Transport Position Identification Patents (Class 700/229)
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Patent number: 8700206Abstract: Disclosed is a method for appointing an orientation flat, in which when there are a plurality of orientation flats with the same length, any one from among the orientation flats of the same length can be certainly appointed as a reference orientation flat. In the disclosed method, three orientation flats at three positions are detected, respectively, through the rotation of a semiconductor wafer, the lengths of three circular arcs between the three orientation flats are obtained, respectively, and then an orientation flat at the right side of the longest circular arc from among the three circular arcs is appointed as a reference orientation flat. Accordingly, it is possible to certainly appoint a reference orientation flat even though there exist a plurality of circular arcs with the same length.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 2010Date of Patent: April 15, 2014Assignee: Tokyo Electron LimitedInventor: Kaori Arai
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Patent number: 8694154Abstract: A storage and order-picking system and method, wherein communication addresses are assigned to storage spaces, the system comprising a warehouse having a plurality of storage spaces each being either free or having assigned one good; a plurality of display devices each allocated to an assigned storage space and including a measuring device; a control device configured to allow addressing of order-picking data to each display device, wherein a display device can be activated based on transmitted order picking data such that an order-picking person visually recognizes from which one of the storage spaces goods are to be removed, and wherein a storage-space location is recorded for each storage space; a network connecting the display devices to the control device; and a location-measuring system configured to determine a mounting location for each mounted display device and to compare the so-determined mounting location with the recorded storage-space location.Type: GrantFiled: April 26, 2013Date of Patent: April 8, 2014Assignee: SSI Schäfer Peem GmbHInventor: Max Winkler
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Patent number: 8688261Abstract: Disclosed are a transport apparatus that holds and transports an object on a predetermined transport track using a transport portion provided at the leading end of an arm and is capable of acquiring the teaching information of a transport position using a normal transport operation, a position teaching method, and a sensor jig. A transmissive sensor (32) is provided in a sensor jig (30) such that the projection segments of an optical axis (41) and an optical axis (42) on a projection plane intersect with each other and neither the project segment of the optical axis (41) nor the projection segment of the optical axis (42) is aligned with the X-direction and the Y-direction. During a position teaching operation, the sensor jig (30) is provided so as to be held by a wafer transport portion (24), thereby detecting target members (51, 52).Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 2009Date of Patent: April 1, 2014Assignee: Rorze CorporationInventor: Kenji Hirota
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Patent number: 8682483Abstract: During a carrying operation, the position, transportation origin, and transportation destination of a carrier or a boat can be easily checked. A carrying system is configured to carry a substrate, a manipulation unit is configured to display an operation state of the carrying system on a manipulation screen, and a control unit is configured to control an operation of the carrying system. The manipulation unit displays a carrying system icon indicating the carrying system which is a carrying target object and a carrying-out icon at predetermined positions of the manipulation screen corresponding to a transportation origin of the carrying system, and a carrying-in icon at a predetermined position of the manipulation screen corresponding to the transportation destination of the carrying system.Type: GrantFiled: December 10, 2012Date of Patent: March 25, 2014Assignee: Hitachi Kokusai Electric, Inc.Inventor: Junichi Kawasaki
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Patent number: 8676375Abstract: An automated cassette-to-cassette substrate handling system includes a cassette storage module for storing a plurality of substrates in cassettes before and after processing. A substrate carrier storage module stores a plurality of substrate carriers. A substrate carrier loading/unloading module loads substrates from the cassette storage module onto the plurality of substrate carriers and unloads substrates from the plurality of substrate carriers to the cassette storage module. A transport mechanism transports the plurality of substrates between the cassette storage module and the plurality of substrate carriers and transports the plurality of substrate carriers between the substrate carrier loading/unloading module and a processing chamber. A vision system recognizes recesses in the plurality of substrate carriers corresponding to empty substrate positions in the substrate carrier.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 2012Date of Patent: March 18, 2014Assignee: Veeco Instruments Inc.Inventors: Joseph Arthur Kraus, Jeremy James Boyer, Joseph Mack, Michael DeChellis, Michael Koo
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Publication number: 20140046479Abstract: Methods and systems for tracking product groups associated with orders through an automated packaging system are presented.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 21, 2013Publication date: February 13, 2014Applicant: Vistaprint Schweiz GmbHInventors: Justin D. Marrese, Marco A. Lara, Boris I. Paskalev
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Patent number: 8649902Abstract: A transport medium driving device is provided with a transport unit that transports a sheet-shaped transport medium on which an image is formed by an image forming unit, a position detecting unit that detects the position of the sheet-shaped transport medium, a positional deviation acquiring unit that acquires a positional deviation between the detected position and a predetermined target position at a predetermined interval, a correcting unit that corrects the positional deviation on the basis of a correction amount for correcting a positional displacement between the sheet-shaped transport medium and the image formed on the sheet-shaped transport medium, a control unit that controls a transport speed of the sheet-shaped transport medium on the basis of the corrected positional deviation, and a determining unit that determines whether a correction operation is converged on the basis of a variation in the positional deviation over time.Type: GrantFiled: September 16, 2011Date of Patent: February 11, 2014Assignee: Ricoh Company, LimitedInventor: Minoru Takahashi
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Patent number: 8626329Abstract: An improved assembly, test, packaging and/or processing system and a control system, each of which may be expanded or reduced in size, capability and/or capacity on a modular basis to suit or adapt to a number of different applications. The product assembly, test, packaging and/or processing system comprises a number of modules which are assembled and arranged as required. Pallets move between stations on the modules along track portions which cooperate with track portions on adjacent modules so other modules can be added without affecting the movement of the pallets. When those modules are added or removed, or when stations are added or removed, corresponding controllers in the control system are also added or removed.Type: GrantFiled: November 20, 2009Date of Patent: January 7, 2014Assignee: AGR Automation Ltd.Inventors: Craig Alexander Dickson, Ronald Arron McGill
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Publication number: 20130345857Abstract: A material position information measuring section measures a position of a material lifted up by a tower crane. A structure information measuring section measures position information about surrounding structures. A route searching section searches for a route of movement of the material from a start point to a destination. The route of movement determined by the route searching section is stored in a route storage. A data processor receives data of the material position information measuring section and the structure information measuring section, and calculates 2D or 3D image data about relative positions of the tower crane, the material lifted up by the tower crane and the surrounding structures. A display unit displays information about at least one of the tower crane, the material and the surrounding structures using the image data calculated by the data processor, and displays the route of movement determined by the route searching section.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 7, 2011Publication date: December 26, 2013Applicant: Industry-Academic Cooperation Foundation, Yonsel UniversityInventors: Ghang Lee, Joon Beom Cho, Tae Kwan Lee, Sung Il Ham, Su Yeul Park, Kang Lee
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Patent number: 8612049Abstract: When the load factor of a loading/unloading apparatus reaches a second reference value that is smaller in load factor than the first reference value, the operation speed of the loading/unloading apparatus becomes a reduction state. It is possible to make load vibration difficult to be generated in a load. Further, fine adjustment of the manipulation becomes easy, such that it is possible to prevent the load factor from reaching the first reference value due to careless manipulation of the operator. Even if the load factor reaches the first reference value, the operation speed of the loading/unloading apparatus has been reduced, such that it is possible to prevent load vibration of the load W when stopping.Type: GrantFiled: August 3, 2012Date of Patent: December 17, 2013Assignees: Central Japan Railway Company, Nippon Sharyo, Ltd.Inventors: Noriyuki Ogita, Kazunari Sakurai, Ryou Maeda, Kazuki Kobayashi, Koshu Yamashita
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Patent number: 8571700Abstract: Various embodiments are directed to a system for managing an inventory comprising serialized products. A computer system may receive from an intake sensor a first tray identifier describing a first tray present on an intake transport system. The computer system may also associate the first tray identifier with a first serial identifier of a first product unit present on a product transport system and instructing the product transport system, by the computer system, to transport the first product unit to the first tray. Additionally, the computer system may instruct a robot to place the first tray containing the first product unit at a first bin selected from a plurality of robot-accessible bins.Type: GrantFiled: August 2, 2010Date of Patent: October 29, 2013Assignee: Brightstar Corp.Inventors: Mark J. Keller, Jesse J. Garcia, Matthew Stephen Kolodzej, Karsten Kell
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Patent number: 8565913Abstract: An apparatus and method for tracking the location of one or more assets, comprising an integrated system that identifies an asset, determines the time the asset is acquired by a conveying vehicle, determines the position, elevation and orientation of the asset at the moment it is acquired, determines the time the asset is deposited by the conveying vehicle, and determines the position, elevation and orientation of the asset at the time the asset is deposited, each position, elevation and orientation being relative to a reference plane. Mobile subsystems, each on a conveying vehicle, identify the location and orientation of that conveying vehicle using an optical position sensor unit viewing an array of optical position markers, determine the identity of the asset from a label, confirm acquisition of the asset, determine the elevation of the asset relative to the reference plane and communicate the tracking information to a fixed-base subsystem.Type: GrantFiled: January 26, 2009Date of Patent: October 22, 2013Assignee: Sky-Trax, Inc.Inventors: David C. Emanuel, Larry G. Mahan, Richard H. Ungerbuehler
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Patent number: 8565914Abstract: Methods and systems for tracking product groups associated with orders through an automated packaging system are presented.Type: GrantFiled: January 18, 2010Date of Patent: October 22, 2013Assignee: Vistaprint Technologies LimitedInventors: Justin D. Marrese, Marco A. Lara, Boris I. Paskalev
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Patent number: 8565915Abstract: A system and method provides for the recovery of carriers stranded within a pneumatic carrier system. Initially, unresolved transaction records generated during the transit of carrier within the system are identified for carrier recovery purposes. System handling information is identified from the transaction record. Based on this information, the system determines a putative location of each a carrier associated with a transaction record. The system operates a segment of the pneumatic system including the putative carrier location to confirm the presence or absence of a stranded carrier. If a carrier is identified within that segment of the system, the carrier is deemed recovered. The carrier is then delivered to the destination location in the transaction record.Type: GrantFiled: May 5, 2010Date of Patent: October 22, 2013Assignee: Swisslog Healthcare SolutionsInventor: David Michael Dillon
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Patent number: 8554361Abstract: A system is described for determining a relative location of a plurality of items upon a plurality of platforms. The system may include a memory, an interface, and a processor. The memory may store a first item, a second item, a first period of time and a second period of time. The interface may be operative to communicate with a user and an antenna. The antenna may be able to detect an item for a period of time. The processor may be operative to receive from the antenna, via the interface, the first item, the first period of time, the second item and the second period of time. The processor may determine whether the periods of time overlap. If the periods of time overlap the processor may communicate to the user that the items are upon the same platform, otherwise that the items are on consecutive platforms.Type: GrantFiled: March 5, 2012Date of Patent: October 8, 2013Assignee: Accenture Global Services LimitedInventors: Olivier Krener, Loic J Feinbier, Lars Schittko
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Patent number: 8527088Abstract: Upon receiving first data, a stop control unit (211) performs control such that a transportation vehicle (200) stops at a first stop position at which the transportation vehicle (200) can load the article onto a second apparatus. Upon receiving second data, the stop control unit (211) performs control such that the transportation vehicle (200) stops at a second stop position corresponding to a first apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: February 15, 2010Date of Patent: September 3, 2013Assignee: Murata Machinery, Ltd.Inventor: Tadamasa Tominaga
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Patent number: 8525671Abstract: A mechanism and method for making status reporting devices for container handlers, including: providing a micro-controller module, and installing a program system into memory accessed by a computer directing the micro-controller module. The micro-controller module communicatively couples with means for wirelessly communicating and for sensing a state of the container handler. Means for wirelessly communicating may include means for wirelessly determining container handler location. The micro-controller module may be communicatively coupled to a separate means for determining location. An apparatus making the devices may include a second program system directing the invention's method through a second computer, which may control an assembly device in creating the micro-controller, coupled with the means for sensing and for wirelessly communicating.Type: GrantFiled: January 20, 2012Date of Patent: September 3, 2013Assignee: Paceco Corp.Inventors: Henry S. King, Toru Takehara
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Patent number: 8504195Abstract: A conveyor system having a conveyor path and friction drive spaced along the path to drive carriers along the path. Each friction drive is controlled by a drive controller, which communicates tracking, routing, and other information directly to other drive controllers within range via a wireless signal. The drive controllers may also directly communicate wirelessly with a central controller. If the central controller or a desired destination drive controller is out of range of a particular drive controller, that drive controller may communicate through other drive controllers until the desired destination drive controller is reached, or a drive controller that is within range of the central controller is reached.Type: GrantFiled: September 8, 2009Date of Patent: August 6, 2013Assignee: Jervis B. Webb CompanyInventors: Noel F. Dehne, Christopher John Murphy
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Publication number: 20130166063Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for the loading and unloading of cargo in transport means. In one example, a cargo loading system having a fully automated conveyor system and a fully automated bolt system for locking the cargo unit is provided. Manual interventions of the loading personnel in the cargo space may not be necessary.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 20, 2013Publication date: June 27, 2013Applicant: AIRBUS OPERATIONS GMBHInventor: AIRBUS OPERATIONS GMBH
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Patent number: 8473096Abstract: A substrate transfer robot includes a substrate gripping portion, an arm unit, and a controller. The substrate gripping portion is configured to hold a substrate. The arm unit includes a plurality of arms which are capable of turning in a horizontal plane. The arm unit has the substrate gripping portion at a leading end of the arm unit and is configured to transfer the substrate between a plurality of taught positions taught beforehand. When the taught positions are taught, the controller is configured to generate an access standby position corresponding to each of the plurality of taught positions and configured to generate and store a plurality of routes from the access standby position to a minimum turning posture of the substrate transfer robot.Type: GrantFiled: February 12, 2010Date of Patent: June 25, 2013Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Yaskawa DenkiInventors: Mitsuaki Matsuo, Yoshiki Kimura
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Patent number: 8428772Abstract: In a method of processing mailpieces, Customer Applied Identifier (CAI) codes are assigned to the mailpieces by a sender of the mailpieces, and are used by the postal operator while the mailpieces are passing through a postal sorting system. Said CAI codes are recorded in memory in the sorting system in correspondence with first digital fingerprints or image signatures prior to the first pass of the mailpieces through the postal sorting system. While a current mailpiece is passing through the sorting system in a first sorting pass, an image is formed of the surface of the mailpiece that bears a postal address block, and a current fingerprint and location information for locating said mailpiece in the sorting process is derived from the image of said mailpiece. A search is made for a match between said current fingerprint and a first fingerprint recorded in memory in order to retrieve a current CAI code with which said location information is.Type: GrantFiled: August 12, 2008Date of Patent: April 23, 2013Assignee: SolysticInventors: Emmanuel Miette, Christophe Lhomme
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Patent number: 8416080Abstract: An RFID cabinet for monitoring items having an RFID tag includes a cabinet having at least one locking front door. An RFID detector is used for monitoring each item placed within the cabinet and is located within the interior of the cabinet. A computer is coupled to the RFID cabinet and controls opening and closing of the front door and is configured to receive an input that identifies the user. In this way, the computer is configured to periodically record data read from the RFID tags by the RFID detector.Type: GrantFiled: July 23, 2009Date of Patent: April 9, 2013Assignee: Omnicell, Inc.Inventor: John Higham
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Publication number: 20130079921Abstract: A sample analyzer comprising: a measurement section; a transportation section; an identification data obtainer; and a system controller; is disclosed. The system controller is configured to acquire a result of determination regarding whether a sample needs a re-measurement for a sample based on a result of a measurement of the sample. When the system controller recognizes a presence of the washing fluid tube transported by the transportation section before a determination result regarding a necessity of re-measurement is obtained for an already aspirated sample, the system controller prohibits the supply of the washing fluid in the washing fluid tube to the measurement section.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 25, 2012Publication date: March 28, 2013Applicant: SYSMEX CORPORATIONInventor: SYSMEX CORPORATION
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Patent number: 8359121Abstract: Described are systems, methods and products for the shipment of passenger or other traveler containers, e.g. containing personal items for use during travel. In certain aspects, systems and methods for such shipment involve the use of transport vessels other than those that will be occupied by a passenger during travel, e.g. cargo vessels or vehicles.Type: GrantFiled: October 3, 2007Date of Patent: January 22, 2013Inventors: Sarah L. Moshe, Beth W. McIntire
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Patent number: 8352069Abstract: During a carrying operation, the position, transportation origin, and transportation destination of a carrier or a boat can be easily checked. A carrying system is configured to carry a substrate, a manipulation unit is configured to display an operation state of the carrying system on a manipulation screen, and a control unit is configured to control an operation of the carrying system. The manipulation unit displays a carrying system icon indicating the carrying system which is a carrying target object and a carrying-out icon at predetermined positions of the manipulation screen corresponding to a transportation origin of the carrying system, and a carrying-in icon at a predetermined position of the manipulation screen corresponding to the transportation destination of the carrying system.Type: GrantFiled: December 7, 2009Date of Patent: January 8, 2013Assignee: Hitachi Kokusai Electric Inc.Inventor: Junichi Kawasaki
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Patent number: 8340814Abstract: A method of tracking trays through a delivery system. The method comprises: generating an enhanced label, the enhanced label comprising a routing code and a label unique identifier, the enhanced label being applied to the tray; associating a tray with a container, the container having a container unique identifier; and receiving a load container scan, the load container scan associating the container unique identifier with the enhanced label.Type: GrantFiled: August 23, 2011Date of Patent: December 25, 2012Assignee: United States Postal ServiceInventor: Daryl Hamilton
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Patent number: 8326451Abstract: An inventory control system and method uses a locating device associated with a mover and identifies an ID tagged asset using an ID reader also associated with the mover. Thus, a single relatively high-cost locating device may be temporarily associated with the asset, enabling precise location of a multitude of assets as a mover traverses an inventory area. The asset location and identification may be associated in a database. The asset location may be refined by using additional measurement devices, for example a forklift height sensor, to determine extension from a locating device. A further embodiment utilizes RFID or barcode technology for the ID tag. The locating device may utilize near-field location technology, signals-of-opportunity, or other RTLS technologies.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 2011Date of Patent: December 4, 2012Assignee: Q-Track CorporationInventors: Hans Gregory Schantz, Peter J. Beucher
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Patent number: 8308414Abstract: A medication dispenser provides automation to the steps of locating and acquiring medications to be administered to a patient. The medication dispenser includes an enclosure providing a secure environment for storing medications in multiple sized medication storage bins. The medication storage bins are hung in storage racks located within the enclosure. A robot system is also provided within the enclosure for moving bins between the storage racks and a medication dispensing area. The medication dispensing area includes doors configured to open to define an opening for passing a selected bin through the enclosure. The medication storage bin includes a bulk bin loading drawing for loading medication storage bins into the medication dispensing apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: December 31, 2008Date of Patent: November 13, 2012Assignee: Cerner Innovation, Inc.Inventors: Edward J. Schifman, William A. Bedore
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Patent number: 8301296Abstract: A method of identifying transportation items which are physically different from one another, particularly for identifying automatically sortable passenger luggage in air, rail, or ocean travel, using electronically readable information associated with the transportation item.Type: GrantFiled: July 4, 2008Date of Patent: October 30, 2012Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventors: Hans-Jörg Grundmann, Georg Kinnemann
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Patent number: 8280545Abstract: A vacuum processing apparatus transfers a wafer between a first transfer arm and a second transfer arm via a rotary stage; acquires position data of a peripheral portion of the wafer by using a line sensor while rotating the rotary stage sustaining the wafer before a vacuum process thereon; calculates a center position and a direction of the wafer based on the position data; controls a rotation of the rotary stage to adjust the direction of the wafer based on the calculation result; and controls the second transfer arm such that the second transfer arm conveys the wafer to a wafer mounting member inside a vacuum processing chamber while allowing a center of the wafer to be aligned to a center of the mounting member based on the calculation result.Type: GrantFiled: February 4, 2008Date of Patent: October 2, 2012Assignee: Tokyo Electron LimitedInventor: Keisuke Kondoh
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Patent number: 8265788Abstract: An automated mail sorting system including a display for displaying the image of an item of mail belonging to a carrier route, and input device for associating the image with any of a plurality of stations in a walking sequence of the carrier route, and a sorter having a reader for identifying the item of mail, to sorter for placing the item of mail in a location corresponding to the station in the walking sequence.Type: GrantFiled: March 10, 2008Date of Patent: September 11, 2012Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Ehud D. Karnin, Eugene Walach
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Patent number: 8251629Abstract: A medication dispenser provides automation to the steps of locating and acquiring medications to be administered to a patient. The medication dispenser includes an enclosure providing a secure environment for storing medications in multiple sized medication-storage bins. The medication storage bins are hung in storage racks located within the enclosure. A robot system is also provided within the enclosure for moving bins between the storage racks and a medication dispensing area. The medication dispensing area includes doors configured to open to define an opening for passing a selected bin through the enclosure. In some embodiments, the doors provide a variable-sized opening and, in some instances, the opening matches the size of a bin containing medications selected for dispensing.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 2008Date of Patent: August 28, 2012Assignee: Cerner Innovation, Inc.Inventors: Edward J. Schifman, William A Bedore
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Publication number: 20120209421Abstract: A system and method provides for a pneumatic tube carrier tracking system having a system control module that captures and presents tracking information associated with sending and receiving carriers. The pneumatic tube carrier tracking system comprises sending and receiving stations connected by pneumatic tubing, and which are configured to securely send carriers, with receiving users optionally being restricted from unauthorized access of carriers. The sending and receiving stations have identifying tag readers configured to scan identifier tags to read carrier delivery, carrier receipt and receiving user information. Destination and intended recipient information are entered at the sending station when sending a carrier and are transmitted to a system control module, which routably delivers and secures the carriers in response the destination and intended recipient information.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 14, 2012Publication date: August 16, 2012Inventor: Fredrick M. Valerino, SR.
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Patent number: 8219241Abstract: A targeted product distribution system is described herein with respect to an exemplary management of product flow through a distribution center. Specifically, the system and method described herein is directed to the management and display of direct and easily-understood instructions, such that average individuals, as well as those with mental disabilities, will be able to contribute equally to the overall process.Type: GrantFiled: January 22, 2009Date of Patent: July 10, 2012Assignee: Walgreen Co.Inventors: Vinayak Pandit, Brian Amend, Louie Chin, Jeffrey Elliott, Kathy Emery, Gaurav Hasija, Maureen Isidoro, Lionel Ng, Doug Peterson, Todd Steffen, Patrick Sullivan
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Patent number: 8188865Abstract: A mechanism and method for making status reporting devices for container handlers, including: providing a micro-controller module, and installing a program system into memory accessed by a computer directing the micro-controller module. The micro-controller module communicatively couples with means for wirelessly communicating and for sensing a state of the container handler. Means for wirelessly communicating may include means for wirelessly determining container handler location. The micro-controller module may be communicatively coupled to a separate means for determining location. An apparatus making the devices may include a second program system directing the invention's method through a second computer, which may control an assembly device in creating the micro-controller, coupled with the means for sensing and for wirelessly communicating.Type: GrantFiled: October 6, 2009Date of Patent: May 29, 2012Assignee: PACECO Corp.Inventors: Henry S. King, Toru Takehara
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Patent number: 8185235Abstract: A system is described for determining a relative location of a plurality of items upon a plurality of platforms. The system may include a memory, an interface, and a processor. The memory may store a first item, a second item, a first period of time and a second period of time. The interface may be operative to communicate with a user and an antenna. The antenna may be able to detect an item for a period of time. The processor may be operative to receive from the antenna, via the interface, the first item, the first period of time, the second item and the second period of time. The processor may determine whether the periods of time overlap. If the periods of time overlap the processor may communicate to the user that the items are upon the same platform, otherwise that the items are on consecutive platforms.Type: GrantFiled: November 7, 2007Date of Patent: May 22, 2012Assignee: Accenture Global Services LimitedInventors: Olivier Krener, Loïc J. Feinbier, Lars Schittko
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Publication number: 20120072015Abstract: A transport medium driving device is provided with a transport unit that transports a sheet-shaped transport medium on which an image is formed by an image forming unit, a position detecting unit that detects the position of the sheet-shaped transport medium, a positional deviation acquiring unit that acquires a positional deviation between the detected position and a predetermined target position at a predetermined interval, a correcting unit that corrects the positional deviation on the basis of a correction amount for correcting a positional displacement between the sheet-shaped transport medium and the image formed on the sheet-shaped transport medium, a control unit that controls a transport speed of the sheet-shaped transport medium on the basis of the corrected positional deviation, and a determining unit that determines whether a correction operation is converged on the basis of a variation in the positional deviation over time.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 16, 2011Publication date: March 22, 2012Inventor: Minoru TAKAHASHI
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Patent number: 8135496Abstract: A ground controller and traveling vehicles are connected to a communication system on the ground. Position instructions are given to the traveling vehicles in each position control cycle. The traveling vehicles generate a plurality of velocity instructions and torque instructions by themselves to carry out the position instructions.Type: GrantFiled: March 3, 2010Date of Patent: March 13, 2012Assignee: Murata Machinery, Ltd.Inventor: Takao Hayashi
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Patent number: 8116906Abstract: A system and method provides for a pneumatic tube carrier tracking system having a system control module that captures and presents tracking information associated with sending and receiving carriers. The pneumatic tube carrier tracking system comprises sending and receiving stations connected by pneumatic tubing, and which are configured to securely send carriers, with receiving users optionally being restricted from unauthorized access of carriers. The sending and receiving stations have identifying tag readers configured to scan identifier tags to read carrier delivery, carrier receipt and receiving user information. Destination and intended recipient information are entered at the sending station when sending a carrier and are transmitted to a system control module, which routably delivers and secures the carriers in response the destination and intended recipient information.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 2008Date of Patent: February 14, 2012Assignee: Pevco Systems International, Inc.Inventor: Fredrick M. Valerino, Sr.
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Patent number: 8086341Abstract: A control system for a manufacturing chain having a plurality of modular manufacturing stations positioned in series includes a memory for storing a plurality of unique operation patterns thereon. The control system also includes at least one communications conduit for receiving a first position signal from a first position tracking device of each modular manufacturing station. A processor is configured to independently transmit at least one operation signal corresponding to one of the unique operation patterns to an article transportation device of each modular manufacturing station via the communications conduit based, at least in part, on the first position signal from each modular manufacturing station. The communications conduit further receives a second position signal from a second position tracking device of each modular manufacturing station.Type: GrantFiled: May 9, 2008Date of Patent: December 27, 2011Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.Inventors: John M. Spangler, Mark E. Dietz
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Patent number: 8078312Abstract: The invention refers to a Method (69) for automatically inserting at least one part (13) into a storage section (15) of a container (11), wherein the storage section (15) comprises a plurality of holder means (17a-d), wherein the part (13) is inserted (103) by means of an insertion tool (49), and wherein the method (69) comprises the step of detecting (93) the position of the holder means (17a-d) by means of at least one optical sensor (51a-d). In order to provide a method for automatically inserting a part into a storage section (15), wherein collisions are avoided it is suggested that the method (69) further comprises the steps of verifying (95) whether the holder means (17a-d) of a certain storage section (15) are available for insertion of the part (13); detecting (99) the orientation of the holder means (17a-d); determining (100) an insertion path (47) along which the part is inserted; and inserting (103) the part (13) into the available storage section (15) along the determined insertion path (47).Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 2008Date of Patent: December 13, 2011Assignee: Inos Automationssoftware GmbHInventor: Charalambos Tassakos
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Patent number: 8078314Abstract: Systems and methods that allow for orienting and delivering mail between a postage verifier and a mail sorter. A postage verifier includes an optical character reader for decoding addresses on mail pieces that do not have bar codes. A reverter orients mail from the postage verifier into a position required for processing by the mail sorter. A combination of mail carrying modules carry the mail from the reverter to the mail sorter. The mail sorter prints bar code information on mail lacking bar codes, when the data is available, and sorts the mail based on the bar code information.Type: GrantFiled: January 17, 2008Date of Patent: December 13, 2011Assignee: United States Postal ServiceInventors: Timothy B. Barnum, George Laws, Leung M. Shiu, James E. Goodbar, III
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Publication number: 20110301746Abstract: In a computer-controlled conveying system (3), virtual markers (K1-K10) are generated and are stored in association with a conveying element (31, 32, 33, 34). The virtual markers (K1-K10) each comprise a marker position which is based on the current position of the conveying element (31, 32, 33, 34) at the time of generation. A search is carried out for stored virtual markers (K1, K5, K6, K9) which have a relative position with respect to the associated conveying element (31, 32, 33, 34) that lies within a defined sector (T1, T2, T3) at the search time. Actuators of the conveying system (3) are driven depending on whether virtual markers (K1, K5, K6, K9) were found in the defined sector (T1, T2, T3) during searching. The virtual markers (K1-K10) may be applied to the conveying elements (31, 32, 33, 34) with dynamically changing distances, for example, and make it possible to drive actuators in a flexible manner independently of a fixedly defined clock rate.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 25, 2009Publication date: December 8, 2011Applicant: FERAG AGInventor: Rudolf Gallati
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Patent number: 8068009Abstract: A tag receives wireless signpost signals that include timing data, determines time information associated with an event as a function of the timing data, and transmits a wireless tag signal that contains the time information. In a another configuration, a signpost transmits wireless signpost signals having a selected transmission range; a reader proximate to the signpost receives wireless tag signals with a reception range that is approximately the same as the selected transmission range; and a tag movable relative to the signpost and reader responds to receipt of a wireless signpost signal by transmitting a wireless tag signal containing a tag code associated with the tag.Type: GrantFiled: January 10, 2006Date of Patent: November 29, 2011Assignee: Savi Technology, Inc.Inventors: Nikola Cargonja, Joseph S. Chan, Albert Nardelli
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Patent number: 8059991Abstract: A control unit calculates a difference between a displacement of a belt detected by an encoder and a predetermined target value, calculates a pulse frequency of a driving pulse signal based on a feedback control based on the difference and a feed-forward control based on a reference driving pulse frequency, sets a control range of the feedback control to be equal to or smaller than a frequency of one rotation of a driven roller, and controls driving of a pulse motor such that the belt moves at a constant speed.Type: GrantFiled: May 22, 2008Date of Patent: November 15, 2011Assignee: Ricoh Company, LimitedInventors: Toshiyuki Andoh, Hiromichi Matsuda, Satoru Tao, Noritaka Masuda, Yuji Uozaki, Yuichi Hirose
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Patent number: 8060241Abstract: Stations (8,9) of an automatic warehouse (2) are provided with transfer devices (10) for transferring an article one by one between a tray and a bucket, and hands (11, 12) of the transfer devices are provided with an ID tag reader and writer. The ID of the article stored in the bucket can be grasped and delivering products can be inspected, and further, data corresponding to each article can be written in the ID tag.Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 2005Date of Patent: November 15, 2011Assignee: Murata Kikai Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Masato Ishida, Yoshinori Mitta
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Publication number: 20110257783Abstract: A substrate transfer method of delivering a substrate transferred by a transfer arm to a mounting unit and associated apparatus. The method includes moving the transfer arm to a position above the mounting unit, and, when delivering the substrate onto the mounting unit, detecting a mounting portion of the mounting unit by a mounting portion detector having a light emitting element and a light receiving element provided at opposite positions across a center point of the transfer arm on a bottom surface of the transfer arm, and then lowering the transfer arm in an oblique direction to mount the substrate on the mounting unit.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 29, 2011Publication date: October 20, 2011Applicant: TOKYO ELECTRON LIMITEDInventor: Katsuhiro MORIKAWA
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Publication number: 20110251716Abstract: A system and process for improving container flow within a port facility, including improved equipment and software for controlling operation and flow of the equipment in the part facility. The system may include a port facility geographically arranged to separate land operations and water operations. Land operation's such as over-the-road missions and rail missions may use landside access areas positioned at one end of a yard including rows of container stacks. Water missions such as loading/discharging a vessel may use waterside access areas positioned at the opposite end of the yard. Automated cranes linked with a terminal operating system may pick/drop/shuffle containers and/or refrigerated containers (“reefers”) within the container stacks. Shuttle trucks may be used to pick/drop containers at quayside access points and the waterside access areas. The shuttle trucks may utilize shared wheelpaths. Software systems may be used to implement various principles of the disclosure.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 21, 2011Publication date: October 13, 2011Inventors: Guy Alan BUZZONI, Richard L. Hudson, Edward McCarthy, Peter Giugliano
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Patent number: 8036771Abstract: A transportation vehicle measures its own absolute position, and transmits the measured absolute position to a ground controller. The ground controller keeps track of positions of a plurality of transportation vehicles in real time, and sends running instructions to travel, while avoiding interference between the transportation vehicles. As a result, the ground controller can control travel of the transportation vehicles in real time.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 2007Date of Patent: October 11, 2011Assignee: Murata Machinery, Ltd.Inventor: Takao Hayashi
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Publication number: 20110245963Abstract: A medication bin is provided that includes a bin housing configured to carry medication and other medical supplies, an electronic display, such as a liquid crystal display or electronic paper, carried by the bin housing and a processor carried by the bin housing and configured to control the electronic display. The processor is configured to receive information relating to a destination of the medication or other medical supplies to be carried by the medication bin. The processor is also configured to direct the electronic display to present a representation of the destination. Corresponding methods and computer program products are also provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 30, 2010Publication date: October 6, 2011Inventor: Mark Leng