US20130293071A1 - Cantilever Carousel System - Google Patents
Cantilever Carousel System Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20130293071A1 US20130293071A1 US13/939,426 US201313939426A US2013293071A1 US 20130293071 A1 US20130293071 A1 US 20130293071A1 US 201313939426 A US201313939426 A US 201313939426A US 2013293071 A1 US2013293071 A1 US 2013293071A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- cantilever
- carousel
- frame structure
- mandrels
- carousel system
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47B—TABLES; DESKS; OFFICE FURNITURE; CABINETS; DRAWERS; GENERAL DETAILS OF FURNITURE
- A47B49/00—Revolving cabinets or racks; Cabinets or racks with revolving parts
- A47B49/008—Revolving cabinets or racks; Cabinets or racks with revolving parts with motorisation means
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
- B41F—PRINTING MACHINES OR PRESSES
- B41F13/00—Common details of rotary presses or machines
- B41F13/0016—Storage devices for printing cylinders
Definitions
- the present invention relates generally to print cylinder storage and more specifically it relates to a cantilever carousel system for efficiently storing multiple print cylinders while providing a common access point for loading and unloading the print cylinders.
- Print cylinders for applying die to various mediums have been in use for years.
- mediums such as newspapers, magazines, food wrappers, or various other mediums
- print cylinders are stored on large stationary storage racks during periods of non use. It can be difficult to load or unload the print cylinders from the storage rack due to the height of the storage rack.
- the storage racks are stationary, which forces the user to access print cylinders high above the floor surface, the storage racks are often built closer to the floor surface and thus comprise a shorter overall structure. Thus, the need for wider storage racks is necessary which can take up valuable floor space. Because of the inherent problems with the related art, there is a need for a new and improved cantilever carousel system for efficiently storing multiple print cylinders while providing a common access point for loading and unloading the print cylinders.
- the invention generally relates to print cylinder storage which includes an external frame structure defining an internal cavity and a shell connected to the external frame structure to surround the cavity, wherein the shell includes at least one access opening extending there through.
- An internal frame structure is positioned within the cavity and a vertically oriented carousel is supported by the internal frame structure.
- a drive assembly is mechanically connected to the carousel, wherein the drive assembly circulates the carousel and a plurality of cantilever mandrels are supported by the carousel and circulate with the carousel.
- a plurality of print cylinders are removably received by the plurality of cantilever mandrels through the access opening.
- FIG. 1 is an upper perspective view of the present invention.
- FIG. 2 is an upper perspective view of the present invention with the shell removed.
- FIG. 3 is a side view of the present invention with the shell removed and a plurality of print cylinders positioned upon the cantilever mandrels.
- FIG. 4 is a side view of the present invention with the shell removed.
- FIG. 5 is a magnified side view of the lower end of the present invention with the shell removed.
- FIG. 6 is a magnified side view of the upper end of the present invention with the shell removed.
- FIGS. 1 through 6 illustrate a cantilever carousel system 10 , which comprises an external frame structure 20 defining an internal cavity 29 and a shell 30 connected to the external frame structure 20 to surround the cavity 29 , wherein the shell 30 includes at least one access opening 35 extending there through.
- An internal frame structure 40 is positioned within the cavity 29 and a vertically oriented carousel 60 is supported by the internal frame structure 40 .
- a drive assembly 50 is mechanically connected to the carousel 60 , wherein the drive assembly 50 circulates the carousel 60 and a plurality of cantilever mandrels 80 are supported by the carousel 60 and circulate with the carousel 60 .
- a plurality of print cylinders 12 are removably received by the plurality of cantilever mandrels 80 through the access opening 35 .
- the print cylinders 12 are generally comprised of hollow structures to receive the cantilever mandrels 80 and also generally include a printing die to be used in a printing process. It is appreciated that other types of open ended cylindrical devices or structures may be used rather than the print cylinders 12 .
- the present invention includes an external frame structure 20 which supports the shell 30 and serves as a protective barrier for users around the circulating carousel 60 .
- the external frame structure 20 is generally comprised of a strong rigid material, such as metal, unless otherwise noted.
- the external frame structure 20 also generally resembles a tower in structure, wherein the external frame structure 20 extends in a general vertical direction from the floor surface and is oriented vertically to encompass the carousel 60 .
- the external frame structure 20 is generally box-like in shape and includes a front and rear vertical members 21 , 23 , front and rear horizontal members 22 , 24 , and cross members 25 connecting the front and rear vertical members 21 , 23 . Some of the cross members 25 along each end of the external frame structure 20 define access openings 35 .
- Each of the members 21 - 25 are generally comprised of a square cross-sectional shape and are elongated; however the members 21 - 25 may take the form of various shapes.
- the external frame structure 20 also includes a plurality of cross supports 27 for securing the drive assembly 50 thereon.
- the drive assembly 50 is preferably supported and secured near the outer edge of the external frame structure 20 to be easily accessible for repairs and maintenance.
- the external frame structure 20 defines a cavity 29 within for positioning the internal frame structure 40 , carousel 60 and cantilever mandrels 80 which also support the print cylinders 12 .
- a shell 30 generally surrounds the external frame structure 20 for providing protection for operators and nearby objects from coming into contact with the circulating carousel 60 and cantilever mandrels 80 and likewise to protect the print cylinders 12 stored upon the cantilever mandrels 80 .
- the shell 30 is generally comprised of a thin plate-like material and includes sidewalls 31 , end walls 32 and a top 33 to encompass the external frame structure 20 .
- Each of the end walls 32 also generally include an access opening 35 adjacent the floor surface for accessing the lower most print cylinders 12 upon the lower most cantilever mandrels 80 from each side of the shell 30 .
- the access openings 35 are cut within the end walls 32 and defined by some of the cross members 25 .
- the access openings 35 are large enough for the print cylinders 12 upon the lower most cantilever mandrels 80 to be easily removed from within the external frame structure 20 .
- a first access opening 35 along one end wall 32 is used to access a first portion 81 of a cantilever mandrel 80 and an opposite access opening 35 along a second end wall 32 is used to access a second portion 82 of the cantilever mandrel 80 to load respective first and second print cylinders 12 thereupon.
- the shell 30 also generally includes at least one access panel 37 for accessing the drive assembly 50 for repairs and maintenance.
- the drive assembly 50 is generally aligned with the upper sprockets 62 , 67 of the carousel 60 to rotate and drive the upper sprockets 62 , 67 which in turn rotate and drive the lower sprockets 63 , 68 .
- the access panel 37 preferably conceals the drive assembly 50 to reduce noise and also protect the drive assembly 50 during use and is openable via various manners to allow inspection of the drive assembly 50 if needed.
- the sensor units 36 work collectively to stop the carousel 60 from circulating if an object or individual passes through the access opening 35 .
- the sensor units 36 may be comprised of various types of sensors all which detect movement or the presence of an individual or object in the access opening 35 or cavity 29 and are capable of sending a signal to the controller 39 to stop the circulation of the carousel 60 .
- the present invention also includes a controller 39 preferably positioned proximate the present invention and further preferably located along one of the walls 31 , 32 of the shell 30 along an external surface.
- the controller 39 is used to control the drive assembly 50 and carousel 60 along with other electrical components (e.g. lights) of the present invention.
- the controller 39 may include various LCD displays along with multiple controls.
- the drive assembly 50 generally includes a motor 51 , which may be comprised of an electric, gas, hydraulic, or other type, connected to a gearbox 54 through an elongated member 52 such as a chain or belt.
- the motor 51 and the gearbox 54 are preferably supported via cross supports 27 upon the external frame structure 20 adjacent one of the end walls 32 and the access panel 37 .
- the gearbox 54 rotates an elongated shaft 55 extending therefrom towards the internal frame structure 40 and carousel 60 .
- An opposite end of the shaft 55 is connected to a sprocket 56 , which in turn is connected to another sprocket 58 via an elongated member 57 , such as a chain or belt.
- the sprocket 58 is coupled to the primary sprocket 62 of the first carrier assembly 61 to rotate the primary sprocket 62 and circulate the first carrier assembly 61 and connected second carrier assembly 66 of the carousel 60 .
- the present invention also preferably includes an internal frame structure 40 positioned internally of the external frame structure 20 for supporting the carousel 60 .
- the internal frame structure 40 is preferably vertically oriented within the cavity 29 of the external frame structure 20 and centered therein.
- the internal frame structure 40 thus generally extends from a lower end to an upper end of the external frame structure 20 to allow for a maximum number of cantilever mandrels 80 to be supported therefrom.
- the internal frame structure 40 includes a plurality of first vertical members 41 for supporting the first carrier assembly 61 of the carousel 60 and a plurality of second vertical members 42 for supporting the second carrier assembly 66 of the carousel 60 .
- Cross members connect the first vertical members 41 to the second vertical members 42 for adding support thereto and connecting supports 45 connect the internal frame structure 40 to the external frame structure 20 .
- the internal frame structure 40 is generally suspended above the floor surface via the connecting supports 45 (e.g. beams, etc.) connecting the internal frame structure 40 to the external frame structure 20 .
- the carousel 60 is supported by the internal frame structure 40 and circulates about the internal frame structure 40 and thus likewise circulates within the cavity 29 and about the external frame structure 20 .
- the carousel 60 generally circulates in a vertically oriented manner wherein the carousel 60 travels substantially further in length in a vertical direction than in a horizontal direction.
- the carousel 60 includes a first vertical run and a second vertical run, wherein the first vertical run moves downwardly when the second vertical run moves upwardly.
- the carousel 60 is comprised of an elongated member, wherein the elongated member is an endless loop structure. It is appreciated that in locations with low ceilings or limited vertical space, a horizontally oriented carousel 60 and correspondingly oriented frame structures 20 , 40 may be used.
- the carousel 60 preferably has a first carrier assembly 61 and a second carrier assembly 66 for supporting the cantilever mandrels 80 near a longitudinal center. It is appreciated that more or less carrier assemblies may be used depending on the length and amount of cantilever mandrels 80 . For example, when less cantilever mandrels 80 or shorter cantilever mandrels 80 are used, only one carrier assembly may be needed to provide adequate support to the cantilever mandrels 80 .
- the first carrier assembly 61 and the second carrier assembly 66 rotate together and simultaneously.
- the first carrier assembly 61 and the second carrier assembly 66 are also comprised of a loop structure to operate in an endless circulating manner.
- Each carrier assembly 61 , 66 is comprised of a chain and sprocket structure and generally includes a drive sprocket 62 , 67 preferably located at an upper end of the carrier assemblies 61 , 66 and a secondary sprocket 63 , 68 preferably located at a lower end.
- the drive sprocket 62 and the secondary sprocket 63 of the first carrier assembly 61 are connected via an elongated member 64 and the drive sprocket 67 and the secondary sprocket 68 of the second carrier assembly 66 are connected by a separate elongated member 69 .
- the elongated members 64 , 69 may be comprised of chains, pulleys, or various other types.
- the sprockets 62 , 63 , 67 , 68 may be comprised of gear shaped sprockets, pulleys, or various other types.
- the drive sprockets 62 , 67 of the first carrier assembly 61 and the second carrier assembly 66 are rotatably coupled via a connecting shaft 70 which also is connected to the sprocket 58 mechanically connected to the shaft 55 of the gearbox 54 . It is appreciated that only one connecting shaft 70 is necessary in the case of a single drive assembly 50 as shown in the present invention, wherein each of the carrier assemblies 61 , 66 operate simultaneously.
- Each of the carrier assemblies 61 , 66 also include a plurality of clamps 73 , 74 .
- the clamps 73 , 74 are fixed to a respective elongated member 64 , 69 and circulate with the elongated member 64 , 69 .
- the clamps 73 , 74 also thus rotate as the elongated member 64 , 69 changes directions, such as when moving around the lower end or the upper end of the carrier assembly 61 , 66 .
- the clamps 73 , 74 are preferably comprised of a U-shaped clamp and are tightenable upon the cantilever mandrels 80 to secure the cantilever mandrels 80 to the carousel 60 .
- the clamps 73 , 74 preferably tighten the cantilever mandrels 80 upon the elongated member 64 , 69 of the carousel 60 in a manner that prevents the cantilever mandrels 80 from rotating freely and forces the cantilever mandrels 80 to rotate with the clamps 73 , 74 as the clamps 73 , 74 are circulated with the elongated members 64 , 69 .
- the present invention includes a plurality of cantilever mandrels 80 each for supporting at least one of the print cylinders 12 thereupon.
- the cantilever mandrels 80 are generally comprised of elongated tubular structures that extend the entire length of the cavity 29 of the external frame structure 20 .
- the cantilever mandrels 80 are secured near a center of their longitudinal axis by the carousel 60 so that print cylinders 12 may be positioned upon a defined first portion 81 and second portion 82 of the cantilever mandrels 80 .
- the first portion 81 and the second portion 82 are defined lengthwise by the carousel 60 and are accessible from respective end access openings 35 .
- first portion 81 and a second portion 82 may linearly aligned with one another may be sufficient.
- the cantilever structure of the mandrels 80 is important to allow easy loading and unloading of the print cylinders 12 thereupon.
- Each of the cantilever mandrels 80 also includes a retaining bracket 84 , 85 extending from each end of the cantilever mandrels 80 .
- the retaining bracket 84 , 85 holds the respective print cylinders 12 upon cantilever mandrels 80 by extending over an outer end of the print cylinders 12 .
- the retaining bracket 84 , 85 is preferably comprised of an L-shaped structure.
- the retaining bracket 84 , 85 also rotates with the cantilever mandrels 80 as the cantilever mandrels 80 are circulated about the carousel 60 .
- the retaining brackets 84 , 85 When respective cantilever mandrels 80 are moving substantially in a vertical direction, the retaining brackets 84 , 85 extend in a general horizontal orientation which allows the retaining bracket 84 , 85 to extend laterally past the outer end of the respective print cylinder 12 so as to retain the print cylinder 12 upon the cantilever mandrel 80 .
- the retaining bracket 84 , 85 extend in a general vertical orientation (via being rotated) which prevents the retaining bracket 84 , 85 from extending past the outer end of the respective print cylinder 12 so as to allow the print cylinder 12 to be removed from the cantilever mandrel 80 .
- a first print cylinder 12 is positioned upon a lower most cantilever mandrel 80 upon a first portion 81 of the cantilever mandrel 80 so as to be retained by a respective first clamp 73 attached to the cantilever mandrel 80 and positioned near an inner end of the first print cylinder 12 and the other end positioned inwardly of a respective retaining bracket 84 .
- another print cylinder 12 is positioned upon the lower most cantilever mandrel 80 upon a second portion 82 of the cantilever mandrel 80 in a similar manner.
- the first print cylinder 12 is positioned upon the first portion 81 of the cantilever mandrel 80 via extending the first print cylinder 12 through access opening 35 on a respective end and the other print cylinder 12 is positioned upon the second portion 82 of the cantilever mandrel 80 via extending the second print cylinder 12 through access opening 35 on an opposite end of the shell 30 and external frame structure 20 .
- the controller 39 is then operated to circulate the carousel 60 so that another cantilever mandrel 80 moves to the lowermost position and a respective pair of retaining brackets 84 , 85 move to a vertical position so that another first and second print cylinder 12 may be slid upon the new lowermost cantilever mandrel 80 . It is appreciated that the previously loaded first and second print cylinder 12 are now circulated slightly in an upward direction causing the respective retaining brackets 84 , 85 to move laterally across an outer end of the first and second print cylinders 12 to retain the first and second print cylinders 12 upon the first and second portion 81 , 82 of the cantilever mandrels 80 .
- the carousel 60 is continued to be circulated until each of the cantilever mandrels 80 have a print cylinder 12 upon both a first portion 81 and a second portion 82 of the cantilever mandrel 80 .
- the preferred manner in which the cantilever mandrel 80 is circulated is the motor 51 causing the gearbox 54 to rotate the shaft 55 which in turn transfers rotational force to the drive sprocket 62 of the first carrier assembly 61 through the mechanically connected sprockets 56 , 58 and elongated member 57 .
- the rotation of the drive sprocket 62 of the first carrier assembly 61 causes the entire first carrier assembly 61 and the second carrier assembly 66 to circulate thus circulating the attached cantilever mandrels 80 .
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Abstract
A cantilever carousel system for efficiently storing multiple print cylinders while providing a common access point for loading and unloading the print cylinders. The cantilever carousel system generally includes an external frame structure defining an internal cavity and a shell connected to the external frame structure to surround the cavity, wherein the shell includes at least one access opening extending therethrough. An internal frame structure is positioned within the cavity and a vertically oriented carousel is supported by the internal frame structure. A drive assembly is mechanically connected to the carousel, wherein the drive assembly circulates the carousel and a plurality of cantilever mandrels are supported by the carousel and circulate with the carousel. A plurality of print cylinders are removably received by the plurality of cantilever mandrels through the access opening.
Description
- I hereby claim benefit under
Title 35, United States Code, Section 120 of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/511,105 filed Jul. 29, 2009. This application is a continuation of the 12/511,105 application. The 12/511,105 application is currently pending. The 12/511,105 application is hereby incorporated by reference into this application. - Not applicable to this application.
- 1. Field of the Invention
- The present invention relates generally to print cylinder storage and more specifically it relates to a cantilever carousel system for efficiently storing multiple print cylinders while providing a common access point for loading and unloading the print cylinders.
- 2. Description of the Related Art
- Any discussion of the related art throughout the specification should in no way be considered as an admission that such related art is widely known or forms part of common general knowledge in the field.
- Print cylinders for applying die to various mediums, such as newspapers, magazines, food wrappers, or various other mediums have been in use for years. Generally, print cylinders are stored on large stationary storage racks during periods of non use. It can be difficult to load or unload the print cylinders from the storage rack due to the height of the storage rack.
- Because the storage racks are stationary, which forces the user to access print cylinders high above the floor surface, the storage racks are often built closer to the floor surface and thus comprise a shorter overall structure. Thus, the need for wider storage racks is necessary which can take up valuable floor space. Because of the inherent problems with the related art, there is a need for a new and improved cantilever carousel system for efficiently storing multiple print cylinders while providing a common access point for loading and unloading the print cylinders.
- A system for efficiently storing multiple print cylinders while providing a common access point for loading and unloading the print cylinders. The invention generally relates to print cylinder storage which includes an external frame structure defining an internal cavity and a shell connected to the external frame structure to surround the cavity, wherein the shell includes at least one access opening extending there through. An internal frame structure is positioned within the cavity and a vertically oriented carousel is supported by the internal frame structure. A drive assembly is mechanically connected to the carousel, wherein the drive assembly circulates the carousel and a plurality of cantilever mandrels are supported by the carousel and circulate with the carousel. A plurality of print cylinders are removably received by the plurality of cantilever mandrels through the access opening.
- There has thus been outlined, rather broadly, some of the features of the invention in order that the detailed description thereof may be better understood, and in order that the present contribution to the art may be better appreciated. There are additional features of the invention that will be described hereinafter and that will form the subject matter of the claims appended hereto. In this respect, before explaining at least one embodiment of the invention in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction or to the arrangements of the components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced and carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein are for the purpose of the description and should not be regarded as limiting.
- Various other objects, features and attendant advantages of the present invention will become fully appreciated as the same becomes better understood when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference characters designate the same or similar parts throughout the several views, and wherein:
-
FIG. 1 is an upper perspective view of the present invention. -
FIG. 2 is an upper perspective view of the present invention with the shell removed. -
FIG. 3 is a side view of the present invention with the shell removed and a plurality of print cylinders positioned upon the cantilever mandrels. -
FIG. 4 is a side view of the present invention with the shell removed. -
FIG. 5 is a magnified side view of the lower end of the present invention with the shell removed. -
FIG. 6 is a magnified side view of the upper end of the present invention with the shell removed. - Turning now descriptively to the drawings, in which similar reference characters denote similar elements throughout the several views,
FIGS. 1 through 6 illustrate acantilever carousel system 10, which comprises anexternal frame structure 20 defining aninternal cavity 29 and ashell 30 connected to theexternal frame structure 20 to surround thecavity 29, wherein theshell 30 includes at least one access opening 35 extending there through. Aninternal frame structure 40 is positioned within thecavity 29 and a verticallyoriented carousel 60 is supported by theinternal frame structure 40. Adrive assembly 50 is mechanically connected to thecarousel 60, wherein thedrive assembly 50 circulates thecarousel 60 and a plurality ofcantilever mandrels 80 are supported by thecarousel 60 and circulate with thecarousel 60. - A plurality of
print cylinders 12 are removably received by the plurality ofcantilever mandrels 80 through the access opening 35. Theprint cylinders 12 are generally comprised of hollow structures to receive thecantilever mandrels 80 and also generally include a printing die to be used in a printing process. It is appreciated that other types of open ended cylindrical devices or structures may be used rather than theprint cylinders 12. - The present invention includes an
external frame structure 20 which supports theshell 30 and serves as a protective barrier for users around the circulatingcarousel 60. Theexternal frame structure 20 is generally comprised of a strong rigid material, such as metal, unless otherwise noted. Theexternal frame structure 20 also generally resembles a tower in structure, wherein theexternal frame structure 20 extends in a general vertical direction from the floor surface and is oriented vertically to encompass thecarousel 60. - The
external frame structure 20 is generally box-like in shape and includes a front and rearvertical members horizontal members cross members 25 connecting the front and rearvertical members cross members 25 along each end of theexternal frame structure 20 defineaccess openings 35. Each of the members 21-25 are generally comprised of a square cross-sectional shape and are elongated; however the members 21-25 may take the form of various shapes. - The
external frame structure 20 also includes a plurality of cross supports 27 for securing thedrive assembly 50 thereon. Thedrive assembly 50 is preferably supported and secured near the outer edge of theexternal frame structure 20 to be easily accessible for repairs and maintenance. Theexternal frame structure 20 defines acavity 29 within for positioning theinternal frame structure 40,carousel 60 andcantilever mandrels 80 which also support theprint cylinders 12. - A
shell 30 generally surrounds theexternal frame structure 20 for providing protection for operators and nearby objects from coming into contact with the circulatingcarousel 60 andcantilever mandrels 80 and likewise to protect theprint cylinders 12 stored upon thecantilever mandrels 80. Theshell 30 is generally comprised of a thin plate-like material and includessidewalls 31,end walls 32 and atop 33 to encompass theexternal frame structure 20. - Each of the
end walls 32 also generally include an access opening 35 adjacent the floor surface for accessing the lowermost print cylinders 12 upon the lowermost cantilever mandrels 80 from each side of theshell 30. Theaccess openings 35 are cut within theend walls 32 and defined by some of thecross members 25. Theaccess openings 35 are large enough for theprint cylinders 12 upon the lowermost cantilever mandrels 80 to be easily removed from within theexternal frame structure 20. A first access opening 35 along oneend wall 32 is used to access afirst portion 81 of acantilever mandrel 80 and an opposite access opening 35 along asecond end wall 32 is used to access asecond portion 82 of thecantilever mandrel 80 to load respective first andsecond print cylinders 12 thereupon. - The
shell 30 also generally includes at least oneaccess panel 37 for accessing thedrive assembly 50 for repairs and maintenance. Thedrive assembly 50 is generally aligned with theupper sprockets carousel 60 to rotate and drive theupper sprockets lower sprockets access panel 37 preferably conceals thedrive assembly 50 to reduce noise and also protect thedrive assembly 50 during use and is openable via various manners to allow inspection of thedrive assembly 50 if needed. - On respective sides of each of the
access openings 35 aresensor units 36. Thesensor units 36 work collectively to stop thecarousel 60 from circulating if an object or individual passes through theaccess opening 35. Thesensor units 36 may be comprised of various types of sensors all which detect movement or the presence of an individual or object in the access opening 35 orcavity 29 and are capable of sending a signal to thecontroller 39 to stop the circulation of thecarousel 60. - The present invention also includes a
controller 39 preferably positioned proximate the present invention and further preferably located along one of thewalls shell 30 along an external surface. Thecontroller 39 is used to control thedrive assembly 50 andcarousel 60 along with other electrical components (e.g. lights) of the present invention. Thecontroller 39 may include various LCD displays along with multiple controls. - The
drive assembly 50 generally includes amotor 51, which may be comprised of an electric, gas, hydraulic, or other type, connected to agearbox 54 through anelongated member 52 such as a chain or belt. Themotor 51 and thegearbox 54 are preferably supported via cross supports 27 upon theexternal frame structure 20 adjacent one of theend walls 32 and theaccess panel 37. As themotor 51 drives thegearbox 54, thegearbox 54 rotates anelongated shaft 55 extending therefrom towards theinternal frame structure 40 andcarousel 60. - An opposite end of the
shaft 55 is connected to asprocket 56, which in turn is connected to anothersprocket 58 via anelongated member 57, such as a chain or belt. Thesprocket 58 is coupled to theprimary sprocket 62 of thefirst carrier assembly 61 to rotate theprimary sprocket 62 and circulate thefirst carrier assembly 61 and connectedsecond carrier assembly 66 of thecarousel 60. - The present invention also preferably includes an
internal frame structure 40 positioned internally of theexternal frame structure 20 for supporting thecarousel 60. Theinternal frame structure 40 is preferably vertically oriented within thecavity 29 of theexternal frame structure 20 and centered therein. Theinternal frame structure 40 thus generally extends from a lower end to an upper end of theexternal frame structure 20 to allow for a maximum number ofcantilever mandrels 80 to be supported therefrom. - The
internal frame structure 40 includes a plurality of firstvertical members 41 for supporting thefirst carrier assembly 61 of thecarousel 60 and a plurality of secondvertical members 42 for supporting thesecond carrier assembly 66 of thecarousel 60. Cross members connect the firstvertical members 41 to the secondvertical members 42 for adding support thereto and connectingsupports 45 connect theinternal frame structure 40 to theexternal frame structure 20. It is appreciated that theinternal frame structure 40 is generally suspended above the floor surface via the connecting supports 45 (e.g. beams, etc.) connecting theinternal frame structure 40 to theexternal frame structure 20. - The
carousel 60 is supported by theinternal frame structure 40 and circulates about theinternal frame structure 40 and thus likewise circulates within thecavity 29 and about theexternal frame structure 20. Thecarousel 60 generally circulates in a vertically oriented manner wherein thecarousel 60 travels substantially further in length in a vertical direction than in a horizontal direction. As shown inFIGS. 2 through 6 of the drawings, thecarousel 60 includes a first vertical run and a second vertical run, wherein the first vertical run moves downwardly when the second vertical run moves upwardly. As shown inFIGS. 2 and 3 of the drawings, thecarousel 60 is comprised of an elongated member, wherein the elongated member is an endless loop structure. It is appreciated that in locations with low ceilings or limited vertical space, a horizontally orientedcarousel 60 and correspondingly orientedframe structures - The
carousel 60 preferably has afirst carrier assembly 61 and asecond carrier assembly 66 for supporting thecantilever mandrels 80 near a longitudinal center. It is appreciated that more or less carrier assemblies may be used depending on the length and amount ofcantilever mandrels 80. For example, whenless cantilever mandrels 80 orshorter cantilever mandrels 80 are used, only one carrier assembly may be needed to provide adequate support to thecantilever mandrels 80. Thefirst carrier assembly 61 and thesecond carrier assembly 66 rotate together and simultaneously. Thefirst carrier assembly 61 and thesecond carrier assembly 66 are also comprised of a loop structure to operate in an endless circulating manner. - Each
carrier assembly drive sprocket carrier assemblies secondary sprocket drive sprocket 62 and thesecondary sprocket 63 of thefirst carrier assembly 61 are connected via anelongated member 64 and thedrive sprocket 67 and thesecondary sprocket 68 of thesecond carrier assembly 66 are connected by a separateelongated member 69. Theelongated members sprockets - The drive sprockets 62, 67 of the
first carrier assembly 61 and thesecond carrier assembly 66 are rotatably coupled via a connectingshaft 70 which also is connected to thesprocket 58 mechanically connected to theshaft 55 of thegearbox 54. It is appreciated that only one connectingshaft 70 is necessary in the case of asingle drive assembly 50 as shown in the present invention, wherein each of thecarrier assemblies - Each of the
carrier assemblies clamps elongated member elongated member elongated member carrier assembly carousel 60. The clamps 73, 74 preferably tighten the cantilever mandrels 80 upon theelongated member carousel 60 in a manner that prevents thecantilever mandrels 80 from rotating freely and forces the cantilever mandrels 80 to rotate with theclamps clamps elongated members - The present invention includes a plurality of
cantilever mandrels 80 each for supporting at least one of theprint cylinders 12 thereupon. The cantilever mandrels 80 are generally comprised of elongated tubular structures that extend the entire length of thecavity 29 of theexternal frame structure 20. The cantilever mandrels 80 are secured near a center of their longitudinal axis by thecarousel 60 so thatprint cylinders 12 may be positioned upon a definedfirst portion 81 andsecond portion 82 of thecantilever mandrels 80. Thefirst portion 81 and thesecond portion 82 are defined lengthwise by thecarousel 60 and are accessible from respectiveend access openings 35. It is appreciated that instead of afirst portion 81 and asecond portion 82 to receive twoseparate print cylinders 12 each from an opposite end, the use of twocantilever mandrels 80 may linearly aligned with one another may be sufficient. The cantilever structure of themandrels 80 is important to allow easy loading and unloading of theprint cylinders 12 thereupon. - Each of the
cantilever mandrels 80 also includes a retainingbracket cantilever mandrels 80. The retainingbracket respective print cylinders 12 uponcantilever mandrels 80 by extending over an outer end of theprint cylinders 12. The retainingbracket bracket cantilever mandrels 80 as thecantilever mandrels 80 are circulated about thecarousel 60. - When
respective cantilever mandrels 80 are moving substantially in a vertical direction, the retainingbrackets bracket respective print cylinder 12 so as to retain theprint cylinder 12 upon thecantilever mandrel 80. When thecantilever mandrels 80 are moving substantially in a horizontal direction, the retainingbracket bracket respective print cylinder 12 so as to allow theprint cylinder 12 to be removed from thecantilever mandrel 80. - In use, a
first print cylinder 12 is positioned upon a lowermost cantilever mandrel 80 upon afirst portion 81 of thecantilever mandrel 80 so as to be retained by a respectivefirst clamp 73 attached to thecantilever mandrel 80 and positioned near an inner end of thefirst print cylinder 12 and the other end positioned inwardly of arespective retaining bracket 84. Likewise, anotherprint cylinder 12 is positioned upon the lowermost cantilever mandrel 80 upon asecond portion 82 of thecantilever mandrel 80 in a similar manner. Thefirst print cylinder 12 is positioned upon thefirst portion 81 of thecantilever mandrel 80 via extending thefirst print cylinder 12 through access opening 35 on a respective end and theother print cylinder 12 is positioned upon thesecond portion 82 of thecantilever mandrel 80 via extending thesecond print cylinder 12 through access opening 35 on an opposite end of theshell 30 andexternal frame structure 20. - The
controller 39 is then operated to circulate thecarousel 60 so that anothercantilever mandrel 80 moves to the lowermost position and a respective pair of retainingbrackets second print cylinder 12 may be slid upon the newlowermost cantilever mandrel 80. It is appreciated that the previously loaded first andsecond print cylinder 12 are now circulated slightly in an upward direction causing therespective retaining brackets second print cylinders 12 to retain the first andsecond print cylinders 12 upon the first andsecond portion cantilever mandrels 80. - The
carousel 60 is continued to be circulated until each of thecantilever mandrels 80 have aprint cylinder 12 upon both afirst portion 81 and asecond portion 82 of thecantilever mandrel 80. It is appreciated that the preferred manner in which thecantilever mandrel 80 is circulated is themotor 51 causing thegearbox 54 to rotate theshaft 55 which in turn transfers rotational force to thedrive sprocket 62 of thefirst carrier assembly 61 through the mechanicallyconnected sprockets elongated member 57. The rotation of thedrive sprocket 62 of thefirst carrier assembly 61 causes the entirefirst carrier assembly 61 and thesecond carrier assembly 66 to circulate thus circulating the attachedcantilever mandrels 80. - Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. Although methods and materials similar to or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the present invention, suitable methods and materials are described above. All publications, patent applications, patents, and other references mentioned herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety to the extent allowed by applicable law and regulations. In case of conflict, the present specification, including definitions, will control. The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the spirit or essential attributes thereof, and it is therefore desired that the present embodiment be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive. Any headings utilized within the description are for convenience only and have no legal or limiting effect.
Claims (17)
1. A cantilever carousel system for storing print cylinders, comprising:
a frame structure;
a carousel supported by said frame structure, wherein said carousel is vertically oriented;
a drive assembly mechanically connected to said carousel, wherein said drive assembly circulates said carousel about said frame structure; and
a plurality of cantilever mandrels supported by said carousel, wherein said plurality of cantilever mandrels circulate with said carousel;
wherein said plurality of cantilever mandrels each removably receive a print cylinder thereon.
2. The cantilever carousel system of claim 1 , including an external frame structure to surround said plurality of cantilever mandrels and said carousel.
3. The cantilever carousel system of claim 2 , wherein said external frame structure includes a shell.
4. The cantilever carousel system of claim 3 , wherein said shell includes at least one access opening for accessing a lowermost cantilever mandrel of said plurality of cantilever mandrels.
5. The cantilever carousel system of claim 4 , including a sensor unit positioned proximate said at least one access opening to detect movement through said at least one access opening.
6. The cantilever carousel system of claim 1 , including a controller for activating said drive assembly to circulate said carousel.
7. The cantilever carousel system of claim 1 , wherein said carousel includes a first carrier assembly and a second carrier assembly.
8. The cantilever carousel system of claim 7 , wherein said first carrier assembly and said second carrier assembly circulate simultaneously.
9. The cantilever carousel system of claim 8 , wherein said first carrier assembly and said second carrier assembly are both comprised of a sprocket and chain structure.
10. The cantilever carousel system of claim 1 , wherein each of said plurality of cantilever mandrels includes at least one retaining bracket extending from an outer end.
11. The cantilever carousel system of claim 10 , wherein said at least one retaining bracket extends transversely with respect to a longitudinal axis of a corresponding cantilever mandrel.
12. The cantilever carousel system of claim 11 , wherein said at least one retaining bracket extends horizontally when a corresponding cantilever mandrel is moving vertically and wherein said at least one retaining bracket extends vertically when a corresponding cantilever mandrel is moving horizontally.
13. The cantilever carousel system of claim 1 , wherein said carousel includes a first vertical run and a second vertical run.
14. The cantilever carousel system of claim 13 , wherein said first vertical run moves downwardly when said second vertical run moves upwardly.
15. The cantilever carousel system of claim 13 , wherein said first vertical run and said second vertical run are parallel with respect to one another.
16. The cantilever carousel system of claim 15 , wherein said first vertical run extends along a first vertically orientated plane and wherein said second vertical run extends along a second vertically orientated plane.
17. The cantilever carousel system of claim 13 , wherein said carousel travels substantially further in length in a vertical direction than in a horizontal direction.
Priority Applications (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US13/939,426 US20130293071A1 (en) | 2009-07-29 | 2013-07-11 | Cantilever Carousel System |
US14/169,741 US9375912B2 (en) | 2009-07-29 | 2014-01-31 | Cantilever carousel system |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US12/511,105 US8616381B1 (en) | 2009-07-29 | 2009-07-29 | Cantilever carousel system |
US13/939,426 US20130293071A1 (en) | 2009-07-29 | 2013-07-11 | Cantilever Carousel System |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US12/511,105 Continuation US8616381B1 (en) | 2009-07-29 | 2009-07-29 | Cantilever carousel system |
Related Child Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US12/511,105 Continuation-In-Part US8616381B1 (en) | 2009-07-29 | 2009-07-29 | Cantilever carousel system |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20130293071A1 true US20130293071A1 (en) | 2013-11-07 |
Family
ID=49512010
Family Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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US12/511,105 Active 2032-09-29 US8616381B1 (en) | 2009-07-29 | 2009-07-29 | Cantilever carousel system |
US13/939,426 Abandoned US20130293071A1 (en) | 2009-07-29 | 2013-07-11 | Cantilever Carousel System |
Family Applications Before (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US12/511,105 Active 2032-09-29 US8616381B1 (en) | 2009-07-29 | 2009-07-29 | Cantilever carousel system |
Country Status (1)
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US (2) | US8616381B1 (en) |
Cited By (1)
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US10450137B2 (en) * | 2014-12-04 | 2019-10-22 | Brian O'Connell | Rotating vertical storage system for barrels |
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CN113459647B (en) * | 2021-04-20 | 2023-12-22 | 利和纸品(嘉善)有限公司 | Double-sided printing device for packaging cartons |
US11944193B1 (en) * | 2022-11-15 | 2024-04-02 | Eran Swears | Multi-wheel rotational shelving assembly |
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2009
- 2009-07-29 US US12/511,105 patent/US8616381B1/en active Active
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2013
- 2013-07-11 US US13/939,426 patent/US20130293071A1/en not_active Abandoned
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US10450137B2 (en) * | 2014-12-04 | 2019-10-22 | Brian O'Connell | Rotating vertical storage system for barrels |
US20200047999A1 (en) * | 2014-12-04 | 2020-02-13 | Brian O'Connell | Rotating vertical storage system for barrels |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
US8616381B1 (en) | 2013-12-31 |
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Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: VIDIR MACHINE, INC., CANADA Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:FORSTER, PHILLIP G.;PLETT, STANLEY K.;REEL/FRAME:030777/0076 Effective date: 20090727 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |