Abstract: The device for transporting support plates for bakery products includes supporting angle brackets on which rest the edges of plates, and a driving device cooperative with the brackets on both sides of a vertical median plane. The driving device includes at least one chain forming a close-loop circuit so as to define an ascending column and a descending column of supporting means and, at least one connecting support hinged about a horizontal axis of at least one angle bracket. There is a device for holding and guiding the angle brackets in a horizontal plane in a transfer portion from the ascending column to the descending column and a conveyer extending at least under the ascending and descending columns between the driving device.

Abstract: A method for operating a robotic system includes determining package groupings for placing available packages on a platform; generating a two-dimensional (2D) placement plan based on discretized models representative of the available packages and the platform; generating a three-dimensional (3D) stacking plan based on the 2D placement plan; and implementing the 3D stacking plan for placing the available packages on the platform.

Abstract: A robotic system for arranging packages at a destination according to a stacking sequence. The robotic system uses a storage area for temporarily storing packages that arrive out-of-sequence until they are next-in-sequence for placement at the destination. The robotic system processes an incoming package, determines if it is next-in-sequence for placement at the destination, and if it is, places the package at the destination. On the other hand, if it is not next-in-sequence for placement at the destination, it stores the package in the storage area. A package in the storage area is transferred to the destination when it is next-in-sequence for placement at the destination. By using the temporary storage for storing out of sequence packages, the robotic system eliminates the need for receiving the packages in a stacking sequence, which also eliminates the need for sequencing machines.

Abstract: A flexible chain diverter system acts as a moveable diverter “swing-arm” capable of dispensing groups of bottles into the array of entrance gates for loading onto a shipping pallet. The flexible chain has a variable axial length. As a result of the ability to change in axial length, the diverter described herein can remain taut at the shortest distance gates and can stretch to reach gates at the maximum range of reach. This allows for the path length of travel to be optimized for any gate.

Abstract: Disclosed is a system for conveying particulate material, in which particulate material is conveyed along a conveying pipeline (117) by a flow of a conveying gas. A plurality of injector arrangements (121) are positioned along the conveying pipeline, for injecting a continuous flow of conveying gas into the pipeline. The system includes pressure differential apparatus for detecting whether a pressure differential in the pipeline between an injector arrangement and an adjacent injector arrangement is above or below a threshold value. In use each injector arrangement is operable to increase the flow rate at which conveying gas is injected into the pipeline when a pressure differential rises above the threshold value is detected between adjacent injection locations along the pipeline. The present invention provides a continuous flow of conveying gas at each of the plurality of injector arrangements, reducing the risk of blockage. Pressure differentials along the conveying pipeline are reduced.

Abstract: A system and a method are described for the intermediate storage of differently cut boards for a wooden structure, in particular a truss, with several compartments arranged laterally adjacent to one another. The compartments are each configured for receiving a set of boards for such a wooden structure, wherein a set is to be understood as the entirety of cut boards which are required for such a wooden structure. A feeding device fills the cut boards into the individual compartments and stacks them over one another therein. The compartments can be opened respectively at their underside, in order to remove the set of boards. A discharge device transports away the set of boards removed from the respective compartment.

Abstract: A crate-stacking system having a multiplicity of crates for stacking in a crate-stacking direction and having a crate-stacking apparatus for automatic stacking, wherein the crate-stacking apparatus has: a crate conveying apparatus designed to convey the crates from a crate feed section to a crate stacking section and to convey the stacked crates from the crate stacking section to a crate discharge section, a crate lifting apparatus arranged at the crate stacking section and which, on opposite sides of the conveying path, has gripping elements such that a respective crate can be gripped at mutually opposite sides by virtue of gripping fingers engaging, at the mutually opposite sides, into associated engagement longitudinal recesses, and a control apparatus connected to the crate conveying apparatus and to the crate lifting apparatus and which is designed to control the crate conveying apparatus and crate lifting apparatus in order to stack the crates.

Abstract: A system and method are provided for automated engaging of a truck trailer at a loading dock. Sensors measure a distance and an angle of alignment between the incoming trailer and a wall of the loading dock. An outside lighting system guides a truck driver backing the trailer toward the dock door. A vehicle restraint system fixates the trailer within the loading dock in response to signals from the sensors. An overhead dock door opens once the trailer is successfully fixated by the vehicle restraint system. A dock leveler deploys after the overhead dock door opens. An inside dock light indicates to dock personnel that the trailer is ready to be serviced. Once servicing of the trailer is finished, an automated release of the trailer from the loading dock may be initiated by PLC communication.

Abstract: A vehicle restraint for a loading dock includes a barricade member that is rotationally operable between a stored position, a blocking position and a verification position. The barricade member in the blocking position is adapted to laterally secure a vehicle relative to the loading dock. An operable latch is coupled proximate an outer end in the barricade member. The operable latch is selectively operable between retracted and extended positions. When the barricade member is in the blocking position and the operable latch is in the extended position, the operable latch vertically secures the vehicle relative to the barricade member.

Abstract: The invention relates to an aligning ramp for aligning a shipping container loaded on a vehicle, the aligning ramp including: a support structure; guiding means supported by the support structure above a base plane, which guiding means includes at least two guides arranged parallel and at a distance from each other, wherein each guide diverges relative to the base plane from a first position to a second position; an elongate carriage, wherein each end of the elongate carriage is guided by a guide of the guiding means; and connecting means arranged in longitudinal direction at a central position to the elongate carriage.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for increasing the specific weight of a dry particulate bulk commodity while said commodity is within a transportation vessel, using an array of pokers, these pokers equipped with the means of emitting lateral vibrations into the surrounding commodity and simultaneously creating an air flow through that dry commodity towards the nearest poker of the array.

Abstract: A tray assembly is provided for use with a carrier in a product sortation system. The tray assembly includes a platform to receive parcels loaded onto the carrier. A pair of movable edge members are disposed at opposite sides of the platform. Each edge member is integrated with a combination including a pair of pivotable support arms and a spring element intermediate of the support arms. Each support arm supports its edge member at one end and is pivotally mounted at another end to a tray framework. The spring element is fixedly mounted at one end to the tray framework and is connected at another end to its edge member in a biasing relationship. In response to an applied load resulting from a parcel bearing down on the edge member, the support arms pivot downward in a manner sufficient to allow the parcel to reach and then rest on the tray platform. At the same time as the support arms pivot, the spring element deflects.

Abstract: A highway towable dock-lift trailer for use in loading and/or unloading trucks, rail cars, containers, etc., for example, in any location and across all industries and applications, and can include a tow bar that allows the trailer be towed to a desirable position or location. When the tow bar is removed from the trailer or repositioned relative to the frame, either a truck can back into position or the trailer lift can be positioned against the truck, etc., and the trailer lift is then ready to load and/or offload the truck. As an operator elevates the loading platform of the trailer, via hydraulic lifting means, for example, the lift can move up to truck height and hydraulically operated lifting arms can operate opposed automatic folding ramps, which simultaneously can open for load distribution and close for safety.

Abstract: A document conveyance device includes a feed roller, a separation roller, a first motor for generating a first drive force for driving the separation roller, a planet gear, a drive gear, a second motor for generating a second drive force, and a position switching mechanism for switching a position of the planet gear from a first position in which the planet gear is separated from the drive gear and does not transmit the first drive force to the separation roller to a second position in which the planet gear engages with the drive gear and transmits the first drive force to the separation roller, based on the second drive force. The position switching mechanism includes a support member for supporting the planet gear, and a transfer mechanism for moving the support member so that the planet gear engages with the drive gear, based on the second drive force. The further movement of the planet gear is prevented after the planet gear engaged with the drive gear.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for transferring a film, preferably a wound-on stretch film, wound onto a winding mandrel, oriented in particular vertically and preferably supported exclusively in the region of its upper end, of an unwrapping apparatus, such that when the transfer position of the winding mandrel is reached, the film wound onto the winding mandrel is pulled off the winding mandrel by means of at least one transfer device and delivered to a disposal area. An apparatus for transferring a film, preferably a wound-on stretch film, wound onto a winding mandrel, oriented in particular vertically and preferably supported exclusively in the region of its upper end, of an unwrapping apparatus, is disclosed. The apparatus encompasses at least one transfer device for pulling off the film wound onto the winding mandrel when the transfer position of the winding mandrel is reached.

Abstract: The invention relates to a splicer assembly for splicing material webs. The splicer assembly comprises a first dispensing device for dispensing a finite first material web, a second dispensing device for dispensing a finite second material web, a connecting device for connecting the finite first material web and the finite second material web so as to form an endless material web, and a material web threading assistance assembly for assisted threading of the finite first material web or of the finite second material web into the splicer assembly in a threading procedure. The material web threading assistance device comprises at least one conveying installation for conveying the finite material web to be threaded in a threading direction in the threading procedure, and a conveying installation drive installation for driving the at least one conveying installation in the threading procedure.

Abstract: A conveying apparatus includes: a first roller and a second roller configured to convey a print sheet while nipping the print sheet at a nip pressure; an adjustor supporting the first roller and the second roller in a manner capable of adjusting an inter-axial distance between the first roller and the second roller, the adjustor being configured to apply a biasing force biasing the second roller toward the first roller and capable of adjusting the biasing force; and a controller configured to control the nip pressure by driving the adjustor to adjust the biasing force.

Abstract: To provide a transfer tap that can increase an effective application area while preventing an occurrence of a stringing phenomenon, there is provided a transfer tape having a film-like base material and a transferable layer provided on one surface of the base material and configured to be transferred to a transfer intended surface by being pressed against from the other surface of the base material, wherein the transferable layer includes a plurality of transfer columns of a self-adhesive or an adhesive that are provided to extend in a transfer direction and wherein the transferable columns each have a plurality of block portions and a plurality of bridge portions configured to connect the block portions together and having a width dimension that is smaller than a width dimension of the block portions.

Abstract: A printing apparatus includes: a conveyor including a first pair of conveyance rollers and a second pair of conveyance rollers each configured to nip and convey a sheet; a first jam releaser configured to separate rollers of the first pair of conveyance rollers from each other; a second jam releaser configured to separate rollers of the second pair of conveyance rollers from each other; and a controller configured to control the conveyor. In stopping sheet conveyance by the conveyor upon occurrence of a failure, the controller controls the conveyor to prevent a sheet from being nipped only by the first pair of conveyance rollers prior to separation of the rollers of the first pair of conveyance rollers from each other by the first jam releaser.

Abstract: A tape reel supporting device includes a plurality of shaft members and a plurality of roller members. The plurality of shaft members extend to be parallel to each other in a horizontal direction. The plurality of roller members are provided to be externally fitted into each of the plurality of shaft members, and each of two inclined surfaces inclined to an axis of each shaft member abuts on an outer peripheral edge of each of a pair of disk members. The two inclined surfaces provided on each of the plurality of roller members are inclined in directions opposite to each other in a direction along an axis of each shaft member on which the roller member is provided.

Abstract: A filament accumulator assembly is provided containing a filament inlet for receiving a continuous filament from the filament source and a filament outlet for receiving the continuous filament from the filament inlet, the continuous filament forming a filament loop between the filament exiting the filament inlet and entering the filament outlet. The filament accumulator assembly further comprises a filament track defining at least part of an inner boundary and an outer boundary of a circuitous filament route between the filament inlet and the filament outlet, and the filament loop is bound by the filament track. The filament loop has a diameter that varies across a range of potential diameters within the filament track.

Abstract: In one example, a festoon system comprises a festoon module having a support assembly, and further comprises at least one upper sheave and at least one lower sheave, which are movable relative to one another by movement of at least one of the upper sheave or the lower sheave. At least one wire is configured to enter the festoon module at an entrance region, extend around a groove of the least one lower sheave and at least one groove of the at least one upper sheave, and then exit the festoon module at an exit region. A first coupling location of the support assembly is adjacent to the entrance region of the festoon module, and a second coupling location of the support assembly is adjacent to the exit region of the festoon module. Different modules are configured to be coupled to the second coupling location.

Abstract: A cable, cable component and reel arrangement includes a cable, at least one component, such as a cable component, configured to be employed in connection with the cable, and a reel, on which the cable is arranged, the reel having a barrel opening. The barrel opening includes a plurality of brackets, the brackets are arranged at spaced locations within the barrel opening and configured to support at least one component for storage and shipment.

Abstract: A foldable wire caddy includes a first mounting support, a second mounting support, and a primary mounting bar. The wire reels are positioned along a structural body of the primary mounting bar which is then positioned in between the first mounting support and the second mounting support. A locking screw and a screw-receiving channel of a locking mechanism are used to secure the primary mounting bar in a functional position with the first mounting support and the second mounting support. A carrying handle which is removably and rotatably mounted onto the primary mounting bar allows the foldable wire caddy to be transported from one location to another.

Abstract: An elevator group management system includes: a hall call registration device which is provided at a first hall; a hall destination call registration device which is provided at a second hall; a notification device which is provided at the first hall; an assigned car display device which is provided at the second hall; and a group management control device which selects a priority car from among a plurality of cars. When a priority car is selected, the group management control device performs, with respect to a hall call to which the priority car is already assigned, hall call control which differs from control with respect to a hall destination call to which the priority car is already assigned.

Abstract: An elevator security and control system for monitoring at least one of an elevator occupancy area and a landing area includes an elevator car and a passenger position sensor. The passenger position sensor monitors at least one of the occupancy area inside the elevator car and the landing area proximate to a passenger waiting area, and detects movement of at least one passenger located at one of the occupancy area and the landing area. The elevator security and control system further includes an electronic control module that detects at least one body part of the at least one passenger and controls operation of the elevator car based on at least one of a position and a movement of the at least one body part.

Abstract: A method of testing of an elevator safety brake system is provided. The method includes initiating an automated test procedure. The method also includes triggering an electronic safety actuator. The method further includes generating braking data about performance of the electronic safety actuator. The method yet further includes analyzing the braking data. The method also includes generating a report to indicate whether the elevator safety brake system performed adequately.

Abstract: A method and system for testing an elevator car door interlock and deterrent mechanism in an elevator system is disclosed. The method includes the steps of: ensuring that no passengers are in the elevator car and closing the elevator car door; operating the elevator car to move it away from the selected landing; commanding the elevator car door to open for a predetermined duration and measuring the displacement of the elevator car door from a closed position; and closing the elevator car door and operating the elevator car to return to a landing.

Abstract: An elevator system includes a first car, a diagnosis operation control unit (12), a learning operation control unit (13), a setting unit (14), a second car, and an operation control unit (10). The diagnosis operation control unit (12) moves, after an occurrence of an earthquake, the first car to perform a diagnosis operation. The learning operation control unit (13) moves the first car to perform a learning operation. The setting unit (14) sets a reference range for detecting an abnormality in the diagnosis operation on the basis of learning data acquired in the learning operation. The operation control unit (10) controls a position of the second car so as not to be positioned at the same height as the first car when the learning operation is performed by the learning operation control unit (13).

Abstract: An elevator system, including at least one first guide rail, which is oriented in a first, in particular vertical, direction, at least one second guide rail, which is oriented in a second, in particular horizontal, direction, a plurality of rotatable rail segments, wherein at least one thereof is transferable between an orientation in the first direction and an orientation in the second direction, at least one elevator cab, which is transportable along the guide rails and which, via the rotatable rail segments, is transferable between the different guide rails, at least one third guide rail, which is oriented in a third, in particular horizontal, direction, and wherein at least one of the rotatable rail segments is transferable between an orientation in the first or second direction into an orientation in the third direction.

Abstract: A method for refinishing a surface structure of shaft material of an elevator, which extends along a shaft, enables the use of image data to determine an absolute position and/or speed of an elevator car. The elevator includes the elevator car, which is movable in the shaft, a camera, which is arranged at the elevator car and generates the image data from the surface structure, and an evaluating unit, which determines the absolute position and/or the speed of the elevator car from the image data. The surface structure is refinished at least locally in order to increase a distinctiveness of the surface structure in the image data. The shaft material can be, for example, a guide rail, a fastening element of the guide rail, or a shaft wall.

Abstract: A control device for controlling motion of a load of a carrier device is presented. The carrier device can be for example a crane and the load can be carried with a rope connected to a suspension point of the crane. The control device comprises an input interface for receiving an input signal indicative of a target speed of the load, an output interface for submitting an output signal indicative of a reference speed of the suspension point, and a processing system constituting a signal processing path for producing the output signal based on the input signal. The signal processing path comprises at least one finite impulse response filter for suppressing a signal component whose frequency is the natural swinging frequency of the load. Due to the finite impulse response, the temporal length of settling and tail effects caused by the filter is limited and deterministic.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a process for the assisted performance of crane movements by a crane with at least two boom elements that are movable relative to one another, whereby an auxiliary control module, after activation by the user, determines at least one target position of the boom system, determines the crane movements necessary for achieving the target position and, after active user confirmation, indirectly or directly activates the specific crane actuators for the performance of the crane movements determined by means of the crane control.

Abstract: A container crane control system includes: a first camera configured to be mounted to a container crane such that the first camera is rotatable only along a substantially vertical axis, implementing a tilt function of the first camera, the first camera being configured to provide a first video signal; a control device configured to tilt the first camera based on a current height of a load of the crane, to thereby track the load; and an operator terminal, being configured to receive the first video signal, for presentation to an operator and being configured to receive user input for controlling the crane, resulting in a crane control signal for provision to the control device. The control device may further be configured to receive the crane control signal from the operator terminal and to provide a corresponding control signal to control crane operation.

Abstract: A crane having at least one jib system, a sensor unit for detecting a deformation of the jib system transversely to a load plane, and to an activatable adjustment unit for influencing the deformation of the jib system transversely to the load plane.

Abstract: A drive train for a rescue hoist includes a mounting portion for mounting the drive train within the rescue hoist. A load pin extends through the mounting portion and into a static structure of the rescue hoist to secure the drive train to the rescue hoist. The load pin is configured to sense the strain generated when the drive train imparts torque to the cable drum to rotate the cable drum. The sensed strain is communicated to a computer configured to calculate a torque generated by the drive train based on the sensed strain and further configured to calculate the load on the cable based on the sensed strain.

Abstract: The device for ejecting a cork from a corkscrew includes a body in which a spiral is received. There is a tubular cradle housed in a housing to accommodate the spiral and a cork screwed in the spiral. The cradle is formed by a stationary sleeve secured to the body and a sliding sleeve, translatable relative to the stationary sleeve, between a position in which it is completely nested in the stationary sleeve and a position in which it is at least partially removed from the stationary sleeve. Each sleeve has an upper end and a lower end, and the sliding sleeve has a mechanism to exert a force on the cork oriented toward the lower end of the stationary sleeve.

Abstract: A system for closing a container is contemplated. The system features an injection molded, polymeric funnel including an engagement flange and a connector piece attaching to a gripping ring. A closure body capable of sealing a container is also provided. The closure includes a pull tab to create an opening into which the funnel inlet may be received in a snap-fitting arrangement. The engagement flange and protrusions proximate to the end of the funnel inlet facilitate the snap fit, align the structure, and prevent over-insertion of the funnel into the interior volume of the container.

Abstract: A method of providing a beverage, including obtaining a beverage container, accessing a dispensing system, entering a volume amount into a user interface, placing the beverage container on a nozzle, and filling the beverage container with the beverage. The beverage container may include a bottom surface including an opening, a ring including a first magnetic material, the ring connected to the bottom surface around the opening, and a cap including a second magnetic material, the cap magnetically coupled to the ring in a beverage container closed position. The dispensing system may include the user interface, a platform including one or more ports, and the nozzle provided in each of the one or more ports. The method may further include moving a translating member with respect to a shaft to position a plurality of apertures in an interior of the beverage container.

Abstract: Examples disclosed herein relate to a dispensing device including a syrup unit which transmits via one or more orifices one or more syrups and water to a dispensing block, a syrup source coupled to the syrup unit which provides the one or more syrups to the syrup unit, a water source which provides water to the syrup unit, and a cf valve coupled to a first orifice upstream of a solenoid valve where the cf valve provides a first range of pressures to the solenoid valve and where the first orifice is coupled to the dispensing block.

Abstract: A portable hydration system and various components are disclosed. The system utilizes a pump to transfer potable liquid (e.g. water) from a liquid container to a user during challenging activities (e.g. endurance motorcycle riding).

Abstract: A remote regulator adjustment tool that can be used to adjust an output pressure of a remote regulator. The remote regulator adjustment tool comprises a housing defining a first bore extending therethrough, an adjustor piston movably disposed within the first bore, and an adjustment knob attached to the adjustor piston.

Abstract: A product package includes a container and a lid coupled to the container for rotation about an axis relative to the container. The product package further includes a child-resistant lock configured normally to block access to the contents of the container at the selection of an adult user.

Abstract: A package including a fitment for dispensing a liquid from a flexible bag is disclosed. The fitment is secured to the bag and includes a compressible bulb and a piercing member that are coupled together. In two embodiments the fitment is configured so that the piercing member pierces through a wall of the bag to dispense the bag's contents through an outlet port of the fitment. One of those embodiments includes a separate valve to open and close the outlet port. Another embodiment does not include a separate valve to open and close the outlet port. A third embodiment makes use of a fitment connected to a filling gland of the bag and which is in communication with the interior of the bag. That third embodiment includes a frangible seal forming part of the fitment and which is pierced by the piercing member to dispense the liquid from the bag.

Abstract: A delivering tap for delivering liquids from a container includes a main body with a connecting element having fitting means with the container, and a supporting body adapted to be closed by a plug associated with a cam seal, the supporting body comprising a first opening for exiting liquid, and sealing means associated with the first opening and plug, the supporting body comprising external guiding means obtained on its external surface to guide the plug in the opening and closing of the plug cooperating with a cam profile, the plug comprising a central cylinder having lower sealing means obtained at its lower end and adapted to be coupled with the sealing means of the main body to determine the seal of the plug next to the first opening, the cam profile being made of two parts, the first part on the plug and the second part on the cam seal.

Abstract: A capless fuel system comprises a fuel inlet body, a flapper pivotably mounted within the fuel inlet body, a biasing member associated with the flapper, an axially movable shaft associated with the biasing member, and a tension calibrator associated with the biasing member, whereby tension on the controller spring may be adjusted by the calibrator. The biasing member may be of a variety of biasing elements but is preferably a controller spring. The shaft is reversibly movable from a tensioning position in which the electromechanical driver assembly is deactivated to a tension-lowering position in which the electromechanical driver assembly is activated. The capless fuel system includes a fuel pump nozzle position sensing system. The capless fuel system relies upon a single, multi-function flapper that functions as both the capless fuel system debris cover and a sealing member to prevent evaporative emission leaks.

Abstract: A horse training aid has a strap and a bungee assembly. The strap has a primary ring attached to a first end, a buckle attached adjacent a second end, and a plurality of secondary rings provided in spaced-apart manner along the strap between the primary ring and the buckle. The bungee assembly has a first bungee cord and a second bungee cord, the two bungee cords connected together at about their central portions by a sleeve with each bungee cord having opposing first and second ends, and each having a clip secured at each of the first and second ends of each bungee cord.

Abstract: A combination saddle carrier and storage bin comprising a substantially rectangular box including a lower base portion, and a proximal arched front panel and a symmetrical distal arched back panel, and having symmetrical rectangular side panels which fan upward and away from said lower base portion at about 95 degrees to about 115 degrees with respect to the base portion; and an uppermost saddle-support rail connecting the uppermost regions of said front and back panels, wherein said rail comprises a central groove along which slide adjustable generally triangular-shaped cantle and pommel support pieces, said pieces being temporarily fixable via sex bolts removably inserted into holes equally spaced horizontally along said rail.

Abstract: A continuous coil string staging system is provided herein that includes at least one coiler configured to output at least one continuous coil string, at least one assembler configured to assemble the at least one continuous coil string into a mattress assembly, and at least one coil string staging apparatus disposed between the at least one coiler and at the least one assembler. The at least one coil string staging apparatus can have an input, a staging buffer, and an output such that the coil string staging apparatus receives the at least one continuous coil string that is output from the at least one coiler and outputs the at least one continuous coil string to the assembler such that there is a buffer of coil string available to the assembler. Various coil string staging apparatuses and methods are also provided herein.

Abstract: Systems and methods for suppressing bias in a non-degenerate vibratory structure are provided. In certain embodiments, a vibratory structure includes a first proof mass; a second proof mass, wherein the first proof mass and the second proof mass are driven into motion along a first axis, wherein the first proof mass and the second proof mass move in anti-phase along a second axis, wherein the motion of the first proof mass and the second proof mass along the second axis is such that the centers of mass of the first proof mass and the second proof mass move collinearly along a same axis.