Abstract: Paver feeder assemblies, systems, and methods for use in mounting photovoltaic modules are provided which comprise a support structure and an elevator. The support structure is configured to support a plurality of pavers arranged in a stack. The elevator is configured to move the single paver from the support structure and to release the single paver into a mounting tub. The elevator may be a crane gantry configured to move in three axes. A restraining mechanism may be provided, which is configured to separate a single paver from the stack. The elevator may be a shelf assembly comprising one or more side restraints and one or more grippers configured to grasp a single paver and move from a start position adjacent to the support structure to lower the single paver to an end position directly above a floor of a mounting tub. The paver feeder assembly may be mounted on a mobile unit that is loaded with pavers at a staging area and moved to a dispensing area where mounting tubs are located.

Abstract: Automated systems and methods for deployment of mounting tubs that support photovoltaic modules are provided in which a feeder assembly includes a screw thread assembly and a pivot arm. The screw thread assembly has at least one rotatable threaded component, and two such components in exemplary embodiments, positioned within the feeder assembly. The rotatable threaded component supports the stack of mounting tubs and rotates to separate the individual mounting tub from the stack of mounting tubs and lower the individual mounting tub onto the pivot arm. The pivot arm is configured to interact with an individual mounting tub and pivots to dispense the individual mounting tub onto a mounting surface. A sensor may be provided to detect the positions of the individual mounting tubs as they are moved, and a control system communicates with the sensor and the feeder assembly. The feeder assembly and a hopper holding the stack of mounting tubs may be mounted on an autonomous cart.

Abstract: A sleeve for securing a cryogenic vial includes a cylindrical body sized to receive a vial, the body including a longitudinal axis, a first end, and a second end. A plurality of deformable members are disposed near the first end of the body and are arranged to deform from a first configuration to a second configuration. Each deformable member is displaced outwardly relative to the longitudinal axis of the body in the second configuration.

Abstract: A sleeve for securing a cryogenic vial includes a cylindrical body sized to receive a vial, the body including a longitudinal axis, a first end, and a second end. A plurality of deformable members are disposed near the first end of the body and are arranged to deform from a first configuration to a second configuration. Each deformable member is displaced outwardly relative to the longitudinal axis of the body in the second configuration.