Bottle-gripping insert element
AssigneeAluminum Company of America
InventorsJames R. Jackson, Gerald E. Stelle, Edgar E. Adams
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A bottle-gripping insert element is configured for detachable mounting in respective association with a bottle-receiving pocket of a star wheel of a bottle-handling apparatus. The insert element is formed from elastomeric material, and is dimensioned for interfering engagement with associated bottles dimensioned in accordance with normal manufacturing tolerances. The bottle-gripping insert element is preferably provided with a plurality of generally vertically extending gripping ribs for enhanced frictional engagement with associated bottles.
Claims9
A bottle-gripping insert element for use with a bottle-handling apparatus having a rotatable star wheel defining a plurality of bottle-receiving pockets at the periphery thereof, said insert element comprising:
- an insert body positionable in respective association with one of said bottle-receiving pockets of said star wheel, said insert body having a generally arcuate, bottle-engaging face against which a bottle is urged and restrained against rotation about its own axis during handling of said apparatus;
- and
- means on said insert body for detachably mounting said insert element in a respective one of said bottle-receiving pockets to facilitate replacement of said insert element, wherein said bottle-engaging face defines a plurality of spaced-apart gripping ribs having free end portions engageable with a bottle received in the respective one of said pockets.
A bottle-gripping insert element for use with a bottle-handling apparatus having a rotatable star wheel defining a plurality of bottle-receiving pockets at the periphery thereof, said insert element comprising:
- an insert body comprising elastomeric material positionable in respective association with one of said bottle-receiving pockets of said star wheel, said insert body having a generally arcuate, bottle-engaging face defining a plurality of generally vertically extending, spaced-apart gripping ribs, said gripping ribs having free end portions dimensioned for interfering engagement with a bottle, so that a bottle urged against the gripping ribs is restrained against rotation about the axis of the bottle;
- and
- means on said insert body for detachably mounting said insert element in a respective one of said bottle-receiving pockets to facilitate replacement of said insert element.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.