Method and apparatus for distributing and storing serially produced articles in multiple storage units
US8534034B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 2, 2012 |
| Grant date | Sep 17, 2013 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 2, 2032 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB65B61/28
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An apparatus and method for distributing articles is arranged to deliver articles to selected stacking positions in two or more storage units. An article is dispensed to a first article transport and distribution section in a main storage unit, and then either delivered to a stacking position in the main unit or transported through a connecting window onto a second transport and distribution section in a satellite storage unit for delivery to a stacking position in that unit. The procedure is repeated to distribute subsequent bags of ice to selected stacking positions in each unit. Additional satellite storage units may be provided and included in the delivery sequence for distributing bags of ice throughout the units. The storage units may be refrigerated, merchandizing units for bagged ice, with the main storage unit associated with an ice bagged ice supply unit which dispenses bags of ice into the unit.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.