Method and apparatus for reforming a portion of a plastic container using induction heating
US8506285B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 6, 2010 |
| Grant date | Aug 13, 2013 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 2, 2031 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB29L2031/7158
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An apparatus (10, 10′) and a machine (100) for reforming a portion of a plastic package (50) using induction heating. The apparatus and machine comprise a frame (20) engaging the plastic package and a workpiece support (40) having an electrically conducting workpiece (44, 48, 102). An induction workhead (62) provides an alternating current power supply to an induction element (60, 104). The induction element is positioned proximate the workpiece of the workpiece support and heats the workpiece via induction. A mechanism (22) positions the plastic package proximate the heated workpiece so that the workpiece transfers heat to the portion of the plastic package thereby softening the portion. A forming die (30) supported on the frame engages the portion to reform the portion. Also provided is a process of using the apparatus and machine to reform a portion of a plastic package using induction heating.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.