System for processing mass-fabricated items with three-dimensional codes
US7604181B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 28, 2006 |
| Grant date | Oct 20, 2009 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 28, 2027 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG06K2019/06271
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
In the processing of mass-produced items that include a three-dimensional code formed therein, a system is provided for automating certain post-manufacturing processing steps. The system includes a printing mechanism that applies ink to the three-dimensional code to form an optically-readable code; a code-reading mechanism that reads the optically readable code and transmits a signal indicative of the code to a database that may be employed for tracking the processed items; and a transport mechanism that moves the items from the printing mechanism to the code-reading mechanism. In one embodiment, the system also includes a liquid agent application mechanism that applies a liquid agent to the items after the optically-readable code is formed. The transport mechanism includes a plurality of pallets on which the items are placed for processing, and that is operable to move the pallets sequentially to the several processing mechanisms.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.