Capping method and apparatus
US6874301B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 6, 2001 |
| Grant date | Apr 5, 2005 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 6, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB67B3/26
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A capping apparatus 1 includes torque sensor 12 which detects an output torque when a chuck 7 is driven for rotation by a motor 9. Initially, a cap 5 is held by the chuck 7. The cap 5 is fitted over a mouth of a vessel 2, and then the chuck 7 is rotated through one revolution in a clamping direction. A resulting output torque is detected by the torque sensor 12, and the output torque rapidly increases at the position where the threads on the cap 5 and the vessel 2 abut against each other (an incipient position of meshing engagement P). The cap 5 is rotated through a given angle of rotation as referenced to the incipient position of meshing engagement P, thus threadably engaging the cap 5 with the vessel 2. The invention allows a uniform clamping of cap 5 at the completion of the capping operation.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.