Patents Issued in December 31, 2020
  • Publication number: 20200407127
    Abstract: Dispenser (1) of a liquid, made of a single piece of moulded plastic material, comprising a first part (2) provided with a first flange (2A) from which a first tubular portion extends (2B) on top of which sealing means (3) are formed which are configured to couple with a mouth of a bottle to which the dispenser may be associated, the first flange (2A) defining an opening (4) for access to a compartment (6) which is perimetrically delimited by the tubular portion (2B), the dispenser further comprising a second part (5) hinged to the first part (2), provided with an intermediate portion (5A) from which a second tubular portion (5B) extends, which is configured to fit tightly inside the opening (4), and a metering nozzle (5C) which is internally hollow and provided with a dispensing port (7), the metering nozzle extending from the intermediate portion (5A) on the opposite side with respect to that from which the second tubular portion (5B) extends.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2019
    Publication date: December 31, 2020
    Inventor: Ivan Maria Rovelli
  • Publication number: 20200407128
    Abstract: The invention provides for a dispenser package comprising a generally cylindrical container body and a cap removably mounted to the container body. The cap comprises a generally cylindrical cap body securable to an upper end of the container body. The cap body comprises a generally circular projecting portion having an outer circumferential surface and an upper surface that includes plural dispensing openings. A generally circular flip-up lid is connected to the cap body by a living hinge and being movable between a covering position and an open position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2019
    Publication date: December 31, 2020
    Applicant: McCormick & Company, Incorporated
    Inventors: Mark ARMSTRONG, Janet Anne OLIVER, Olivier RATTIN
  • Publication number: 20200407129
    Abstract: A tap lock has an engagement member, a barrier member, and a retainer member that extends between the engagement member and the barrier member and that retains the engagement member at a fixed position relative to the barrier member. The engagement member removably attaches to a support structure of a tap dispensing closure of a container body. The barrier member is disposed proximate an outlet passage and valve member of the tap dispensing closure. The barrier member limits movement of the valve member from a closed position toward an open position to prevent leakage of material from the outlet passage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2019
    Publication date: December 31, 2020
    Applicant: Henkel IP & Holding GmbH
    Inventors: Daniel Peter Sterling, Samuel Edward Nuckels, Keith J. Colacioppo
  • Publication number: 20200407130
    Abstract: A child resistant closure assembly comprising: an inner housing having an upper surface with an inner edge and an outer edge and a plurality of centrally positioned sloped cams extending concentrically into the upper surface between the inner edge and the outer edge; an outer housing corresponding to the inner housing, having a plurality of circular lugs centrally positioned between of the outer housing and an inner edge of the upper surface and spaced apart extending downward from a planar surface to correspond with the sloped cams.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2019
    Publication date: December 31, 2020
    Applicant: Maugus Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventor: Jason M. Enterline
  • Publication number: 20200407131
    Abstract: A container with a security lock is provided. The container has a top unit and a bottom unit. The bottom unit may have a first side and a second side wherein the first side and the second side each have a compressible tab. The top unit may have a first opening and a second opening wherein the first opening and the second opening receive a portion of the compression tabs when the top unit is locked to the bottom unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2020
    Publication date: December 31, 2020
    Inventor: Jing Lei
  • Publication number: 20200407132
    Abstract: An animal resistant canister comprising a canister body having a first end and second end and an inner wall and outer wall wherein the first end is open, and the second end is enclosed. A cap removably attachable to the first end, wherein the cap has an inner cap and an outer cap, the outer cap comprising one or more dog supports coupled to the outer cap and one or more dogs wherein the dogs are coupled to the dog supports to allow the dogs to pivot about an axis. The inner cap is rotatable relative to the outer cap and comprises one or more ramps that when the inner cap is rotated the ramps push the dogs outward towards the inner wall of the canister body when the inner cap is rotated relative to the outer cap.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 17, 2020
    Publication date: December 31, 2020
    Inventors: James Elmon Corning, Helen Karen Jaleski
  • Publication number: 20200407133
    Abstract: An improved lid and pail combination provides a child resistant connection for use with pails.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 2, 2020
    Publication date: December 31, 2020
    Inventors: Glenn H. Morris, JR., Darrell Davis
  • Publication number: 20200407134
    Abstract: A two-part disposable, stackable and recloseable lid for a container holding a beverage. The lid has a dome configuration for higher volume beverages. The lid has a drinking aperture and an a moveable arm with a plug to seal the drinking aperture. The lid has a recess for storing the plug end of the arm when the drinking aperture is being used.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2020
    Publication date: December 31, 2020
    Applicant: Lidworks, Co.
    Inventors: Robert Schaefer, Ugo Mazzarolo
  • Publication number: 20200407135
    Abstract: Described is a multi-part device for keeping consumables such as dietary supplements in separate, non-contaminatable, individually accessible container compartments. The device of the invention can also be used for storage of other items, as well. The top of the device is removable, has several interconnected lids that are attached and retained to the container portion of the device by a rotable cap, the position of which selects which lid, if any, can be opened by a user. The compartment lids separate the contents stored in the various compartments so as to keep the contents of each compartment from being contaminated by items or materials placed in other compartments or from the environment. The safe can be locked shut by rotating the cap to predetermined positions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2020
    Publication date: December 31, 2020
    Applicant: Store It Safe, LLC.
    Inventors: Patrick Simon AFIF, Anthony Wayne PARRISH
  • Publication number: 20200407136
    Abstract: Provided are: a laminate film which is equipped with a vapor-deposited aluminum oxide film exhibiting high barrier performance and excellent so-called retort resistance, and also exhibits favorable adhesion between the vapor-deposited aluminum oxide film and a plastic substrate even after undergoing a hydrothermal treatment; a barrier laminate film containing the laminate film; and a barrier packaging material which uses the barrier laminate film.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2019
    Publication date: December 31, 2020
    Inventors: Yoshihiro KISHIMOTO, Azusa SUZUKI, Kanari AONO, Yasunari IIO, Shohei ITAMI
  • Publication number: 20200407137
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a bags-in-bag packaging system, wherein the inner bags (2) are made of biodegradable and/or compostable packaging material. Good storage stability and long shelf-life is achieved even if the inner bags (2) enclose an oxidable compound such as vitamin A. The inner bags (2) are preferably single-serve sachets comprising sufficient vitamins and minerals for effectively fight micronutrient deficiency.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2019
    Publication date: December 31, 2020
    Inventors: Jihane ACHKAR, Andrea BULBARELLO, Alan CONNOLLY
  • Publication number: 20200407138
    Abstract: A container that dissolves. A shell defining the container sized to accommodate a volume of a consumable. The shell is water soluble. The shell defines walls extending upward from a closed bottom. The container includes a first water insoluble layer coating an exterior surface of the walls of the shell. One or more portions of the exterior surface are not coated with the first water insoluble layer promoting the dissolution of the container. The container includes a second water insoluble layer coating an interior of the shell.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 11, 2020
    Publication date: December 31, 2020
    Inventor: Terry Guido
  • Publication number: 20200407139
    Abstract: A tetrahedral-shaped pouch can be opened by tearing from a cut in a first lateral sealing edge and along a longitudinal sealing substantially perpendicular to the first lateral sealing edge to conveniently access non-liquid food contents, such as seeds or nuts. A short longitudinal cut can be made into but not all the way through the first lateral sealing edge, adjacent where the longitudinal sealing is positioned on the first lateral sealing edge. When opening the pouch, by initiating a tear starting at the cut, the packaging material will tear along, but not cross the longitudinal sealing, since the longitudinal sealing is formed from an overlapped and doubly thick section of packaging material. The pouch will therefore open, on at least one side of the tetrahedron, along a predictable tear line following the longitudinal sealing, to form a bowl-shaped receptacle from which the contained food product can be conveniently accessed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2020
    Publication date: December 31, 2020
    Inventor: Amir Krenzia
  • Publication number: 20200407140
    Abstract: A reclosable package is described that includes inner and outer film layers. Each of the inner and outer film layers includes die cuts that are designed to create a peelable flap portion that, when pulled back by the user, reveals an opening of the package for providing access to the contents of the package. In particular, the inner film layer has an inner die cut that includes a cross-directional cut line. While the cross-directional cut line in conventional packages is a straight line, the package described herein uses a line that has one or more radii of curvature. In this way, the vibrations that may otherwise be generated during the rotary die cutting process are reduced, and more consistent cut depths can be achieved.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 16, 2020
    Publication date: December 31, 2020
    Inventors: Jacob Donald Prue Branyon, Donovan Young, Eugene Smith
  • Publication number: 20200407141
    Abstract: A fitment for a package with an interior compartment for containment of a flowable material is described. The fitment may have a body with an exterior wall and an interior wall. The interior wall may define a passageway extending through the body from a top opening to a bottom opening. The fitment may have at least one dispersion member with an edge extending into the passageway, the edge dividing at least a portion of a width of the passageway extending between the interior wall. The fitment may include a baffle member having a surface extending into, and at least partially obstructing, the passageway. The fitment may include a flange portion associated with the exterior wall, the flange portion positioned to interface the fitment with the package.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2019
    Publication date: December 31, 2020
    Applicant: L'Oreal
    Inventors: Michael Robinson, Jason Fyfe, Jeffrey Townsend
  • Publication number: 20200407142
    Abstract: Packaging for the sterile storage and transport of objects for medical, pharmaceutical or cosmetic applications and a packaging process are provided. The packaging includes at least one bag made of a first and a second web, bonded to one another, a feature thereof being that the first web consists of a selectively permeable nonwoven fabric and that the second web consists of a laminated film with at least three layers, where the first layer is a polymer film arranged on the external side of the bag, the second layer is a lamination adhesive and the third layer is a polymer film arranged on the internal side of the bag. At least one of the layers of the second web includes one or more pigments. In an 8-bit greyscale image, the seal seam, imaged in transmitted light and contrast-standardized, is depicted within a greyscale value range of 50-200.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 31, 2019
    Publication date: December 31, 2020
    Applicant: SCHOTT AG
    Inventors: Patrick Wolf, Gregor Fritz Deutschle, Volker Rupertus
  • Publication number: 20200407143
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to improved packaging materials and/or constructions, and methods of making and using them.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2019
    Publication date: December 31, 2020
    Inventors: Tracie J. Berniard, David K. Bruechert, Lisa M. Miller, Manoj Nirmal, Andrew P. Singer, Lisa E. Warren, Matthew T. Zabel, Mitchell A.F. Johnson, Shannon R.A. Harnden, Mary L. Brown, Caleb W. Brian
  • Publication number: 20200407144
    Abstract: A case for storing collectibles (each having a standard height and a standard width). The case includes a foam layer with openings. The width (and, optionally, height) of each opening is equal to or less than the standard width (and, optionally, standard height) of the collectible (such that the collectible is held in the opening by a friction fit). The foam layer is pliable to allow collectibles to be inserted into each opening. In some embodiments, the case may include a base and lid and handle for carrying the case. In some of those embodiments, the lid may include a transparent display window for viewing the collectibles. In other embodiments, the case may include a front facing layer and side panels. In any of the aforementioned embodiments, the case may include attachment mechanisms allowing the case to be hung on a wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2020
    Publication date: December 31, 2020
    Inventor: Shane A. Kemp
  • Publication number: 20200407145
    Abstract: Embodiments of the disclosure relate to a container for a product having a cooling effect. In one embodiment, a container for housing a consumer product includes a body having an outer surface and a cooling material coupled to the outer surface of the body. The product contained in the container also includes the cooling material. By including the cooling material on the outer surface of the container, consumers can feel the cooling effect of the product without opening up the container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2020
    Publication date: December 31, 2020
    Inventor: John Austin BELIVEAU
  • Publication number: 20200407146
    Abstract: A disposable container for food or beverage has a resistive heating element and a temperature sensor, where electric power is applied to the heating element which generates heat used to warm the container and its contents. A processor monitors the container and content temperature using a signal from the temperature sensor, and controls the temperature of the container and content using a switch circuit, so that the temperature is raised to a preset level, and then the electrical power is removed from the heating element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2020
    Publication date: December 31, 2020
    Inventors: Alexander Winter, Peter Schultz, Sharon Winter
  • Publication number: 20200407147
    Abstract: In one aspect, a shipping container includes a plurality of thermally insulating pads positioned in a cavity in a box. Each pad of the plurality of thermally insulating pads includes a solid compostable panel formed primarily of extruded milled sorghum, the panel providing a rectangular plate, and a compostable water-proof film forming a pocket enclosing the panel. The panel is loose within the pocket. At least one of the plurality of thermally insulating pads includes a multi-section panel including a score across its width in at least one location. The score extends partially but not entirely through the thickness of the multi-section panel. The multi-section panel is folded at a right angle at the score such that the panel provides a plurality of rectangular plates dimensioned to substantially span whichever of the floor, plurality of side walls or cover that the plurality of plates is adjacent.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 11, 2020
    Publication date: December 31, 2020
    Inventor: Darrell Jobe
  • Publication number: 20200407148
    Abstract: A box for transporting various products comprises a prismatic body and a closing cover formed by a multilayered material (10) including an intermediate thermal insulation board (11) with an inner face and an outer face provided with an inner coating (12) and an outer coating (13). The inner coating (12) comprises a paper sheet (121) attached to the inner face of the intermediate board (11) and a stiffening and waterproof sheet (122) that forms the inner surface of the body and the cover. The outer coating (13) comprises —a first layer (131) made of strong printed paper or strong paper suitable for printing; —a second paper layer (132); and —a flexible and waterproof sheet (133) made of recyclable polymer and arranged between the first and the second paper layers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 2, 2019
    Publication date: December 31, 2020
    Applicant: SUMBOX WORLDWIDE SL
    Inventor: Pablo Molina Mutañola
  • Publication number: 20200407149
    Abstract: A thermally insulated panel includes a first skin, a second skin spaced apart from the first skin, and a core that is disposed between and bonded to the first skin and the second skin such that the core transfers loads between the first skin and the second skin. The core includes a porous filler material that has a vacuum drawn therein such that the core resists transfer of thermal energy through the panel. A cargo container including thermally insulated panels and a method of manufacturing the thermally insulated panels are also disclosed. In addition, a method of repairing a vacuum insulated panel is disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2020
    Publication date: December 31, 2020
    Applicant: Advanced Composite Structures, LLC
    Inventors: Thomas R. Pherson, Michael Carter
  • Publication number: 20200407150
    Abstract: A refrigeration unit designed for prolonged cooling with intermittent power supplies and adaptability to rotation is described. A spherical design is utilized comprising internal compartments that shift according to orientation of the sphere and enable internal cycling of water at substantially 4 degrees Celsius about an icy core.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2020
    Publication date: December 31, 2020
    Inventor: Ian Tansley
  • Publication number: 20200407151
    Abstract: A retaining member for use with a vacuum-insulated vessel is described. The retaining member may include a body and a deformable member. The deformable member may have a first layer and a second layer extending from the first layer to a resilient end of the second layer. The resilient end of the second layer may define an opening of the second layer and the opening of the second layer may be aligned with a first aperture of the body and a second aperture of the body, to receive and securely hold a bottle such as a wine bottle within the opening, the first aperture, and the second aperture. The second layer may be resiliently flexible between a first position and a second position of a peripheral edge of the resilient end, to receive and retain bottles having various sizes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 3, 2020
    Publication date: December 31, 2020
    Applicant: Vinglacé, LLC
    Inventor: Colton Bryan Haas
  • Publication number: 20200407152
    Abstract: A method of depositing an extrudable substance comprises, with a cartridge positioned inside a sleeve between an inner tubular sleeve wall and an outer tubular sleeve wall, circumscribing the inner tubular sleeve wall, and also positioned between a twist-lock pressure cap, hermetically coupled with the cartridge, and a valve, communicatively coupled with the cartridge, linearly moving an annular plunger, received between an inner tubular cartridge wall and an outer tubular cartridge wall, circumscribing the inner tubular cartridge wall, toward the valve along a first axis to urge the extrudable substance from the cartridge, through the valve, and out of a nozzle that is communicatively coupled with the valve. The method also comprises controlling flow of the extrudable substance from the valve to the nozzle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2020
    Publication date: December 31, 2020
    Applicant: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: John W. Pringle-Iv, Raul Tomuta, Angelica Davancens, Martin Guirguis, Martin Lozano, Jake B. Weinmann
  • Publication number: 20200407153
    Abstract: The invention relates to a dispensing device for metering and dispensing a predetermined number of multiparticulates from a container. The dispensing device comprises a chamber which includes an inlet through which multiparticulates can enter the chamber and an overflow through which multiparticulates can leave the chamber. There is also an outlet through which multiparticulates can be dispensed from the chamber. The chamber comprises a metering surface which includes at least one retaining portion. The, or each, of the retaining portions is configured to be able to releasably retain a single multiparticulate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 16, 2020
    Publication date: December 31, 2020
    Applicant: Phillips-Medisize A/S
    Inventors: Sabine DESSET-BRETHES, Regis FRELON, Stefan HIRSCH, Hans JENSEN, Esben JOHANSEN, Peter MATHIASEN, Jan OLESEN
  • Publication number: 20200407154
    Abstract: A fluid dispenser device having at least one reservoir (20) that is suitable for containing fluid to be dispensed and a propellant gas; a valve (30), in particular a metering valve, that is mounted on said reservoir (20); and a body (10) including a dispenser orifice (40) via which the fluid is dispensed. The reservoir (20) is movable in the body (10) so as to actuate the valve (30); at least a portion of the dispenser device is made out of a material having an aliphatic polyketone.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2019
    Publication date: December 31, 2020
    Applicant: APTAR FRANCE SAS
    Inventor: Patrice LEONE
  • Publication number: 20200407155
    Abstract: A packet of smoking articles and method for manufacturing the same, wherein the packet comprises: a group of smoking articles; a wrapping, which encloses the group of smoking articles and that comprises an extraction opening, defined by an edge, for extracting the smoking articles from the wrapping; a closing label, which is fixed to the wrapping and that is mobile between a closing position, in which it closes the extraction opening, and an opening position, in which the access to the group of smoking articles is allowed; a covering element, which is fixed to the closing label and that faces and covers the extraction opening when the closing label is in the closing position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2019
    Publication date: December 31, 2020
    Inventors: Massimo Fortini, Luca Federici
  • Publication number: 20200407156
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a bag of polymeric film and a method to make the bag. The bag can be comprised of a front panel and a rear panel. The front and rear panels can each be comprised of multiple layers of film. The bag can be formed from a collapsed bubble of polymeric film that has been folded in half so that opposing edges of the collapsed bubble form an opening of the bag. One of the layers of the folded bubble can be split adjacent to an edge of the collapsed bubble and a draw tape film can be inserted between the layers of the folded and collapsed bubble. The collapsed bubble can further be embossed by a pattern that can provide enhanced properties to bags formed from the folded bubble.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2020
    Publication date: December 31, 2020
    Inventors: Gregory James Wood, Anthony H. Bertrand
  • Publication number: 20200407157
    Abstract: A waste receptacle includes a cinch tab and a cinch defined by the cinch tab. The cinch includes an opening configured to admit a liner portion of a waste liner. The cinch also includes a notch continuous with and extending away from the opening. At least a portion of the opening narrows in width in a direction extending away from the notch. The opening and the notch are configured to retain the liner portion to at least partially secure the waste liner to the waste receptacle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2020
    Publication date: December 31, 2020
    Inventors: Juan Carlos Perez, Ryan Baker, Christopher Parke, Wesley Alan Steen
  • Publication number: 20200407158
    Abstract: A garbage can riser system for facilitating a flip lid on a garbage can to be opened when the garbage can is full includes a garbage can that has a top end. A riser is provided and the riser is positionable on the top end of the garbage can for increasing a functional height of the garbage can. A flip lid is positionable on the riser such that the flip lid is spaced above garbage contained in the garbage can. In this way the entire volume of the garbage can be filled with garbage without having the flip lid contacting the garage when the flip lid is opened.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2019
    Publication date: December 31, 2020
    Inventors: Troy Hildebrand, Carol Hildebrand
  • Publication number: 20200407159
    Abstract: Various embodiments of a trash can assembly (e.g., a receptacle configured to receive refuse, recycleable materials, or otherwise), and related methods, are provided. Some embodiments of the trash can assembly include a body component and a lid configured to move between an open position and a closed position. In some variants, the lid can be moved between the open and closed positions by a power operated driving mechanism, such as a motor and/or other drivetrain components. In certain embodiments, the trash can assembly includes a clutch mechanism to facilitate manual operation of the lid while inhibiting or preventing damage to the motor and/or other drivetrain components.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2020
    Publication date: December 31, 2020
    Inventors: Frank Yang, David Wolbert, Joseph Sandor, Kenneth Yen, Orlando Cardenas, Michael James Basha, Christopher B. Fruhauf
  • Publication number: 20200407160
    Abstract: An object handling and retrieving system and method are described. A storage system is described suitable for storing multiple product lines in an automated warehouse environment. The storage system includes a plurality of load handling devices disposed above a frame and independently moveable to access different stacks. The load handling device can retrieve and transport a target container to a sequencing and temporary storage portion having a sorting frame for taking delivery of the target container and moving it to an output port of the sorting frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 16, 2020
    Publication date: December 31, 2020
    Applicant: OCADO INNOVATION LIMITED
    Inventors: Andrew John INGRAM-TEDD, Lars Sverker Ture LINDBO, Pawel KAROLINCZAK
  • Publication number: 20200407161
    Abstract: An automated pharmaceutical dispensing system includes: a tablet dispensing station comprising a plurality of cells for dispensing pills, each of the cells mounted in a dispensing location, each of the cells including a channel for dispensing pills into a container and an inlet configured to be adjustable so that pills in the cell are conveyed through the inlet and into the channel in single file; and an autocalibration station, the autocalibration station comprising a mechanism for automatically adjusting the inlet of a cell based on the dimensions of the pills to be contained in the cell. The autocalibration station is configured and located to also provide a dispensing location, such that a cell docked therein may function to dispense pills.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 23, 2020
    Publication date: December 31, 2020
    Inventors: Joe Cross, Weldon Curl, JR., Justin Sayres
  • Publication number: 20200407162
    Abstract: The present application describes an automated inventory control system that comprises a storage device, a sensing system, a data storage, and one or more processors. The storage device includes a plurality of storage locations for storing objects. The sensing system is configured to associate the storage device with a first location and with a second location. The data storage is configured to store configurable data of the storage device. The one or more processors are configured to send configurable data corresponding to the first location to the storage device in response to receiving information associating the storage device with the first location from the sensing system. In response to receiving information associating the storage device with the second location from the sensing system, the one or more processors are configured to send configurable data corresponding to the second location to the storage device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2020
    Publication date: December 31, 2020
    Inventors: David C. Fly, Matthew J. Lipsey, Preston C. Phillips, Jason Newport, Andrew R. Lobo, Joseph Chwan, Frederick J. Rogers, Sean W. Ryan
  • Publication number: 20200407163
    Abstract: A rear suspension member (RSM) transfer assembly for transferring an RSM from a sub-assembly line to a main assembly line includes a first RSM lifter, an RSM buffer, and a second RSM lifter. The first RSM lifter is configured to travel laterally between the sub-assembly line and the main assembly line. The first RSM lifter includes a lifting body and a rotatable arm configured to retrieve the RSM from the sub-assembly line and transport the RSM to the main assembly line. The RSM buffer is configured to receive the RSM from the first RSM lifter and transport the RSM through a plurality of resting positions. The second RSM lifter is configured to receive the RSM from the RSM buffer and raise the RSM into position for installation on a vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2019
    Publication date: December 31, 2020
    Applicant: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald Scott Friend, Robert Aaron Allex, Brian McElroy
  • Publication number: 20200407164
    Abstract: A warehouse automation system adapted to improve warehouse operating productivity includes a plurality of carts for transporting products within a warehouse and a controller. The controller is adapted to associate a first one of the plurality of carts with a first person and to control the first cart to lead the first person around the warehouse. According to one advantage, the time the first person spends restocking, picking, counting, sorting, moving, and packing product into customer orders and shipments, for example, is reduced.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 16, 2020
    Publication date: December 31, 2020
    Inventors: Rylan Hamilton, Jerome Dubois, Christopher Cacioppo, Timothy Higgins
  • Publication number: 20200407165
    Abstract: An automated in-rack picking solution enables improved efficiency by permitting automatic reconfiguration of automated picking system (APS) deployments within an automated storage and retrieval system (ASRS). The storage volume of an ASRS can be more thoroughly utilized, even with a smaller number of APSs, when at least one APS is operable to autonomously relocate within the ASRS based at least on a stored item's location and/or property (e.g., suitability for handling by a particular end effector). An exemplary solution includes an APS positioned to reach stored items within a first subset of storage locations when affixed to a first attachment point; a transport component operable to relocate the APS to a second attachment point, wherein the APS is positioned to reach stored items within a second subset of the storage locations when affixed to the second attachment point; and a controller operable to instruct relocation of the APS.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2020
    Publication date: December 31, 2020
    Inventors: Brian C. Roth, Paul Durkee, Ben Edwards
  • Publication number: 20200407166
    Abstract: The invention refers to a picking device (1) for picking articles, in particular for a storage lift (3), with at least one operating area (5) for an operator (7), with at least one work area (9) for picking, and with at least one projection device (15) for at least temporarily marking a location (17) at least in the work area (9). The invention also refers to a method for picking. In order to improve the ergonomics for the operator and the efficiency of picking, it is provided according to the invention that the picking device (1) has, during operation, at least one image (19) which can be viewed from the operating area (5) and is virtually located in the work area (9).
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2019
    Publication date: December 31, 2020
    Inventors: Volker Jungbluth, Wolfgang Kollmann, Florian Schrot
  • Publication number: 20200407167
    Abstract: A conveyor belt assembly (10) for transporting single sheets or stacks of a packaging material is described. It comprises at least one conveyor belt (12a) being arranged over at least two pulleys (20a-20d), wherein at least one of the pulleys (20a-20d) is adapted to drive the conveyor belt (12a) in a conveying direction (15). Furthermore, the conveyor belt assembly (10) comprises a conveying section (22) adapted for transporting the sheets or stacks and a return section (24) adapted to return the conveyor belt (12a) from an end (22b) of the conveying section (22) to a beginning (22a) of the conveying section (22).
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 9, 2019
    Publication date: December 31, 2020
    Applicant: BOBST MEX SA
    Inventor: Paul HORNICK
  • Publication number: 20200407168
    Abstract: The invention relates to a transport conveyor chain link (1, 2), wherein the link comprises two sets of hinging pin engaging elements (3A-H; 4A-H), one set (3A-H) being configured for engaging a leading side hinging pin (7) and one set (4A-H) being configured for engaging a trailing side hinging pin (8), wherein the two sets of hinging pin engaging elements are connected to a support structure (16), and wherein the support structure extends on a first side, e.g. a transport surface (15) side relative to the hinging pin engaging elements (3A-H; 4A-H) and the support structure does not extend beyond the hinging pin engaging elements on a second side.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2019
    Publication date: December 31, 2020
    Inventor: Egbert Gerrit Hoff
  • Publication number: 20200407169
    Abstract: The invention relates to a transport conveyor curve including a multitude of parallel curved tracks, wherein the separate parallel tracks are driven by a conical drive, wherein the contact angle of each of the individual tracks with the conical drive is substantially equal in comparison to the contact angle of the other individual tracks.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2019
    Publication date: December 31, 2020
    Inventor: Egbert Gerrit Hoff
  • Publication number: 20200407170
    Abstract: A conveyor employs an assembly at a drive end having a position limiter assembly configured to accommodate flights in a conveyor belt while ensuring proper engagement between the conveyor belt and a drive. The end assembly includes opposing end plates, a drive extending between the end plates and a position limiter assembly extending between the end plates below the drive for ensuring proper engagement of a conveyor belt with the drive. The position limiter comprises a series of spaced apart rollers mounted to and spaced from a mounting bar extending between the end plates. Roller mounting arms connect the rollers to the mounting bars.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2019
    Publication date: December 31, 2020
    Inventors: Michael Hendrik Degroot, Drew Downer, Gerko Hulshof, Jake A. Mohan
  • Publication number: 20200407171
    Abstract: A movable belt breakage prevention and catching system for a belt conveyor includes a detection device, two tracks, a plurality of catching devices, and a control system. The detection device is mounted on the belt conveyor, and is configured to detect whether a belt of the belt conveyor has a crack. The two tracks are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the belt conveyor, and the plurality of catching devices are symmetrically arranged on the two tracks. The control system is configured to control the plurality of catching devices to simultaneously catch the belt firmly when the detection device detects that the belt has a crack; and after firmly catching the belt, each catching device is able to unidirectionally move along with the belt along the track where the catching device is positioned.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 21, 2018
    Publication date: December 31, 2020
    Applicants: CHINA UNIVERSITY OF MINING AND TECHNOLOGY, XUZHOU ZHIRUN MINING EQUIPMENT SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY CO.,LTD, INNER MONGOLIA UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY
    Inventors: Gongbo ZHOU, Zhencai ZHU, Ying WANG, Yuan SUN, Ping ZHOU, Chaoquan TANG, Gang SHEN, Wei LI, Guohua CAO, Yuxing PENG, Xiang LI, Xin ZHANG
  • Publication number: 20200407172
    Abstract: The invention relates to a head-type device for continuous cleaning and sanitization in conveyor belts, mainly flat sanitary conveyor belts. The head-type device comprises a profile extruded as a single piece that defines the length of the cleaning area and comprises a W-shaped cross section, containing, longitudinally, a plurality of polymer scrapers, a pair of polymer seals being disposed on the left and right ends of said W-shaped extended profile, wherein said pair of seals is also protected and sealed by a pair of polymer caps that limit the length of the extended profile.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2019
    Publication date: December 31, 2020
    Inventors: Juan de Dios VIDRIO BORREGO, Jorge Luis GUDIÑO CASILLAS, Aldo SAINZ HERNANDEZ
  • Publication number: 20200407173
    Abstract: A container transport and delivery system having at least some of an input tower having an input platform capable of vertical movement within at least a portion of the input tower and an input window providing access to the input platform; an output tower having an output platform capable of vertical movement within at least a portion of the output tower and an output window providing access to the output platform; and a transfer section disposed between the input tower and the output tower, wherein a transfer belt, disposed within the transfer section, is capable of receiving an item from the input platform and transferring the received item to the output platform, and wherein a surface of the transfer belt maintains a substantially horizontal position within the output tower.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2019
    Publication date: December 31, 2020
    Applicant: 888 Brands LLC
    Inventors: Daniel R. DeMartine, John J. Douglas
  • Publication number: 20200407174
    Abstract: Provided is a vehicle measurement system for an automatic conveyor. The measurement system includes: an information measurement unit, disposed at a position higher than the ready-for-loading vehicle and including two laser radars: a rear radar and a side radar; a voice prompt unit, configured to send a voice prompt; and a control unit; where when the ready-for-loading vehicle is approaching, the rear radar measures a distance between it and the ready-for-loading vehicle in real time as a predetermined parking distance; when a value of the predetermined parking distance is within a predetermined range, the control unit controls the voice prompt unit to send a voice prompt for parking; and after the ready-for-loading vehicle stops, the information measurement unit measures the distance between the ready-for-loading vehicle and the rear radar, carriage size information, and a deviation angle of a parking position of the ready-for-loading vehicle from the predetermined parking area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2020
    Publication date: December 31, 2020
    Applicant: Hubei University
    Inventors: Zhifeng Zhong, Shihui Wang, Yan Zhang, Jingjing Zhao, Pu Tan, Zhang Jiang, Min Zhou
  • Publication number: 20200407175
    Abstract: An item sorting and storage device includes an input unit, a sorting system, and a storage assembly. The input unit receives a number of items. The sorting system recognizes and sorts the number of items. The storage assembly receives the number of sorted items and records information of the number of sorted items.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2019
    Publication date: December 31, 2020
    Inventor: XUE-QIN ZHANG
  • Publication number: 20200407176
    Abstract: A pick-and-place spindle module comprises: a modular body structure including a first receiving location configured to receive a spindle; a first z-axis motor configured to move a spindle received in the first receiving location in a z-axis; a first theta motor configured to rotate a spindle received in the receiving location; a first motion control chip each attached to the body structure, the first motion control chip configured to control the first z-axis motor and the first theta motor; and a mechanical attachment mechanism, the mechanical attachment mechanism configured to facilitate attachment of the modular body structure to a spindle bank.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 13, 2020
    Publication date: December 31, 2020
    Inventors: John Danek, Peter Joseph Dionne