis 28 of the end cover 16 to pre-align it with a base axis 30. However, in an embodiment, the orienting head 62 can rotate about a longitudinal axis 72 up to two times. In another embodiment, the orienting head 62 may perform up to three rotations about the longitudinal axis 72.

Upon completion of the predetermined number of rotations of the orienting head 62, this orienting head 62 moves away from the end cover 16. The Y-axis 28 of the cover 16 is substantially parallel to the base axis 30. In an embodiment, the angle between the Y-axis 28 and the base axis 30 is smaller approximately 5 °. In a more preferred embodiment, the angle between the Y-axis 28 and the base axis 30 is less than about 2 °. In an even more preferred embodiment, the angle between the Y-axis 28 and the base axis 30 is less than about 1 °.

In an embodiment, when the orienting head 62 rotates, the end cap 16 rotates freely on the stamped cup 48, while the stamped cup remains stationary. In another embodiment, the stamped cup 48 rotates the end cap 16, while the orienting head 62 remains substantially stationary. In this embodiment, the wall 82 of the alignment head 62 is aligned substantially parallel to the base axis. When the side surface 25 of the eye 24 is in contact with the wall 82, the end cover 16 stops rotation and rotates freely on the stamped cup. In other words, the orienting head does not rotate around the longitudinal axis when the end cap rotates to achieve a predetermined alignment. In an embodiment, the holder 26 or the stamped cup 48 is configured to rotate the end cap around a longitudinal axis. The face portion 76 of the alignment head 62 is moved to contact the outer surface of the eyelet 24, as shown in FIG. 5B. The orienting head 62 exerts a slight force from above on the end cap 16. The holder or die cup 48 rotates the end cap in a direction that allows the tab 24 to move from the contact position with the front part 76 of the orienting head 62 up into the pocket 80. The tab 24 of the end cap slides along the front part 76 of the orienting head 62 until the eye 24 reaches the tapering part 78 formed in the front part 76. The lid continues to rotate and the front part 76 moves closer to the outer surface of the central wall 20, when the eye 24 slides along the tapering part 78 into the pocket 80. When the end cover continues to rotate, the side surface 25 of the ear 24 contacts the wall 82 holding the eye 24 in the pocket 80. The orienting head 62 continues to rotate, and the wall 82 of the pocket 80 applies the force to the side surface 25 of the ear 24, preventing further rotation of the end cover 16. The force exerted by the orienting head 62 is sufficient to prevent further rotation of the end cover without free rotation of the ear 24 on the end face the neck 16. In an embodiment, the end cap can rotate freely on the holder 26 or the stamped cup 48 when the tab 24 engages with the pocket 80. In another embodiment, the holder or stamped cup 48 is configured to stop rotation when the wall 82 of the pocket 80 is applied force to the ear 24.

After rotation of the end cap 16 to achieve a predetermined orientation, the holders 26 may prevent further rotation of the end cap 16 by any means known to those skilled in the art. In an embodiment, the clamping mechanism 32 connected to the holder 26, as shown in FIG. 1, exerts force on the end cap 16 to prevent inadvertent rotation of the end cap 16. In an embodiment, the clamping mechanism 32 comprises a single rod that moves to contact all end caps 16 in the holder 26. In another embodiment, the holders 26 include a friction clamp 32 with mating circuit or multi-point annular contact terminal 32 to prevent inadvertent movement of the end caps 16. In another embodiment, the holders 26 apply suction The force applied to the surface of the end cap to prevent inadvertent rotation of the end caps 16. Alternatively, the clip 58 with the pressure end 60 can be connected to the stamped cup 48 to prevent the end cap 16 from rotating after positioning the Y-axis 28 substantially parallel the base axis 30. The specified end 60 is configured to contact and apply sufficient force to the end cap 16 to prevent rotation of the end cap 16. In the embodiment, the end 60 is moved to apply efforts to end cap 16 before moving the alignment head 62 out of contact with the end cap. In another embodiment, a suction force is applied to the inner surface of the end cap 16 through the hole 56 in the stamped cup 48 to prevent further rotation of the end cap 16 after alignment of the Y-axis 28 with the base axis 30.

As shown in FIG. 1, the Y-axes 28 of all end caps 16 are substantially parallel to each other when the holder 26 exits the orienting device 6 in place B. In an embodiment, the orienting device 6 rotates each end cap 16 until the Y-axis 28 will not be substantially parallel to the base axis 30 of system 2, and the tear-off panel 22 will not be located to the right of the tab 24, as shown in FIG. 1. Although the base axis 30 is generally horizontal, as shown in FIG. 1, it should be noted that the base axis can be aligned at any desired angle. For example, in an embodiment of the invention, the base axis rotates 180 °, and all the end caps 16 exiting the orienting device 6 are oriented by the ears 24 in front of the tear-off panels 22. In another embodiment, the base axis rotates 90 ° clockwise, and all the end the caps 16 extending from the orienting device 6 are oriented by the ears 24 to the upper side of FIG. 1. In yet another embodiment, the base axis rotates 90 ° counterclockwise, and all end caps 16 exiting the orienting device 6 are oriented by the ears 24 to the lower side of FIG. 1. The orientation of the base axis 30 can be selected by the operator, and it can be adjusted to any desired angle.

After aligning the end caps 16 in an oriented position in the orienting device 6, the clamping mechanism 32 prevents the end caps 16 from being spontaneously or unexpectedly transported through the system 2 by the holders 26. Maintaining the orientation of the end caps is necessary to decorate the corresponding places on the end caps 16. Rotating the end caps relative to the desired orientation, may result in decoration in inappropriate places, such as the eyelet or adrezannye part. The clamping mechanism 32 may be driven by a cam mechanism located on the path of the holders 26 through the system 2.

In an embodiment, the clamping mechanism 32 is connected to the holder 26 and is in contact with the lateral surface of the oriented end cap 16 and exerts force on it. The clamping mechanism 32 may include a swivel arm, a fastener, a gripping device, a rod, a rod, a holder, a pneumatic device that creates suction, and / or a combination thereof, or any other means known to those skilled in the art to prevent spontaneous or unintentional moving or rotating the end caps 16. In an embodiment, the clamping mechanism 32 prevents movement of the oriented end caps 16 by applying force to the inner wall panel and or the outer diameter of the bend. In another embodiment, the clamping mechanism 32 is physically engaged with a portion of the oriented end caps to maintain a preferred orientation.

In an embodiment, the clamping mechanism 32 is similar to the clamping 58 shown in FIG. 2. The clamping mechanism may include an end similar to the end 60, which rotates to contact the surface of the end caps 16 and apply pressure to them. In an embodiment, the clamping mechanism 32 applies pressure to the side surface of the end caps 16. In another embodiment, the clamping mechanism 32 applies pressure to the upper surface of the end caps. In yet another embodiment, the clamping mechanism 32 applies pressure to the outer periphery of the end caps 16. The pivot point of the clamping mechanism 32 can move to increase the force exerted by the indicated end. In an embodiment, said end has an arcuate shape with a radius of curvature approximately equal to the radius of curvature of the outer surface of the end cap 16.

Next, the holders 26 with oriented end caps enter the device 8 for coating. Alternatively, the coating device 8 may pretreat the outer surface of the end cap 16. In an embodiment, the pretreatment is a corona charge surface treatment or air-plasma treatment using low temperature corona discharge plasma to change the surface properties of the end caps 16. B in another embodiment, one or more of the following can be performed to pre-treat the outer surface of the end caps 16 a boot, which includes surface treatment by corona charge, flame-plasma surface treatment, chemical-plasma surface treatment, electroplating, electrostatic coating, chemical coating, anodic oxidation, immersion in hot melt and thermal spraying. Pretreatment generally improves adhesion and bonding between the base coat that is applied by the coating apparatus 8 and the outer surface of the end cap 16.

The coating device 8 applies a base coating material to the outer surface of the end caps 16. The base coating material generally improves the appearance of the color inks that are applied by the printing device 10. The base coating material can be paint, adhesive or varnish of any desired color. In an embodiment, the basecoat material is a photosensitive compound that can dry out under the influence of ultraviolet radiation. In an embodiment, a colorless coating material is applied to the end caps 16. In another embodiment, transparent cover materials are applied to the end caps 16. However, as one of ordinary skill in the art would recognize, the coating apparatus 8 can apply basecoats of any desired color. In addition, more than one coating can be applied to the end caps. For example, in an embodiment, system 2 includes two or more coating devices 8, each of which applies a specific basecoat or basecoat of a particular color.

The device 8 for coating contains a drum 34, which is located above the path of the holders 26 through the system 2. The drum 34 can rotate around an axis that is essentially perpendicular to the base axis 30 of the system 2. The drum 34 has a radial section that corresponds to the pitch or frequency holders 26 moving through system 2.

On the outer periphery of the drum 34, rows of 37 offset printing plates 36 are attached and continuing. The number of rows 37 of offset printing plates is equal to the number of end caps 16 in each holder 26. Offset printing plates of any size or thickness made of any material can be used. If necessary, offset printing plates 36 can be cut to size to fit end caps. The number and positions of the offset printing plates 36 can be changed depending on the size of the end caps 16 and the number of end covers in each holder 26. In an embodiment, the offset printing plates 36 have an adhesive backing that is used to connect the offset printing plates 36 to the drum 34. However, it should be take into account that any suitable means can be used to connect the offset printing plates 36 to the drum.

The diameter of the drum 34 can be increased or decreased so that it matches the pitch of the holders 26, as well as to control the quality and quantity of the coating applied by the coating device 8. For example, if the distance between each two holders increases, the diameter of the drum 34 can be increased to ensure proper alignment between the offset printing plates and the end caps 16. The drum 34 is rotated at a predetermined frequency to match the frequency or pitch of the holders moving through the system. In an embodiment, the drum 34 comprises a gear 35 for engagement with the chain 27 to control the rotational speed of the drum. The drum 34 is synchronized so that the gear 35 engages with the chain 27 to initiate contact with the end caps 16 in a fixed place. The gear wheel 35 determines the coating of the end caps 16 in a controlled place and provides a runtime effect so that the tension of the chain 27 does not impair the quality of the coating or lead to coating in an inappropriate place. The timing of the coating device 8 and the holders 26 is controlled and can be adjusted using a computing device. In an embodiment, when the computing device determines that the end cap is improperly located in the holder 26 or that the holder 26 is not synchronized with the coating device 8, the computing device may provide a lift 34 to the coating device 8 of the coating device to prevent contact between the offset printing plates 36 and end caps 16. In this case, the end caps pass through the system 2 without coating and decorating them and are rejected when they reach 45 hundred control and separated appropriately decorated by the end caps.

Since the central wall 20 is generally recessed and located below the peripheral bend 19, as shown in FIG. 3, the offset printing plates 36 generally protrude from the periphery of the drum 34. The offset printing plates 36 generally contact only portions of the end caps 16 that require coating. In order to avoid contact between the offset printing plates 36 and the parts of the end caps 16 that are not decorated, recesses 38 may be formed in the offset printing plates 36. In the embodiment, the recesses 38 are dimensioned so that they are aligned with the ears 24 and prevent contact between the ears 24 and the offset printing plates 36 during coating. The size and shape of the recesses 38 can be adjusted in relation to a number of elements, such as larger ears, vents, or other elements on the outer surface of the end caps. In an embodiment of the invention, the recesses 38 have a shape that matches the shape of the ears 24 of the end caps 16. In another embodiment, the recesses 38 have a depth of at least equal to the height of the outer surface of the ear 24 above the outer surface 17 of the end cap. Alternatively, the recesses 38 may include a shape corresponding to the shape of the tear-off panels 22, as shown in FIG. 1. However, it should be appreciated that offset printing plates 36 may include portions that are in contact with, and coated with, the tear-off panels 22 and the ears 24. Although only one recess 38 is shown on each offset printing plate 36, it should be appreciated that more than one recess may be formed in each offset printing plate 36. In addition, one skilled in the art will appreciate that the size and shape of the offset printing plates 36 and recesses 38 can be adjusted to coat only one or more predetermined portions of each end cover.

When the holders 26 with oriented end caps 16 are moved through the coating device 8, the drum 34 rotates around an axis substantially perpendicular to the base axis 30. The base coating material is applied to each offset printing plate 36 by the application roller 40. The application roller 40 is adapted to transfer the basecoat to predetermined parts of each offset printing plate 36. The location, size, shape and amount of the basecoat transferred to each offset printing plate can be adjusted in order to save the basecoat material and ensure decoration is consistent, applied to the end cover by the printing device 10.

After receiving the basecoat material from the application roller 40, the drum 34 continues to rotate and brings each offset printing plate 36 into contact with the end cap. The offset printing plates 36 protrude at least partially into the end caps 16 and are in contact with a predetermined part of the outer surface of the end caps 16. The height of the drum 34 above the holders 26 can be adjusted to a larger or smaller value to increase or decrease the pressure applied by the offset printing plates to the end caps 16.

The holder 26 is moved to the drying device 12, which performs drying of the base coat using a source of ultraviolet radiation. However, the drying device 12 can also dry the basecoat using any method known to a person skilled in the art, including heat drying and drying by infrared radiation. In an embodiment, the ultraviolet radiation of the drying device 12 is carried out using light emitting diodes (LEDs). In another embodiment, the ultraviolet radiation is carried out using a mercury discharge lamp.

Further, the holders 26 move the end caps 16 to the printing device 10. Said printing device comprises a drum 34A that is the same or similar to the drum 34 of the coating device 8. The drum 34A is located above the path of the holders 26 and rotates around an axis essentially perpendicular to the base axis 30 of the system 2. The diameter of the drum can be increased or decreased so that it corresponds to the step of the holders 26 moving through the system 2.

The printing plates 36A are attached in rows 37 to the outer periphery of the drum 34A and protrude from the surface of the drum 34A. The printing plates 36A may be of any size, shape or thickness, and may include one or more recesses 38A, as described above. The recesses 38A may have the same size and shape as the recesses 38 in the offset printing plates attached to the drum 34 of the coating device 8. Alternatively, the printing plates 36A may have a shape that is different from the shape of the printing plates 36. The distance between the holders 26 and the drum 34A can be adjusted to increase or decrease the pressure applied by the plates 36A to each end cover 16.

When the drum 34A rotates, each printing plate 36A is in contact with various print heads 42, the number of which is up to six pieces. Images are formed on predefined parts of each print head 42. Each printhead 42 may have a specific image or part of an image formed thereon. In addition, each print head 42 may have images formed by rows that correspond to rows 37 of the drum 34A.

The ink supply device 44 transfers ink to the print heads 42. Each ink supply device 44 applies ink of the same color to the image on each print head 42. When the drum 34A rotates, each of the print heads contacts the printing plate 36A and transfers its image and ink to a specific color on the printing plate. Paint does not enter recesses 38A. After all the printheads 42 transfer ink of a certain color and image to the printing plates 36A, a finished lithographic image will be formed on the printing plates 36A. The printing plates 36A continue to rotate until they come into contact with a predetermined portion of the outer surface of the end caps 16 and transfer a lithographic image onto it. A recess 38A formed in the printing plate 36A prevents contact between the printing plate 36A and parts of the end caps 16 that are not decorated. In an embodiment, the recess 38A has a shape that prevents contact between the printing plate 36A and the first part of the eye 24, and the printing plate 36A transfers the lithographic image to the second part of the eye 24.

The method of offset printing may vary to use any number of colors. One skilled in the art will appreciate that any type of paint can be used in the invention. In an embodiment, the paint dries under the influence of ultraviolet radiation. In another embodiment, the paints are powders or pastes. In another embodiment, special paints of any type can be used to decorate the end caps. Special paints of various types are described in patent document US 14 / 686,517, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Any method can be used to obtain images on the print heads 42 and the printing plates 36A to form a high-resolution lithographic image for transferring it to the covers. Alternatively, one or more printing plates 36A connected to the drum 34A of the printing apparatus 10 may have a specific image formed thereon for transferring a specific image to the end caps. For example, in an embodiment, the image formed on the printing plates of the row 37A may be different from the image formed on the printing plates of the row 37D. In addition, the printing plates 36A in the row 37A may have a recess 38A different from the recess in the printing plates in the row 37D. In addition, the printing plates 36A may comprise soft photopolymer plates or soft auxiliary plates with images formed thereon, as described in US Pat. No. 1,4,301,018 and US Pat. Alternatively, an image may also be formed on each printing plate 36A. For example, printing plates 36A may include etched or engraved portions that do not accept ink to form multiple images with one set of printing plates, as described in patent document WO 2014/008544, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Next, the holder 26 is moved to a second drying device 12A, which is configured to dry the decoration applied to the end caps 16. In the second drying device 12A, a UV source is used to dry the decoration paint. Alternatively, a heat source may be used in the second drying apparatus 12A to dry the decoration, which should be apparent to one skilled in the art.

Alternatively, the second coating device 8A may apply a protective coating. The second protective coating device 8A is the same or similar to the protective coating device 8 described above. The material of the protective coating is used to improve the appearance of the decoration applied to the end cover 16, and to protect the decoration from environmental influences and from contact with other objects. The protective coating material is applied using the second coating device 8A in the same manner as the base coating material. In an embodiment, the protective coating is a transparent coating. Alternatively, the second coating device 8A may be a second printing device 10A. The second printing device 10A may apply a second decoration to the end caps 16 or apply coatings and colorants other than the decoration applied by the first printing device 10. If additional protective coating material is applied or a second decoration is applied, this coating or decoration is dried in the third drying device 12B using a UV source or heat source.

The holders 26, as an option, can move the decorated end caps 16 to the control post 45, where they check that the decoration is applied at the desired location of the end caps 16. The control post 45 can also determine whether the quality of the decoration meets the predefined requirements. In an embodiment, the monitoring post 45 comprises a camera for each end cap 16 located in the holder 26. However, one skilled in the art should take into account that the monitoring post may include any means known to one skilled in the art to verify that the location application and decoration quality meet or exceed specified quality criteria. The end caps that pass the test are separated from the end caps that have not passed the test, and are collected in a separate place.

After the holders 26 exit the drying device 12A or 12B, the end caps 16 are transferred to a collector 14, where each decorated end cap is packaged in a bag and prepared for shipment to a filling machine or for storage. To move the end caps 16 into the collector 14, a strong stream of air can be directed through the opening 56 of the stamped cup 48. In the embodiment, when the chain 27 reaches position C, the chain 27 rotates around the roller. As a result of rotation, the holders 26 move out of their usual horizontal position, as a result of which the end caps fall out of the holders 26.

After removing the end caps 16 from the holders 26 in place C, the holders 26 are cyclically returned to their original position to receive another group of non-oriented end caps 16 from the stabilizer 4 in place A. The end caps 16 remain in the holders 26 when the holders move from the stabilizer 4, until until the end caps are removed in the collection 14.

Alternatively, the system may include a mandrel and tools for embossing, blind embossing and / or engraving the outer surface of the end caps 16. In an embodiment, the tools comprise rollers that come in contact with surfaces with a predetermined shape to form a convex or embossed profile or marks on one or more parts of the end caps 16. The system 2 may also comprise tools, such as an abrasive tool, a polisher, or a grinder s, for selectively removing the coating and / or paint to a predetermined portion of the outer surface of the embossed profile formed on the end cover 16, for receiving the end cap 16 with embossed decoration on the exposed metal. Alternatively, embossed bare metal decoration can be performed by coating with a coating device 8, a printing device 10 and / or a second coating device 8A. In an embodiment, the embossing tools of system 2 form an embossed profile or marks on the end caps 16 before coating or decorating the end caps 16.

An example of a decorated end cap 16B is also shown in FIG. 1. The end cap 16B includes a first image 46A located on a predetermined portion of the central wall 20. The second arrow-shaped image 46B indicates an auxiliary ventilation hole 23 formed on the central wall 20. A third recyclable image 46C is formed on the tear-off panel 22. Since the end cover 16B was oriented by the orienting device before decoration, the images 46 are located in predetermined places on the end lids 16B that are not occupied by the eyelet 24, the auxiliary vent 23, or other end cover elements. It should be appreciated that images 46 can be formed anywhere on the end cover, including the tear-off panel 22 and eyelet 24. In addition, images 46 can include text, information for identifying the supplier, trademark information, usage instructions (e.g. arrow 46B) or any other decoration or signs.

System 2 can provide orientation and decoration of approximately 2000 end caps per minute. In an embodiment, the system can orient and decorate approximately 1,000,000 end caps in 8 hours. The printing device 10 can form images 46 using ink of up to six different colors or types with a resolution of 133 lines per inch.

In FIG. 6 shows an embodiment of a method 84 for orienting and decorating end caps 16. In addition to FIG. 6 shows the general execution order of method 84, said method 84 may include more or fewer steps, or the order of its steps may differ from the order of steps shown in FIG. 6. In general, the execution of method 84 begins with initial operation 86 and ends with final operation 110. The following is a description of method 84 with reference to system 2 described with reference to FIG. fifteen.

The stabilizer 4 loads 88 modified end caps 16 into the holder 26. Alternatively, the end caps 16 can be located on the stamped cups 48. The holder 48 moves the end caps 16 to the orienting device 6. The orienting device 6 rotates 90 the end caps 16 to a predetermined orientation. The end caps 16 are fixed 92 in a predetermined orientation by the clamping mechanism 32. Alternatively, the end caps 16 can be fixed by a clamp 58 connected to the stamped cup 48 in a predetermined orientation. In addition, the end caps 16 can be fixed in a predetermined orientation using a suction force exerted through the opening 56 of the stamped cup 48.

The end caps 16 are subjected to a check 94 to determine whether the end caps 16 are located in a predetermined orientation. If the end caps 16 are not located in a predetermined orientation, the execution of method 84 is terminated (NO), and the rejected end caps 16 are collected 106. If the end caps 16 are located in a predetermined orientation, the execution of method 84 continues (YES), and the end caps 16, alternatively, pretreated 96.

The holder 26 moves the covers 16 to the coating device 8 and the drying device 12, which are capable of applying and drying the coating 98 in the predetermined areas of the end caps 16. Next, the holder 26 moves the 100 end caps 16 to the printing device 10 and the second drying device 12A . The printing device 10 is arranged to apply decoration to one or more predetermined areas of the end caps 16. Alternatively, the decoration device may apply different decorations to each of the end caps located in the holder 26. The second drying device 12A is arranged to dry the decoration applied on the end caps 16 by the printing device 10. Alternatively, a protective coating 102 may be applied to the end caps 16 by the second coating device 8A after going drying in the third drying device 12B.

Next, the end caps 16 are checked 104 to make sure that the decoration is applied in the right place with the required quality. If the end caps 16 do not pass the test 104, the method 84 is stopped (NO), and the rejected end caps 16 are collected 106. If the end caps 16 pass the test 104, the method 84 continues (YES), and the end caps are collected 108 in the collector 14. The execution of method 84 is completed 110.

In FIG. 7 shows another embodiment of a system 120 according to the invention for orienting and decorating a predetermined location of the end cap. System 120 is similar to system 2 and generally includes a stabilizer 4, a feeder 124, an orienting device 126, a coating device 8, a printing device 10, a drying device 12, and a collector 14. In an embodiment, the stabilizer 4, device 8 for coating, the printing device 10, the drying device 12 and the collector 14 are the same or similar to the stabilizer, the coating device, the printing device, the drying device and the collector described above with reference to FIG. one.

The orientation of the end caps has a beneficial effect on the application of decoration at a predetermined location on the end cap. In an embodiment, in order for the plates 36, 36A of the coating device 8 and the printer 10 of the systems 2, 120 to decorate the outer surface 17 of the end caps without interfering with the convex tab 24 of the decorating process performed by the system 120, the end caps are rotated to a predetermined orientation. Plates 36, 36A of systems 2, 120 include recesses 38, 38A for receiving the tab 24 and preventing the tab from contacting the print surface of the plates 36, 36A. Accordingly, the convex parts of the end caps, for example, the tab 24, protruding from the outer surface 17 of the end cap 16, should be oriented so that they correspond to the recesses 38, 38A. In addition to avoiding collision of the eye 24 with the plates 36, 36A, the eye 24 of the end cover 16 should be in a pre-calculated location to create substantially evenly spaced print spaces based on the design of the decoration. The location accuracy of the eye is known as alignment. The combination of end caps directly relates to the presence of a predetermined end cap location selected for decoration in a known or intended location. Orientation devices 6, 126 according to the invention facilitate accurate alignment of the end caps. In another embodiment, the end cap is oriented so that the laser of the printing device 10 forms marks at one or more predetermined locations on the outer surface of the end cap. The orientation of the end caps also has a beneficial effect on the decoration of end caps without ears. For example, an end cap without an eyelet can be oriented to ensure that the decoration is located on predetermined parts of the end cap and to exclude other parts of the end cap. Other parts of the end cap may include incisions, embossing, rivets, tear-off panels, ventilation holes and other elements that would interfere with decoration or impair its quality.

In an embodiment of the invention, the stabilizer 4 receives the modified end caps 16 from the modification press 18. Next, the end caps 16 are transported to the feeder 124. In an embodiment of the invention, a plurality of end caps 16 are transported to the feed device 124 in the form of a stack or a “bar”.

The feeder 124 is configured to divide the plurality of end caps of the bar into separate end caps 16. The feed device 124 generally includes two discs of opposite rotation and a guide. Each disk contains a helical groove formed around a peripheral edge. The disk grooves bend around the peripheral edge in opposite directions, like the first screw with the right thread and the second screw with the left thread. The grooves have the same number of turns around the disks. The groove pitch in the first disk is essentially identical to the groove pitch in the second disk.

In an embodiment, the rotatable disks of the feed device 124 are spaced apart from each other approximately equal to the diameter of the end cap. Thus, two points of the end cap, located at an angle of 180 ° on the outer edge of the peripheral bend 19 of the end cap, are in contact with the rotating discs. When the discs rotate, one end cap at a time is captured by the initial portion of each groove and rises from the bar. The rotational speed of the discs is synchronized so that the groove of each disc lifts each end cover substantially in a planar orientation between the discs.

After a predetermined number of disk rotations is performed, the end cap reaches the end of each groove substantially simultaneously. Next, the cover enters the guide. The covers remain in a single drive in the guide. In an embodiment, the guide includes a bend for supplying the end caps to the orienting device with an outer surface 17 including an eyelet 24 located near the orienting heads 62 of the orienting device 126.

The feed device 124 feeds the individual end caps 16 to the orienting device 126. The Y-axis 28 of the end caps is generally oriented arbitrarily with respect to the base axis 30 of the system 120 when the end caps are received by the orienting device 126. In addition, the Y-axis 28 of the end cap 16. may not be parallel to the Y-axis of the other end cap. The orienting device 126 is configured to receive non-oriented end caps 16 and rotate them to a predetermined orientation relative to the base axis 30 of the system 120.

In FIG. 8-10 show an embodiment of the orienting device 126 according to the invention. The orienting device 126 generally comprises a wheel 128, end cap adjustment elements or orienting heads 62 connected to the wheel, a drive 129 for rotating the wheel 128, a guide assembly 130 and a support 132. The support 132 is configured to hold other components of the orienting device 126 in a predetermined aligned position. The orienting heads 62 are the same or similar to the orienting heads 62 described above with reference to FIG. 4 to 5. At the discretion of the embodiment, the orienting device 126 may include orienting heads 62A, described later with reference to FIG. 13. In an embodiment of the invention, the orienting heads 62 are rotatably connected to the wheel 128. In another embodiment, the orienting heads 62 are aligned in a predetermined orientation and do not rotate when the wheel rotates.

The drive 129 shown in FIG. 10B is operatively coupled to one or more wheels 128. Drive 129 may generate a force to rotate the wheels at a predetermined speed. In an embodiment, actuator 129 may receive a signal from a controller (not shown) of system 120 to vary the angular velocity of the wheels. For example, the controller may send a signal to drive 129 to start, stop, or change the angular velocity of wheels 128. In an embodiment, drive 129 is connected to wheels 128 by an axis 133.

Wheels 128 generally comprise a mounting plate 134, bearing 136, bevel gear 138, anti-rotation guide 139, hub 140 and spokes 144. Spokes 144 are connected to hub 140. In an embodiment of the invention, each wheel 128 comprises six spokes 144. However, one of skill in the art will appreciate that the number of spokes in each wheel 128 can be varied to control the performance of the orienting device 126. In an embodiment of the invention, each wheel has three to twelve spokes. In another embodiment, each wheel has five spokes. In an embodiment, the hub 140 includes holes 142 for receiving a portion of the spokes 144. However, one skilled in the art will appreciate that the spokes can be connected to the hub 140 in a variety of different ways.

In an embodiment of the invention, the spokes 144 comprise a bearing 145, a gear 146, a first axis 149, a gear bearing 149, a second axis 150, a tension spring 152 and a linear spline assembly 154. An orienting head 62 is connected to each linear spline assembly 154. In an embodiment, each the spoke has a fixed length extending from the hub 140. In another embodiment, the length of each spoke 144 is variable. The linear spline assembly and the orienting head 62 connected to each other are displaced in a radially continuing position at a distance from the hub 140 by a tension spring 152. Accordingly, the orienting head 62 connected to each spoke 144 can rotate around the wheel 128 with a varying radius. In an embodiment, the orienting heads 62 rotate in a cam-like profile around the wheel 128. Thus, at least a portion of the rotational path of the orienting heads 62 can be substantially linear instead of a continuous arcuate 360 ° rotational path around the wheel 128.

In an embodiment of the invention, an opening is formed in at least a portion of the second axis 150 in the axial direction. The first axis 148 is substantially concentric with the specified bore, and the first axis 148 has an outer diameter smaller than the inner diameter of the bore of the second shaft. Accordingly, the first axis 148 can at least partially slide in the bore of the second axis 150. The tension spring 152 applies a predetermined biasing force to the spline assembly 154 to move the second axis 150 to a predetermined position relative to the first axis 148. Thus, the connected with the other, the linear spline assembly 154 and the orienting head 62 are displaced by the tension spring 152 to a position extending radially from the hub 140.

In an embodiment of the invention, at least a portion of each spoke 144 may rotate about the longitudinal axis 72 of the spoke. In an embodiment of the invention, the entire spoke 144 rotates about a longitudinal axis 72. In another embodiment, only a portion of the spoke 144 rotates about a longitudinal axis. For example, in the present embodiment, at least the linear spline assembly 154 connected to each other and the orienting head 62 rotate about the longitudinal axis 72 of the spokes. The orienting heads 62 may rotate in any direction about the longitudinal axis 72.

The guide assembly 130 is configured to bring part 17 of the outer surface of the end caps 16 into contact with the orienting head 62 of the orienting device 126. The guide assembly may take many forms. In an embodiment, the guide assembly has a generally arcuate shape that substantially corresponds to a portion of the arc of rotation of the alignment heads 62 connected to the spokes 144. The guide assembly may include a number of devices and means for engaging and maintaining the end cap. The guide assembly generally comprises a first end 156 and a second end 158. End caps 16 are received at the first end 156 from the feed guide 124. In an embodiment, the single end cap drive in the rail is aligned substantially with the direction of rotation of the alignment heads 62 at the first end.

The guide assembly is configured to rotate the end caps around the longitudinal axis 72 of the spokes 144. In an embodiment, the end caps rotate around the longitudinal axis 72 of the spokes during rotation of the alignment heads 62. In another embodiment, the end caps rotate around the longitudinal axis 72 of the spokes, and the orientation the heads do not rotate around the longitudinal axis of the spokes. The end caps 16 are placed in the guide assembly by the feed device 124 so that part 15 of the inner surface of the cap faces radially outward from the orienting heads. Accordingly, when the end caps 16 are located in the guide assembly 130, the outer surface portion 17 and the eyelet 24 of each end cap are turned radially inward next to the orientation heads 62 of the orienting device 126. When the end caps 16 come to the first end 156 of the guide assembly 130, the Y-axis 28 (see FIG. 7) of each end cap 16 is oriented arbitrarily with respect to the base axis 30 of system 120.

In an embodiment, the guide assembly 130 has a generally constant radius of curvature. In another embodiment, the radius of curvature of the guide assembly 130 varies along the arcuate length of the guide assembly 130. In another embodiment, part of the guide assembly 130 is in contact with a portion of the alignment head 62 connected to each spoke 144. As a result of this contact, the spring 152 compresses and moves the alignment a head 62 and a linear spline assembly 154 radially inward.

The guide assembly 130 includes means for engaging and maintaining the end cap. The engaging and maintaining means may comprise any structure or structures for receiving the end cap and supporting the end cap when the end cap is rotated to align the end cap in a predetermined orientation. In an embodiment of the invention, the means for engaging and maintaining comprises at least one inner guide 160 and at least one outer guide 170. The inner and outer guides 160, 170 are located at a predetermined distance from each other, which is chosen to hold the outer surface of the end cap in contact with the orienting head when the orienting head rotates the end cap around the longitudinal axis 72 and moves the end cap from the first end 156 to the second end in 158 of the guide unit. In an embodiment, the inner and outer rails 160, 170 are spaced from each other at a distance approximately equal to the height of the end cover. In another embodiment, the means for engaging and maintaining comprises two inner rails and two outer rails; one of skill in the art will appreciate that any number of internal and external guides can be used in the guide assembly of the invention. In yet another embodiment, the inner rails 160 include extensions 162 that protrude circumferentially beyond the outer rails 170 at the first end 156 of the guide assembly. Extensions 162 are adapted to receive individual end caps 16 from the device 124 for supplying and holding the end cap until it engages with the orienting head 62. The extensions 62 are also adapted to contact a part of the orienting head 62 and move the orienting head 62 radially inward. In yet another embodiment, the inner guides 160 include extensions 164 at the second end of the guide assembly 130.

The means for engagement and maintenance may also include means for reducing friction between the means for engagement and maintenance and the end cap. The means for reducing friction may include, but are not limited to, bearings, ball bearings, rollers, wheels, non-adhesive surfaces, grease, and any other structure, device, or composition for reducing friction.

Each spoke 144 rotates with the hub 140, with the orienting head 62 connected to the spoke moving to a position near the first end 156 of the guide assembly. The orienting head 62 engages with the non-orientated end cap 16 at the first end. The spoke continues to rotate the orienting head toward the second end 158 of the guide assembly, holding the end cap in the guide assembly. In an embodiment of the invention, the radius of curvature of the guide assembly 130 decreases between the first end 156 and the second end 158. Accordingly, since each orientation head 62 is shifted to a radially extending position, each orientation head 62 exerts a predetermined radial force on the outer surface portion 17 of the engaged end face the cover 16 when the orienting head and the end cover rotate from the first end 156 to the second end 158.

In an embodiment of the invention, when the orienting head 62 moves from the first end 156 to the second end 158, the orienting head 62 rotates the meshed end cover 16 to a predetermined orientation in a manner similar to the action of the orienting heads described above with reference to FIG. 5A - 5C. In particular, each orienting head 62 has a geometry that allows placement and engagement with an element on the outer surface 17 of the end caps 16. In an embodiment, the outer surface element is an eyelet 24 connected to the outer surface 17 of the end cap 16. In another embodiment, the outer element the surface is a tear-off panel 22 of the end cover 16. In yet another embodiment, the outer surface element is a central wall 20 of the end cover. In yet another embodiment, the outer surface member is a rivet that connects the tab 24 to the central panel 20. In yet another embodiment, the outer surface member is an engraved portion formed in the central wall 20. In another embodiment, the outer surface member is an incision formed on the end cap 16.

After contact with the end cap 16, the orienting head 62 rotates until it engages with the outer surface element. In an embodiment of the invention, the face 76 of the alignment head 62 slides over the ear 24 of the end cover 16. When the pocket 80 formed in the face 76 of the alignment head 62 aligns with the ear 24, the alignment head 62 moves radially outward closer to the outer surface 17 of the end cover, and the eyelet 24 is placed in the pocket 80. The orienting head 62 continues to rotate, and the edge 82 of the pocket 80 exerts force on the side surface 25 (shown in FIG. 5A) of the eyelet 24 by rotating the end cap 16 and the eyelet 24 at the same time. The force exerted by the orienting head 62 is sufficient to rotate the end cap 16 without free rotation of the tab 24 on the end cap 16.

To orient the end caps 16, the orienting heads 62 rotate until a predetermined number of revolutions is made about the longitudinal axis of each spoke 72. The orienting heads 62 can rotate one or more times around the longitudinal axis of the spoke. Regardless of the initial orientation of the Y-axis 28 of the end cap 16, one rotation of the orienting head 62 about the longitudinal axis 72 when the spoke 144 moves between the first end 156 and the second end 158 of the guide assembly 130 is generally sufficient to rotate the Y-axis 28 of the end the cover 16 to a predetermined alignment with the base axis 30 of the system 120. However, in the embodiment, the orienting head 62 can perform up to three rotations about the longitudinal axis 72.

In an embodiment of the invention, the alignment heads 62 rotate around the longitudinal axis 72 substantially continuously during rotation of the wheel 128. In another embodiment, the alignment heads 62 are rotatable for a predetermined portion of each rotation of the wheel 128. In the embodiment, each alignment head 62 begins rotation near the first end 156 of the guide assembly 130. Each orienting head 62 stops rotation near the second end 158 of the guide assembly. In another embodiment, each orienting head 62 stops rotating before the orienting head 62 is near the second end 158. For example, in an embodiment of the invention, each orienting head 62 is configured to start rotation when the orienting head 62 is near the first end 156 . After the orienting head 62 has completed a predetermined number of revolutions around the longitudinal axis 72 of the spokes, the orienting head 62 stops rotation before the orienting head is near with a second end 158. In an embodiment, each orienting head 62 is capable of stopping rotation after the spoke rotates an angle of about 120 ° to about 180 ° from the first end 156 to the second end 158 of the guide assembly. In another embodiment, each orienting head 62 stops rotation after the spoke rotates through an angle of from about 135 ° to about 165 °. In a more preferred embodiment, each orienting head 62 stops rotation after the spoke rotates an angle of about 145 ° to about 155 ° from the first end 156 of the guide assembly. In an even more preferred embodiment, each orienting head 62 stops rotation after the spoke rotates about 150 ° from the first end 156.

In an embodiment of the invention (shown in FIG. 8), the teeth 166 of the gears 146 of each spoke are engaged with the teeth 168 formed on the bevel gear 138 during at least part of the rotation of the hub 140. The gearing of the teeth 166 of the gear 146 and the teeth 168 of the bevel gear 138 transfers force to the spoke, forcing at least the linear spline assembly 154 and the orienting head 62 to rotate about the longitudinal axis 72. In the embodiment, the teeth of the bevel gear 168 are only axially formed the surface of the bevel gear 138. In another embodiment, the teeth formed on the axial surface of the bevel gear 138 on the circumference of 360 °.

In an embodiment of the invention, contact between the orienting head 62 and the guide assembly 130 near the first end 156 causes at least partial movement of the gears 146 radially inward. When the gear 146 moves radially inward, the gear teeth 166 mesh with the bevel gear teeth 168, and the orienting head 62 begins to rotate about the longitudinal axis 72. At a predetermined point in front of the second end 158 of the guide assembly, the radius of curvature of the guide assembly increases. When the orienting head 62 rotates along the guide assembly to a predetermined point, the orienting head 62 and gear 146 move radially outward. When the gear 146 moves outward, the gear teeth 166 disengage from the bevel gear teeth 168, and the orienting head 62 stops rotation about the longitudinal axis 72.

In an embodiment of the invention, the guide assembly 130 includes means for rotating the orienting head. In an embodiment, a portion of the at least linear spline assembly or orienting head is in contact with a fixed guide 172 (shown in FIG. 9A) associated with the guide assembly 130. Contact between the guide 172 and the linear splined assembly and / or the orienting head forces the orienting head 62 rotate around the longitudinal axis of the spoke, making a predetermined number of revolutions. When the spoke 144, as a result of rotation, moves beyond the end 174 of the guide 172, the orienting head 62 stops the rotation. In an embodiment of the invention, the rail 172 is connected to one of two inner rails 160. In another embodiment, the rail 172 is connected to one of two outer rails 170. In yet another embodiment, the rail 172 is connected to a support 132.

In yet another embodiment, the orienting head 62 is configured to maintain a predetermined orientation with respect to the base axis 30 of the system 120. The end cap 16 rotates around the longitudinal axis 72 of the spokes until the orienting head 62 stops rotation of the end cap when the end cap essentially will be aligned with the base axis of the system 120. In an embodiment, during at least a portion of the movement of the end cap from the first end 156 to the second end 158, previously a certain part of the end cap contacts the fixed structure of the orienting device 126. The contact between the end cap and the fixed structure rotates the end cap around the longitudinal axis 72 of the spokes when the orienting head contacts part 17 of the outer surface of the end cap 16. In an embodiment, the predetermined structure is a friction guide similar to guide 172. In another embodiment, one or more of the inside and outside of the the steering 160, 170 are made with the possibility of applying a friction force sufficient to rotate the end cap. In yet another embodiment, the drive roller or the moving belt of the orienting device 126 is configured to rotate the end cap.

The front part 76 of the orienting head is configured to provide rotation of the end cap until a predetermined element on the part 17 of the outer surface of the end cap engages with the orienting head. When the orienting head engages with a predetermined end cap element, the orienting head applies a force to the end cap sufficient to prevent further rotation of the end cap. Thus, since the orienting head is in a predetermined orientation with respect to the base axis 30 of the system 120, when the orienting head stops rotating the end cap, said end cap will be in a predetermined orientation. In an embodiment of the invention, the end cap rotates until the tab 24 is aligned and engages with a pocket 80 formed in the orienting head.

As shown in FIG. 10A, the orienting device 126 may include one or more sensors 176. The sensors are capable of transmitting data to a controller that can determine the orientation of the end caps 16. If the controller determines that the Y-axis 28 of the end cap is not in a predetermined orientation, the controller can direct the signal to the orienting device 126, as a result of which the incorrectly oriented end cap is rejected and cannot move further through the system 120. In an embodiment of the invention iki 176 are arranged so as to define part of the inner surface 15 of end caps. In another embodiment, the sensors 176 are positioned so as to determine the orientation of the end caps, while the end caps mesh with the alignment heads 62 and are held by the guide assembly 130. In an embodiment of the invention, the sensors 176 comprise high speed cameras.

As shown in FIG. 11, the holders 26 are synchronized with the distance between the wheel spokes 128 of the orienting device 126. When the orienting head 62 and the oriented end cover 16 reach the second end 158 of the guide assembly 130, the end cover 16 is received by the holder 26. In an embodiment, when the orienting head 62 moves beyond the guide the assembly, the orienting head 62, continues to exert a predetermined force in the radial direction to the end cap to place the end cap on the holder 26. ION 26 continues to rotate with the hub 140, releasing oriented end cap 16 and continuing back into position in the axial direction.

The holders 26 are configured to prevent spontaneous or unintentional movement or rotation of the oriented end caps. In an embodiment, protrusions 178 are formed on the holders 26. Friction between each protrusion 178 and the inner surface of the end cap prevents spontaneous rotation of the end cap. In another embodiment, the clamping mechanism 32 connected to the holder 26 and shown in FIG. 7 applies force to the end cap 16 to prevent inadvertent rotation of the end cap 16. In an embodiment, the clamping mechanism 32 includes at least one rod that moves to contact all end caps 16 in the holder 26. In another embodiment, the holders 26 include an interlock friction clip 32 or a multi-point annular contact clip 32 to prevent inadvertent movement of the end caps 16. In another embodiment, butt holders 26 applying a suction force to the surface of the end cap to prevent inadvertent rotation of the end caps 16.

The orienting device may have any number of wheels and guide assemblies in any combination. For example, as shown in FIG. 11, the orienting device 126 may comprise four wheels and guide assemblies arranged in two rows arranged staggered. Alternatively, in FIG. 7, an orienting device 126 is shown, which may have two wheels and guide assemblies in one row.

As shown in FIG. 7, the Y-axes 28 of all the end caps are substantially parallel to each other when the holder exits the orienting device 126 in place B. The Y-axis 28 may have any predetermined orientation with respect to the base axis 30 of the system 120. In an embodiment, the Y- the axis 28 of each end cap 16 is substantially parallel to the base axis 30 of the system 120 when each end cap is located on the holder using the alignment head 62. In another embodiment, the angle between the Y axis 28 and the base axis 30 is less than about 5 °. In a more preferred embodiment, the angle between the Y-axis 28 and the base axis 30 is less than about 2 °. In an even more preferred embodiment, the angle between the Y-axis 28 and the base axis 30 is less than about 1 °. In an embodiment, the orienting device 126 rotates each end cap 16 until the Y-axis 28 is substantially parallel to the base axis 30 of the system 120 and the tear-off panel 22 is located to the right of the tab 24, as shown in FIG. 7. Although the base axis 30 is generally horizontal, as seen in FIG. 7, it should be appreciated that the base axis can be aligned at any desired angle. For example, in an embodiment of the invention, the base axis rotates 180 °, and all end caps 16 exiting the orienting device 126 are oriented with ears 24 near place B in front of the tear-off panels 22. In another embodiment, the base axis rotates 90 ° clockwise , and all end caps 16 extending from the orienting device 126 are oriented by the ears 24 to the upper side of FIG. 7. In yet another embodiment, the base axis rotates 90 ° counterclockwise, and all end caps 16 exiting the orienting device 126 are oriented by the ears 24 to the lower side of FIG. 7. The orientation of the base axis 30 can be selected by the operator, and it can be adjusted to any desired angle.

The holders 26 with oriented end caps enter the device 8 for coating the system 120. The device 8 for coating is adapted to pre-treat the outer surface 17 of the end caps 16, as described above with reference to FIG. 1. The device 8 for coating can also apply a base coating material of any predetermined type to the outer surface 17 of the end caps 16.

The holders 26 are moved to the drying device 12 of the system 120. The drying device 12 is essentially the same as the drying device of the system 2 described above. The drying device 12 performs drying of the base coating, if any, which is applied to the end caps using the coating device 8.

Next, the end caps are transported using the holders 26 to the printing device 10 of the system 120. The printing device 10 is configured to decorate the outer surface 17 of the end cover with preferred characters. In an embodiment of the invention, the printing device comprises a laser marking unit configured to form an image of a predetermined size, shape and orientation on the outer surface of the end cap.

In another embodiment, the printing apparatus comprises a drum 34A that is the same or similar to the drum 34A of the printing apparatus 10 of system 2. The drum 34A includes printing plates 36A with recesses 38A, as described above with reference to FIG. 1. In an embodiment of the invention, the printing device 10 can create images 46 using up to six different colors or types of ink with a resolution of 133 lines per inch.

After decorating with the printing device 10, the end cap may optionally enter the second drying device 12A to dry the decoration applied to the end cap. Protective material can be applied to the end caps using a second coating device 8A. The end caps may be further dried using a third drying device 12B. Alternatively, the holders 26 can transport the end caps to the inspection post 45. The control station 45 includes sensors that are configured to confirm that decoration is applied to a predetermined location of the end caps. The control post 45 is also configured to determine if the decoration meets predefined quality requirements. The control post 45 may send and receive signals from the system controller 120. The control post may include any means known to a person skilled in the art to verify that the place of application and the quality of the decoration meet or exceed the predefined quality criteria. The end caps that did not pass the test at the control post 45 are rejected and separated from the end caps that have passed the test. In an embodiment of the invention, the printing device 10 can create images 46 using inks of up to six different colors or types with a resolution of 133 lines per inch. In an embodiment of the invention, system 120 may orient and decorate approximately 2000 end caps per minute. In another embodiment, the system can orient and decorate approximately 1,000,000 end caps in 8 hours.

After the holders 26 exit the drying device 12A and 12B near location C, the end caps 16 are transferred to the collector 14. The end caps are separated from the holders 26 as described above with reference to FIG. 1. Next, the unfilled holders are cyclically returned to place A next to the orienting device 126 to receive the next oriented end caps from the orienting device 126.

In FIG. 7 also shows an example of an end cap 16B according to an embodiment decorated with system 120. The end cap 16B is essentially the same as the end cap 16B described above with reference to FIG. 1. One or more images 46 may be located on several predetermined parts of the outer surface 17 of the end cover, including a central wall, a tear-off panel, and an eyelet 24.

In FIG. 12 shows another embodiment of the orienting head 62A according to the invention. The orienting head 62A is adapted to be used with both the orienting device 6 and the orienting device 126. The orienting head 62A has a housing 70A that is adapted to be connected to the orienting device 6 or to the linear spline assembly 154 of the spokes 144 of the orienting device 126. In an embodiment the implementation of the housing 70A has a generally cylindrical shape. The housing 70A has a head 74A. In an embodiment, the head 74A has a diameter greater than the diameter of the housing 70A. In another embodiment, the head 74A has the same or similar diameter as the body 70A. In yet another embodiment, the head 74A has a diameter less than the diameter of the housing 70A. The head 74A has a face portion 76A that is generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 72 of the housing 70A. The face portion 76A is configured to slide the outer surface of the eye 24 of the end cap 16 over the face portion 76A when the orienting head 62A or the end cap 16 rotates without applying a rotational force to the eye 24. The pocket 80A formed on the face portion 76A is capable of gripping abalone 24 of the end cap. When the eyelet aligns with the pocket, the eyelet is placed in the pocket. In an embodiment in which the orienting head rotates the end cap when the tab is placed in the pocket, part of the pocket 80A applies force to the tab 24 to simultaneously rotate the tab and end cap to a predetermined orientation. For example, in an embodiment, wall 82A of pocket 80A applies force to the eye 24 to rotate the end cap. In another embodiment of the invention, in which the orienting head does not rotate around the longitudinal axis of the spoke when the eye is placed in the pocket, part of the pocket 80A, for example, wall 82A, exerts force on the eye 24 to prevent further rotation of the end cap.

In an embodiment, pocket 80A is recessed into front face 76A toward housing 70A. The pocket 80A is configured to receive the eyelet 24 when the eyelet 24 is aligned with the pocket 80A. Wall 82A extends substantially vertically upward from pocket 80A to face 76A. In an embodiment of the invention, said wall extends continuously along the perimeter of pocket 80A. The wall 82A is adapted to engage and apply force to the side surface of the ear 24. The pocket 80A may have any predetermined shape and size that allows the ear 24 to be taken. In an embodiment of the invention, the pocket 80A has a shape substantially corresponding to the shape of the eye 24 of the end cap, having a specific size and design. In another embodiment, pocket 80A is configured to receive a series of ears 24 of various sizes and shapes. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 12, the pocket has generally linear side walls 82A and generally arcuate end walls 83A. In an embodiment of the invention, pocket 80A is formed in the front portion 76A, and the pocket does not cross the outer periphery of head 74A. In another embodiment, pocket 80A at least partially intersects the outer periphery of head 74A in a similar manner to pocket 80 shown in FIG. 4. In yet another embodiment, pocket 80A has a substantially symmetrical shape. In another embodiment, pocket 80A is asymmetric in shape.

In an embodiment of the invention, pocket 80A has a depth of at least equal to a height from the outer surface 17 of the end cap to the outer surface of the ear 24. When the ear 24 is placed in the pocket 80A of this embodiment of the orienting head, the face portion 76A can contact and apply force to the outer surface 17 of the end cover. In another embodiment, pocket 80A has a depth less than the height of the outer surface of the tab 24 above the outer surface 17 of the end cap. Accordingly, in this embodiment, when the eyelet 24 is placed in the pocket of the orienting head, the front part 76A of the orienting head does not come into contact with the outer surface 17 of the end cap.

In an embodiment, the face portion 76A of the alignment head 62A has a diameter substantially equal to the diameter of the center wall 20 of the end cover 16. In another embodiment, the face portion 76A has a diameter substantially equal to the diameter of the end cover 16. In another embodiment, the face part 76A has a diameter greater than the diameter of the end cap 16.

In FIG. 13 shows an embodiment of a method 180 for orienting and decorating end caps 16. In addition to FIG. 13 shows the general execution order of method 180, said method 180 may include more or fewer steps, or the order of its steps may differ from the order of steps shown in FIG. 13. In general, the execution of method 180 begins with initial operation 182 and ends with final operation 208. The following is a description of method 180 with reference to system 2, 120 described with reference to FIG. 1 - 12.

The stabilizer 4 combines the modified end caps 16 in the form of a rod containing many individual end caps. In an embodiment, the end caps include a peripheral bend and an eye connected to a portion of the outer surface of the end cap. The feeder 124 receives the end cap bars and 184 separate end caps 16 are separated from the bars. The orienting device 126 receives 186 individual end caps from the feeder 124. The orienting heads 62 of the orienting device 126 are brought into contact with part of the outer surface of the end caps. The end caps 188 are rotated by the orienting device 126 to a predetermined orientation. In an embodiment, the end caps rotate with orienting heads to a predetermined orientation. In another embodiment, the caps are rotated by the orienting device 126, and the end caps are stopped by the orienting heads when the end caps reach a predetermined orientation.

The end caps 16 are tested 190 to determine if the end caps 16 are located in a predetermined orientation. In an embodiment of the invention, end caps are detected by a sensor 176 associated with each wheel of the orienting device. If the end caps 16 are not arranged in a predetermined orientation, the execution of method 180 is stopped (NO), and the rejected end caps 16 are assembled192. If the covers 16 are arranged in a predetermined orientation, the execution of the method 180 continues (YES), and the end caps 16 are loaded 194 into the holder 126 using the orienting device 126.

The holder 26 is configured to move oriented end caps through system 120. Alternatively, the end caps are pre-processed196. The holder 26 can also transport end caps 16 to one or more coating devices 8 and drying devices 12, which are optionally capable of applying and drying a base coat 198 applied to predetermined areas of the outer surface 17 of the end caps 16. Next, the holder 26 200 end caps 16 are transported to a printing apparatus 10 and a second drying apparatus 12A. The printing device 10 is arranged to apply decoration to one or more predetermined areas of the outer surface 17 of the end caps 16. The decoration can be applied anywhere and in any orientation and can be of any size and shape. Alternatively, the decoration device may apply a different decoration to each of the end caps located in the holder 126. The second drying device 12A is configured to dry the decoration applied to the end caps 16 by the printing device 10. Alternatively, 202 can be applied to the end caps 16 protective coating by the second coating device 8A, followed by drying in the third drying device 12B.

Next, the end caps 16 are subjected to a check 204 in order to ensure that the decoration is applied in the right place with the required quality. If the end caps 16 do not pass the test 204, the execution of method 180 is stopped (NO), and the rejected end caps 16 are collected 192. If the end caps 16 pass the test 204, the execution of method 180 continues (YES), and the end caps are collected 206 into the collector 14. The execution of method 180 is completed 208.

The description is presented for purposes of explanation and disclosure and should not be construed as an exhaustive or limiting invention to the form described. Numerous modifications and variations of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The described embodiments shown in the figures are selected and described in order to better explain the principles of the invention and its practical application and for a better understanding of the invention by specialists in this field.

Despite the detailed description of a number of embodiments of the invention, it is clear that specialists in this field can make modifications and changes of the invention. In addition, it should be borne in mind that the references made in the description to the “invention” or its aspects mean certain embodiments of the invention and should not be construed as limiting all embodiments in relation to a specific description. It should be clearly understood that such modifications and changes correspond to the scope and essence of the invention, as defined in the claims.

Claims (44)

1. A method of orienting and decorating a metal end cap of a beverage container, comprising the steps of: provide a variety of metal end caps intended for connection with the neck of the container; supplying a metal end cap to the first end of the arcuate guide assembly of the orienting device, the guide assembly also comprising an inner guide connected to the outer guide, the inner and outer guides being separated from each other by a distance equal to the height of the metal end cap; the orienting head of the orienting device is engaged with the outer surface of the metal end cap, and the orienting head is connected to the distal end of the spoke, the proximal end of the spoke is connected to the hub of the orienting device, and the spoke is configured to start rotating the orienting head at a first point located next to the first the end of the guide assembly, and stopping the rotation of the orienting head at a second point, which is located between the first and second ends of the guide assembly, hen orienting device rotates the hub in the axial direction; rotating the metal end cap to align it in a predetermined orientation so that the angle between the Y axis of the end cap and the base axis is less than 5 °; placing a metal end cap on the holder near the second end of the guide assembly; the orienting head is disengaged from the metal end cap; and decorating a predetermined portion of the outer surface of the metal end cap with at least one of an image, laser marking, code, and text message. 2. The method according to p. 1, in which the spoke is made with the possibility of rotation of the orienting head around the longitudinal axis of the spokes. 3. The method according to p. 1, in which the spoke also comprises a first gear wheel adapted to mesh with the bevel gear of the hub, the first gear and bevel gear configured to initiate the rotation of the orienting head at the first point and stop the rotation of the orienting head at the second point. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the orienting head is configured to stop rotation of the metal end cap when the metal end cap is aligned in a predetermined orientation. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein the step of decorating a predetermined portion of the outer surface of the metal end cap also comprises: providing one or more printing plates with a recess configured to receive an eye that is connected to the outer surface of the metal end cap; attaching the printing plates with the possibility of removal to the drum of the printing device; image formation on the print head; applying paint to the image; transferring ink from the print head to a predetermined portion of the printing plates; and transferring ink from the printing plates to a predetermined portion of the outer surface of the metal end cap. 6. A device for receiving and orienting the metal end cap of the beverage container, intended for connection with the neck of the container, including: an arcuate guide assembly comprising a first end and a second end, the first end being adapted to receive a metal end cap, and the second end is configured to release a metal end cap, the arcuate guide assembly comprising an inner guide connected to an outer guide, the inner and the outer guides are separated from each other by a distance equal to the height of the metal end cap; a hub rotatably adjacent to an arcuate guide assembly with a predetermined angular velocity; many spokes radially connected to the hub; and an orienting head connected to the distal end of each spoke, wherein the orienting head is adapted to engage with a part of the outer surface of the metal end cap at the first end of the arcuate guide assembly and rotate the metal end cap to a predetermined orientation so that the angle between the Y axis of the metal end cap and the base axis was less than 5 ° when the orienting head and the metal end cap move between the first end and the second end of the arcuate th guide assembly. 7. The device according to claim 6, in which at least a portion of the outer surface of the metal end cap is in contact with the inner rail, and at least a portion of the inner surface of the metal end cap is in contact with the outer rail. 8. The device according to claim 6, in which the orienting head also comprises a housing connected to the spoke, a front part comprising a substantially flat surface oriented in a plane generally perpendicular to the housing, and a pocket formed in the front part, the pocket has a geometric profile configured to receive an eye connected to a part of the outer surface of the metal end cap. 9. The device of claim 6, wherein the orienting head engages with the outer surface of the metal end cap and rotates the metal end cap when the metal end cap is moved between the first end and the second end of the arcuate guide assembly. 10. The device according to p. 9, also containing: a bevel gear adapted to engage with the hub, the bevel gear comprising a face portion oriented substantially perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the hub, and teeth formed on a portion of an annular portion of the face portion; and a gear connected to the spoke, the teeth of said gear engaging with the teeth formed on the bevel gear to rotate at least a portion of the spoke and the orienting head. 11. The device according to claim 6, which is configured to rotate the end cap when the orienting head and the metal end cap move between the first end and the second end of the arcuate guide assembly. 12. A method for orienting a metal end cap of a beverage container, comprising the steps of: provide an orienting device comprising: an arcuate guide assembly comprising a first end, a second end, an inner guide connected to the outer guide, the inner guide being separated from the outer guide by a distance equal to the height of the metal end cap, the first end being adapted to receive the end cap and the second end being made the possibility of releasing the metal end cap; a hub rotatably adjacent to an arcuate guide assembly with a predetermined angular velocity; many spokes radially connected to the hub; an orienting head connected to the distal end of each spoke, the orienting head having a front part adapted to engage with a part of the outer surface of the metal end cap, and each of the plurality of spokes is configured to move the front part of the orienting head connected to it from the first end to the second the end of the arcuate guide assembly; accept a metal end cap at the first end of the arcuate guide assembly, the eye connected to a portion of the outer surface of the metal end cap located next to the front of one of the orienting heads; the hub is rotated, the front part of the orienting head engages with the metal end cap and moves the metal end cap from the first end to the second end of the arcuate guide assembly; and the metal end cap is rotated around the longitudinal axis of the spoke associated with the orienting head, wherein the metal end cap and the eye are aligned in a predetermined orientation such that the angle between the Y-axis of the metal end cap and the base axis is less than 5 ° when the metal end cap comes out the second end of the arcuate guide assembly. 13. The method according to p. 12, in which the orienting device also comprises: a bevel gear connected to the hub, the bevel gear comprising a predetermined number of teeth formed on a part of the bevel gear; and a gear connected to each of the plurality of spokes, wherein when the hub rotates, the gear teeth engage with the teeth of the bevel gear, and at least a portion of each spoke and the orienting head connected to it rotate. 14. The method according to p. 12, in which the spoke is shifted to a radially continuing position, and the front of the orienting head applies force to part of the outer surface of the metal end cap when the metal end cap is engaged with the front part of the orienting head. 15. The method according to p. 12, also containing a stage in which the orienting head is disengaged from the metal end cap after alignment of the metal end cap in a predetermined orientation.

Images