Variable low-pressure sequential-return force cap lift

Abstract

A crimper head for use in introducing a fluid product under pressure into the mouth of a container provided with a closure and thereafter crimping the closure to the container mouth. A container, such as for an aerosol package, with a closure resting freely in the mouth of the container is delivered to the crimper head. The head has a lower bell which forms a seal with the upper end of the container when the head is lowered. While the bell remains stationary, other parts of the head are actuated so that vacuum is applied to the bell and the container while the closure is lifted by vacuum from the mouth. Thereafter, the head is actuated to shut off the vacuum and admit a metered quantity of fluid under pressure, such as aerosol propellant, into the bell and container. When the pressurized fluid is admitted it lifts the closure from the container mouth and also acts to lift as a unit all parts of the head except the bell which remains stationary and engaged with the container. The combined weight of the lifted parts augmented by a first hydraulic or pneumatic hold-down force resist the lifting action. After the desired quantity of propellant has been introduced, a second hold-down force is applied which in combination with the previously applied weight of the lifted parts and first hold-down force restores the lifted parts to their normal or lowered position. Thereupon, the collet in the head is actuated to crimp the closure to the mouth of the container.