Apparatus configured to dispense a plurality of connected inflatable structures and associated system and method
US10160176B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 5, 2013 |
| Grant date | Dec 25, 2018 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 5, 2033 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB31D2205/007
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An apparatus configured to dispense a plurality of connected inflatable structures is provided. The apparatus may include a motor which is configured to advance a dispensing device to thereby advance the connected inflatable structures. A sensor is configured to detect a pulling force applied to the dispensing device and configured to output a signal corresponding to the pulling force. A controller is configured to receive the signal and output a control signal to direct the motor to advance the dispensing device in response to the signal to thereby dispense the connected inflatable structures. A related system includes the apparatus in addition to an inflation device configured to inflate the connected inflatable structures and an accumulation bin configured to store the connected inflatable structures. A related method is also provided.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.