Method and apparatus for cleaning gripper assemblies
OwnerWilliam P. Burns, Jr.inventor
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
A method and apparatus enable cleaning of gripper assemblies wherein the grippers are enclosed by a containment structure and cleaned by a liquid spray.
Claims12
In combination with a printing press, an apparatus for cleaning and lubricating gripper assemblies on the printing press comprising:
- spray means for spraying cleaning fluid onto the gripper assemblies;
- containment means for containing the cleaning fluid during spraying thereof by cooperating with surfaces on the press to define an enclosed interior space;
- and
- drain means for draining said cleaning fluid from said containment means;
- the spray means comprising a plurality of spray nozzles mounted on said containment means and means for forcing cleaning fluid therethrough.
In combination with a printing press, an apparatus for cleaning gripper assemblies of the type supported on a pair of elongated bars on the printing press, the apparatus comprising:
- a containment structure including an upper member and a lower member joined by at least one hinge and movable between a closed position for cooperation with said elongated bars to define a generally cylindrical enclosed interior space and an open position for permitting installation and removal of said containment structure;
- spray means for directing cleaning fluid and air at said gripper assembly within said enclosed interior space;
- and
- drain means for draining said cleaning fluid from said enclosed interior space.
In combination with a printing press, an apparatus for cleaning gripping assemblies of the type supported in a recess on an impression cylinder on the printing press, the apparatus comprising:
- a containment structure configured to fit against said impression cylinder to define an enclosed interior space;
- spray means for directing a mixture of cleaning fluid and air at said gripper assembly within said enclosed interior space;
- and
- drain means for draining said cleaning fluid from said enclosed interior space.
A method of cleaning a gripper assembly of the type including a plurality of spaced gripper fingers, the method comprising the steps of:
- placing a containment structure in contact with surfaces on a printing press to define an enclosed interior space about said gripper assembly, said enclosed interior space being in communication with a vacuum pump to enable removal of matter from said interior space;
- blowing air at said gripper assembly through a plurality of nozzles mounted on said containment structure while operating said vacuum pump;
- spraying cleaning fluid onto said gripper assembly from a plurality of different nozzles mounted on said containment structure while operating said vacuum pump;
- blowing air over said gripper assembly while operating said vacuum pump;
- and
- removing said containment structure from contact with said printing press.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.