Abstract: A robotic system is disclosed that include an articulated arm and a first perception system for inspecting an object, as well as a plurality of additional perception systems, each of which is arranged to be directed toward a common area in which an object may be positioned by the robotic arm such that a plurality of views within the common area may be obtained by the plurality of additional perception systems.

Abstract: A computer-implemented product palletizing system and a method of product palletizing which includes processor in communication with a memory element containing a computer code executable to coordinate the discrete activities of one or more pickers and conveyor product sorting assembly to allocate a plurality of products to a plurality of pallets.

Abstract: The present invention allows a beverage manufacturer to package variety packs of beverages while it is filling various beverages. The improved system that carries out the method includes an onsite accumulator that eliminates the long-standing practice of packaging variety packs at a separate location from where the beverages are packed.

Abstract: A longitudinal sealer includes a housing, an arm, and a heating element. The housing is configured to be installed in a foam-in-bag system. The arm is movably coupled to the housing. The heating element has a leading edge exposed through an exterior surface of the arm. A position of the arm with respect to the housing is controllable so that the arm is movable between a first location where the leading edge of the heating element is not in contact with a film in a film path of the foam-in-bag system and a second location where the leading edge of the heating element is in contact with the film in the film path of the foam-in-bag system.

Abstract: System and method are provided where parcels or packages are associated or grouped, into logical group or logical containerization of parcels or packages, without need for physical container, such that parcels or packages can be tracked as a group, for example with a unique group ID. Logical group may be tracked within specified logical zone on conveyor, transported, sorted and/or otherwise processed as unique logical group without need to be contained in physical container. System and method for automated sortation can accumulate set number or set volume of packages, and then process the accumulated set number or volume of packages, including automatically closing a container filled with the packages.

Abstract: A plural-mode automatic medicament packaging system. In embodiments, the system may include an automatic dispensing machine including an automatic medicament dispensing unit and may further include pouch packaging and blister package packaging units. The medicament dispensing unit may include one or more storage and dispensing units which store and dispense medicaments. Medicaments output from the medicament dispensing unit may be packaged in a pouch package by the pouch packaging unit. Alternatively, a diverter may direct medicaments output from the medicament dispensing unit to the pouch package packaging unit for packaging in a blister package. A single automatic medicament packaging system can package medicaments in different types of packaging providing a pharmacy with the opportunity to package medicaments in the form of packaging most appropriate to meet patient needs.

Abstract: System and method are provided where parcels or packages are associated or grouped, into logical group or logical containerization of parcels or packages, without need for physical container, such that parcels or packages can be tracked as a group, for example with a unique group ID. Logical group may be tracked within specified logical zone on conveyor, transported, sorted and/or otherwise processed as unique logical group without need to be contained in physical container. System and method for automated sortation can accumulate set number or set volume of packages, and then process the accumulated set number or volume of packages.

Abstract: A method for dispensing discrete medicaments with a first feeder unit includes the steps of determining a remaining value indicative of the amount of the medicaments remaining in the container; comparing said remaining value to a threshold value; making a selection between a complete empty detection mode when said remaining value is above the threshold value and a shortened empty detection mode when the remaining value is below the threshold value; and executing the selected one of the complete empty detection mode and the shortened empty detection mode when no medicament is fed from the container towards the outlet after controlling the dispensing mechanism to feed a medicament from the container into the outlet.

Abstract: System and method are provided where parcels or packages are associated or grouped, into logical group or logical containerization of parcels or packages, without need for physical container, such that parcels or packages can be tracked as a group, for example with a unique group ID. Logical group may be tracked within specified logical zone on conveyor, transported, sorted and/or otherwise processed as unique logical group without need to be contained in physical container. System and method for automated sortation can accumulate set number or set volume of packages, and then process the accumulated set number or volume of packages.

Abstract: A work cell and method for automatically separating objects disposed in 3D clusters includes dispensing the objects onto a horizontal conveying surface to form a 2D array, reforming the 2D array into a 1D stream in which the objects move in single-file in a predefined moving direction, utilizing a vision-based or other stationary sensing system to identify a selected target object in the 1D stream as the target object passes through an image capture (sensing) region, calculating trajectory data defining the target object's time-based position in the 1D stream, and then utilizing the trajectory data to control a robot arm or other object removal mechanism such that only the selected object is forcibly removed (e.g., swiped or picked-up) from the horizontal conveying surface. A continuous-loop-type conveying mechanism includes two parallel conveyor-belt-type conveying structures and associated belt-switching structures. An AI-powered vision system identifies new object shapes during preliminary learning phases.

Abstract: A plural-mode automatic medicament packaging system. In embodiments, the system may include an automatic dispensing machine including an automatic medicament dispensing unit and may further include pouch packaging and blister package packaging units. The medicament dispensing unit may include one or more storage and dispensing units which store and dispense medicaments. Medicaments output from the medicament dispensing unit may be packaged in a pouch package by the pouch packaging unit. Alternatively, a diverter may direct medicaments output from the medicament dispensing unit to the pouch package packaging unit for packaging in a blister package. A single automatic medicament packaging system can package medicaments in different types of packaging providing a pharmacy with the opportunity to package medicaments in the form of packaging most appropriate to meet patient needs.

Abstract: A robotic system is disclosed that include an articulated arm and a first perception system for inspecting an object, as well as a plurality of additional perception systems, each of which is arranged to be directed toward a common area in which an object may be positioned by the robotic arm such that a plurality of views within the common area may be obtained by the plurality of additional perception systems.

Abstract: Automated (e.g., robotic) mail tagging, traying, sleeving, and palletizing devices are disclosed. A monitoring system is also disclosed. In embodiments, the monitoring system is configured to operate with (e.g., monitor and/or control) one or more of the automated devices disclosed herein to facilitate actual physical mail matches the digital files provided to the USPS for postage discounts received on same mail. By comparing the digital information regarding the mail item identifier, the tray identifier, and the pallet identifier with the stored physical information received from the one or more scanners; and identifying whether or not any discrepancies exist between the digital information regarding the mail item identifier, the tray identifier, and the pallet identifier and the stored physical information received from the one or more scanners users can ensure actual physical mail matches the digital files submitted to USPS for postage discounts of same mail.

Abstract: An apparatus for conforming a dunnage element about contents in a container includes an array of pushers having biased end portions that are movable relative to one another and having end faces for engaging the dunnage element. The end faces of the pushers are biased to an extended state and are movable against the bias in response to engagement of the end faces with the contents and with the dunnage element between the end faces and the contents. At least one of the pushers is movable against the bias separately from a remainder of the pushers to enable conformance of the array to the shape of the contents. The pushers are mounted to a carrier at respective mounts. A motive device is coupled to the carrier and is configured to collectively move the mounts vertically.

Abstract: Disclosed is a delivery portal for a residential home. The portal can be accessed by delivery personnel via an exterior door. A lock on the exterior door is controlled via a key code or similar authentication means. Once accessed, the delivery personnel can leave packages in a climate controlled environment. A refrigerator can be provided within the portal for food items. Ultraviolet lighting can be provided for sanitizing packages. Residents access the portal through a separate, interior door. Preferably, the locks on the interior and exterior doors are computer controlled to prevent both being unlocked at the same time. This avoids residents coming into contact with delivery personnel.

Abstract: Structures and a method for restraining a package within a returnable shipping container are provided to eliminate the need for buffering or filler materials (dunnage), particularly those materials that are environmentally unfriendly and otherwise likely to be discarded. Desirable shipping containers intended for reuse are provided with various features which enhance their utilization in a cycle of transportation out from and back to a source. These features include those associated with security, integrity, protection from the environment, addressing, automation, payment, inspection, education in volume for return, facilitation for tracking the container throughout the transport route and assurance of its eventual return.

Abstract: Methods for measuring and verifying drug portions while avoiding the need to teach verification devices is provided. Characteristic key data of a drug type are compiled with a calibrated camera of a measuring device, stored in a storage device, and retrieved from or transmitted to a verification device. Individual key data for a drug portion to be verified are compiled using a calibrated camera of the verification device and compared with the characteristic key data. A digital image of a drug portion to be verified is generated with a calibrated camera and transferred to a control unit. The control unit determines individual key data for the drug portion to be verified using known calibration parameters of the camera and the digital image, compares the individual key data with characteristic key data of the corresponding drug type and verifies or rejects the drug portion based on the results of the comparison. Systems and computer readable medium are also provided.

Abstract: A system and method for assembling a multiple prescription package having a plurality of different medications is described. The system comprises a pharmacy management system, a selected dosing interval, a filling system, a first automated inspection, a second automated inspection, a container, and a label. The pharmacy management system includes a graphical user interface that receives a prescription order that is associated with a particular patient. The prescription order includes medications in which a first medication that is different from a second medication. The selected dosing interval is selected from the dosing interval group that includes a morning interval, a noon interval, an afternoon interval, and a bedtime interval. The container receives the sealed preliminary packages for the selected dosing interval. The label is affixed to the container so that the label indicates the selected dosing interval.

Abstract: A system and method for inspecting a filled prescription order is described. The prescription order includes a first plurality of tablets that is different from a second plurality of tablets. Additionally, the first plurality of tablets has a particular shape and a color that is different from the second plurality of tablets. The system and method generates an order that is communicated to a filling system. A code is then generated at the filling system when the filling system can fill the order. An automated inspection at visual wavelengths is performed for each of the pouches at an inspection station. The automated inspection at visual wavelengths inspects a color and a shape of each tablet. The method then proceeds to scan the code at the inspection station to verify that the correct pouches are associated with the tablets that correspond to the prescription order.

Abstract: A work station for packing articles to be picked onto a shipping support includes a platform, a packing station, a platform on the platform, a shipping support station beneath the platform, a lifting device for lifting an empty or partially packed shipping support and for lowering completely packed shipping supports, and a track for transporting loose articles to be picked to the packing station dedicated to load supports which conveys the articles to be picked on load supports to the packing station or from the conveyor technique can be order-picked.

Abstract: An arrangement for packing at least one article in a container comprises an automatic picking list generation means (136) generating a picking list (138) which specifies at least the at least one article to be placed in the container; closing means (142) for closing the container; and inflating means (146) for inflating a dunnage bag provided in the closed container. The invention proposes that the arrangement further comprises automatic bag type selection means (134) for selecting a type of the inflatable dunnage bag to be used, the selection depending at least on a parameter of the container.

Abstract: A system for automatically packaging prescription orders composed of one or more prescription containers. The system includes a printer for generating literature associated with each order and a packer for packing the prescription containers and the associated literature into a package. The packer has a scale or other means for determining the weight of the prescription containers. A packer controller calculates package weight information based on the container weight information. The package weight information is transmitted to a mail manifest system, which generates shipping information comprising postage. A labeler applies the shipping information to the package. The packer also includes a loading mechanism for inserting the prescription containers and the literature into the package.

Abstract: A system and method for determining and communicating a volume-based fill pattern for a multi-dose medicament container is disclosed. Pill information corresponding to one or more pills for a patient to be packaged together may be obtained, and non-volume fill factors may be obtained. The volume-based fill pattern may be selected and indicated to be a cuboid volume or a packing parameter fill pattern. Pill and multi-dose medicament container data may be obtained and used to determine a fill pattern that is communicated to a filling entity for execution. The present disclosure may operate in accordance with multi-dose blister packs, and systems and methods of filling said blister packs.

Abstract: A system for automatically packaging prescription orders composed of one or more prescription containers. The system includes a printer for generating literature associated with each order and a packer for packing the prescription containers and the associated literature into a package. The packer has a scale or other means for determining the weight of the prescription containers. A packer controller calculates package weight information based on the container weight information. The package weight information is transmitted to a mail manifest system, which generates shipping information comprising postage. A labeler applies the shipping information to the package. The packer also includes a loading mechanism for inserting the prescription containers and the literature into the package.

Abstract: Methods and systems for packaging sporting goods are provided. Embodiments advantageously preserve sporting goods, such as kayaks, against damage during transportation, ease handling of the sporting goods while being transported, and enable easy conversion from a shipping mode to a display mode. Further, embodiments conserve floor space during storage, shipping, and display while preventing sporting goods from collapsing or falling over.

Abstract: A method of transferring a plurality of tablets of a product from a first blister card comprising a first plurality of blisters to a second blister card comprising a second plurality of blisters includes discharging the plurality of tablets from the first plurality of blisters of the first blister card. Then, each of the plurality of tablets are guided along one of a plurality of passageways defined by a transfer fixture positioned between the first blister card and the second blister card. Finally, the plurality of tablets are received in the second plurality of blisters of the second blister card. The method includes monitoring the deposit of product to the blister card and verifying the contents of the blister card.

Abstract: A method for generating a medication regimen of a patient is disclosed. The method comprises receiving a plurality of prescriptions for the patient, wherein a prescription of the plurality of prescriptions indicates a medication and a frequency for administering a dose of the medication. The method further comprises mapping a plurality of doses of one or more medications to a prescription calendar based on the frequencies indicated in the plurality of prescriptions and determining a schedule for administering a plurality of doses of different medications corresponding to each prescription of the plurality of prescriptions based on the calendar and constraints regarding administering the plurality of doses.

Abstract: An apparatus for filling tubes with piles of disc-shaped articles, such as pills, comprising: two functional elements (5h, 5j), hinged at a horizontal axis (K) and mobile between a loading region (C), in which the functional elements (5h, 5j) provide at least a corresponding seating (6) for receiving and retaining a relative pill (3) released by a plurality of supply units (1), and a disengagement region (D) of the pill (3), at which the functional elements (5h, 5j) are rotated by ninety degrees and cooperate with gripping organs (11); the gripping organs (11) being mobile in a vertical direction in order to gather the pill (3) borne by the functional elements (5h, 5j) into the relative disengagement region (D), and to release the pill (3) internally of a corresponding tube (10) in phase relation with the movement of the functional elements (5h, 5j).

Abstract: A system (10) for automatically dispensing a strip of dunnage to a container (14) includes a dispenser (12) having an outlet (92) from which the dispenser can feed a length of a strip of dunnage lengthwise, a container support (36) for supporting a container (14) thereon, and a pusher device (114) at the outlet (92) for pushing, more particularly propelling, a trailing end of the strip of dunnage from the outlet (92) toward the container support (36). The outlet (92) is aligned with the container support (36). Thus the outlet (92) is positioned relative to a container (14) such that the strip will curl or fold back and forth upon itself within the confines of the container (14) as it is being fed from the outlet (92). A container closer (120, 130 and 32) automatically closes the flaps (80 and 82) of the container (14).

Abstract: Systems and methods for providing individualized solid pharmaceutical product packaging solutions preferably utilize a plurality of filling stations preferably arranged proximate to a conveyor system. Each of the filling stations may be embodied as a version of a conventional flood fill type mechanism wherein a hopper is used to store a large number of a single type of solid pharmaceutical products. The filling stations preferably incorporate transition blocks and/or row or column transfer gates.

Abstract: A method of filling a multi-dose blister card first includes selecting a first intermediate blister card comprising a plurality of tablets of a first product stored within a first plurality of intermediate blisters. Additionally, a multi-dose blister card including a plurality of multi-dose blisters that are empty is selected. The plurality of tablets of the first product from the first plurality of intermediate blisters are transferred into the plurality of multi-dose blisters. Next, a second intermediate blister card including a plurality of tablets of a second product stored within a second plurality of intermediate blisters is selected. The plurality of tablets of the second product are then transferred into the plurality of multi-dose blisters such that at least one of the multi-dose blisters contains one tablet of the first product and one product of the second product.

Abstract: The present subject matter relates generally to an apparatus for crumpling paper substrates. Specifically, the system provides for the crumpling of paper substrates to form fill material to be utilized in product packaging to fill void space and/or to wrap around products thereby allowing for safe transport of the products. The apparatus includes a feeder for feeding sheeting material, a first roller connected to a drive mechanism, a second roller disposed adjacent said first roller wherein said sheeting material travels between the first roller and the second roller and further wherein the second roller pushes said sheeting material against said first roller to engage the sheeting material with the first roller, and a third roller connected to the drive mechanism for directing said sheeting material out of said apparatus.

Abstract: A machine for packaging articles, in particular CDs, DVDs and the like, into relative containers, which are formed by a pair of substantially box-like closure members, lower (GD and upper (G2), hinged to each other along a common hinge edge (D), includes a conveying line (L), which is equipped all around with gripping and transferring devices (1). The gripping and transferring devices (1) are moved continuously and grip lateral edges of die iowa closure member (G1) of the containers (C) housed in closed condition inside a magazie (S0) and remove the containers (C) from the bottom of the magazine (S0). The gripping and transferring devices (1) transfer the containers withdrawn from the magazine (S0) to subseqaent working stations associated to the line (L).

Abstract: A device for picking up articles from a supply station and depositing the articles in corresponding blisters of a blister strip, comprising: at least a group of depression-activated gripping units, each of which units is shaped to a specific format for receiving and retaining a corresponding article having predetermined lie and orientation; connecting organs of the gripping units to an operating head whereby the gripping units are positioned in relation to a positioning of the corresponding blisters afforded in the blister strip; organs for moving the operating head in outward and return runs, respectively between the supply station of the articles and a release station of the articles in the corresponding blisters of the blister strip; enabling organs being activated in phase-relation with the movement organs, for activating the gripping units in the supply station, which gripping units collect a number of articles equal to a number of the gripping units, and for deactivating the gripping units in the releas

Abstract: An automated packaging system has a plurality of dunnage dispensing stations that can dispense dunnage and a transport network for conveying containers to and from at least two dispensing stations for dunnage to be placed therein. At at least one loading station upstream of a dispensing station articles are placed in the containers for shipping. Optionally, an intermediate void determination station determines how much dunnage to dispense.

Abstract: Methods and systems for packaging sporting goods are provided. Embodiments advantageously preserve sporting goods, such as kayaks, against damage during transportation, ease handling of the sporting goods while being transported, and enable easy conversion from a shipping mode to a display mode. Further, embodiments conserve floor space during storage, shipping, and display while preventing sporting goods from collapsing or falling over.

Abstract: An apparatus for use in packaging containers and associated lids together includes a moveable gantry with a first support portion and a second support portion alongside the first support portion. The first and second support portions are sized and configured to support the containers and the lids. A container path and a lid path are included along which containers and lids, respectively, are directed to the gantry. The gantry has a first orientation in which the first support portion is aligned with the container path to receive containers and the second support portion is aligned with the lid path to receive lids. The gantry also has a second orientation in which the gantry is repositioned such that the first support portion is aligned with the lid path to receive lids and the second support portion is aligned with the container path to receive containers.

Abstract: A process to merge a plurality of streams of printed products. The process includes merging a first stream of printed products with a second stream of printed products according to a predetermined order that is recipient-based, and packaging selected printed products from the first stream while the printed products of the first stream are being merged with the second stream.

Abstract: A method for making a multi-compartment microwavable package having one or more open or closed compartments within the package, and method and apparatus for manufacturing the same, constructed by modification to existing vertical form, fill and seal packaging machines. The invention involves producing a multi-compartment bag having an internal permeable wall between compartments from a single sheet of flexible packaging film. A food product can be placed into the first compartment and steam pack can be placed into the second compartment.

Abstract: A system (10) for automatically dispensing a strip of dunnage to a container (14) includes a dispenser (12) having an outlet (92) from which the dispenser can feed a length of a strip of dunnage lengthwise, a container support (36) for supporting a container (14) thereon, and a pusher device (114) at the outlet (92) for pushing, more particularly propelling, a trailing end of the strip of dunnage from the outlet (92) toward the container support (36). The outlet (92) is aligned with the container support (36). Thus the outlet (92) is positioned relative to a container (14) such that the strip will curl or fold back and forth upon itself within the confines of the container (14) as it is being fed from the outlet (92). A container closer (120, 130 and 32) automatically closes the flaps (80 and 82) of the container (14).

Abstract: The combination of a plurality of streams of printed products. The first stream of products is selectively inserted into a packaging device while being merged into a second stream of products.

Abstract: An apparatus for use in packaging containers and associated lids together includes a moveable gantry with a first support portion and a second support portion alongside the first support portion. The first and second support portions are sized and configured to support the containers and the lids. A container path and a lid path are included along which containers and lids, respectively, are directed to the gantry. The gantry has a first orientation in which the first support portion is aligned with the container path to receive containers and the second support portion is aligned with the lid path to receive lids. The gantry also has a second orientation in which the gantry is repositioned such that the first support portion is aligned with the lid path to receive lids and the second support portion is aligned with the container path to receive containers.

Abstract: An applicating machine for applying a flexible carrier to a plurality of containers provided from an infeed includes a jaw drum moveable between an operating position and a storage position away from the operating position. In the operating position the jaw drum is positioned with respect to the infeed to accept the plurality of containers and apply the flexible carrier to the plurality of containers. A second jaw drum may be moveable into the operating position to enable packaging of containers having different dimensions and/or packages having different configurations.

Abstract: A method for making a vertical stand up package having one or more open or closed compartments within the package, and method and apparatus for manufacturing the same, constructed by modification to existing vertical form, fill and seal packaging machines. The invention involves producing a flat bottom bag that can stand upright having an internal compartment from a single sheet of flexible packaging film. A different product can be placed into the compartment. The compartment can also be used as a dipping well. In one aspect a multi-compartment package can be made.

Abstract: A distinctive method and apparatus (20) for accumulating different types of individual articles (28) can include a delivery device (132) which provides an initial-plurality (134) of an initial-type of individual articles. At least a first-accumulator mechanism (142) can be automated to provide a first-plurality (144) of a first-type of individual articles. The first-type of articles differ from the initial-type of articles, and at least a first-transport device (146) can move the first-plurality of articles to a first-packing location. Additionally, an automated assembly mechanism (136) can be configured to operatively combine the first-plurality (144) of articles with the initial-plurality (134) of articles.

Abstract: A dispensing system dispensing items includes a dispensing station and a first conveyor for transporting containers to the dispensing station. The dispensing station includes a dispenser for dispensing items to the containers, a mechanism for spacing the containers to a predetermined pitch, a transfer wheel for removing the containers from the first conveyor, a star wheel for receiving the containers from the transfer wheel and for transporting the containers in synchronization with the dispenser, and a turret for removing the containers from the star wheel.

Abstract: An apparatus and method are provided for producing an assembly comprising a plurality of digital data storage media carriers attached to a carrier strip. In the production of the assemblies, carriers are positioned for movement in a longitudinal direction of the conveyor system with the carriers being in a row. Carrier strips are secured to the carriers with the longitudinal axis of the assembly and the carrier strips being generally parallel to the direction of movement of the conveyor system. Carriers are deposited onto the conveyor system via a bottom feed depositor which depositor utilizes a pressure differential to help produce positive movement of carriers from a carrier magazine onto the conveyor.

Abstract: A dispensing apparatus is provided suitable for dispensing at least first and second components in desired ratios especially for multi-component packaged food products. The apparatus comprises a hopper having an outlet at its lower end and a first auger having a hollow shaft disposed within the hopper having component conveying flights and a drive means for rotating the auger. A first component is conveyed by the auger flights and dispensed at an outlet while a second component is conveyed though a hollow shaft of the auger. The apparatus can include a second rotationally driven auger that is positioned within the hollow shaft of the first auger having conveying flights. The second component can be conveyed via the second auger within the hollow shaft. The second auger's shaft also can be hollow whereby a third component can be conveyed through the second hollow shaft of the second auger.

Abstract: A dispensing system dispensing items includes a dispensing station and a first conveyor for transporting containers to the dispensing station. The dispensing station includes a dispenser for dispensing items to the containers, a mechanism for spacing the containers to a predetermined pitch, a transfer wheel for removing the containers from the first conveyor, a star wheel for receiving the containers from the transfer wheel and for transporting the containers in synchronization with the dispenser, and a turret for removing the containers from the star wheel.

Abstract: A medication filling apparatus for filling a predetermined container with medications, such as tablets, provide improved assemblability and maintainability, and permits safe and reliable filling operations, while maintaining a compact size. The medication filling apparatus is equipped with a plurality of tablet cases for accommodating medications of respective types, a plurality of hoppers provided side by side below the respective tablet cases in a corresponding manner to receive the medications dispensed therefrom, and charging means for guiding the medications dispensed from a dispensing port formed at the bottommost portion of each hopper to a predetermined container and for charging them, and is further equipped with retaining members on which the hoppers are hung, wherein the hoppers are detachably installed to the retaining members.