Abstract: A transfer assembly includes a transfer starwheel having recesses to receive an article. Each recess includes a vacuum port and at least one insert formed from a compliant material. The at least one insert at least partially defines a shape of the recess, which corresponds to an aspect of the article. The transfer assembly includes a mounting hub including a plurality of circumferential sets of vacuum openings extending axially along the mounting hub and coupled to a vacuum source. A vacuum is delivered to the vacuum openings. The transfer starwheel is mounted on a mounting hub to align the vacuum ports of the transfer starwheel with a selected set of vacuum openings on the mounting hub. The mounting hub rotates so that the transfer starwheel receives the article into one of the recesses at a first position and rotates to a second position while holding the article with the vacuum.

Abstract: A transfer assembly includes a transfer starwheel having recesses to receive an article. Each recess includes a vacuum port and at least one insert formed from a compliant material. The at least one insert at least partially defines a shape of the recess, which corresponds to an aspect of the article. The transfer assembly includes a mounting hub including a plurality of circumferential sets of vacuum openings extending axially along the mounting hub and coupled to a vacuum source. A vacuum is delivered to the vacuum openings. The transfer starwheel is mounted on a mounting hub to align the vacuum ports of the transfer starwheel with a selected set of vacuum openings on the mounting hub. The mounting hub rotates so that the transfer starwheel receives the article into one of the recesses at a first position and rotates to a second position while holding the article with the vacuum.

Abstract: An apparatus for performing reshaping operations on a can, with the apparatus being modular in construction. The modular construction allows for the easy add-on of additional processing stations for performing additional reshaping operations to the cans. Each module is readily connected to an adjacent module in such spaced relationship that cans are transferred directly from can support pockets that hold the cans during processing on one module to can support pockets that hold the cans during processing on the adjacent module, without the need for any conveyors or track work to transfer the cans. The modules are cast with internal chambers that form vacuum chambers, gear chambers, and/or pressurized air passageways. The internal chambers of one module can be interconnected with corresponding internal chambers in adjacent modules.