Method and apparatus for separating and inserting items packaged in a bandolier
US6035610A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 7, 1998 |
| Grant date | Mar 14, 2000 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 7, 2018 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S83/945
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An apparatus for separating individual items from a bandolier of adjacent items have a seam between the items. A pair of upper jaws and a pair of lower jaws open and close horizontally to clamp and release the respective seam. The pair of lower jaws pull the bandolier downwardly through the opened pair of upper jaws. The seam is cut while the pair of upper jaws close to grasp an adjacent seam. The pair of lower jaws open to release the separated item to a delivery system and the pair of lower jaws move upwardly to be adjacent to, and below, the pair of upper jaws. The pair of lower jaws close and the sequence is repeated. At least one sensor identifies an identification feature on the items and transmits signals to a control unit to actuate movement of the pair of upper jaws and the pair of lower jaws. Preferably, a second sensor system assures that separation is only at the respective seams. A method of use is disclosed.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.