Anthony C Weber

US Patent:

54801346, Jan 2, 1996

Filed:

May 9, 1994

Appl. No.:

8/239509

Inventors:

Anthony M. Weber - Woodbury MN

Assignee:

Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Company - St. Paul MN

International Classification:

B65H 100

US Classification:

271145

Abstract:

A mechanism for opening and closing a resealable cartridge includes a base for receiving a cartridge, a roller shaft for engaging a cover adhesively disposed on the cartridge, a motor for rotating the roller shaft, and a slidable carriage that supports the roller shaft and the motor. The motor rotates the roller shaft in a first direction to peel the cover away from the cartridge, and in a second direction to reseal the cover to the cartridge. The motor includes a rotor shaft, coupled in substantial alignment with the roller shaft, for applying rotational torque to the roller shaft without applying undesirable radial forces that can damage the cartridge cover, thereby extending cartridge life. The coupling of the rotor shaft also eliminates the need for a complicated gear train, resulting in reduced size, ease of repair, and enhanced reliability. The roller shaft includes a compliant friction coating that evenly distributes sealing force over the cover during closure.