Systems and methods for dispensing objects
US7472803B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 25, 2005 |
| Grant date | Jan 6, 2009 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 16, 2026 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB65H3/24
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An automated dispensing assembly includes a base, and a shuttle mounted in the base and movable under automated control between a loading position and a dispensing position. The shuttle includes a cavity configured to carry an object, such as cover. The depth of the cavity in the shuttle is approximately the same (or less) as the thickness of one of the objects. A storage module is mounted proximate the shuttle. The storage module is configured to store a plurality of objects and includes an opening exposing the next object to be dispensed. The cavity is positioned adjacent the opening in the storage module in the loading position and an edge of the cavity separates the object to be dispensed from the other objects in the storage module as the shuttle moves to the dispensing position.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.