Wexxar WF-10T, Operation And Service Manual

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WF-10T Case Former Component Identification
3-17
3.2
Pin and Dome Technology
WEXXAR’s ultra-reliable Pin and Dome case forming technology has been proven to surpass all
other forms of case opening technologies in its ability to provide continuous and repeatable
output regardless of corrugated case quality. Unlike case formers that use vacuum for gripping
and opening case blanks, Pin and Dome is a simple maintenance-free mechanical case gripping
system that ensures maximum uptime.
This system consists of two hardened steel pins that operate in conjunction with a raised steel
dome. The case is thrust downward onto multiple Pin and Dome modules, which permit the
domes to guide the pins precisely into the flutes of the corrugated case material. The result is
clamping of the outer skin, giving unparalleled grip on the case panels.
Pin and Dome modules are mounted on opposing hinged plates. After each case blank is
separated from the magazine stack, it is thrust downward between these plates and onto the Pin
and Dome modules, gripping the case on two sides at one corner. The plates then open to an
angle of 90
°
, opening the case blank with the pins.
Unlike vacuum suction cups, the pins do not suffer excessive wear from repeated sliding contact
with abrasive corrugated case material that deteriorates performance and affects reliability with
vacuum systems. In fact, the steel pins are kept sharp by repeated insertion in the corrugated
board flutes. In addition, the Pin and Dome system is unaffected by surface dust on case blanks,
and overcomes a variety of case configuration and quality issues that can cause problems with
vacuum gripping systems.