Alcoa Closure Systems International, Inc.

Larry Ellis

Karl E Zemlin

Karl Ostermann

Bernard A Winters

Chris Oyer

William A Moll, Iv

The present invention provides a novel cam-actuated spindle assembly for selectively attaching a cam follower to a capping spindle. By adjusting the assembly, the user can easily adjust a capping spindle to follow a selected one of different tracks that are formed into a barrel cam. This simplifies the process of adjusting a bottle capping or corking machine to accommodate a variety of products with different types and sizes of closures and bottles. The mounting assembly weighs considerably less than a spindle or barrel cam, and therefore, is considerably easier to reposition and adjust. There is no need to remove the barrel cam or change out the spindle, which significantly reduces costs, down-time, and manpower requirements. The mounting assembly is designed to be compatible with existing bottle capping equipment.

Track adjustable mounting assemblies and associated methods

A capping and nitrogen dosing apparatus for containers includes a rotary capping machine which is configured to serially receive filled containers, and apply closures to respective ones of the containers. The present apparatus includes a dosing system for injecting an inert gas, typically nitrogen in liquid form, into the head space of each container to enhance the integrity and rigidity of the package, and to improve the freshness and flavor of the container's contents. Notably, the dosing system is configured to effect nitrogen injection close to or at the so-called transfer point of the capping machine, thus desirably abating nitrogen dissipation, and enhancing consistent and efficient product dosing.

Capping and nitrogen dosing apparatus

An object sorting and orienting apparatus is for sorting, orienting and discharging a plurality of objects, such as, container closures dispensed from a hopper. An endless conveyor transports the closures from a loading area, through an intermediate area, to a discharge area. At least one regulator, including an adjustable spill-plate, regulates the effects of object fill-level within the hopper during a sorting run. Orienting means, including an extension of the adjustable spill-plate and a plurality of flights on the endless conveyor, arrange the closures in a correct orientation. Sorting means, including a belt path disruptor and a substantially vertical belt path, sort incorrectly oriented closures from correctly oriented closures. Discharge means, including a removal device and at least one discharge chute, discharge correctly oriented closures from the discharge area.

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Cattaraugus, NY, United States of America

Larry Ellis