Method and apparatus for back end control of translation and rotation of a green ware

Abstract

Disclosed herein is a method and apparatus for back end control of translation and rotation of green ware (e.g., producible from ceramic extrudate). A green ware handling system (102) includes a back end assembly (129) that contacts a back end face (118B) of a green ware (116) and moves to push the green ware (116) along the support channel (114). In certain embodiments, the green ware handling assembly (102) includes a leading end assembly (128) to pull the green ware (116) and then transfer control to the back end assembly (129), which translates and also optionally rotates the green ware (116). This handoff increases the overall production rate of the green ware (116). In certain embodiments, the back end assembly (129) penetrates the back end face (118B) of the green ware (116) with cleat penetration features (312) to provide a secure engagement with the green ware (116) to rotate and translate the green ware (116) while also decreasing a depth of damage to the green ware (116).

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.