Modular automated table-top production pod
US11396076B2 · kind B2 · utility
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 19, 2018 |
| Grant date | Jul 26, 2022 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 16, 2039 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB23Q5/40
- WIPO fieldMachine tools
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
The invention is a modular table-top automation apparatus, or for short, a tac, a word derived from an acronym for a table-top automation center, of which, this is the first. Employing integrated mechanical and electronic systems, a tac is a flexible, programmable apparatus, readily reconfigurable, which can be used as either a stand-alone unit, or as a cell within a configuration of other tacs or machines. The tac can utilize various purchasable application devices, mounted on one or two horizontal carriage rail assemblies, which extend past both sides of a frame containing a central work area, giving it a unique ability to load, position, perform numerous operations and unload a wide variety of small parts or assemblies. By combining with optional rotary magazines positioned on both sides of the frame, the tac can be set-up as a fully automatic “load and walk-away” production center.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.