Abstract: A launch vehicle dispenser attach structure is disclosed. The launch vehicle dispenser attach structure includes a launch vehicle adapter, and a polygonal extruded cylinder comprising tapered side and an essentially closed end. The polygonal extruded cylinder connects to the launch vehicle adapter. The tapered sides and the closed end of the polygonal extruded cylinder provide mounting interfaces for connecting satellite dispensers. A mounting interface of the mounting interfaces includes a separation ring for transforming the launch vehicle dispenser attach structure into a free flying satellite. The launch vehicle dispenser attach structure is particularly useful for attaching multiple payload separation systems to launch vehicle.

Abstract: An enteral feeding tubing connector comprises a body, a bore extending through the body, and a collet slidably disposed in the bore at a first end of the body. The collet is dimensioned to receive and engage a portion of tubing inserted into the collet, and is configured to resist withdrawal of the tubing from the bore and body upon application of force to the tubing that moves the collet out of the bore. A lock is provided on the first end of the body, and is configured to selectively engage the collet and prevent movement of the collet outward relative to the body. A tubing connection is provided at a second, opposite end of the body, the tubing connection providing fluid communication between another portion of tubing, the bore extending through the body, and the portion of tubing inserted into the collet.

Abstract: Techniques for product-stacking and case-packing are particularly adapted for product that is packaged in envelopes or flexibly-sided containers. Such products include may different types, such as foodstuffs, books, boxed goods, etc. In an example, a product-stacking and case-packing system may include a product-stacking assembly and a case-packing assembly. In the example, the product-stacking assembly may be configured with a plurality of pairs of flights, each pair of flights programmed to move according to operation of an associated pair servo motors, and programmed to receive and down-stack incoming product items into groups. In the example, the case-packing assembly may include a robotic arm and end-of-arm tool configured to grasp one or more groups of stacked product items, when pushed from the product-stacking assembly, and place each group of stacked product items in a case (e.g., a cardboard box).

Abstract: Flight and indexing assemblies for automated packaging systems provide better product spacing for faster and more reliable automation. In an example, a plurality of flights may include a plate- or sheet-like body with a perpendicular flange extending from an upper portion of the flight. Two adjacent flanges contain a pouch or other product to be packaged in a case. A flange constrains an upper portion of each pouch to a confined and predetermined area, thereby aiding grippers of an end-of-arm tool to grasp the pouches. A flight and product indexing assembly is configured to control spacing between adjacent flights, and to position pouches constrained between adjacent flights, so that flights position product at predetermined locations for gripping by the end-of-arm tool.

Abstract: Structure, method and techniques for a robotic end-of-arm tool usable in the packaging industry are described herein. In an example, the end-of-arm tool is configured for attachment to a robotic arm, and may be used in case opening and sealing operations. The case may be partially opened by a packaging system from a folded-flat configuration, and may be and squared and sealed by the end-of-arm tool. In the example, first and second mandrels (or jigs) are configured to be extended to contact inside surfaces of a case. In the example, a base supports the first and second mandrels, and allows adjustment of a distance by which they are separated. In an extended state, the mandrels press on interior surfaces of opposite sides of the case, forming the case into a square configuration. Suction cups hold the minor flaps, allowing the major flaps to be folded and sealed.

Abstract: Techniques for product-stacking and case-packing are particularly adapted for product that is packaged in envelopes or flexibly-sided containers. Such products include may different types, such as foodstuffs, books, boxed goods, etc. In an example, a product-stacking and case-packing system may include a product-stacking assembly and a case-packing assembly. In the example, the product-stacking assembly may be configured with a plurality of pairs of flights, each pair of flights programmed to move according to operation of an associated pair servo motors, and programmed to receive and down-stack incoming product items into groups. In the example, the case-packing assembly may include a robotic arm and end-of-arm tool configured to grasp one or more groups of stacked product items, when pushed from the product-stacking assembly, and place each group of stacked product items in a case (e.g., a cardboard box).

Abstract: Flight and indexing assemblies for automated packaging systems provide better product spacing for faster and more reliable automation. In an example, a plurality of flights may include a plate- or sheet-like body with a perpendicular flange extending from an upper portion of the flight. Two adjacent flanges contain a pouch or other product to be packaged in a case. A flange constrains an upper portion of each pouch to a confined and predetermined area, thereby aiding grippers of an end-of-arm tool to grasp the pouches. A flight and product indexing assembly is configured to control spacing between adjacent flights, and to position pouches constrained between adjacent flights, so that flights position product at predetermined locations for gripping by the end-of-arm tool.

Abstract: A reconfigurable chain guide system is described herein. In one example, movable and stationary pieces of chain guide define a chain path. An actuator moves the movable piece of chain guide between first and second positions with respect to the stationary piece of chain guide. A length of the chain path is not changed when the movable piece of chain guide is moved between the first and second positions. This may be accomplished, for example, if the movable piece includes first and second curved segments, which contact the chain in the first and second positions of the movable piece of chain guide, respectively. In an operational example, a chain traveling the chain path may carry a flight lug, which may engage or not engage cases moving on a conveyor depending on a position of the movable piece of chain guide.

Abstract: A reconfigurable chain guide system is described herein. In one example, movable and stationary pieces of chain guide define a chain path. An actuator moves the movable piece of chain guide between first and second positions with respect to the stationary piece of chain guide. A length of the chain path is not changed when the movable piece of chain guide is moved between the first and second positions. This may be accomplished, for example, if the movable piece includes first and second curved segments, which contact the chain in the first and second positions of the movable piece of chain guide, respectively. In an operational example, a chain traveling the chain path may carry a flight lug, which may engage or not engage cases moving on a conveyor depending on a position of the movable piece of chain guide.

Abstract: Techniques for construction and operation of a programmable product picking apparatus are described herein. Such an apparatus picks up product according to a first spacing (e.g., from a conveyor) and releases the product according to a second spacing (e.g., into a carton). In one possible configuration, a fixed matrix plate defines at least first and second rows of slots. Two movable matrix plates, one that moves right-then-left and one that moves left-then-right, move in opposite directions parallel to the fixed matrix plate according to strokes of pneumatic cylinders. Each of a plurality of product pickers is driven by one of the two movable matrix plates. As that plate moves, the product picker is also moved according to a slot defined in the movable matrix plate. Each product picker comes to a stop when it reaches an end of a slot defined in the fixed matrix plate.

Abstract: Techniques for construction and operation of a programmable product picking apparatus are described herein. Such an apparatus picks up product according to a first spacing (e.g., from a conveyor) and releases the product according to a second spacing (e.g., into a carton). In one possible configuration, a fixed matrix plate defines at least first and second rows of slots. Two movable matrix plates, one that moves right-then-left and one that moves left-then-right, move in opposite directions parallel to the fixed matrix plate according to strokes of pneumatic cylinders. Each of a plurality of product pickers is driven by one of the two movable matrix plates. As that plate moves, the product picker is also moved according to a slot defined in the movable matrix plate. Each product picker comes to a stop when it reaches an end of a slot defined in the fixed matrix plate.