Thermoforming machine, plug assist drive assembly and method
US9238325B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 31, 2011 |
| Grant date | Jan 19, 2016 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 12, 2033 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB29C51/082
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A plug assist drive assembly is provided for a thermoforming press. The plug assist drive assembly includes a drive platen, a plug assist platen, a first elongated gear rack, a second elongated gear rack, a drive gear, a driven gear, and a drive source. The first elongated gear rack and the second elongated gear rack are carried by the plug assist platen in longitudinally extending and substantially parallel, spaced apart relation with a plurality of rack teeth extending on each gear rack between proximal and distal ends. The drive gear is carried by the drive platen and is operably communicating with the first elongated gear rack. The driven gear is carried by the drive platen and is operably communicating with the second elongated gear rack and the drive gear. The drive source is operably communicating with the drive gear to drive the assist platen in linearly reciprocating motion relative to the drive platen. A thermoforming machine having the plug assist drive assembly is also provided. A method is also provided.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.