Tray flipper
US12122618B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 24, 2022 |
| Grant date | Oct 22, 2024 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 27, 2043 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB65G2203/041
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Tray flipper automation tools are described. In one example, a tray flipper includes a flip arm positioned along a conveyor, a tamper arm, a drive system, and a controller. The controller is configured to detect alignment of a tray on the conveyor with the flip arm, direct the drive system to rotate the tamper arm to a position over the tray, and actuate a tamper plate of the tamper arm to secure contents in the tray. The controller is also configured to rotate the tamper arm and the flip arm, with the tray secured between them, to an inverted position off of the conveyor. Items positioned within the tray can be flipped over when the tamper arm and the flip arm rotate away from the conveyor. The flip arm and tray can then be rotated back, leaving the items resting on the tamper plate for inspection and materials handling steps.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.