Pneumatic tube system with secure carrier storage
US12319518B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 12, 2022 |
| Grant date | Jun 3, 2025 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 6, 2044 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB65G2812/1691
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A carrier vault for a workstation of a pneumatic tube system includes a rotatable carousel comprising at least a first and second carrier port, each carrier port sized and shaped to hold a carrier used to transport materials via the pneumatic tube system and to allow the carrier to pass through the carousel. The carousel is configured to rotate between a first position, where the first carrier port is aligned with an access tube of the pneumatic tube system and a second position, where the second carrier port is aligned with the access tube. The carrier vault further comprises a selection gate adjacent to the carousel comprising a rotatable plate and a selection gate opening. The selection gate is configured to rotate between an open position, where the carrier is allowed to pass through the plate, and a closed position, where the carrier is prevented from passing through the plate.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.