Patents by Inventor Walid El-Aouar

Walid El-Aouar has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Publication number: 20080078778
    Abstract: This invention is a vending machine and components parts that include a sophisticated positioning system, gripper and trays for improved efficiency in product retrieval and delivery. A unique initialization and calibration system is implemented at start up to determine the positions of shelves and trays of product containers in the machine, and may be implemented at other times if trays or shelves are added or removed, or if tray or shelf positions change. These positions are then used by the positioning and gripping systems to accurately and efficiently retrieve products from the trays.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2007
    Publication date: April 3, 2008
    Inventors: Daniel Carter, Christopher Craven, Walid El-Aouar, Craig Greiner, Larry Hieb, Dean James, Sandra Southard, Rolando Williams
  • Publication number: 20080067183
    Abstract: This invention is a vending machine and components parts that include a product retrieval and delivery system deployed within a uniquely designed, insulated cabinet that includes an adjustable ventilation system, and a conveniently located compact, easily removable modular climate control unit. A unique product delivery port and chute are provided as part of the cabinet. Related methods are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2007
    Publication date: March 20, 2008
    Inventors: Daniel Carter, Christopher Craven, Walid El-Aouar, Craig Greiner, Larry Hieb, Dean James, Sandra Southard, Rolando Williams
  • Publication number: 20080067189
    Abstract: This invention is a vending machine and components parts that include a sophisticated positioning system, gripper and trays for improved efficiency in product retrieval and delivery. Following product selection, the positioning system quickly transports the gripper through the X-Y plane to the front of a tray queue containing the selected product. The positioning system uses a movement assisting member that may be in the form of a torsion spring or counter weight for improved efficiency. Related methods are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2007
    Publication date: March 20, 2008
    Inventors: Daniel Carter, Christopher Craven, Walid El-Aouar, Craig Greiner, Larry Hieb, Dean James, Sandra Southard, Rolando Williams
  • Publication number: 20080061070
    Abstract: This invention is a vending machine and components parts that include a sophisticated product retrieval and delivery system. Following product selection, the positioning system quickly transports a retrieval device to the front of a tray queue where a product container is retrieved. The positioning system transports the gripper carrying the product container to a delivery port. The product is released and slides down a specially designed chute into a specially designed delivery bucket that is then tilted outward for customer pick up. Sensors associated with the bucket detect the delivery and removal of the product container. Related methods are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2007
    Publication date: March 13, 2008
    Inventors: Daniel Carter, Christopher Craven, Walid El-Aouar, Craig Greiner, Larry Hieb, Dean James, Sandra Southard, Rolando Williams
  • Publication number: 20050189370
    Abstract: This invention is a vending machine and components parts that include a sophisticated positioning system, gripper and trays for improved efficiency in product retrieval and delivery. Following product selection, the positioning system quickly transports the gripper through the X-Y plane to the front of a tray queue containing the selected product. The gripper is extended in the Z-direction, and its fingers grasp the foremost product container in the queue. The gripper then retracts, and the positioning system transports the gripper carrying the product container to a delivery port. The gripper then releases the product which slides down a chute into a delivery bucket that is then tilted outward for customer pick up. Unique product storage trays are provided which work in conjunction with the gripper to allow only the foremost product to be removed from a tray queue. A specially designed door is provided to accommodate the X-Y positioning system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2005
    Publication date: September 1, 2005
    Inventors: Daniel Carter, Christopher Craven, Walid El-Aouar, Craig Greiner, Larry Hieb, Dean James, Sandra Southard, Rolando Williams