Abstract: A rotary capping apparatus and feedback control apparatus for regulating torque applied to screw-on type caps for containers is disclosed. The present system is integrated into a machine suitable for a clean-room environment. The apparatus includes a supporting frame whereon a computer-controlled driving mechanism including a servomotor for transmitting a predetermined torque to an inflatable gripping device actuated by compressed air for gripping and torquing such caps is provided. The inflatable gripper is imparted with automatic vertical height adjustment to accommodate containers of various sizes. The present rotary capping apparatus provides an integrated closed loop feedback control system utilizing a computer for setting parameters for regulating the application of such torque and a servocontroller interfaced for bidirectional communication with the computer.

Abstract: A rotary capping apparatus and feedback control apparatus for regulating torque applied to screw-on type caps for containers is disclosed. The present system is integrated into a machine suitable for a clean-room environment. The apparatus includes a supporting frame whereon a computer-controlled driving mechanism including a servomotor for transmitting a predetermined torque to an inflatable gripping device actuated by compressed air for gripping and torquing such caps is provided. The inflatable gripper is imparted with automatic vertical height adjustment to accommodate containers of various sizes. The present rotary capping apparatus provides an integrated closed loop feedback control system utilizing a computer for setting parameters for regulating the application of such torque and a servocontroller interfaced for bidirectional communication with the computer.

Abstract: A filling machine with a rotary peristaltic dispenser that compensates for the nonlinear flow rate characteristic of the dispenser to increase product fill accuracy is disclosed. A computer processor including associated electronic circuitry and programs is provided for defining, digitizing and storing the real pulsating flow rate characteristic of the dispenser. In order to ensure a precise delivery of the filled product, the computer calculates the angular rotation of the rotor needed to deliver the desired fill weight for each filling cycle. The angular rotation needed to maintain a uniform fill weight is generally different for each filling cycle. The current position of the rotor is first established prior to each filling cycle and then located on a stored look-up table containing the flow rate characteristic as a starting point for digital integration of the characteristic over the angular distance of the driver.

Abstract: A product handling and weighing apparatus having a rotary paddle wheel with vanes forming product pockets therebetween to hold the product and transfer the product through a weighing bucket.