Abstract: A continuous motion can decorator includes a plurality of mandrel subassemblies mounted on a rotating carrier with equal angular spacings between adjacent subassemblies. The assemblies reciprocate radially with respect to the carrier axis as a center. Each subassembly includes a radially extending support arm that mounts a radially extending mono rail which extends through guide bearing units on the carrier. The mandrel of each subassembly is mounted on an axis that is parallel to the rotational axis of the carrier. An eccentric type mounting is provided for the mandrel axle on the reciprocating arm so that there is an individually operated means to adjust spacing between the carrier rotational axis and the mandrel axis. Vacuum and pressurized air are fed selectively to each mandrel subassembly through a flexible hose having a single loop that is formed by curving virtually the entire length of the hose.

Abstract: A mandrel/spindle disc for a continuous motion can decorator includes a plurality of relatively lightweight mandrel assemblies mounted on a rotating carrier with equal angular spacings between adjacent assemblies. The assemblies reciprocate radially with respect to the carrier axis as a center. Each assembly includes a base and two guide rods that extend radially inward from the base and are received by sleeve bushings that are disposed in radial holes extending inward from the carrier periphery. A plurality of relatively small grease pools are formed by small transverse holes, each of which extend forward from the rear of the carrier disc to engage the inner ends of four bushing holes. Vacuum and air pressure are fed to each mandrel assembly through a flexible hose having a large loop therein.

Abstract: Apparatus for forming elongated metal cans from relatively short cups by utilizing a reciprocating ram to drive the cups one at a time through a die pack, is provided with a continuously rotating feeder that transfers the cups from the exit of a gravity feed chute to a receiving station where each cup is indexed for engagement by the ram as it moves forward in its working stroke. The feeder rotates through one complete revolution for each forward-return cycle of the ram and during each revolution thereof a pocket in the feeder receives a cup from the chute, which cup then moves downstream through a guideway to a receiving station. Prior to being seated in a registry formation at the receiving station, the cup is engaged by a stripper that removes the cup from the feeder pocket. The feeder continues to drive the cup toward the registry formation while the cup is being stripped from the feeder pocket.