Abstract: The present invention encompasses an interlocking carrier and a conveyor system composed of a plurality of the interlocking carriers. The interlocking carrier generally consists of a sleeve for the placement of cargo therein, at least one carrier guide and at least one guide support. The interlocking carrier may be a single molded article which is generally symmetrical about a midpoint axis. The interlocking carrier's symmetry allows for the formation of an endless chain of interlocking carriers based on a single mold. The design of the interlocking carrier also allows for the facilitated assembly of an endless chain of interlocking carriers without the necessity of tools, nuts and bolts. The conveyor system of the present invention is adaptable to a various assortment of packaging machines, and may replace an existing conveyor system or be an integrated component.

Abstract: An apparatus for transferring a workpiece from one location of a machine to another is disclosed. The apparatus includes a plurality of picking assemblies that are movable along a closed transfer path. Each of the picking assemblies includes a vacuum manifold assembly that receives a compressed gas, such as compressed shop air. A vacuum generator, such as Venturi device, is disposed in the vacuum manifold assembly and generates a vacuum from the compressed gas received at the input of the vacuum manifold assembly. The vacuum manifold assembly further includes at least on suction cup in fluid communication with the vacuum generated by the vacuum generator.