Packaging apparatus
US6643998B1 · kind B1 · utility
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 10, 2002 |
| Grant date | Nov 11, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 10, 2022 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB65B9/13
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A packaging apparatus for enclosing a head portion of a stethoscope in a barrier material. The packaging apparatus includes a housing having an interior with an opening for allowing the insertion of a head portion of a stethoscope into the interior. A sensor assembly detects the insertion of the head portion of the stethoscope. A door assembly selectively closes the opening. The door assembly comprises a door member and a door actuator. The door member is movable between an open position and a closed position. A vacuum assembly evacuates air from the interior. A table member supports a section of a roll of barrier material comprising individual plastic sleeves. A feed assembly positions the barrier material. A handling assembly manipulates an open end of the sleeves. The handling assembly includes an upper attachment member and a lower attachment member for releasably attaching to top and bottom sides of the open end of the sleeve respectively. A control device controls each of the assemblies in a sequential manner.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.