Automated order system having a compound angle dispenser matrix and a dispenser cartridge
US5454688A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 5, 1993 |
| Grant date | Oct 3, 1995 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 5, 2013 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB65G1/1376
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An automated order system (AOS) having an arrayed matrix of product dispensers oriented at a compound angle with respect to an underlying gathering conveyor belt. Each dispenser includes a flexible belt ejector mechanism for dispensing products stored therein. The flexible ejector mechanism includes an L-shaped guide track that is mounted adjacent to the dispenser to minimize the amount of space required for each dispenser in the matrix. Thus, more product dispensers may be installed in the AOS over a given fixed conveyor length. Furthermore, the compound angle facilitates resupply of the dispensers and minimizes the likelihood of damage to an ejected product upon impact with the conveyor. A cartridge is also included in each dispenser having a trough and adjustable product shelf for aligning the product stack and properly positioning the bottom-most product for positioning.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.