Vacuum adaptable sorter unit for existing processing lines
US11202057B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 28, 2020 |
| Grant date | Dec 14, 2021 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 28, 2040 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04N23/57
- WIPO fieldAudio-visual technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
An adaptable sorter unit includes an attachment mechanism, a device that is capable of moving a first sample by use of a vacuum, a pressurized air inlet, and a valve. The pressurized air inlet is connected to the valve that controls a flow of pressurized air through the device. The valve may be electronically controlled or pneumatically controlled. The location of the adaptable sorter unit may be adjustable based, at least in part, on data captured by an optical inspector. An array of adaptable sorter units may be configured side-by-side to cover the width of the processing line. The device may be a venturi vacuum. The adaptable sorter unit may include a baseline vacuum control valve that causes a baseline vacuum force to be applied. An electrical control signal may be used to open the valve, the frequency of which may control the amount of time the valve is opened.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.