Patents Issued in August 17, 2017
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Publication number: 20170233195Abstract: Embodiments provide an electric lug loader system. An electric lug loader may include a shaft assembly rotatably mounted to a frame that extends across a flow path. The shaft assembly may have shafts arranged radially around, and parallel to, the rotational axis of the shaft assembly, clamp members arranged along each of the shafts, support members arranged radially around the rotational axis and across the flow path, and electric drives coupled to the shafts. Conveyors may be coupled with the frame and spaced apart across the flow path upstream and/or downstream of the shaft assembly. Additional drives may be coupled with the shaft assembly and the conveyors. A controller may be configured to synchronize the drives to engage successive workpieces between the clamp members and the support members and deposit the workpieces onto a lugged conveyor. Other embodiments provide related methods and systems.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 28, 2017Publication date: August 17, 2017Inventors: Larry Petryshen, James Jackson, David Howes, Thomas Congdon
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Publication number: 20170233196Abstract: An apparatus that shapes a narrow container stream into a wider container stream includes a shaping region in which a deceleration segment follows the container inlet and a shaping segment, which forms the container outlet, follows the deceleration segment. Within the shaping region, laterally adjacent transport bands define a transport plane for moving containers. Container guides extend from the container inlet to the container outlet and delimit corresponding first and second sides of the shaping region between two limit curves. The container guides have inner sides that guide the containers. These sides are curved about axes perpendicular to the horizontal transport plane.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 30, 2015Publication date: August 17, 2017Applicant: KHS GmbHInventors: Ulrich Scholz, Sebastian Götze
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Publication number: 20170233197Abstract: A method for targeted detection and segregation of individual piece goods being conveyed in a conveying direction on an extensive conveying element. A position-determining device detects positional information of the piece good to be segregated. The piece good to be segregated is displaced transversely to the conveying device by a push element, which is moved transversely to the conveying direction into the conveying region of the piece goods. Before pushing of the piece good, the push element is now moved into a forward position that lies above the conveying element in the conveying region. The piece good is subsequently pushed by the push element over the conveying element by way of accelerating the push element out of the forward position in a push direction. The forward position is set by a control device depending on positional information concerning the piece good to be segregated on the conveying element.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 6, 2015Publication date: August 17, 2017Applicant: Ferag AGInventor: Roland Keller
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Publication number: 20170233198Abstract: A simple and lightweight solution to the storage and delivery of dry flowable materials that is cost-effective, can be standardized to facilitate transportation and isolates the materials from exposure to air, insects and other contaminants. An apparatus includes a vessel and a delivery assembly, having a rotary feeder that upon gravity discharge of the dry flowable material moves such material to a desired location.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 17, 2017Publication date: August 17, 2017Inventors: Jeff Bingham, Scott Adams
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Publication number: 20170233199Abstract: A stacker includes a base and a vertical structure supported by the base. A lift unit includes a support surface for engaging and lifting a tray from a stack of trays. The lift unit is mounted to the vertical structure and movable vertically relative to the vertical structure. A lifting mechanism selectively raises and lowers the lift unit relative to the vertical structure. The support surface may be formed on first and second projections configured to engage first and second handle openings of a tray. The stacker facilitates several stacking/destacking methods for more easily converting a stack of trays at a first height to a stack of trays at a second height. For example, the first height may be more convenient or appropriate for use in a bakery, while the second height may be more efficient for loading in a truck.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 20, 2017Publication date: August 17, 2017Inventor: Philip A. King
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Publication number: 20170233200Abstract: A device and method for delivering a laboratory sample carrier from a stack of sample carriers includes providing a retaining mechanism that retains the stack of laboratory sample carriers, and an ejector mechanism including a displaceable mechanism comprising a carrier support portion and a carrier transporting portion which are hingeably interconnected. The stack is supported by the carrier transporting portion and the carrier transporting portion is supported by a carrier transporting portion support of the ejector mechanism when the displaceable mechanism is in a first carrier receiving position and configuration. The displaceable mechanism is displaced from the first carrier receiving position and configuration to a second carrier release position and configuration by a further displacement mechanism of the ejector mechanism.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 19, 2015Publication date: August 17, 2017Inventor: Thomas Fergus Hughes
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Publication number: 20170233201Abstract: The object of the present invention is to improve the efficiency of an apparatus for palletizing which serves a plurality of conveyors transporting respective successions of cases, realising a storage means on the unloading area of each conveyor, so that during the period of storage of the cases coming from the same conveyor, the palletizer is transferred in correspondence of another conveyor wherein the respective storage has already been completed, so as to use a sole palletizer for a plurality of distinct conveyors.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 6, 2015Publication date: August 17, 2017Applicant: UNITEC S.P.A.Inventor: Luca BENEDETTI
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Publication number: 20170233202Abstract: A rotary banknote conveying device applicable to a banknote inlet/outlet of an automatic teller machine includes a banknote clamping mechanism configured to convey banknotes from the banknote inlet/outlet to an inlet of a banknote conveying passage inside the automatic teller machine; a transmission mechanism including a drive motor, a belt and a pair of pulleys; a first rotary driving mechanism including a first rotary motor and a first transmission gear and configured to drive the banknote clamping mechanism to rotate by a first angle at the banknote inlet/outlet; a second rotary driving mechanism including a second rotary motor and a second transmission gear and configured to drive the banknote clamping mechanism to rotate by a second angle at the inlet of the banknote conveying passage; and a central control mechanism including a control unit, a first position sensor, and a second position sensor.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 27, 2015Publication date: August 17, 2017Applicant: GRG BANKING EQUIPMENT CO., LTD.Inventors: Qiuhua WENG, Dong TAN
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Publication number: 20170233203Abstract: A sheet conveying apparatus includes a first rotator pair, a second rotator pair provided downstream, in a sheet conveying direction, of the first rotator pair, and a moving member having an abutment portion. the first rotator pair, the second rotator pair and the moving member are configured such that a rear end of the sheet does not pass on a moving trajectory of the abutment portion when the moving member moves from a passage state in which the sheet is allowed to pass through the abutment portion as the abutment portion is pressed by the sheet conveyed by the first rotator pair to an abutment state in which the abutment portion protrudes into a sheet conveying path.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 3, 2017Publication date: August 17, 2017Inventor: Miho Kaiga
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Publication number: 20170233204Abstract: In one example, a device for unwinding or winding multiple rolls of print substrate includes multiple spindles each to hold a roll of print substrate and a differential operatively connected to one end of each spindle. The spindles are aligned with one another lengthwise along a spindle axis and the differential is to output torque along a differential axis offset from the spindle axis to turn the spindles on the first axis.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 19, 2014Publication date: August 17, 2017Applicant: HEWLETT-PACKARD DEVELOPMENT COMPANY, L.P.Inventors: Daniel Gutierrez Garcia, Roger Terradellas Callau, Carlos Felip Aragon, Raimon Castells De Monet
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Publication number: 20170233205Abstract: It is described a winding apparatus for wrapping a material around a core of flat shape that rotates around a rotation axis rotating in its turn with a circular trajectory, controlling the laws of motion both of the core rotation around its axis and of the circular trajectory of its rotation axis, motor driven independently by means of electric cams, such as to cancel the variations of position and speed of the material at the entrance of the core The winding apparatus is used for producing electric energy accumulating devices.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 30, 2017Publication date: August 17, 2017Inventor: Luca Zambonelli
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Publication number: 20170233206Abstract: The present invention includes a method and an apparatus (1) for handling flat material and/or film material wound onto rolls (5) and that serves as packaging material for the packaging of piece goods, bundles, or the like sets of articles. Rolls (5), which are at least partially unwound, are alternately removed from at least one installation position (EB1; EB2) of a packaging machine (3), and in each case a new roll (5) of flat material and/or film material is mounted in the particular installation position (EB1; EB2). After each mounting, an externally arranged layer (15) is extracted from the particular new roll (5) near or in the area of its free end attached to a section of a material web of a further roll (5) being guided in the packaging machine (3). This is done in a manner such that flat material and/or film material is unwound interruption-free.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 26, 2015Publication date: August 17, 2017Inventors: Thomas WIMMER, Herbert SPINDLER, Juergen WERNER
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Publication number: 20170233207Abstract: A rewinding machine for the production of rolls of web material wound around winding cores includes: a winding cradle including peripheral winding members of the rolls; a feeding path of the web material towards the winding cradle; an insertion channel for inserting the winding cores towards the winding cradle, having an entrance inside which the winding cores are introduced and an exit toward the winding cradle, the insertion channel being defined between a rolling surface and a continuous flexible member, provided with a forward movement; an inserter for inserting the winding cores into the inserting channel. At the entrance of the insertion channel a pressing device is arranged, said pressing device projects toward the inside of the insertion channel and toward the continuous flexible member. The pressing device is arranged and configured to press the winding cores entering the insertion channel towards the continuous flexible member.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 28, 2015Publication date: August 17, 2017Inventors: Daniele Dettori, Giovanni Bertoli Barsotti, Gionata Pardini
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Publication number: 20170233208Abstract: The rewinding machine includes a first winding cradle, formed between a first winding roller, a second winding roller and a third winding roller, and a second winding cradle formed between the first winding roller, the second winding roller and a fourth winding roller. The first winding roller and the second winding roller define a nip through which nip the winding cores, around which the web material is found, pass and the web material is fed towards a roll being formed in the second winding cradle. A severing member is furthermore provided, acting on the web material between a winding core and the nip, to sever the web material thus generating a tail edge of a completed roll and a leading edge of a new roll to be wound.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 1, 2017Publication date: August 17, 2017Applicant: Fabio Perini S.p.A.Inventors: Romano MADDALENI, Franco MONTAGNANI, Roberto MORELLI
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Publication number: 20170233209Abstract: Expandable pin for supporting reels of paper material, comprising an outer side (PX) and an inner side (PN), with the inner side (PN) that is adapted to be inserted into a reel (1) of paper material and with the outer side (PX) that remains on the outside of the same reel (1) when the inner side (PN) is inside the reel (1). An outer surface of said inner side (PN) is formed by more sectors (4), each of which is formed by a cylindrical surface portion with a free front part (40). The front parts (40) of said sectors (4) define a substantially circular shape with a diameter varying between a maximum value (4a) and a minimum value (4c). Each of said sectors (4) has a part pivoted on a respective hinge (42; 106) and is connected to moving means apt to determine its rotation around said hinge (42; 106) such that the sectors (4) define a cylindrical shape or a conical shape depending on their rotation around said hinge (42; 106).Type: ApplicationFiled: September 17, 2015Publication date: August 17, 2017Inventor: Fabio PERINI
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Publication number: 20170233210Abstract: The apparatus and method for splicing substantially flat continuous material (10) comprises a transport unit (1) for transporting a first substantially flat continuous material (70) and a second substantially flat continuous material (71) to a splicing location. The transport unit is adapted to transport the first substantially flat continuous material and the second substantially flat continuous material parallel to each other forming an overlap portion of the first substantially flat continuous material and the second substantially flat continuous material in the splicing location. A pressure unit (3) is arranged in the splicing location. The pressure unit is adapted to apply a mechanical impact onto at least a part of the overlap portion of the first substantially flat continuous material and the second substantially flat continuous material, thereby at least partially merging the first substantially flat continuous material with the second substantially flat continuous material.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 13, 2015Publication date: August 17, 2017Inventors: Matthieu Kummel, Sebastien Fontaine
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Publication number: 20170233211Abstract: A lead-in path through which a sheet is led in; a first branch path and a second branch path which branch from the lead-in path; a first switchback path which extends from the first branch path; a second switchback path which extends from the second branch path; a first joining path and a second joining path through which the switched-back sheet is transported; and a lead-out path which extends from a joining point at which the first joining path and the second joining path join with each other, are provided. The lead-out path passes through between the first switchback path and the second switchback path. A first connection point at which the first switchback path and the first joining path are connected to each other is disposed above a second connection point at which the second switchback path and the second joining path are connected to each other.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 3, 2017Publication date: August 17, 2017Inventors: Hidetoshi KODAMA, Kazuyoshi OHASHI, Toshikazu KOTAKA, Kohei UENO
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Publication number: 20170233212Abstract: A slacking tab device includes a first tab member and a second tab member. The first tab member forms a first angle therewith and the second tab member forms a second angle less than the first angle. The first tab member contacts a media. The second tab member receives the media from the first tab member and guides the media to an output region.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 10, 2014Publication date: August 17, 2017Inventors: Brad Dransfield, Linden M Boice, Jeffery Patrick, Paul K Mui
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Publication number: 20170233213Abstract: A stapler apparatus may be provided. More specifically, a stapler apparatus capable of automatically stapling a bundle of sheets output from an image forming apparatus such as a copy machine, a printer, a facsimile or the like may be provided. The stapler includes: a guide plate in which a slot having a branch structure has been formed; a moving frame which is reciprocatively movable on the guide plate; a rotation frame which is rotatable on the moving frame and includes a plurality of levers mounted thereon, the plurality of levers moving along the inside and outside of the slot or change paths; a path change member which changes a movement path of any one of the plurality of levers; and a stapler which is mounted on the rotation frame and is in conjunction with the rotation frame.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 3, 2017Publication date: August 17, 2017Inventor: Woo Sup Ahn
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Publication number: 20170233214Abstract: A post-processing apparatus for post-processing paper discharged from an image forming apparatus comprises: a paper discharging roller for conveying both first and second paper sequentially discharged from an image forming apparatus to an intermediate loading part; a main paddle part for conveying the first and second paper loaded on the intermediate loading part to a compiling region; a reverse roller for conveying, together with the main paddle part, the first and second paper to the compiling region; and a binding part for processing the first and second paper conveyed to the compiling region, the paper discharging roller allows the first paper to stand by on a standby path, and conveys the first and second paper to the intermediate loading part in a state in which the leading end of the first paper protrudes further than the leading end of the second paper.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 29, 2015Publication date: August 17, 2017Applicant: S-PRINTING SOLUTION CO., LTD.Inventors: Tae-hong KIM, Kyung-hwan JANG, Hae-seog CHO
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Publication number: 20170233215Abstract: The present invention is an automatic cut and transfer coiler and spooler apparatus, system and method for use generally comprising a rotatable turret with two independently driven spindles thereon wherein the drives for the independent spindles are attached to the turret for selectively rotating the spindles about their own axis independently.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 14, 2017Publication date: August 17, 2017Inventors: David Lasswell, Christopher David Rekieta, Gary Donald Thompson, Joseph Henry
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Publication number: 20170233216Abstract: A feed assist unit (1) includes a base portion (2) having a plurality of ribs (16a-d) on a lower surface (18) thereof. A dome portion (4) is connected to the base portion (2), and a rotating conduit portion (6) has a curved shape and is coupled to the dome portion (4). Each of the ribs (16a-d) has a first end (20) adjacent to the dome portion (4) and a second end (22) adjacent an associated side (14) of the base portion (2). The feed assist unit (1) has first and second central axes (A-A, B-B) oriented perpendicular to each other. First and third of the ribs (16a, 16c) are oriented parallel to the second central axis (B-B) and the second and fourth of the ribs (16b, 16d) can be oriented parallel to the first central axis (A-A). The first and third ribs (16a, 16c) are offset from the second central axis (B-B) by an offset length (OL) and the second and fourth ribs (16b, 16d) are offset from the first central axis (A-A) the offset length (OL).Type: ApplicationFiled: July 30, 2015Publication date: August 17, 2017Applicant: ALCOTEC WIRE CORPORATIONInventors: Thomas Leo PFALLER, Robert Allen KRAUSE
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Publication number: 20170233217Abstract: Cable-management systems can hold a speaker device and can hold at least a portion of an electrical cable of the speaker device. In some embodiments, a cable-management system includes a housing having an upper portion and a lower portion separated by at least one upward-facing surface configured to vertically support the speaker device. The upward-facing surface can be a ledge or a wall that stretches all the way across a cylindrical cable management system. The upper portion can hold the speaker device while the lower portion holds the electrical cable. The electrical cable can be wrapped around a post of the housing such that the cable is hidden inside the cable management system.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 22, 2016Publication date: August 17, 2017Inventor: Eric John Wengreen
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Publication number: 20170233218Abstract: A transport system may include at least two conveyor sections and at least three cars that are moved individually in a cyclical operation. Each car may pass through a first conveyor section starting from a first start position and subsequently pass through a second conveyor section back to the first start position. At least one stopping point may be provided at least along a conveyor section, and one or more subsequent stopping points may respectively be assigned to a block. Travel of the cars may be controlled such that the cars successively approach a respective previously-specified block, and an equal cycle time is predefined for every car to pass through the first and second conveyor sections. A method for operating a transport system in this manner is also disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 9, 2015Publication date: August 17, 2017Applicant: ThyssenKrupp Elevator AGInventors: Qinghua Zheng, Florian Dignath, Erhard Lampersberger, Thomas Beck
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Publication number: 20170233219Abstract: An elevator system includes an elevator car, at least one elevator drive arranged in an elevator shaft and a support strap, wherein the elevator car is arranged in the elevator shaft for movement via the support strap by the elevator drive. A brake system includes a car braking unit associated with the elevator car and a drive braking unit associated with the elevator drive. The car braking unit and the drive braking unit can together be controlled from a common brake control device. The brake system can be used for new elevator system installations and for retrofitting existing elevator systems.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 23, 2015Publication date: August 17, 2017Inventors: Christian STUDER, Raphael BITZI
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Publication number: 20170233220Abstract: A self-contained data acquisition system for a passenger conveyance system, includes a sensor module for sensing data associated with an entry and exit of each of a multiple of passengers, a location sensor module for sensing a position of the passenger conveyance upon entry and exit of each of the multiple of respective passengers and a processing module operable to use the sensed data from the sensor module and the location sensor module to record passenger data.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 2, 2017Publication date: August 17, 2017Applicant: OTIS ELEVATOR COMPANYInventors: Bradley Armand Scoville, Eric C. Peterson
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Publication number: 20170233221Abstract: An elevator includes a drive, a car operatively connected to the drive to traverse along a travel path, at least one guide rail positioned along the travel path to guide the car, a safety brake arranged on the car to exert a braking force on the guide rail, and a safety system. The safety system includes a first safety control unit and a second safety control unit that monitor a safety condition of the elevator. The first safety control unit outputs a stop signal to the drive, in particular to a drive brake and/or to a frequency converter of the drive, and the second safety control unit outputs a trigger signal to the safety brake to bring the elevator into a proper safety condition when an impermissible safety condition of the elevator is detected.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 20, 2015Publication date: August 17, 2017Inventors: Michael GeisshĂĽsler, David Michel
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Publication number: 20170233222Abstract: An elevator includes an elevator car; a counterweight; one or more ropes interconnecting the car and counterweight, one end of each rope being fixed to the counterweight, and each rope comprising one or more electrically conductive load bearing members that extend unbroken throughout the length of the rope embedded in a non-conductive surface material; a monitoring circuit comprising at least two of said electrically conductive load bearing members of the one or more ropes connected in series, and one or more connectors mounted on the counterweight and connecting ends of said at least two electrically conductive load bearing members in series, said one or more connectors comprising a switch that is movable between a conductive and a non-conductive state, whereby the state change of the switch is arranged to change conductivity of the monitoring circuit; a monitoring system connected with the monitoring circuit and arranged to monitor the state of the monitoring circuit; and a counterweight position sensor mouType: ApplicationFiled: December 30, 2016Publication date: August 17, 2017Applicant: KONE CorporationInventor: Mikko PURANEN
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Publication number: 20170233223Abstract: A stairlift for moving along a staircase having: a curved rail having a centre line, a load bearing surface, and a carriage including a first and a second guiding unit connected to each other by a connecting unit. The second guiding unit is connected to the connecting unit via a third rotation joint about a third axis and a fourth joint about a fourth axis, the connection unit includes a fifth rotation joint about a fifth axis. The fifth axis extending from outside the rail to an area close to or on the centre line of the rail in a first plane close to or on the third and the fourth axis.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 3, 2015Publication date: August 17, 2017Inventor: Johannes Gerardus Cornelis Hoedjes
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Publication number: 20170233224Abstract: A truss section (2, 3, 4), which is configured to support at least one tread element in a passenger area (30) of a passenger conveyor (15) of the type conveying passengers by moving the at least one tread element in a longitudinal direction along the passenger area (30) between a first landing and a second landing, comprises at least two longitudinal elements (5a, 5b) extending basically parallel to each other in the longitudinal direction; and at least one lateral connector (6) connecting the at least two longitudinal elements (5a, 5b). Each of the at least two longitudinal elements (5a, 5b) includes at least one load-bearing portion (51, 52, 53) having the configuration of a single wall profile.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 7, 2014Publication date: August 17, 2017Inventors: Jennifer Schneider, Walter Srb-Gaffron
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Publication number: 20170233225Abstract: The present invention relates to a machine for handling suspended loads, particularly loads of elongated dimensions, such as tubes, tube bundles, or the like.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 6, 2014Publication date: August 17, 2017Inventors: Danilo La Ferla, Francesco VIGLIANTI
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Publication number: 20170233226Abstract: Devices and methods for handling uncured radius fillers are disclosed. The devices, i.e., radius filler transport tools, generally are configured to load a radius filler from above, to index the radius filler to a desired location (e.g., a cavity), and to downwardly unload (e.g., drop) the radius filler at the desired location. Radius filler transport tools comprise at least two trough portions, coupled together to form a trough to carry the radius filler, and a plurality of hanger assemblies configured to transversely span the trough. The radius filler transport tool may have a transport state, where the trough and the hanger assemblies are in closed states, a load state, where the trough is in the closed state and at least one hanger assembly is in an open state, and an unload state, where the trough is in an open state and the hanger assemblies are in closed states.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 27, 2017Publication date: August 17, 2017Inventors: Elise Rae Ermitano Castorina, Gabriel Zane Forston
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Publication number: 20170233227Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for handling an artifact of substantially cylindrical shape, comprising a bed (10) and supporting means fixed to the bed (10) and connected to corresponding actuators. The supporting means being positioned along at least an arc of circumference lying in a plane orthogonal to the development axis ? of the bed (10) and comprising rolling elements (3) adapted to support and handle said artifact, at least one of them being motorized. Each rolling element (3) is connected to one of a plurality of corresponding actuators operatively connected to each other and adapted to regulate a movement of the rolling elements (3) in response to forces exerted by the artifact on each rolling element (3), in such a way as to distribute said forces uniformly on each rolling element (3) to position one or more resultants of the forces in one or more points.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 15, 2017Publication date: August 17, 2017Inventors: Pierluigi TERZUOLO, Fabrizio LIPPI
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Publication number: 20170233228Abstract: A method for installing a rotor blade on a wind turbine, the rotor blade comprising a blade root for fastening the rotor blade to a hub, a blade tip facing away from the blade root, and a longitudinal axis running from the blade root to the blade tip, and the method comprising the steps of: hoisting the rotor blade using a crane, recording measurement data relating to the position and/or orientation of the rotor blade using at least one measuring means during the hoisting, and transmitting the measurement data to at least one monitoring station for monitoring the hoisting and/or to at least one control facility for controlling the position and/or orientation of the rotor blade.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 3, 2015Publication date: August 17, 2017Inventors: Rolf CONERS, Fiona LAODA
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Publication number: 20170233229Abstract: A method of alerting a person to the proximity of a load being carried by a crane includes generating a trigger signal from a crane operator station when a load being carried by a crane is in proximity to a person. A wireless alarm signal is transmitted from a transmitter in response to the trigger signal. The wireless alarm signal is received by a receiver in wireless communication with the transmitter. An alarm from an alarm device is created in response to receiving the wireless alarm signal by the receiver. The alarm device is suspended from a load line that carries the load to be in proximity with the load.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 17, 2017Publication date: August 17, 2017Inventor: Robert Burke
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Publication number: 20170233230Abstract: A pit for containing a vehicle lifting apparatus is constructed from a plurality of precast concrete pieces and assembled in a trench. Conduit, plumbing, heating elements, and the like are cast into the pieces to facilitate safe construction/assembly of the pit. A lift apparatus is assembled or positioned in and at least partly attached to the pit. One or more mounting features are cast into and/or attached to the pit wall to help fix the lifting apparatus relative to the pit and/or to help fix the pit relative to a surrounding building.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 24, 2017Publication date: August 17, 2017Applicant: Vehicle Service Group, LLCInventors: Larry Kendall, Gerry Lauderbaugh, Chuck Luhn, Jonathan J. Westbrook, Jonathon Ross
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Publication number: 20170233231Abstract: An augmentation module is described for an automated guided vehicle (AGV) deployed in a facility and including a control module for controlling a drive mechanism based on navigational data received from a navigation sensor. The module includes a inter-module communications interface connected to the control module; a memory; and a processor connected to the communications interface and the memory. The processor is configured to: obtain an operational command; generate control data to execute the operational command; convert the control data to simulated sensor data; and send the simulated sensor data to the control module.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 10, 2017Publication date: August 17, 2017Inventors: Ryan Christopher Gariepy, Andrew Dobson, Jesse Tebbs, Robert Dam, Roydyn Clayton
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Publication number: 20170233232Abstract: Disclosed herein is a scissor lift comprising a passenger basket. The scissor lift also comprises a base that comprises wheels. The scissor lift further comprises a scissor extension mechanism between the passenger basket and the base. The scissor extension mechanism is configured to raise the passenger basket in a first direction relative to the base and lower the passenger basket in a second direction, opposite the first direction, relative to the base. The scissor lift additionally comprises a through-beam sensor system co-movably coupled to the scissor extension mechanism. The through-beam sensor system moves in a third direction, perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction, when the scissor extension mechanism raises the passenger basket and moves in a fourth direction, opposite the third direction, when the scissor extension mechanism lowers the passenger basket.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 1, 2017Publication date: August 17, 2017Inventors: Gordon D. Davis, Gary M. Buckus, William W. Cleary, Farshad Forouhar, Vincent E. Engdahl, Curtis N. Sovereen
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Publication number: 20170233233Abstract: A capping machine for screwing a threaded cap on a threaded container having a threaded finish, the capping machine receiving the threaded cap from a cap distributor. The capping machine includes a cap guiding element provided above cap screwing belts, both being provided above a conveyor. The cap guiding element is movable between an upper position and a lower position. The cap guiding element is configured for abutting downwardly against the threaded cap when the threaded cap is in register therewith and maintaining the threaded cap in a predetermined attitude for at least part of the screwing process. The cap guiding element moves towards the lower position as the cap screwing belts screw the threaded cap on the threaded container.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 11, 2016Publication date: August 17, 2017Inventors: Luc Jalbert, Steve Boissonneault, Alexandre Lebel, Maxime Demers, Alexandru Berceanu, Jonathan Monette
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Publication number: 20170233234Abstract: Disclosed is a beverage dispensing system for dispensing a non-mixed fluid along with a post-mix fluid. The post-mix fluid is formed by mixing a base beverage with at least one beverage additive. For example, the beverage dispensing system may dispense a post-mix fluid (e.g. cola) and a non-mixed fluid (e.g. spirits) separately. In some embodiments, the post-mix fluid may be dispensed simultaneously with the non-mixed fluid from separate fluid outlet ports. In other embodiments, the post-mix fluid may be dispensed from a first fluid outlet port and, subsequently, the non-mixed fluid may be dispensed from a second fluid outlet port.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 10, 2017Publication date: August 17, 2017Inventors: Thomas R. Hecht, Bret D. Baker
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Publication number: 20170233235Abstract: A system and method to prepare and dispense a N2 or N2/CO2 gas infused chilled beverage is provided. The beverage may be any non-carbonated liquid and in one embodiment the beverage is coffee. The dispensed N2 or N2/CO2 gas infused chilled coffee has a unique appearance and enhanced flavor and aroma. The system may be provided as a self-contained unit.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 7, 2015Publication date: August 17, 2017Applicant: AC DISTRIBUTING, INC.Inventor: Charles KLEINRICHERT
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Publication number: 20170233236Abstract: A system which allows easy manual connection of the water bottle of a water cooler, with its bottle placed in an upright position at the bottom of the cooler (bottom load water cooler), to the remaining water system of the said water cooler and the related bottom load water cooler system. With the said system, connecting or disconnecting the water bottle of such water cooler system is a task as simple as manually turning a rotational handle clockwise or counter clockwise. This allows replacing the water bottle of such water cooler without touching any of its water pipes, which not only simplifies the process, but more importantly also eliminates chance of contamination of the drinking water system during the process. The system further utilizes a universal water bottle sealing cap with air filters to suppress bacteria growth in the drinking water bottle due to intake of polluted air.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 17, 2017Publication date: August 17, 2017Inventor: Xiao Shen
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Publication number: 20170233237Abstract: Beverage dispensing assembly 1 comprising a tapping column 2 and a tap 3 connected to the tapping column at a first end 4 thereof, wherein the tapping column 2 comprises a first 5 and a second 6 channel, in fluid communication near the tap, and a beverage line 8 extending through one of the first 5 and second 6 channels and connected to the tap 3, wherein the assembly 1 comprises a first part 9 and a second part 10 for connecting the tap 3 to the column 2, the second part 10 at least partly surrounding the first part 9, wherein the first part 9 is made of a first material and the second part is made of a second material, the second material having a heat conductivity which is higher than the heat conductivity of the first material, wherein the beverage line 8 is connected to the first part 9 and the second part 10 extends into and/or forms part of a wall of a chamber 7 into which the first 5 and second 6 channel open, forming the fluid connection.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 28, 2015Publication date: August 17, 2017Applicant: Heineken Supply Chain B.V.Inventors: ALFRED JOSEF DONABAUER, PETER HENRI SAMUEL WIGMAN, HELMUT VIKTOR MARIA PAULITSCH
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Publication number: 20170233238Abstract: Cooler control system for a beverage dispense system 1 having a beverage line (2) extending from a beverage source to a dispense site via a cooler (6). The cooler control system comprises: a controller (51) for adjusting the cooling of the beverage line; a flow rate sensor (41) measuring the flow rate in the beverage line, a temperature sensor (40); and an electronic control unit (31) for receiving a signal from the temperature sensor and/or the flow rate sensor and sending a signal to said controller. Cooler monitoring system comprising: at least one sensor (45) for monitoring energy consumption of the cooler (6); and an electronic control unit for receiving a signal from the at least one energy consumption sensor and for sending a signal to a remote location when energy consumption increases above a predetermined maximum value.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 10, 2015Publication date: August 17, 2017Applicant: HEINEKEN UK LIMITEDInventors: Stuart BRYANT, Simon GRAY, Guy HUTCHINSON, Chris MERRIFIELD
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Publication number: 20170233239Abstract: A tap for dispensing a beverage has a housing defining a channel for dispensing and a dispensing valve arranged in the housing. The valve is operable by a handle and connected via a tap drive shaft and a gear transmission to a valve drive shaft. The gear transmission has at least two cooperating gear wheels. The gear transmission could have a variable gear ratio. A method for manufacturing a tap for dispensing a beverage is disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 4, 2015Publication date: August 17, 2017Inventor: Johan Van Rompaey
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Publication number: 20170233240Abstract: Apparatus and methods according to various aspects of the present technology may comprise a fluid reservoir configured to provide a user with access to the fluid while the user is in bed. In one embodiment, the fluid reservoir may comprise a body suitably configured to be positioned near the bed while allowing the user to receive fluid from the reservoir without having to sit up or get out of bed. In one embodiment, the fluid reservoir may comprise a flexible delivery conduit having a valve at one end that allows the user to ingest the fluid when desired.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 15, 2017Publication date: August 17, 2017Inventor: Nektarios A. Bouzis
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Publication number: 20170233241Abstract: This invention relates to a system and method of recovering volatile gasoline/petroleum vapours during the supply, handling, and distribution of petroleum products for use in road transport. The system utilizes the vacuum created by a closed shutoff valve outside of a gasoline storage tank, on the vent line, for recovering raw gasoline vapors or fumes while gasoline is being transferred from the gasoline storage tank to a fuel carrying tanker truck, vice-versa, or while gasoline is being transferred from the gasoline storage tank to normal vehicles (cars, pick-up trucks, etc).Type: ApplicationFiled: February 15, 2016Publication date: August 17, 2017Inventor: Randell J. O' Rielly
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Publication number: 20170233242Abstract: A spike for dispensing fluids from a flexible bag, wherein the spike includes multiple fluid channels which transfer liquids from the bag to an enclosed dispensing chamber and air from the enclosed chamber to the bag to permit and control fluid flow within the system.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 2, 2017Publication date: August 17, 2017Inventor: Jeffrey Macler
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Publication number: 20170233243Abstract: A multiply-redundant system that protects fueling of rockets, aircraft and other vehicles using Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) along with an oxidizer such as Liquefied Oxygen. One or more sensors in combination with one or more optional microswitches combine to detect any leaks, fire or explosion hazards quickly locking out further fueling. For different levels of safety, different combinations of sensors can be used.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 13, 2017Publication date: August 17, 2017Inventor: Daniel McNicholas
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Publication number: 20170233244Abstract: A MEMS self-aligned high-and-low comb tooth and manufacturing method thereof, the comb tooth having a lifting structure, the lifting structure generating a displacement in the vertical direction to drive the movement of a movable comb tooth or a fixed comb tooth attached thereto. The manufacturing method thereof adopts a silicon wafer, the lifting structure and the comb tooth are sequentially formed on a mechanical structure layer, the fixed comb tooth and the movable comb tooth are formed with the same etching process, and the stress in the lifting structure displaces the fixed comb tooth and the movable comb tooth in the vertical direction, thus forming the self-aligned high-and-low comb tooth.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 11, 2015Publication date: August 17, 2017Applicant: Wuxi Wio Technology Co., Ltd.Inventors: Qiao Chen, Huikai Xie