Extruder screw shaft alignment apparatus and method
US9573313B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 6, 2014 |
| Grant date | Feb 21, 2017 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 6, 2034 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB29C48/507
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Puck and collar alignment device embodiments facilitate simultaneous insertion of free end portions of screw shafts into open end portions of complementary drive couplings. The embodiments have alignment keys that correct deviations in alignment and rotation introduced while moving the screw shafts though a barrel of an extruder. Tapered front faces of the alignment keys incrementally adjust coaxial alignment, and tapered side faces of the alignment keys incrementally adjust rotational position cooperatively between the alignment devices and drive couplings. The coaxial and rotational position adjustments cooperate to simultaneously guide multiple alignment keys to fit within corresponding keyway sections while providing alignment of external splines on the screw shafts to interlock in a timed relationship with internal splines on the drive couplings during the simultaneous insertion.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.