Abstract: An automatic registration and color adjustment system includes a can decorator including at least a plurality of plate cylinders and a plurality of inking station; a plurality of sensors; and an automatic registration and color adjustment device communicatively coupled to the can decorator, the plurality of sensors and the plurality of temperature control elements, the automatic registration and color adjustment device structured to: receive outputs from at least the plurality of sensors; determine that an adjustment to the can decorator is to be made based on the outputs and previous adjustment information; and control the can decorator to make the determined adjustment.

Abstract: A can decorating system includes a can decorator including at least a plurality of cylinder plates and a plurality of inking stations; and a control station communicatively coupled to the can decorator. The control station includes an input apparatus; a display; a control system structured to monitor and control operations of the can decorator; and an automatic label creator structured to receive a label specification, create a label, determine values for image registration based at least in part on the label specification and data associated with previously applied labels, and transmit at least the label and the values to the control station. The control system causes the plate cylinders and inking stations to be adjusted based on the label and the values of image registration. The plate cylinders and inking stations print the label on undecorated cans based on the label and the values.

Abstract: A LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) detection system for use with a machine includes a LiDAR sensor disposed overhead and structured to scan and create at least one of a three-dimensional (3D) image or a 3D point map of a machine and surroundings thereof, and (ii) a controller communicatively coupled to the LiDAR sensor and structured to collect data including at least one of the 3D image or the 3D point map from the LiDAR sensor, analyze the data, and detect a human, and determine if a detected human is in the vicinity of a hazardous zone associated with the machine.

Abstract: A LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) detection system for use in a can manufacturing assembly. The LiDAR defect detection system includes a plurality of LiDAR sensors disposed at outputs of one or more equipment in the can manufacturing assembly and structured to scan and create at least three-dimensional (3D) images of output cans at the outputs of the one or more equipment; and a controller communicatively coupled to the LiDAR sensors and structured to collect data including at least the 3D images and analyze the data to determine if one or more output cans are defective.

Abstract: A control system for a can decorator structured to apply images to cans includes a can inspection system structured to capture images of a can, a controller structured to receive the captured images and to analyze the captured images to determine a quality of the image applied to the can based on a comparison of the captured images and a reference image, and an adjustment assembly structured to adjust a circumferential or translational position of a plate cylinder attached to a plate cylinder shaft end of a plate cylinder shaft, the adjustment assembly including at least one stepper motor, wherein operation of the at least one stepper motor causes the circumferential or translational adjustment.

Abstract: Embodiments relate generally to methods, systems and apparatuses for growing plants. For example, a plant growing system (e.g., a hydroponic plant growing system) is provided. The system includes, for example, one or more configurable wells operable to hold a nutrient solution for fertilizing and hydrating one or more plants. In various embodiments, the wells can detach from the unit bottom. The wells allow the roots of various plants to grow downward instead of laterally and obstructing water flow to other plants. The system includes an inlet element, outlet element, a control component, among other such elements and/or components. Water and nutrient solutions flow through the system via the inlet element and outlet element. Outlet element includes an adjustment device configured to control the flowrate and height of water and/or solution in the system. Control component can control one or more devices to ensure optimal plant growth and/or plant growth environment.

Abstract: Embodiments relate generally to methods, systems and apparatuses for growing plants. For example, a plant growing system (e.g., a hydroponic plant growing system) is provided. The system includes, for example, one or more configurable wells operable to hold a nutrient solution for fertilizing and hydrating one or more plants. In various embodiments, the wells can detach from the unit bottom. The wells allow the roots of various plants to grow downward instead of laterally and obstructing water flow to other plants. The system includes an inlet element, outlet element, a control component, among other such elements and/or components. Water and nutrient solutions flow through the system via the inlet element and outlet element. Outlet element includes an adjustment device configured to control the flowrate and height of water and/or solution in the system. Control component can control one or more devices to ensure optimal plant growth and/or plant growth environment.

Abstract: Methods and system for waste collection and transport systems are provided. Systems of the present disclosure comprise at least one of a loading station and a chute providing a point of ingress for materials into a larger system. A plurality of vertical risers or branches are provided. The system and related methods generate a priority order of emptying loading stations based at least in part on loading stations that are provided on the same riser.

Abstract: Embodiments relate generally to methods, systems and apparatuses for growing plants. For example, a plant growing system (e.g., a hydroponic plant growing system) is provided. The system includes, for example, one or more configurable wells operable to hold a nutrient solution for fertilizing and hydrating one or more plants. In various embodiments, the wells can detach from the unit bottom. The wells allow the roots of various plants to grow downward instead of laterally and obstructing water flow to other plants. The system includes an inlet element, outlet element, a control component, among other such elements and/or components. Water and nutrient solutions flow through the system via the inlet element and outlet element. Outlet element includes an adjustment device configured to control the flowrate and height of water and/or solution in the system. Control component can control one or more devices to ensure optimal plant growth and/or plant growth environment.