US1709577A

US1709577A - Packaging apparatus

Info

Publication number: US1709577A
Authority: US
Inventors: George J Huntley
Original assignee: Crown Cork and Seal Co Inc
Current assignee: Crown Cork and Seal Co Inc
Priority date: 1921-05-10
Filing date: 1921-05-10
Publication date: 1929-04-16
Anticipated expiration: 1946-04-16

Description

April 16, 1929.

G. J. HUNTLEY PACKAGING APPARATUS Filed May 10. 1921 8 Sheets-Sheet 1 April 16, 1929. G. J. HUNTLEY PACKAGING APPARATUS Filed May 10. 1921 8 s t sheet 2 April 16, 1929. HUNTLEY I 1,709,577

PACKAGI NG APPARATUS Filed May l0. 1921 8 Sheets-Sheet 4 awuewl'oz April 16, 1929. G. J. .H 1,709,577

PACKAGING APPARATUS April 16, 1929. G. J. HUNTLEY PACKAGING APPARATUS Filed May 10, 1921 8 s e t s t 6 April 16, 1929. G, NTL 1,709,577

PACKAGING APiARATUS Filed y 1921 a Sheets-Sheet 8 PatentedApr. 16, 1929.

UNITED STATES PATENT OFFICE.

GEORGE J. HUN TLE Y, OF BALTIMORE, MARYLAND, ASSIGNOR, BY MESNE ASSIGN- MENTS, TO CROWN CORK dt-SEAL COMPANY, INC., NEW YORK, N. Y., A CORPORA- T1011 01 NEW YORK.-

. Application filed May 10,

This invention relates to improvements in packaging apparatus and more particularly to so-called' soda machines.

It is the principal object of the invention to provide a machine of the type mentioned capable of filling and capping receptacles effectively, rapidly and economlcally.

With this general object in v1ew the invention consists in the combinations, details ofconstruction and arrangements of parts which will first be described in connection with the accompanying drawings and then more particularly pointed out.

In the drawings, which illustrate an example of a packaging apparatus constructed in accordance with the invention Fig. 1 is a diagrammatic view lllustratmg the filling system; I

Fig. 2 is a view of the apparatus 1n front 20. elevation;

Fig. 3 is a view of part of the same in vertical section;

Fig. 4 is a viewin side elevation with parts in vertical section;

Fig. 5 is a view, partly in side elevation and partly in section, of the syruping device;

Fig. 6 is a view in vert1ca l section of the packaging head in ralsed position;

Fig. 7 is a similar view showing the head 3 in filling position;

Fig. 8 is a cross sectional view taken on the line 8-8 of Fig. 7; v ch Fig. 9 is a similar view taken on the line *99 of 8;

10-10 of Fig. 7; c

Fig. 11 is a detail view showing in. elevation the gasket carrier removed; 7

Fig. 12 is a similar view showing the part .40 of the gasket operating device removed;

Fig. 13 is a vertical sectional View of the lower part of the apparatus;

Fig. 14 is a cross sectional view taken on the broken line 14-14 of-Fig. 13;

Fig. 15 is a view in vertical section, through the cam housing;

Fig. 16 is asimilar view in horizontal section; i Fig. 17 is a detail view in elevation showing the pump-adjusting device, shown in Fig.

4. in a different position;

Fig. 18 is a cross sectional view taken on the line 18-18 of Fig. 15; and

Fig. 10 is a sectional view taken on the line PACKAGING APPARATUS.

1921. Serial No. 468,233..

Fig. 19 is a vertical sectional view taken through the pump piston.

Referring to the drawings, the apparatus illustrated as an example is supported by a base 25. The packaging head and its asso-' oiated parts are carried by a housing or frame 26 mounted on a cylindrical post 27 tele-' scoping in a column 28 which forms part of the base. In order that the apparatus may be available for bottles of different standard 34 to which power may be appiiediin any suitable manner.

In the embodiment illustrated, bottles are fed one by one to a syruping device and the packaging head by a rotating dial or spider having a step by step movement. Although capable of Y various constructions, as here shown, carried by the base is a bottle supporting table 35. Rotating-above this table is .a bottle feeding spider 36 having a plurality of spaced bottle-centering pockets 37. This spider is driven by a shaft 38 to which is pinned a collar 38. Clamped to the collar is a sleeve 38 having a squared head on which the spider 36 is mounted by means of a squared socket 36*. The shaft 38 is journalled in table 35, and carries a ratchet 39 provided with spaced notches 401 JIhis ratchet is engaged by a spring-pressed pawl 41 mounted on a pawl carrier 42 which is supported by an arm 43 hung from shaft 38. To reciprocate the pawl carrier. securedthereto is a connecting rod 44 slid-ably connected with a sleeve 45 between which-and the end of the rod 44 is a spring 46. The sleeve 45 is secured to one end of anoperating lever 47 which carries a roller 48 running on a bottlefee'd cam 49 on shaft 31. A spring 50 holds the roller to the cam.

Under normal conditions, the operation of the lever 47 by the cam actuates rod 44, through the spring 46, to drive the pawl car ricrs Should there be a jam, however, or like opposition to the movement of the pawl and ratchet, the lever 47 and sleeve can Yoperate against spring 46 without moving lar pawl 52 locks the ratchet against forward movement following each feeding movement. The two locking pawls are held to their duty by a spring 53 connecting them. The awl 52 is dislodged to permit 'the next orward stroke by awiping arm 54 on arm 43 which engages the pawl on the backward stroke of pawl carrier 42.

Bottles placed in'the pockets of the feed ing spider 36, are fed first to a position beneath the syrupin device and on the next stroke to a position beneath the paekaglng head. WVhilethe syruping device mayvary widely in construction, instructurcs e1nbodying the invention to the best advantage, 1t 1n-. cludes a ported receptacle, a bottle-controlled valve for the port, and means for causing relative movement between receptacle and bottle. The relative movement may advan-- tageously be obtained by a constructlon permitting the receptacle to descend to the bottle by gravity, the bottle being supported on table 35.. Although capableot various consyrup may-fiow by gravity. The port57' is structions, as here illustrated as an exam le, there is provided a syrup receptacle 55 s idable in a bracket 56. In the lower art of thereceptacle is an inlet'port 57 witl connected a flexible hose 58 leading tea-suitable source of syrup supply from whlch the connected with the main part of the receptacle by a passage 59. In the rece tacle is a float 60, the upward movement 0 which is controlled by an adjustablepin 61. Syrup flowing into the receptacle raises the float until it strikes the in 61, the syrup charge thus beingiadjustab v measured.

As before stated, the inlet and outlet ports are governed by bottle-controlled valves. To this end, as here illustrated, a nozzle 62 1s slidable in a sleeve 63 threaded into the bottom of receptacle 55, the top of the sleeve being bevelled to form a valve seat. Associated with passage 59'and opposite t-his valve seat is a second valve seat 64. The upper end of the nozzle 62 is formed with a double bevelled valve head 65 capable of seating against one or the other of the two valve seats. Below this head 65 are a number of ports 66 formed in the wall of the nozzle 62 to communicate with the receptacle 55 when the nozzle is raised. I

Fig, 5 illustrates the parts in syrup-receiving position. Nozzle 62 is lowered, thus clos- 1 ing the exit port and opening the inlet port.

The nozzle is normally held in this position by a spring 67 between the sleeve 63 and a flaring guide mouth 62 on the nozzle 62. Then the nozzle is relatively raised the valve head moves up againstv valve seat 64-tlIus closing the inlet port and shutting oil the s'tructions, as here shown'as an example, the

receptacle is suspended by a flexible chain 362. This chain asses over guide pulleys 363, 364 and is anc ored as at .365. Mounted on a sleeve 366 rotated as later described, is a crank arm .367 having a chain-engagmg pulley or roller 368. The sleeve 366 also hasv a guide pulley 369. As the crank arm 367 rotates, whenithe 'pulley 368 is brought against the chain, it will cause the chain to be hauled in with respect to the receptacle, thus raisin the latter. As the pulley 368 leaves the c ain, however, in the rotation of the crank arm, the chain is released to that extent and the receptacle is free to descend toward the bottle by gravity. The parts are; I so arranged that the receptacle descends far enough to rest on the bottle so that the nozzle is forced u wardly. Adjustment of the receptacle stro e is automatically effected as a whole, as above described. It will be seen that the receptacle is in its lowered position long enough to permit the charge of syrup in the receptacle to flow into the bottle. Continued rotation of the crank arm again starts to haul in the chain and as the receptacle leaves the bottle, spring 67 causes nozzle 62 to be lowered again, thus closing the exit valve and opening the inlet valve. Thus, during the pei'iod the receptacle is held elevated, a new charge of syrup can enter from the source of supply and the charged bottle is removed and an empty bottle advanced. With the construction described the syrup reccptacle in its movement into bottle filling position accommodates itself to'bottles of different sizes. 7

-While one bottle is receiving syrup, the preceding bottle is positionedbeneath the packaging head to receive its carbonated wateryand cap. There is provided means for causing relative movement between hottle support and packaging head and in structures embodying the invention to the best advantage. the head is reciprocated to and from the bottle. Although capable of various constructions, in that here illustrated as an exupon the adjustment of the head mechanism llt) ice

ample, the packaging-head includes a hollowv plunger 70 slidable in bearings 71 carried b the main frame. Threaded into the top of the plun er 70 is a nut 72 connected by a link 73 with a rocking lever 74 fulcrumed on a shaft 75. Theother arm of lever 74 carries a roller 76 running on a cam 77 driven by cam shaft 78. Pinned to the lever 74 as at 375iis a second lever 374 having a roller 376 running on a cam 377 also on cam shaft 78. Through the mechanism described the tubular plunger 70 is given the movements hereinafter more fully referred to. The cam shaft 78 is driven by a gear 79 meshing with a gear 80 the hub of which is secured to abevel pinion 81. This pinion, which is rotated by a bevel gear 82 on shaft 31, is keyed to the sleeve 366 previously referred to, this sleeve rotating on a shaft 83.

In the exemplification here illustrated, the plunger carries a tubular head member 84. This head member has an internal shoulder 85 and below this shoulder is located a throat carrier 86 with a conical throat ring or capping die 87. Formed in the throat is a crown chamber 386 below platform plate 486. Throat carrier and platform plate are supported as later described. Extending into the capping die is a capping plunger 88 tubular in form to accommodate described. The capping plunger is-relatively movable in the head and is normally held in its lowermost relative position by" a spring 89. This spring, which is under some initial compres sion, bears against a shoulder 90 on the capping plunger and against a shouldered guide sleeve 91.. The normal position-of the capping plunger is -controlled by the engagement of its shoulder 90 with shoulder 85 of the head member, this engagement limiting the downward movement of the capping plunger. The guide sleeve 91 is threaded into the head member 84 and the compression of the capping spring 89 is adjustable by rotation of guide sleeve 91.

The invention in its entirety includes a filling nozzle relatively movable with respect to the head and having connection with a source of supply. In structures embodying the invention to the best advantage the nozzle is held during filling adjacent the lip of the bottle but out of contact therewith. The

invention in its entirety also includes valvemeans for cutting off the nozzle, controlled by the relative position of the nozzlewith respect to the bottle. In a convenient embodiment of the invention the nozzle descends with the head to a given point and is then checked as the head continues downward a slight distance, tween head and nozzle opening the nozzle valve. Although capable of various constructions, in that here shown as an exam le, slidable in the lower part of the cappmg channel 96 and an which is a crown' this relative movement be-' plunger 88 is a nozzle comprising a spiral internal bore 97. This nozzle is connected by means of a coupling 98 with a tube 99 which forms a continuation of bore 97. The upper end of nozzle 95 is slidable in a shouldered collar 101 which seats within capping plunger 88 above shouldcr 90 and is threaded into a liquid supply tube 102. The top of the spiral channel 96 opens into the interior of collar 101 to com-. municate with the supply tube. This supply tube is threaded into a coupling 103 into the side of which is threaded an elbow coupling 104: having connection witha flexible hose 105 later referred to.

In the present embodiment the coupling 98 has a bevelled head 98" which seats against the bevelled rim of collar 101 and thus serves as a valve to out 01f the no'zzle. The unit comprising nozzle 95, coupling 98, valve 98 most relative position by a spring 106 which bears against the coupling 98 and the cou pling 103. In this position (Fig. 6) the valve is closed.

Since valve 98' which is part of the nozzle unit, and since the valve seat is part of collar 101, which is on the supply tube, it will be apparent that the valve will be opened, i. e. separated from its seat, by a proper relative movement between the two units. In the present embodiment this relative movement is effected by checking or snubbing the nozzle unit just prior to the end of the downstroke of the supply tube. To this end, as here shown as an example, threaded to the top of tube 99-is an elbow coupling 107 for connection to the reservoir. later referred to. Connected to this elbow is a spring 110, its other end being connected to a chain108 which extends upwardly to the top of the housing 26 where it is adjustably is part of coupling 98,-

anchored as at 109. In this way the nozzle 102 and coupling 103 descends with it in the manner later set forth.

Through the spring 106 the nozzle unit also descends. This unitary movement continues until the spring 110 has a given extension. arranged that this the end of the filling stroke of the head. WVhen this point is reached and during the completion of the filling the nozzle unit is checked by its connection with the stationary frame. By this check ing, the valve element 98 the collar 101 with its valve seat continues The parts are so downward, whereby thevalve and its seat are separated, thus establishing communication between the nozzle and supply tube I 102. Also, the nozzle 95 is held just out of contact with the bottle lip. In this way there is no danger of breaking off the slight ridgeor web which is often found on bottle lips. In constroke of the-head,

takes place just prior to is stopped while I structions where the bottle engages the nozzle this web is sometimes broken off and drops constructions, in that here shown as anexample, a compressible sealing gasket 111 of rubber or the like is seated in a gasket carrying cup 112 below the platform plate 486 which serves as an abutment against which the gasket 'is compressed upon movement of the cup. On the cup 1.12 are two upright arms 114 having lugs 115 which are freely suspended in notches 116 formed in the upper ends of the arms 118 of the lever element 117. To pivotally mount the lever device,

the latter has trunnions 119 journaled in the ends of suspension links 121 which extend downwardly from the head and serve as a support. The parts are so arrangedthat when the arms 118 are in a substantially dead-center position the cup 112 is held up to compress the gasket against the abutment plate 486, and when moved out of such position the gasket is free-to re-expand. The

gasket assemblydescribed serves to retain the throat ring and crown platform in position.

There is provided means dependent on the movement of the head for operating the lever device 117. As here shown as an example, the lever device has a portion for receiving substitution and the like.

the lever device 117 is reversely tilted to swing the arms 118 out of dead-center position. This permits the gasket to re-ex and so as to clear the attached cap as the ead moves upwardly again. It will be seen that the ends of the slot of bar 124 provide, in effect, u per and lower abutments for reversely actuating the lever device. In the present embodiment the action of lever 117 may be timed by removing pin 123 and turning bar 124 on rod 424. I

The construction described provides, inaddition to an efiective gasket operation that firmly holds'the gasket compressed, a convenlent disassembly unit. In the operation of packaging apparatus it is desirable to remove the seallng gasket after each days being subject to wear, it is sometimes necessary to remove these parts for inspection,

With the construction described, throat, platform, gasket and "gasket carrier form an assembly unit held in place by'the lever arms. pon removal of pin 123, the lever 117 may be manually tilted to release position, whereupon the assembly unit referred to drops out. To replace the unit, the parts are returned to proper position, the lever 117 actuated to snap the arms 118 into dead center position and the pm 123 replaced.

Means is provided for supplying caps. such as crown corks to the packaging head. In the present embodiment, a hopper of any su1table construction for supplying crowns faced one way, shown generally at 301, is carried by the stationary housing 26. The

an actuating force, comprising a double arms. hop er shaft 302 is driven by a bevel gear 303 WVhen the head makes its up stroke the enagement of-the pin 123 with the upper end of the slot of bar 124 causes the lever device 117 to tilt so that its arms 118 move intov a substantially dead-center position. This movement raises the on 112 and compresses the gasket against the a utment plate. Thi position of the parts may be termed the normal position, the gasket being held compressed until the lever device is reversely actuated. As the head descends, the pin moves down the slot of bar 124 and is, in effect, free but the gasket is held compressed due to the arrangement described without the exertion of force on arm 122. As the to, pin 123 engagesthe bottomof its slot and in the throat carrier 86-.

Means is provided for yieldingly holding the end of the chute in given position. Although capable of various constructions, as here shown as an example, pivoted to a bracket 314 on the chute is a rod 315 extending into a casing 316. This casing is con nected to a pin 317 pivoted to one of the guide brackets 71 on the main frame. A compen-' sating spring 318 is located between a collar 319 on rod 315'and a nut 320 in the casing 316. \Vith the construction described the delivery and of chute 310 is normally held in a stationary position but it is yieldable in case of a jar? or the like, by compression of spring in register with chute 310, a crown enters the crown platform chamber and is held to one side by the nozzle (Fig. 6). As the head descends the plate 311 moves down past the chute mouth and blocks the same until the head is again raised. Adjustment of the chute position may be made by adjusting Means is provided for sealing the crown entrance port duringthe packaging operation and for moving the crown into position for capping. As here shown as an example, a port closer 130 is pivoted to the head as at 131 to swing to and away from the port 312. The closer is a cylindrical member haviing an annularly grooved head in which is seated a sealing gasket 132. At its other end the closer 130 has a back plate133 and an assembly nut 134.

There is provided means dependent on the relative position of the head for operating the port closer Although capable of various constructions, in the present embodiment the closer 130 has side extensions 135 to which are pivoted upwardly extending angle levers 136 having slots 137. These'levers, at their upper ends are pivoted to a rod 138 extending into a casing 139 pivoted to the main frame as at 142. Between the bottom of the casing 139 and a collar 140 on the rod 138 is a spring 141 which serves to hold the closer closed against the pressure of the liquid. To operate the levers 136, the slots 137 ride on pins 143 carried by the head. As the head descends, therefore, the port closer 130'is swung on its pivot to the position of Fig. 7 in which the gasket is pressed against a portion of plate 311 which may be grooved as shown. This movement causes a slight compression of spring 141' whereby the closer is held closed against the pressure in the head. Upon upward movement of the head the pins 143 riding up the lever slots return the closer to its former position.

The closer 130 also serves as a housing for the drown pusher. In the present em-.

bodiment, within the closer 130 is a bodily movable block 145 normally pressed forward by springs 146 which bear against the back plate 133. The block 145 is suitably chansli'dable in the block 145 vand normally neled to receive a crown pusher 147"(Figs.

7 and 8) which has rack teeth meshing with a toothed segment 148 mounted on a pin 149 which is ournalled in the block 145. The pin 149 has a second segmental gear 150 which meshes with rack teeth on an actuator 151,

pressed forward by a spring 152.

Fig. 6 shows the arts in inactive position with the actuator s ight-ly in advance of the pusher. As the closer 130 is drawn into sealing position the actuator'engages the plate 311 and the pusher engages the crown which is held back by the nozzle as. before described. By this pressure, a large part of which is taken by the actuator, the block 145 is pushed back against its spring, spring 152 also being com ressed. When the nozzle is raised, as

hereinafter described, the crown is released and the block 145 moves forward under the force of its springs, the pusher 147 pushing the crown into capplng position. During this movement the actuator 151 is still held against the plate 311,-the two segmental gears rolling along the two racks. When, upon elevation of tlie head, the port closer is moved away from the head, the actuator is released. Its spring 152 now pushes it forward to normal position, and this movement through the racks and segmental gears pulls the pusher 147 back to normal position.

The closer housing 130 may serve as a grip portion for manual operation of the port closer. With the construction described the operating connection can yield under manual operation. As 'a result, the port closer can be swung open manually while the machine parts are in port-closing. position, to give access to the crown port in case of a crown jam or the like.- This permits a jam to be relieved without running the machine through its cycle to .open the port closer in the normal way. r

The bottle being sealed in the head and the crown entrance port closed and sealed, the charge of carbonated water is delivered to the ,bottle. The apparatus here illustrated as an example embodies the filling system disclosed and claimed in applicants earlier application Serial No. 243,652 (Patent 1,556,837). As shown, gas from a source 160 and water (for example) from a source 161 are delivered to a carbonator 162 which may be of any suitable construction. A pipe 163 conducts the carbonated liquid, carbonated at a higher pressure than'ultimately desired, to a reducer valve 164. This reducer valve may be of any suitable construction but it is conveniently located on top of a tank 165 forming the reservoir to which is delivered the carbonated liquid and freed. as.

There is provided a pressure line in which the bottle is connected during filling. This pressure line includes the reservoir formed by tank 165 and which contains carbonated liquid and freed gas, a connection for the passage of liquid from the tank to the bottle and a connection for the passage of gas and air between the bottle and the upper part of the tank, In the liquid connection is a the construction here illustrated as an example, a pipe 166 leads from the bottom of the tank 16510 a passage 167 in a valve casing 167, near one end thereof (Figs. 4 and 5). Spaced around the valve casing in the same radial plane with passage 167 are two

other passages

168 and 171. Passage 168 is connected by a pipe 169 with the bottom of a pump cylinder 170 and passage 171 is connected by a pipe 172 with the hOse 105 which conducts the liquid to the supply tube 102 and the spiral channel of the nozzle. It will now be apparent that, through the valve casing, .the reservoir may be connectedwith the pump cylinder and the pump cylinder with the nozzle. To control the flow through the valve casing, as hereshow'n as an example, rotatable in the valve chamber is a plug valve 173 acting as a three-way valve for the liquid. This valve has a partial circumferential groove 174 in the plane of the three passages described. Theparts are so arranged that groove 174 can span

passages

167 and 168 or

passages

168 and 171 but not

passages

167 and 171. Fig. 4 shows the valve with its groove 174.spanning

passages

167 and 168, thereby connecting the reservoir with the pump cylinder. Upon proper rotary movement of the valve, its groove will span

passages

168 and 171, thereby connecting the pump cylinder with the nozzle. As the valve rotates, therefore, it alternately permits a flow from reservoir to pump and a flow from pump to nozzle.

While the gas and air connection between the sealed bottle and the reservoir may be effected in various ways and at vanous periods in the filling cycle, in the embodiment here illustrated this connection is controlled by valve 173.and the connection is opened just prior to the flow of'liquid in order to set up counter-pressure in the bottle. To this end, valve casing 17 3 has, near its other end, two passages sage 175 is connected by a pipe 176 with the reservoir 165 at a point above the water level. Passage 177 is connected by a pipe 178 with the coupling 107 which communicates with tube 99 and the inner bore 97 of the nozzle. Valve 173 has a second connecting groove 179 arranged to span passages 175 and 177 during a portion of the cycle of valve rotation. \Vhen the valve is in this position, therefore, the bottle is in communicating connection with the reservoir and is made part of the )ressure line. In the particular embodiment illustrated as an example, the parts are so arranged that this connection will be opened just prior to the flow of liquid so that counterpressure will be set up in the bottle prior to the liquid flow.

To rotate valve 17 3, as here shown as an example, secured to the inner end of the valve, which is conical to fit the conical chamber of the valve casing and is pressed in.- wardly by a spring 180,, is a crank arm 181 175, 177 (Fig. 15). Pas-.

cam 183 passes on and cam 184 actuatesflfi the valve to move it to close position, cutting off communication between the bottle and reservoir and cutting off the nozzle from the pump. In this closed position of the valve the connection between the pump and reservoir is opened so that the pump may receive a new charge.

'In the system of filling referred to, the liquid is pumped against the counter pressure in the bottle by a pump having a given stroke, in order to deliver measured charges, and this stroke is adjustable. In the embodiment here illustrated, the pump includes the cylinder 170 and a piston 187 which has a iston rod 188 secured to the bottom of a slotted beam 189. A slide rod 190 is secured to the top of the slotted beam and reciprocates in a guide bracket 191. Riding in the slot 192 of the beam 189 is a crank block 193 carried by a crank 194 which is keyed to the end of shaft 78. The crank 194 is grooved and the block 193 which is mounted on a threaded rod 195 is slidable along this groove. As the crank 194 rotates, the crank block, sliding in slot 192, reciprocates the pump piston with a given stroke. To adjust this stroke, the parts are moved to the position of Fig. 17 with the slot 192 and the groove of the crank member parallel, whereupon the crank block can bemoved along the groove by turning threaded pin 195. As will be apparent, this change in the position of the and the upper part of the reservoir, through thebore 97 of the nozzle, tube 99, coupling 107, pipe 178, valve groove 179 and pipe 176. This places the bottle in the pressure line whereby the gaseous content of the reservoir sets up counter-pressure in the bottle substantially equal to the water pressure. This movement of .the valve also, and slightly later, connects the pump with the supply tube. The pump piston now makes its forcing stroke and the measured liquid charge in the pump cylinder below the piston is impelled into the bottle viapipe 169, valve groove 174, pipe 172, hose 105, supply tube 102 and the spiral channel 96 of the nozzle. During filling the air and gas displaced from the bottle by the inflowing liquid flows upwardly through nozzle bore 97, tube 99, pipe 178, valve groove 179 and pipe 176 to the reservoir.

l/Vith the construction described the liquid flows into the bottle and the bottle is evacuated against a substantial pressure so that there is substantially no loss of gas from solution.

After the pump has completed its forcing stroke, which delivers a definite measured charge to the bottle, valve 173 is moved to closed position cutting off the connection between the nozzle and the pump and the connection between the bottle and the reservoir but opening communication between the reservoir and pump. As the pump piston makes its reverse or suction stroke, a new charge is drawn from the reservoir to the pump cylinder via pipe 166, valve groove 174 and pipe 169. As liquid is withdrawn from the reservoir, more liquid and free gas flow in from the reducer valve until a balance of pressure with the entrapped air and gas is set up.

Means is provided for venting the gas and air when a given amount has accumulated; To this end, as here shown, in the reservo r is a float 198 controlling a valve 199 in a passage leading to a vent 200. VVhen the air and gas content of the-reservoir cause the lap uid content to drop below a given point, the float drops sufliciently to open valve 199. This allows the'air and gas content to escape until the resulting inflow of water raises the float and again closes the vent valve.

To balance pressures in the pump the top of the pump cylinder is in communication with the reservoir through a pipe 201.

Means is provided for preventing an excessive escape of gas in case a bottle bursts during filling and in structures embodying the invention to'the best-advantage this is accomplished by cutting off the air-gas connection to the bottle. As here shown, as an ex ample, in the pressure 202 which connects the reservoir with gas and air pipe 176 is a valve 203 normally open and controlled by a float 204. In case a bottle bursts, the pressure line is opened to the atmosphere and the sudden flow of gas and air from the reservoir permits an abnormal inflow of liquid. This causes the water level to rise to such an extent as to raise the float 204 and close valve 203. This shuts off the flow of gas from the reservoir until the liquid level has again dropped sufficiently to lower float 204 to normal position with valve 203 open.

There is provided relief means for the pump. As here shown as an example, pump piston 187 has a passage 207 therethrough normally closed by a spring-pressed ball valve 208. In case the machine should be inadvertently-operated with the pump adjustment set fora bottle larger than the bottle actually presented, any excess pressure the pump might tend toset up in the bottle or line is relieved by valve 208 opening against its spring.

It sometimes happens that a bottle is not presented to the packaging head by the feed ing mechanism, and means is provided for preventing operation of the head and plug valve when no bottle is present. In the pres ent embodiment a clutch 205 is provided. This clutch, which is of the type described in the co-pencling application above referred to controls the operation of the various cams, and is operated by a wiper 206 in the path of the bottles. i

After the bottle is filled it is capped while still sealed in the head. Means is provided for raising the nozzle so that the waiting crown can be moved into position and the capping plunger operate. In the embodiment here illustrated as an example, the coupling 103 which is threaded to supply tube 102, is connected by a link 215 with a rocker arm 210 fulcrumed on shaft 75. The other end of this rocker arm 216 carries a roller 217 actuated by a cam 218 on cam shaft 78. Cam 218 is arranged to cause link 215 to be raised following the filling operation. Raising of link 215 raises supply tube 102 and its collar 101. During the first portion of this movement collar 101 moves into engagement with the valve head 98 of coupling 98, thus shutting off any flow to the nozzle. Thereafter. continuedupward movement of collar 101 bearing against coupling 98 raises the nozzle unit. The nozzle being thus withdrawn from the crown chamber 380, the waiting crown is moved into capping position as above described.

A spring 219 connected between rockerarm 216and the main frame is extended by this upward movement of the supply tube 102.

This spring later causes the supply tube to descend'with the head, as above referred to.

Meanwhile, rotation of cam 77 through rocker lever 74 gives the packaging head a further downward movement for the capping operation. During this movement the comressed gasket 111 slips down the neck of the ottle, and the waiting cap is picked up by the bottle mouth and pressed against the capping plunger 88. As the capping stroke continues the capping plunger 88 is forced back against spring 89 and through the pressures set up and the throat ring 87 a seal is made and the skirt of the cap is crimped on the bottle in the manner Well known in the art. During the latter part of the capping stroke of the head the gasket compressing mechanism is actuated to release the gasket. The gasket thereupon expands or opens so that it can clear the cap on the upstroke of the head.

Since bottles of a standard size vary someits syrup,

what in height, compensating mechanism is provided. Although capable of various con- 4 yields slightly against spring 235.

There is provided means for braking the return movement after compensation. This may be accomplished, for example, by a dash pot. As here shown, the rod 232 extends into an oil reservoir 2% and has on its end a pisston 237. This piston has a port 238 anda second port 239 closed on upward movement of the piston by a ball valve 240. The reservoir has a vent plug 241 near its top, a filling tube 24-2 and a valve plug 213. The reservoir 236 being filled with oil or the like, when the piston is forced down by the compensating movement, the oil can pass upwardly by the two

ports

238, 239. But upon return movement when pressure on spring 235 is removed, port 239 is closed and the movement of the piston is slowed down. This dash pot construction prevents the shocks and jars of a too sudden return movement.

lVhile it is thought that the operation of the apparatus will be clear from the foregoing description, it may be briefly reviewed as follows: Eaclrstroke of the bottle feeding mechanism positions an empty bottle beneath the syruping device; positions the preceding syruped bottle beneath the packaging head; and removes the filled and capped bottle from packaging position. During the pause between feeding movements of'the bottle spider, the syrup receptacle descends and under its contact with the empty bottle its nozzle 62 is raised, thus opening the delivery ports 66 and closing the inletport 57, the measured charge of syrup flowing into the bottle. \Vhile the empty bottle is receiving the preceding bottle is receiving its charge of carbonated water. As the cam shaft 7 8 rotates, the earns 77 and 377 permit the head to descend first to filling position. In the raised, or normal, position of the head the nozzle 95 extends through the crown chamber 386. as shown in Fig. 6, and the gasket is held restricted as described. During the greater part of the filling stroke of the head all the associated parts descend together. The tubular plunger 70, the head member 84- and the guide sleeve 91 are connected together as a unit; capping plunger 88 follows this unit because of its spring 89 supply tube 102 also descends because of the spring 219; and the nozzle unit comprising nozzle 95, coupling 98 and air and gas tube 99 descend with the supply tube because of spring 106. During this unitary movement of the head the valve 98 is closed. Meanwhilethe crown received when the head was raised is held back by the nozzle, the crown entrance port 312 has'lett the chute mouth which is blocked by the bearing plate 311, and the port closer is being swung into closing position as described. As the head reaches the bottle, the bottle mouth is re ceived and sealed by the compressed gasket, as appears in Fig. 7. Just prior to this the distention of spring 110" checks the move ment of the nozzle unit, thus holding the nozzle out of contact with the bottle and separating valve 98 from its seat, as appears in Fig. 7. The filling operation now takes place in the manner already described in detail.

\Vhen the filling pump has completed its stroke, the nozzle is withdrawn. This is done by the elevation of the supply tube 102 by the rotation of cam 218, this upward movement of tube 102 first bringing the collar 101 against the valve coupling 98 to shut off the liquid flow and then, by its continued en gagement with coupling 98, raising the nozzle. The withdrawal of the nozzle permits the waiting crown to be moved into place by the pusher finger 147 as described.

The head is now given a further downward movement for the capping stroke by the cam 77. As the head descends the cap is picked up by the bottle mouth and pressed against the capping plunger 88 which is forced back against its spring 89. The pressure thus set up effects a seal between cap and bottle and the action of the capping die 87 crimps the skirt of the cap on the bottle in the manner well known in the art.

Meanwhile the rotation of the plug valve has closed the liquid connection from pump to nozzle, and the air and as connection from the reservoir to the nozzle, thus cutting the head out of the pressure line. Also, during the latter part of the capping stroke of the head the gasket has been released in the manner described.

Packaging head and syruper are now raised. As the crank arm 367 rotates, it again engages the'chain 362 and the syrup receptacle is lifted away fromI the bottle. As this movement takes place the syrup nozzle 62 is free to close under the force of its spring and this movement closes the delivery ports 66 and opens the inlet port 57 to admita new charge of syrup. As the same time rotation of cam 37 7 raises the packaging head, through lever 374 back to normal position, the capping plunger, supply tube and nozzle unit taking their normal relative positions as the head is raised. During this return stroke of the head the port closer is swung down to inlit active position, and the engagement of pin 123 with the top of slot 124 again constricts the gasket as described.

It will be apparent that many of the 0peral ions here described as successive are more or less simultaneous, and it is to be understood that while the apparatus has been described as a soda machine and in connection with c1'o\\'l1.(:01'ks and bottles, the invention is not limited to any particular cap or receptacle. or to use with any particular liquid or liquids.

lVhat I'claim is: p

1. In a packaging apparatus, and in combination, a filling head, a resilientgasket for sealing a bottle in said head, a gasket-carrying cup, lugs on said cup, a cup-actuating device having a pivotal connection with the head and comprising arms below said lugs, and on which the cup is freely suspended, and a lever arm, a slotted bar hung from a stationary part of the apparatus, and a removable pin carried by the lever arm and riding in said slot, the lever being actuated to actuate or release said cup upon engagement of said pin with the ends of the slot, the cup and the gasket being removable upon tilting of the cup-actuating device when said pin is removed.

2. In a packaging apparatus, and in combination, a filling head and a bottle support, means for moving the head toward and away from the support, a compressible and resilient gasket for sealing a bottle in the head, means,

including a lever device pivoted on the head and having a plurality of arms movable into and out of a substantially dead-center position, for compressing the gasket, and upper and lower abutments carried by a stationary part of the apparatus for engagement by part of said lever device, as the head moves, to tilt said lever device.

3. In a packaging apparatus, and in\co1nbination, a filling head and a bottle support, means for moving the head toward and away from the support, a compressible and resilient gasket for sealing a bottle in the head, means, including a lever device pivoted on the head and having a plurality of arms movable into and out of a substantially dead-center position, for compressing the gasket, a pin associated with said lever device, a slotted element in which said pin rides as the head moves, whereby the lever device is actuated by the engagement of the pin with the ends of the slot as the head moves, and means for adjustably mounting said slotted element on a stationary part of the apparatus.

. 4. In a packaging apparatus, and in combination, a filling head and a bottle support, means for causing relative movement between said elements to place the same in filling position, a compressible gasket for sealing a bottle in the head, a gasket-carrying cup, an abutment against which the gasket is pressed upon movement of said cup, a lever device having an operable connection with said cup, and means dependent on the relative movement of the head and bottle support for moving the lever device into a substantially deadoenter position to compress the gasket and out of said position to release the gasket.

5. In a packaging apparatus, in combination with a packaging head and a bottle support, means for moving the head toward the support into a position for filling and further toward the support for capping, and thereafter away from the support, a sealing gasket for sealing a bottle in the head, means including a lever device for compressing the gasket, and means for moving the lever device into a substantially dead-center position during the movement of thehead away from the support to compress the gasket, and out of such position to release the gasket during the latter part of the movement of the head into capping position.

6. In a packaging apparatus, 1n combination with a filling head and a bottle support having relative movement toward andaway from each other, a compressible gasket for sealing a bottle in the head, a carrler for the gasket, a lever device including a plurality of carrier-actuating arms, means for pivotally mounting the lever device so that said arms are movable into and out of a substantially dead-center position, and means dependent on the relative position of the head and support for tilting the lever device.

7. In a packaging apparatus, in combination with a filling head and a bottle support having relative movement toward and away from each other, a compressible gasket for sealing a bottle in the head, a carrier for the gasket, a lever device including a plurality of carrier-actuating arms, links for pivotally suspending the lever device from the head, and means dependent on the relative positionof the head and support for tilting the lever device to move the arms into and out of a substantially dead-center position. 8. In a packaging apparatus, and in COIIlblnation, a filling head and a bottle support,

means for moving the head toward and away from the support, a compressible gasket for sealing a bottle in the head, means, includlng a lever device having a plurality of arms movable into and out of asubstantlally dead-center position, for compressing the gasket, a in associated with said lever device, and a liiar hung from a stationary part of the apparatus and having a slot in which said pin rides, whereby the lever device is actuated by the engagement of the pin with the ends of the slot as the head is reciprocated. 9. In a packaging apparatus, and in combination a packaging head having-a closure entrance port, and a bottle support, means for causing relative movement of. said head and support, one toward the other, a port closer entrance port, means 11. I11 a packaging apparatus, and in combination a packaging head having a closure entrance port, means for reciprocating said head, a port closer pivotally associated with the head, a lever connected with the closer to swing the same on its pivot into and out of closing position, and a member on the head for operating said lever as the head reciprocates.

12. In a packagingapparatus, and in combination a packaging head having a closure entrance port, means for reciprocating said head, a port closer pivotally mounted on the head, a plurality of slotted levers pivotally connected with the closer, means for pivotally suspending said levers from a relatively stationary part, and pins on the head to ride in said slots and operate the levers to swing the port closer on its pivot into and out of closing position.

13. In a packagingapparatus', and in combination a packaging head having a crown chamber and a crown entranceport, means for reciprocating the head, a chute for delivering crowns to the crown entrance port and chamber, means for holding back a delivered crown from crowning position and thereafter releasing the same, a port closer comprising a housing, means for moving the closer into and out of closing position, a crown pusher bar and an actuator bar carried by the housing of the closer to engage the held-back crown and the head respectively as the closer moves into closing position, spring means normally pressing the pusher bar and actuator bar forward, and a connection between the pusher bar and the actuator bar whereby both bars are pushed back as the closer moves into closing position, the pusher bar moves forward alone as crown is released, and the pusher bar is withdrawn while the actuator moves forward, when the closer leaves closing position.

14:. In a packaging apparatus, bination a packaging head having a crown chamber and a crown entrance port, means for reciprocating the head, a chute for delivering crowns to the crown entrance port @and chamber, means for holding back and thereafter releasing a delivered crown, a port closer comprising a ing the closer'into and out of closing position, a spring-pressed block slidable in the housing,

dependent on the movement" and in comhousing, means for mova spring tending to hold the actuator bar advanced in the-housing.

15. In a packaging apparatus, and in cou1- bination a) bottle support, a liquid receptacle having an inlet port and a discharge port, a connection from the inlet port to a source of supply, a relatively movable nozzle on the receptacle communicating with the discharge port, a flexible suspension device for the receptacle, means operating on said suspension device for lowering the receptacle toward the bottle on the bottle support, permitting a dwell at the end of the downward movement and raising the receptacle again, and valve means operated by the relative movement of the nozzle for controlling said ports.

16. In a packaging apparatus, and in combination a bottle support, a liquid receptacle having a discharge port, a flexible suspension member for the receptacle, a relatively stationary anchor for the suspension member, means acting on said-suspension member between the receptacle and the point of anchorage for alternately raising and lowering the receptacle, and a bottle operated valve for controlling said discharge port.

17. In a packaging apparatus, and in combination a bottle support, a'liquid receptacle having a discharge port, a flexible suspension member for the receptacle, a relatively stationary anchor for the suspension member, a crank member adapted to act on said suspension member to alternately raise and lower the receptacle, means for rotating said crank member, and a valve for controlling said discharge port. I

18. In a packaging apparatus, and in combination a bottle support, a liquid receptacle, a flexible suspension member connected at one end to the receptacle and anchored at its other end, a guide pulley on which said suspension member rides, a crank member adapted to act on said suspension member between said guide pulley and the point of anchorage to alternately raise and lower the receptacle,

and means for rotating said crank member.

19. In a packaging apparatus, and in combination a filling head having a nozzle associated therewith, a tubular member associated with the nozzle for communication with the receptacle to be filled, a reservoir for carbonated liquid and free gas, a pump, a connection between the reservoir and the pump, a connection between the pump and thenozzle, a connection between the reservoir, at a point above the liquid, and the tubular member, and a rotary plug valve for alternately connecting the reservoir with the pump and the pump with the nozzle and alternately closing and opening the connection between the reservoir and the tubular member.

' 20. In a-packaging apparatus, and in combination a filling head having a nozzle associated therewith, a tubular member associated with the nozzle tor communication with thereceptacle to be tilled, a reservoir for carbonated liquid-and free gas, a pump. a. valve chamber, a connection including the valve chamber between the reservoir and the punt p, a connection including the valve chamor between the pump and the nozzle, a connection including the valve chamber between the reservoir, at a point above the liquid, and the tubular member, a rotary plug valve in said valve chamber, and means for rotating said valve to open the connection between the reservoir and the tpbular member and then open the connectionbetween the pump and the nozzle and thereafter close said connections and open the connection between the reservoir and the pump.

21. In a packaging apparatus, and in combination a reciprocating packaging head havinga crown chamber, a stationary crown feeding chute for connection with a source of supply, and a bearing plate for the end of the crown chute associated with said reciprocating head, said plate having a crown entrance port communicating with the crown chamber. I

22. In a packaging apparatus, and in combination a rec iprocating packaging head having a crown chamber, a relatively stationary crown feeding chute, the crown chamber having a crown entrance port associated therewith, a stationary frame member, and

a connection between said frame member and the chute for yieldingly holding the chute in normal position.

23. In a packaging apparatus, and in combination a reciprocating packaging head having a crown chamber, a relatively stationary crown feeding chute, the crown chamber havmg a crown entrance port associatedtherewith, a stationary frame member, and a connection between said frame memberand the chute for adjustably holding the chute in position.

24. In a packaging apparatus, and in combination a packaging head, a bottle support, means for causing relative movement between the head and the bottle support, a normally constricted sealing gasket carried by the head to receive the mouth of a. bottle, and a nozzle so associated with the head as to be held a slight distance above the lip of the bottle during the filling operation.

. 25. In a packaging apparatus, and in combination a packaging head, a bottle support,

means for causing relative movement between the head and the bottle supportj a normally constricted sealing gasket carried by .the head to receive the mouth of a bottle, a nozzle associated with the head and movable relaing the filling operation. 26. In a packaging apparatus, and 111 combination a packaging head, a bottle support,

means for lowering the head to the supported bottle. a tilting nozzle associated with the head, means tending to cause the nozzle to descend with the head, and means for stopping the movement of the nozzle prior to the end of the filling stroke of the head to hold the nozzle out of contact with the bottle.

27. In a packaging apparatus. andin combination a packaging head, a bottle support, means for lowering the head to aid the bottle support, a nozzle associated with the head and movable relative thereto, a supply tube associated with the head and arranged for connection with a source of liquid supply and communicating with the nozzle, means tend-- mg to cause the supply tube and nozzle to descend with the head, means for stopping the nozzle prior to the end of the filling stroke of the head, and a valve controlling the communication between the supply tube and the nozzle and arranged to be opened upon said stopping of the nozzle.

28. In a packaging apparatus, and in com ber connected with the nozzle, means tending to hold said valve member on said seat and to cause the nozzle to descend with the supply tube and head, and means for stopping the movement of the nozzle to cause said valve member to leave the valve seat.

29. In a packaging apparatus. and in combination a packaging head having a crown chamber and a crown entrance port, a capping throat carried by the head above the crown chamber, a capping die carried by. the

throat, a tubular capping plunger within the head and movable with respectthereto, a capping spring between the plunger and the head, means for lowering the head for the filling operation, a liquid supply tube slidable within said capping plunger and arranged for connection with a source of supply, means tending to cause the supply tube to descend with the head, a nozzle slidable in. the capping plunger and normally extending into the crown chamber to hold back a crown during filling, means for raising the supply tube wherebysaid raising of the supply tube withdraws the nozzle, and means for further lowering the head for the capping operation.

with respect to the head, means 30. In a packaging apparatus, and in combination' a packaging head, a bottle support, means forreciprocatmg the packaging head toward and away from the bottle support, a

nozzle for connection with a source of liquid supply and relatively .movable within the head, means tending to cause the nozzle to descend with the head, and a limiting suspension member for the nozzle for stopping the movement of the nozzle prior to the end of the stroke of the head. 7

31. In a packaging apparatus, and in combination a frame, a packaging head, a bottle support, means for-reciprocating the packaging head in the frame toward and away from the bottle support, a nozzle for connection with a source-of liquid supply and relatively movable withinthe head,y1neans tending to cause the nozzle to descend with the head, and means, includinga spring connected with the frame, for limiting the downward movement of the nozzle. 4

32. In a packaging apparatus,'and in combination a packaging head, a bottle support, means for reciprocating the packaging head toward and away from the bottle support, a nozzle for connection with the source of supply andrelatively' movable within the head, means tending to cause the nozzle to descend with the head, means for limiting the descent of the nozzle, and means whereby the nozzle is raised with the head. 33. In a packaging apparatus, and in combination a packaging head and bottle support capable of relative movement, a nozzle unit relatively movable with respect to the head and comprising a nozzle member having a channel for delivering liquid, and-a bore for delivering free gas and discharging displaced air, a tube communicating with said bore, a valve member, and a seat for said valve, said valve and its seat being arranged to cut ofl? the nozzle channel when closed, the valve being raised from the seat upon relative movement of the nozzle. i 34. In a packaging apparatus, and in combination a bottle support, a packaging head having a crown chamber, means for reclproeating the head to and from the bottle support, a supply tube for connection With a source of liquid supply and relatively movable within the head, a nozzle having a channel .tor'communicating with said supply tube and relatively movable with respect to the head and tube and normally extending into the crown chamber, means tending to cause the supply tube and the nozzle to descend with the head, a valve member moving with the nozzle, a valve seat carried by the supply tube, means for limiting the downward movement of the nozzle to cause the valve member to leave its seat, thereby to open communication between said channel and the supply tube, and means for raising the supply tubg while the head remains down to lift the valve seat into engagement with the valve member, thereby to shut off said communication and thereafter raise said nozzle to withdraw it from the crown chamber.

35. In a packaging apparatus, and in combination a bottle support, a packaging head having a crown chamber, means for reciprocating the head to and from the bottle support, a spring-pressed, tubular, capping plunger carried by the head, a supply tube for connection with a source of supply and relatively movable within said plunger, a nozzle normally extending into said crown chamber and having a channel for communication with the supply tube, a valve member carried by the nozzle, a valve seat carried by the supply tube, means tending to cause the nozzle to descend with the supply tube and head, means for limiting the movement of the nozzle thereby to raise the valve member from its seat, and means for raising the supply tube independently of the head to close the valve and withdraw the nozzle from the crown chamber.

I 36. In a ackaging apparatus, and in combmation a ottle support, a packaging head, means for causingrelative movement between the support and head, a supply tube within the head for communication with a source of liquid supply, a valve seat carried thereby, a nozzle unit relatively movable with respect tothe supply tube and comprising a nozzle member having a channel for communication with said supply tube, and a central bore for discharging the displaced air and free gas, a tube in alinement with said bore and communicatin therewith, a coupling connecting the tu e and nozzle member, and a valve member on said coupling for seating against said valve seat.

37. In a packaging apparatus, and in combination a packaging head, a bottle support, a tubular, spring-pressed capping plunger carried by the head, a supply tube for communication with a source of supply, slidable in said plunger, a nozzle having a channel for communication'with the supply tube and relatively movable with respect thereto, means tending to cause the nozzle and supply tube to move with the head, means including a cam for lowering the head into one position for ,filling, thereafter raising the supply tube and nozzle to Withdraw the latter from the crown chamber, thereafter lowering the head to another position for capping, and thereafter raising the head, means for limiting the movement of the nozzle prior to the completion of the filling stroke of the head, and valve means between the supply tube and nozzle channel operated by the relative movement of the nozzle with respect to the head.

38. Inapackaging apparatus, and in combination a packaging head, a pressure line including a reservoir for holding liquid and