An inspection system capable of identifying particles within a liquid container such as a vial or syringe. The inspection system captures images of a container after it has stopped spinning while it is moving in a linear path through the field of view of an imager. A plurality of images are captured of the container at different positions within the field of view. The images are registered to each other and combined in order to identify particles that have moved between images, which are considered particles.
The high-density sterile magazine presented improves the transportation and storage of multiple vessels in the filling process. The magazine provides an access port providing access to a sterile interior volume and a first internal slot for aligning vessel carriers holding a number of vessels. The vessel carriers slide along the internal slot, sequentially presenting themselves at the access port. When interfaced with an isolator port of a filling machine, the vessel carriers are consecutively removed from the magazine. The compact rectangular design optimizes storage density, and the sterilisable or sterilized port opens perpendicular to the vessel carriers. A removable or puncturable barrier ensures sterility until access is required. Gravity-assisted sliding occurs when the magazine is oriented with the port lower than the top, enhancing efficiency. The magazine accommodates various vessel types, interfaces with a receiving port and seal, and offers sterile vessel transportation, storage, and filling in medical, pharmaceutical, and laboratory settings.
B65B 3/00 - Packaging plastic material, semiliquids, liquids or mixed solids and liquids, in individual containers or receptacles, e.g. bags, sacks, boxes, cartons, cans or jars
3.
SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR FEEDING WORKPIECES TO A MANUFACTURING LINE
Computer-implemented methods and systems for feeding workpieces to a manufacturing line are provided. An example method involves operating at least one processor to: receive, from at least one image device proximal to a bowl feeder, a sequence of images of workpieces within the bowl feeder; determine a flow velocity of the workpieces within the bowl feeder; generate bowl feeder control settings by applying the flow velocity to a predictive model; and automatically apply the bowl feeder control settings to the bowl feeder. Computer-implemented methods and systems for predicting anomalies in a manufacturing line are also provided. An example method involves operating at least one processor to: receive a sequence of images of workpieces in the manufacturing line; extract feature data from the sequence of images; apply the feature data to a predictive model to detect anomalies in the manufacturing line; and generate annotations to locate the anomalies within the images.
B65G 47/12 - Devices for feeding articles or materials to conveyors for feeding articles from disorderly-arranged article piles or from loose assemblages of articles
B65G 47/14 - Devices for feeding articles or materials to conveyors for feeding articles from disorderly-arranged article piles or from loose assemblages of articles arranging or orientating the articles by mechanical or pneumatic means during feeding
A reactor vessel cutting device, including a hoist system; a mechanical cutter; and a cutter carriage secured to the hoist system to be suspended by the hoist system. The cutter is secured to a carriage body of the cutter carriage to be carried by the carriage body. The cutter carriage includes a stabilization system secured to the carriage body and operable to hold the cutter carriage against a vessel wall of the reactor vessel. The cutter carriage is operable to apply the cutter to the vessel wall in a mechanical cutting operation when the cutter carriage is held against the vessel wall by the stabilization system. The hoist system is configured to bear the weight of the cutter and the cutter carriage during the mechanical cutting operation and the stabilization system is configured to carry cutting forces generated during the mechanical cutting operation.
B23D 45/02 - Sawing machines or sawing devices with circular saw blades or with friction saw discs with a circular saw blade or the stock mounted on a carriage
B23Q 1/25 - Movable or adjustable work or tool supports
5.
SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PREDICTING COMPONENT MANUFACTURING COSTS
Computer-implemented methods and systems for predicting a cost estimate of a query manufactured component are provided. An example method involves operating at least one processor to: receive a query defining desired features for the query manufactured component; determine, using a predictive model, at least one cost estimate for the query manufactured component based on the query; and display, via a user interface, the at least one cost estimate for the query manufactured component. The desired features can include at least one of: a component type, a size, and a material for the query manufactured component.
Described herein are systems and methods for combined removal of a calandria tube and a pressure tube contained within the calandria tube from a nuclear reactor core. The system may include a first removal tool set and a second removal tool set, the first and second removal tool sets having an end fitting removal tool, a first pressure tube removal tool, and a guiding tool and/or a driving tool. The system may further include a processor in communication with the first removal tool set and the second removal tool set. The method may include operating the processor to control the first removal tool set and the second removal tool set to remove the calandria tube and pressure tube from the nuclear reactor core.
G21C 19/20 - Arrangements for introducing objects into the pressure vesselArrangements for handling objects within the pressure vesselArrangements for removing objects from the pressure vessel
7.
AUTOMATED BATTERY ASSEMBLY SYSTEMS AND RELATED METHODS, INCLUDING METHOD OF SECURING CONTACT TABS
Various assemblies for a battery are provided herein. An example assembly for a battery includes a first component having a first contact tab and a second component having a second contact tab. The first contact tab having a first bend profile and the second contact tab having a second bend profile. The first and second bend profiles are selected to provide an engaged portion therebetween.
Systems, devices, and methods of cutting and cleaning feeder tubes are described herein. The systems include a cutting station configured to cut the calandria tube to produce a cut calandria tube, a honing station configured to clean the cut calandria tube to produce a cut and cleaned calandria tube, at least one robotic arm coupled to a tool assembly for gripping the calandria tube and a computing unit in communication with the cutting station, the honing system and the robotic arm.
G21C 19/20 - Arrangements for introducing objects into the pressure vesselArrangements for handling objects within the pressure vesselArrangements for removing objects from the pressure vessel
G21C 19/32 - Apparatus for removing radioactive objects or materials from the reactor discharge area, e.g. to a storage placeApparatus for handling radioactive objects or materials within a storage place or removing them therefrom
9.
AUTOMATED BATTERY ASSEMBLY SYSTEMS AND RELATED METHODS
Various automated systems and methods are provided herein for the assembly of battery stacks. An example system includes a closed-loop transport track, a plurality of stations along the track, and a control system. The track includes a plurality of pallets. Each pallet receives at least one battery stack and is moveable along the track. The plurality of stations include a plurality of assembly stations for adding at least one battery component to a battery stack held on a pallet, and at least one transfer station for unloading a completed battery stack from the pallet. The completed battery stack includes a plurality of cells having a particular composition. The control system can move the pallets to the plurality of stations in a predetermined sequence to assemble the completed battery stack.
Systems, devices, and methods of cutting and cleaning feeder tubes are described herein. The systems include a cutting station configured to cut the calandria tube to produce a cut calandria tube, a honing station configured to clean the cut calandria tube to produce a cut and cleaned calandria tube, at least one robotic arm coupled to a tool assembly for gripping the calandria tube and a computing unit in communication with the cutting station, the honing system and the robotic arm.
G21C 19/20 - Arrangements for introducing objects into the pressure vesselArrangements for handling objects within the pressure vesselArrangements for removing objects from the pressure vessel
G21C 19/32 - Apparatus for removing radioactive objects or materials from the reactor discharge area, e.g. to a storage placeApparatus for handling radioactive objects or materials within a storage place or removing them therefrom
11.
SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR EVALUATING CONFIGURATION CHANGES ON A MACHINE IN A MANUFACTURING LINE
Systems and methods for evaluating configuration changes on a machine in a manufacturing line are provided. The machine is controlled by a PLC that stores a plurality of parameters associated with the machine. The method involves operating one or more processors to: obtain, from the PLC, a plurality of first parameter values corresponding to the plurality of parameters stored at the PLC at a first time and a plurality of second parameter values corresponding to the plurality of parameters stored at the PLC at a second time; determine a plurality of parameter value differences; identify a plurality of configuration parameters from the plurality of parameters based on the plurality of parameter value differences, each configuration parameter corresponding to a user-manipulatable parameter associated with controlling the machine; and store a plurality of first configuration parameter values in association with a first timestamp corresponding to the first time.
G05B 19/418 - Total factory control, i.e. centrally controlling a plurality of machines, e.g. direct or distributed numerical control [DNC], flexible manufacturing systems [FMS], integrated manufacturing systems [IMS] or computer integrated manufacturing [CIM]
A pallet, including a support platform having an upper end and a lower end opposite the upper end, and a vertical axis extending between the upper end and the lower end. The pallet also including a gripper assembly secured to the support platform, the gripper assembly including at least three discrete and spaced-apart tracks, each track extending out from the vertical axis and supporting a gripper finger operable to move along the track between a first position and a second position, the second position being farther from the vertical axis than the first position. Wherein each gripper finger is configured to extend out above the upper end of the support platform in each of the first position and the second position.
Systems and methods of monitoring a production level of a vibratory feeder configured to process a workpiece are described herein. The methods include operating a processor to: receive device data associated with the vibratory feeder during operation of the vibratory feeder, the device data comprising at least one input state of the vibratory feeder; receive production data associated with the vibratory feeder, the production data being representative of a production level of the vibratory feeder; determine, based on the device data and/or the production data, one or more faults corresponding to the vibratory feeder when the production level falls below a threshold production level; and determine, based on the one or more faults, a corrective action to return the production level to or above the threshold production level.
G05B 19/418 - Total factory control, i.e. centrally controlling a plurality of machines, e.g. direct or distributed numerical control [DNC], flexible manufacturing systems [FMS], integrated manufacturing systems [IMS] or computer integrated manufacturing [CIM]
B65G 43/00 - Control devices, e.g. for safety, warning or fault-correcting
A robotic gripper configured to mount to a robotic arm is described herein. The robotic gripper includes a base configured to mount to the robotic arm and spin about an axis of the base. The robotic gripper also includes at least two gripping elements coupled to the base. Each gripping element extends from the base in a direction parallel to the axis of the base and is movable relative to the base between an open position and a closed position to grasp an object. A first gripping element of the at least two gripping elements defines a first element axis laterally spaced from the axis of the base by a first distance. At least one other gripping element defines another element axis that is laterally spaced from the axis of the base by a second distance that is smaller than the first distance.
Systems, methods and devices for reducing a volume of a tube by cutting the tube into coupons. Each coupon has a coupon axial length that is less than a tube axial length of the tube, and each coupon has a coupon angular extent that is less than 190 degrees.
B23D 21/02 - Machines or devices for shearing or cutting tubes otherwise than in a plane perpendicular to the axis of the tube, e.g. for making mitred cuts, for making bicycle frames
Described herein are systems and methods for installing a calandria tube in a calandria of a nuclear reactor core. The systems may include a calandria tube installation tool set. The calandria tube installation tool set may include an insertion tool set, a receiving tool set, and an installation processor. The methods may include operating the installation processor to control tools of the insertion tool set and/or the receiving tool set to install the calandria tube in the calandria of the nuclear reactor.
G21C 19/20 - Arrangements for introducing objects into the pressure vesselArrangements for handling objects within the pressure vesselArrangements for removing objects from the pressure vessel
17.
APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR SEGMENTATION OF LARGE WORKPIECES
A segmentation assembly, including a support framework; a cutting apparatus mounted to the support framework and operable to cut a large workpiece into a plurality of axial segments; and a welding apparatus mounted to the support framework and operable to weld a first plate to a first segment of the plurality of axial segments and a second plate to a second segment of the plurality of axial segments. A method of segmenting a large workpiece, including positioning the large workpiece adjacent a segmentation assembly, the large workpiece including an outer shell elongated along a longitudinal axis of the large workpiece; cutting the large workpiece into a plurality of axial segments along the longitudinal axis; and welding a first plate to a first segment of the plurality of axial segments; and welding a second plate to a second segment of the plurality of axial segments.
B23D 57/00 - Sawing machines or sawing devices not covered by one of groups
B23Q 11/00 - Accessories fitted to machine tools for keeping tools or parts of the machine in good working condition or for cooling workSafety devices specially combined with or arranged in, or specially adapted for use in connection with, machine tools
18.
SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR SIMULATING AN OPERATION OF ONE OR MORE AUTOMATED TOOLS
A system and a method for simulating an operation of one or more automated tools within a nuclear facility. The system includes a communication component to provide access to one or more computing devices, one or more local controllers for processing command requests from the one or more computing devices for the one or more automated tools, and a processor in communication with the communication component and the one or more local controllers. The local controllers may be programmable logic controllers. The method includes using the local controllers for processing command requests received from the computing devices to generate process values for the one or more automated tools, and operating a processor use the process values to animate a three-dimensional model and generate one or more views of the animation of the three-dimensional model to be displayed at one or more computing devices.
A transporting system and method for a linear motor conveyor system, wherein the conveyor system includes at least one moving element and at least one track on which the moving element moves, the transporting system including: a rotatable element; a motor for rotating the rotatable element; a coupler connected to the rotatable element, wherein the coupler is configured to engage with the moving element when the coupler is positioned in a predetermined relationship with the moving element; and a controller configured to: operatively connect with the linear motor conveyor system; and control at least one of the moving element and the rotatable element so that the coupler is positioned in the predetermined relationship with the moving element on the track such that the coupler strips the moving element off the track.
A linear motor conveyor system including: a plurality of track sections including a track and an interior area; a track cover covering the track of the plurality of track sections; a top plate covering at least a portion of the interior area of the plurality of track sections; at least one top cover covering at least a portion of the top plate and any uncovered portions of the interior area; and a plurality of gaskets providing a seal between the track cover and track, top cover and top plate such that the interior area of the plurality of track sections are sealed. The track cover may be a strong, flexible material configured to wrap along or around the track to cover any joints between track sections and provide a sealed, easy to clean cover.
B65G 21/00 - Supporting or protective framework or housings for endless load-carriers or traction elements of belt or chain conveyors
B65G 21/10 - Supporting or protective framework or housings for endless load-carriers or traction elements of belt or chain conveyors movable, or having interchangeable or relatively- movable partsDevices for moving framework or parts thereof
B65G 23/23 - Arrangements or mountings of driving motors of electric linear motors
A nuclear dismantling system for dismantling equipment contaminated with radioactive contamination, including a dismantling apparatus to be operated remotely while in a nuclear facility and a control system communicatively coupled to the dismantling apparatus to control the dismantling apparatus remotely.
B25J 3/04 - Manipulators of leader-follower type, i.e. both controlling unit and controlled unit perform corresponding spatial movements involving servo mechanisms
B25J 11/00 - Manipulators not otherwise provided for
G21C 19/00 - Arrangements for treating, for handling, or for facilitating the handling of, fuel or other materials which are used within the reactor, e.g. within its pressure vessel
G21C 19/32 - Apparatus for removing radioactive objects or materials from the reactor discharge area, e.g. to a storage placeApparatus for handling radioactive objects or materials within a storage place or removing them therefrom
22.
SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MODELING A MANUFACTURING ASSEMBLY LINE
Various systems and methods for modeling a manufacturing assembly line are disclosed herein. Some embodiments relate to operating a processor to receive cell data and line production data, determine one or more production associations between the cell data and the line production data; evaluate the one or more production associations to identify one or more critical production associations; retrieve the cell data and the line production data associated with the one or more critical production associations; and train a predictive model with the retrieved cell data and the retrieved line production data to predict the production level of the manufacturing assembly line.
G06Q 10/04 - Forecasting or optimisation specially adapted for administrative or management purposes, e.g. linear programming or "cutting stock problem"
An apparatus for volume reduction of material removed from a hazardous environment. The apparatus includes a shielded housing for receiving a workpiece therein, at least one cutting unit having a cutting head operable for contactless cutting, and a drive unit for rotating the at least one cutting unit around a main axis so the cutting head cuts the workpiece.
B09B 3/00 - Destroying solid waste or transforming solid waste into something useful or harmless
B23K 10/00 - Welding or cutting by means of a plasma
B23K 26/08 - Devices involving relative movement between laser beam and workpiece
B23K 26/38 - Removing material by boring or cutting
G21C 19/00 - Arrangements for treating, for handling, or for facilitating the handling of, fuel or other materials which are used within the reactor, e.g. within its pressure vessel
The system includes a cell framework for defining a manufacturing area. The system includes at least one workplace within the manufacturing area. The system includes at least one manufacturing component within the manufacturing area and configured to be movable along three axes in relation to the at least one workplace. The system includes a conveying mechanism configured to move a part into the at least one workplace to be worked on by the at least one manufacturing component.
B23Q 1/62 - Movable or adjustable work or tool supports using particular mechanisms with sliding pairs only two sliding pairs only with perpendicular axes, e.g. cross-slides
B23Q 3/155 - Arrangements for automatic insertion or removal of tools
B23Q 37/00 - Metal-working machines, or constructional combinations thereof, built-up from units designed so that at least some of the units can form parts of different machines or combinationsUnits therefor in so far as the feature of interchangeability is important
B23Q 41/02 - Features relating to transfer of work between machines
B23Q 41/04 - Features relating to relative arrangements of machines
B23Q 7/14 - Arrangements for handling work specially combined with or arranged in, or specially adapted for use in connection with, machine tools, e.g. for conveying, loading, positioning, discharging, sorting co-ordinated in production lines
B21D 37/04 - Movable or exchangeable mountings for tools
B23P 23/04 - Machines or arrangements of machines for performing specified combinations of different metal-working operations not covered by a single other subclass for both machining and other metal-working operations
26.
SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PARTS HANDLING USING A LINEAR MOTOR CONVEYOR
A system and method for parts handling including: a plurality of parts arranged in a first configuration; a linear motor conveyor including a linear motor track and a plurality of moving elements; a pick and place device configured to move at least a subset of the parts from the first configuration to the linear motor conveyor system; and a control system configured to: determine locations of the parts within the first configuration; control the linear motor conveyor to move the moving elements to positions related to the locations of the parts within the first configuration; control the pick and place device to move the parts generally simultaneously to the corresponding moving elements; and after receiving the parts, move the moving elements such that the parts are in a second configuration that is different from the first configuration.
B65G 54/02 - Non-mechanical conveyors not otherwise provided for electrostatic, electric, or magnetic
G05B 19/418 - Total factory control, i.e. centrally controlling a plurality of machines, e.g. direct or distributed numerical control [DNC], flexible manufacturing systems [FMS], integrated manufacturing systems [IMS] or computer integrated manufacturing [CIM]
A system for visual state identification including: a visual display system including a plurality of light displays, each of the light displays provided to different physical locations on an automation system; an execution device operatively connected to the visual display system, including: an input device configured to receive data from the automation system; and computer readable instructions which, if executed by a processor, cause the processor to: receive input data; determine the state of the automation system based on the input data, wherein the state may include an area of interest related to one of the different physical locations; communicate with the visual display system to selectively light a portion of one or more of the plurality of light displays to display the state of the automation system and the physical location of the area of interest.
G08B 25/00 - Alarm systems in which the location of the alarm condition is signalled to a central station, e.g. fire or police telegraphic systems
G05B 19/4155 - Numerical control [NC], i.e. automatically operating machines, in particular machine tools, e.g. in a manufacturing environment, so as to execute positioning, movement or co-ordinated operations by means of programme data in numerical form characterised by programme execution, i.e. part programme or machine function execution, e.g. selection of a programme
H05B 47/105 - Controlling the light source in response to determined parameters
A joint connector for track sections of a conveyor wherein the track sections comprise a feature that requires alignment, the joint connector including: a first segment for attachment to an attachment feature of a first track section of the conveyor; and a second segment for attachment to an attachment feature of a second track section of the conveyor, wherein the second segment is configured to be adaptive to non-alignment of the attachment features of the first and second track sections in order to maintain alignment of the feature after installation of the joint connector.
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
37 - Construction and mining; installation and repair services
38 - Telecommunications services
41 - Education, entertainment, sporting and cultural services
42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design
Goods & Services
Computer software for assessing overall equipment effectiveness in the field of automated manufacturing and production; Digital Twin computer software for simulating an industrial factory in real time, assisting in operations and trouble-shooting; Virtual and augmented reality software for training others in the field of automated manufacturing and production; Virtual and augmented reality software to enable trouble-shooting and support in the field of automated manufacturing and production; computer software in the field of automation systems, namely vision systems, production planning software, automation software, machine control software; factory automation software; e-commerce software to allow users to perform electronic business transactions via a global computer network; instructional software for training others in the field of automated manufacturing and production; electronic database in the field of automated manufacturing and production equipment and systems; computer software database in the field of automated manufacturing and production equipment and systems; Sensors and cameras for collecting data pertaining to the operation and productivity of industrial automation equipment; Computing devices to process data pertaining to the operation and productivity of industrial automation equipment; Communications devices for communicated data pertaining to the operation and productivity of industrial automation equipment; Human-computer interfaces; Augmented reality and virtual reality head-mounted displays. Installation, service, maintenance and repair of automated manufacturing and production equipment. Providing access to a web portal for managing automated manufacturing and production equipment, spare parts, and lifecycles. Automated manufacturing equipment and systems instruction services; Personnel training in the field of automated manufacturing equipment and systems; Practical training in the field of automated manufacturing equipment and systems; Training services in the use and operation of automated manufacturing equipment and systems; Educational services in the field of automated manufacturing. Remote support services in the field of automated manufacturing and production; Consulting services in relation to automated manufacturing and production; Consulting services in the field of factory automation; Design, development and maintenance of computer software for the automated manufacturing and production industries; Technical support services in the form of troubleshooting of computer hardware and software problems; Software as a service provider in the field of automated manufacturing and production; Platform as a service featuring computer software for use in the field of automated manufacturing and production; Providing online non-downloadable instructional software for training personnel in the field of automated manufacturing and production; Database design and development; Design of automation and manufacturing systems, namely, industrial automation machinery for use in the manufacture, assembly, handling and packaging of goods for others, and consultation related thereto; installation of automation and manufacturing software; maintenance of automation and manufacturing software; consulting services regarding the analysis, compliance, design, development, evaluation, maintenance, and implementation of automation and manufacturing computer systems and automation systems; research related to the computerized automation of industrial processes; research related to the computerized automation of technical processes; research in the field of manufacturing machinery; computer services, namely, providing a web-based user interface and web tools for the management, monitoring, and integration of manufacturing data; computer services, namely, providing web servers for the management, monitoring, and integration of manufacturing data.
30.
Linear motor conveyor system for clean/aseptic environments
A linear motor conveyor system including: at least one track section comprising: electronic circuitry housed within the track section; and a rotatable segment comprising an end profile that abuts another track section to form a stepped groove sealed by a gasket. A moving element for a linear motor conveyor system including: a body; a first set of bearings attached to the body and angled to abut against a first guide rail of a conveyor system having a protrusion with opposing angled profiles; a second set of bearing attached to the body and designed to abut against a flat profile of a second guide rail of the conveyor system.
B65G 54/02 - Non-mechanical conveyors not otherwise provided for electrostatic, electric, or magnetic
B65G 21/20 - Means incorporated in, or attached to, framework or housings for guiding load-carriers, traction elements or loads supported on moving surfaces
B65G 21/22 - Rails or the like engaging sliding elements or rollers attached to load-carriers or traction elements
H02K 9/08 - Arrangements for cooling or ventilating by gaseous cooling medium circulating wholly within the machine casing
H02K 41/03 - Synchronous motorsMotors moving step by stepReluctance motors
A system for part transfer and transport, the system including: a first conveyor system for transporting a plurality of trays containing a two-dimensional grid of parts; a second conveyor system for transporting the parts to a predetermined destination in a linear arrangement; and a selection apparatus for transferring a linear array of parts selected from the grid of the first conveyor system to the linear arrangement of the second conveyor system, the selection apparatus comprising: a pick and place apparatus which may be cam driven for moving the parts; and a feed screw defining a plurality of singulated part spaces separated by a part pitch along the second conveyor to facilitate insertion of the linear array of parts into the linear arrangement.
B65G 47/69 - Devices for transferring articles or materials between conveyors, i.e. discharging or feeding devices adapted to receive articles arriving in one layer from one conveyor and to transfer them in individual layers to more than one conveyor, or vice versa, e.g. combining the flows of articles conveyed by more than one conveyor the articles being accumulated temporarily
B65G 47/91 - Devices for picking-up and depositing articles or materials incorporating pneumatic, e.g. suction, grippers
A method for curing adhesive during assembly of glass syringes, including: dispensing adhesive onto a glass syringe; and curing the adhesive using a UV LED line array. The method may include one or both of pre-curing the adhesive using a UV LED spot and heating at least one of the glass barrel, needle and adhesive at one or more points during the method. A system for curing an adhesive during assembly of a glass syringe, the system including: a dispensing station for dispensing the adhesive onto a glass barrel and needle; a pre-curing station for pre-curing the adhesive; a curing station for curing the adhesive; and at least one infrared heater for heating at least one of the glass barrel, needle and adhesive at one or more points in the system. The glass syringe may be operated on by a subset of the stations in the system.
C09J 5/06 - Adhesive processes in generalAdhesive processes not provided for elsewhere, e.g. relating to primers involving heating of the applied adhesive
A control system for an electric motor in a manufacturing environment, the control system including: a safety relay; and a power reduction circuit, wherein, when the safety relay is triggered, the power reduction circuit automatically limits the power supplied to the electric motor from a main power source such that the electric motor operates in a predetermined safe mode. A method for controlling an electric motor in a manufacturing system, the electric motor having a main power supply, the method including: monitoring the manufacturing system associated with the electric motor for a change in condition; on detecting a change in condition: limiting a power supplied to the electric motor, via a power reduction circuit, such that the electric motor operates in a predetermined safe mode. The power reduction circuit includes a reduced power supply and a means of dropping the power supplied to the electric motor quickly.
There is provided a device, system, and method for flexible feeding capable of being integrated into an assembly system. The device includes a disperser, a part retainer, a vibrator, an excess part removal device, a pick-and-placer, carriers, a transporter, a carrier inspection disc, a part remover, a gate, a transfer station, and re-entry tracks. The method includes dispersing parts, agitating parts, removing excess parts, picking captured parts, placing the captured parts into carriers, inspecting the carriers, positioning the carriers at a transfer station, and transferring the parts to a downstream processor. The system includes a flexible feeding device configured to perform flexible feeding operations, a data processor, and a medium having machine-readable instructions executable by the data processor and configured to cause the data processor to generate signals useful in the synchronization of two or more flexible feeding operations.
A system and method for managing automation stations having one or more pieces of automation equipment in an automation environment. The system includes: a plurality of data collection devices configured to collect data related to a plurality of actuations performed by at least one automation station based on data collection criteria; and at least one processing module in communication with the plurality of data collection devices and configured to aggregate and analyze the collected data to detect one or more statistical anomalies, wherein the processing module determines an adjustment to the at least one automation station or the automation environment to address the statistical anomaly and implements the adjustment.
G05B 19/418 - Total factory control, i.e. centrally controlling a plurality of machines, e.g. direct or distributed numerical control [DNC], flexible manufacturing systems [FMS], integrated manufacturing systems [IMS] or computer integrated manufacturing [CIM]
A system and method for managing automation stations having one or more pieces of automation equipment in an automation environment. The system includes: a plurality of data collection devices configured to collect data related to a plurality of actuations performed by at least one automation station based on data collection criteria; and at least one processing module in communication with the plurality of data collection devices and configured to aggregate and analyze the collected data to detect one or more statistical anomalies, wherein the processing module determines an adjustment to the at least one automation station or the automation environment to address the statistical anomaly and implements the adjustment.
G05B 19/418 - Total factory control, i.e. centrally controlling a plurality of machines, e.g. direct or distributed numerical control [DNC], flexible manufacturing systems [FMS], integrated manufacturing systems [IMS] or computer integrated manufacturing [CIM]
The system includes a cell framework for defining a manufacturing area. The system includes at least one workplace within the manufacturing area. The system includes at least one manufacturing component within the manufacturing area and configured to be movable along three axes in relation to the at least one workplace. The system includes a conveying mechanism configured to move a part into the at least one workplace to be worked on by the at least one manufacturing component.
A method for triggering a training event in a manufacturing line having at least one automation element, the method including: receiving automation data associated with the at least one automation element; detecting a trigger event based on the automation data; determining a training component associated with the trigger event; and providing access to the training component to an end user. A system for triggering a training event in a manufacturing line having at least one automation element, the system including: a data acquisition module configured to receive automation data associated with the at least one automation element; a data collection device trigger configured to detect a trigger event based on the automation data; a training module configured to determine a training component associated with the trigger event; and a notification module configured to provide access to the training component to an end user.
A system for visual state identification including: a visual display system including a plurality of light displays, each of the light displays provided to different physical locations on an automation system; an execution device operatively connected to the visual display system, including: an input device configured to receive data from the automation system; and computer readable instructions which, if executed by a processor, cause the processor to: receive input data; determine the state of the automation system based on the input data, wherein the state may include an area of interest related to one of the different physical locations; communicate with the visual display system to selectively light a portion of one or more of the plurality of light displays to display the state of the automation system and the physical location of the area of interest.
A linear motor conveyor system including: at least one track section comprising: electronic circuitry housed within the track section; and a rotatable segment comprising an end profile that abuts another track section to form a stepped groove sealed by a gasket. A moving element for a linear motor conveyor system including: a body; a first set of bearings attached to the body and angled to abut against an a first guide rail of a conveyor system having a protrusion with opposing angled profiles; a second set of bearing attached to the body and designed to abut against a flat profile of a second guide rail of the conveyor system.
A method for inspecting a part in a manufacturing environment, the method including: acquiring at least one image of the part; optionally enhancing the at least one image; automatically analyzing the enhanced image to determine if the part has a potential defect; if it is determined that there is a potential defect: displaying the at least one image to an operator; and receiving operator input of a part status, wherein the part status may be defect or no defect; and storing the part status in association with the at least one image. The automatic analysis may include a confidence level and only images having a confidence level that does not meet a threshold will be displayed to an operator.
G01N 21/88 - Investigating the presence of flaws, defects or contamination
G09B 7/06 - Electrically-operated teaching apparatus or devices working with questions and answers of the multiple-choice answer type, i.e. where a given question is provided with a series of answers and a choice has to be made from the answers
A system for part transfer and transport, the system including: a first conveyor system for transporting a plurality of trays containing a two-dimensional grid of parts; a second conveyor system for transporting the parts to a predetermined destination in a linear arrangement; and a selection apparatus for transferring a linear array of parts selected from the grid of the first conveyor system to the linear arrangement of the second conveyor system, the selection apparatus comprising: a pick and place apparatus which may be cam driven for moving the parts; and a feed screw defining a plurality of singulated part spaces separated by a part pitch along the second conveyor to facilitate insertion of the linear array of parts into the linear arrangement.
B65G 47/52 - Devices for transferring articles or materials between conveyors, i.e. discharging or feeding devices
B65G 47/30 - Devices influencing the relative position or the attitude of articles during transit by conveyors arranging the articles, e.g. varying spacing between individual articles during transit by a series of conveyors
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
37 - Construction and mining; installation and repair services
42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design
Goods & Services
Automation systems and equipment, namely, mechanical and electronic devices in the nature of electric sensors, industrial robots, cameras used to automatically locate, alter, inspect, test or sense materials or products as part of automated processes; computer hardware, namely, computerized vision systems hardware; downloadable computer software for saving images and data, communicating with remote interfaces, controlling actuators, robotic guidance, cap and color inspection, in the field of automation systems, namely, vision systems, production planning software, automation software, machine control software, maintenance software; downloadable factory automation software, namely, software to integrate manufacturing machine operations, track problems and generate production reports; downloadable computer software for saving images and data, communicating with remote interfaces, controlling actuators, robotic guidance, cap and color inspection, in the field of data integration for factory automation and manufacturing; all for the use in factory automation Consulting services regarding the maintenance of automation and manufacturing computer hardware systems and automation systems Design of automation and manufacturing systems, namely, industrial automation machinery for use in the manufacture, assembly, handling and packaging of goods for others, and consultation related thereto; installation of automation and manufacturing software; maintenance of automation and manufacturing software; consulting services regarding the analysis, design, development, and implementation of automation and manufacturing computer systems and automation systems; consulting services regarding the evaluation of the structural properties of automation and manufacturing computer systems and automation systems; consulting services regarding the evaluation of automation and manufacturing computer systems and automation systems to determine conformity with certification standards or to assure compliance with industry standards; consulting services regarding the maintenance of automation and manufacturing computer software systems and automation software systems; research related to the computerized automation of industrial processes; research related to the computerized automation of technical processes; research in the field of manufacturing machinery; computer services, namely, providing a website featuring on-line non-downloadable software tools for the management, monitoring, and integration of manufacturing data of automation and manufacturing machinery; computer services, namely, providing web servers to third party computing and data storage facilities for the management, monitoring, and integration of manufacturing data of automation and manufacturing machinery; all of the foregoing for the use in factory automation
46.
LINEAR MOTOR CONVEYOR SYSTEM WITH DIVERTER AND METHOD FOR DESIGN AND CONFIGURATION THEREOF
A linear motor conveyor system having a moving element comprising a first and a second magnetic element on opposite sides; a first track comprising a first linear motor configured to generate a dynamic magnetic field which acts on the first magnetic element to provide a first dynamic lateral force and a first dynamic longitudinal force; a second track with a transfer region positioned adjacent to the first track, the second track configured to generate a magnetic field that acts on the second magnetic element to provide a second lateral force; and a controller to control the first linear motor such that the first dynamic lateral force is configured to bias the moving element toward the first linear motor until the moving element reaches a switch point in the transfer region, after which the dynamic lateral forces are selectively adjusted to bias the moving element toward the first or second track.
A linear motor conveyor system including: a track comprising a shaped guide rail; a plurality of moving elements, each moving element having: a body; at least two bearings supported by the body and configured to match with the shaped guide rail, wherein the bearings are mounted to the moving element such that the moving elements overlap along the direction of the track providing a reduced tooling pitch between the moving elements. A moving element for moving on a track of a conveyor system, the moving element including: a first set of bearings shaped to match with a first shaped guide rail; a second set of bearings configured to abut against a second guide rail; and a body supporting the first and the second bearing, wherein the body is shaped to allow the first bearing to at least partially overlap the body of an adjacent moving element.
A method and system of assembling hairpin conductors with a stator core, the system and method including: arranging the plurality of hairpin conductors into two or more sub- assembly fixtures, wherein the plurality of hairpin conductors are arranged in the two or more sub-assembly fixtures in two or more layers; activating a retaining mechanism to hold the plurality of hairpin conductors in place within the sub-assembly fixtures; meshing the two or more sub-assembly fixtures together to bring the hairpin conductors into alignment and form a layered conductor assembly; introducing the layered conductor assembly into the stator core by advancing the two or more sub-assembly fixtures in relation to the stator core in alignment with the locations on the stator core for the layered conductor assembly; and at an appropriate timing, deactivating the retaining mechanism to release the layered conductor assembly from the two or more sub-assembly fixtures.
H02K 3/04 - Windings characterised by the conductor shape, form or construction, e.g. with bar conductors
H02K 15/04 - Processes or apparatus specially adapted for manufacturing, assembling, maintaining or repairing of dynamo-electric machines of windings prior to their mounting into the machines
H02K 15/06 - Embedding prefabricated windings in the machines
49.
METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR ASSEMBLING HAIRPIN CONDUCTORS WITH A STATOR CORE
A method and system of assembling hairpin conductors with a stator core, the system and method including: arranging the plurality of hairpin conductors into two or more sub- assembly fixtures, wherein the plurality of hairpin conductors are arranged in the two or more sub-assembly fixtures in two or more layers; activating a retaining mechanism to hold the plurality of hairpin conductors in place within the sub-assembly fixtures; meshing the two or more sub-assembly fixtures together to bring the hairpin conductors into alignment and form a layered conductor assembly; introducing the layered conductor assembly into the stator core by advancing the two or more sub-assembly fixtures in relation to the stator core in alignment with the locations on the stator core for the layered conductor assembly; and at an appropriate timing, deactivating the retaining mechanism to release the layered conductor assembly from the two or more sub-assembly fixtures.
H02K 15/06 - Embedding prefabricated windings in the machines
H02K 15/04 - Processes or apparatus specially adapted for manufacturing, assembling, maintaining or repairing of dynamo-electric machines of windings prior to their mounting into the machines
H02K 3/04 - Windings characterised by the conductor shape, form or construction, e.g. with bar conductors
50.
System and method for testing or calibrating a manufactured part in a wet environment
A system for testing or calibrating a part, the system including: a plurality of test stations, each test station including a container and a clamping mechanism, wherein the clamping mechanism includes: a clamp frame including: two clamp plates; a plurality of clamp bars configured to securely hold the clamp plates at a distance relative to each other; a seal manifold provided on one of the two clamp plates; and a clamping module, located opposite the seal manifold on another of the two clamp plates, wherein the clamping module includes: a plurality of pistons to hold the part against the seal manifold for the test operation; and at least one cleaning station comprising a spin mechanism for spinning the part to remove excess fluid; and a robotic system for moving individual parts to and from the plurality of test stations and to and from the at least one cleaning station.
A method for inspecting a part in a manufacturing environment, the method including: acquiring at least one image of the part; optionally enhancing the at least one image; automatically analyzing the enhanced image to determine if the part has a potential defect; if it is determined that there is a potential defect: displaying the at least one image to an operator; and receiving operator input of a part status, wherein the part status may be defect or no defect; and storing the part status in association with the at least one image. The automatic analysis may include a confidence level and only images having a confidence level that does not meet a threshold will be displayed to an operator.
The disclosure is directed at a method and system for diagnosing automation elements. The method and system include the determination of a trigger condition or event within operation data received from the automation elements. Based on the trigger condition or event, feed-back data captured by data collection devices is tagged and stored and/or captured and stored for review by an end user. The feed-back data may be stored together with associated operation data to assist in identifying faults, the causes of faults, or the like in the automation elements, in the products produced, or in the manufacturing process or overall manufacturing system.
The disclosure is directed at a method and system for diagnosing automation elements. The method and system include the determination of a trigger condition or event within operation data received from the automation elements. Based on the trigger condition or event, feed-back data captured by data collection devices is tagged and stored and/or captured and stored for review by an end user. The feed-back data may be stored together with associated operation data to assist in identifying faults, the causes of faults, or the like in the automation elements, in the products produced, or in the manufacturing process or overall manufacturing system.
A method for inspecting a part in a manufacturing environment, the method including: acquiring at least one image of the part; optionally enhancing the at least one image; automatically analyzing the enhanced image to determine if the part has a potential defect; if it is determined that there is a potential defect: displaying the at least one image to an operator; and receiving operator input of a part status, wherein the part status may be defect or no defect; and storing the part status in association with the at least one image. The automatic analysis may include a confidence level and only images having a confidence level that does not meet a threshold will be displayed to an operator.
A system for providing vacuum to a moving element of a transport system, the system includes: a vacuum chamber on the moving element for storing vacuum; a vacuum source; a vacuum inlet provided on the vacuum chamber and for connection to the vacuum source; and a vacuum outlet in communication with the vacuum chamber and positioned on the moving element. The vacuum source may be provided on and travel with the moving element or on the transport system and periodically engage with the vacuum chamber. Where the vacuum source is provided on the moving element, a vacuum chamber may not be required. Further, the vacuum source may be driven by electrical energy and/or mechanical energy in various configurations.
B65G 47/91 - Devices for picking-up and depositing articles or materials incorporating pneumatic, e.g. suction, grippers
B65G 54/02 - Non-mechanical conveyors not otherwise provided for electrostatic, electric, or magnetic
B65G 35/06 - Mechanical conveyors not otherwise provided for comprising a load-carrier moving along a path, e.g. a closed path, and adapted to be engaged by any one of a series of traction elements spaced along the path
H01L 21/677 - Apparatus specially adapted for handling semiconductor or electric solid state devices during manufacture or treatment thereofApparatus specially adapted for handling wafers during manufacture or treatment of semiconductor or electric solid state devices or components for conveying, e.g. between different work stations
56.
Computer numerical control assembly or processing of components
The invention relates to a device, system and method of automated manufacture comprising: delivering a workpiece with a delivery device; receiving the workpiece with a receiving device, the delivering of the workpiece and the receiving of the workpiece being electronically synchronized; processing the workpiece with a processing tool while the workpiece is on the receiving device; transferring the workpiece to a completion device, the ejection of the workpiece and the transferring of the workpiece being electronically synchronized. In particular the workpiece may comprise: a platform with mounts supporting a first component in a selected orientation; and a locating surface, the method comprising: engaging and disengaging the locating surface of the workpiece with releasable connectors on the delivery device, on the receiving device and on the completion device.
B23Q 41/02 - Features relating to transfer of work between machines
G05B 19/19 - Numerical control [NC], i.e. automatically operating machines, in particular machine tools, e.g. in a manufacturing environment, so as to execute positioning, movement or co-ordinated operations by means of programme data in numerical form characterised by positioning or contouring control systems, e.g. to control position from one programmed point to another or to control movement along a programmed continuous path
G05B 19/414 - Structure of the control system, e.g. common controller or multiprocessor systems, interface to servo, programmable interface controller
G05B 19/18 - Numerical control [NC], i.e. automatically operating machines, in particular machine tools, e.g. in a manufacturing environment, so as to execute positioning, movement or co-ordinated operations by means of programme data in numerical form
G05B 19/418 - Total factory control, i.e. centrally controlling a plurality of machines, e.g. direct or distributed numerical control [DNC], flexible manufacturing systems [FMS], integrated manufacturing systems [IMS] or computer integrated manufacturing [CIM]
57.
LINEAR MOTOR CONVEYOR SYSTEM, BEARING SYSTEM AND SYSTEM AND METHOD OF LUBRICATION THEREFOR
A linear motor conveyor system and method for lubrication including: a linear motor track comprising a first guide rail and a second guide rail, wherein the first guide rail has a shaped profile and the second guide rail has a flat profile; at least one moving element provided to the linear motor track comprising a first bearing having a shaped profile with a first bearing surface of polymer configured to engage the first guide rail and a second bearing having a flat profile with a second bearing surface configured to engage the second guide rail; and a lubrication system provided to one of the track and the at least one moving element and configured to provide a lubricant between the first guide rail and the first bearing surface.
An automated device for producing a closed part, commencing with an open part having a cap joined with a hinge to a body, the device comprising: a tool having a guide surface defined in an operating plane substantially orthogonal to a hinge axis; a part gripper disposed on a computer numerically controlled shuttle, the part gripper operable to: select an open part from a stream of identical open parts; engage one of: the cap; and the body, on a start point on the guide surface; slide the open part, within the operating plane from the start point to a finish point on the guide surface, to rotate the cap about the hinge axis from an open position to a closed position relative to the body; and release the closed part from the part gripper at a release station.
A system and method for providing power to a plurality of moving elements in a transport system that include: tracking a position of each of the plurality of moving elements in the transport system; and selectively operating a power system provided to the transport system based on the position of each of the plurality of the moving element such that power is independently transferred to each of the plurality of moving elements. In another embodiment, the system and method include: adapting the plurality of moving elements to receive power from a drive component used to drive the plurality of moving elements along the transport system; and controlling the drive component to provide power to the plurality of moving elements, and, in particular, while the moving elements are moving.
B60L 5/00 - Current-collectors for power supply lines of electrically-propelled vehicles
H02J 50/40 - Circuit arrangements or systems for wireless supply or distribution of electric power using two or more transmitting or receiving devices
H02J 50/90 - Circuit arrangements or systems for wireless supply or distribution of electric power involving detection or optimisation of position, e.g. alignment
H02J 5/00 - Circuit arrangements for transfer of electric power between ac networks and dc networks
H02J 50/10 - Circuit arrangements or systems for wireless supply or distribution of electric power using inductive coupling
H02K 33/02 - Motors with reciprocating, oscillating or vibrating magnet, armature or coil system with armatures moved one way by energisation of a single coil system and returned by mechanical force, e.g. by springs
60.
SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR TESTING OR CALIBRATING IN A PRESSURIZED AND/OR WET ENVIRONMENT
A system for testing or calibrating a part, the system including: a plurality of test stations, each test station including a container and a clamping mechanism, wherein the clamping mechanism includes: a clamp frame including: two clamp plates; a plurality of clamp bars configured to securely hold the clamp plates at a distance relative to each other; a seal manifold provided on one of the two clamp plates; and a clamping module, located opposite the seal manifold on another of the two clamp plates, wherein the clamping module includes: a plurality of pistons to hold the part against the seal manifold for the test operation; and at least one cleaning station comprising a spin mechanism for spinning the part to remove excess fluid; and a robotic system for moving individual parts to and from the plurality of test stations and to and from the at least one cleaning station.
G01N 3/16 - Investigating strength properties of solid materials by application of mechanical stress by applying steady tensile or compressive forces applied through gearing
G01N 3/02 - Investigating strength properties of solid materials by application of mechanical stress Details
G01N 3/08 - Investigating strength properties of solid materials by application of mechanical stress by applying steady tensile or compressive forces
61.
SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR NUCLEAR REACTOR REFURBISHMENT
A system nuclear reactor refurbishment including: a movement structure provided adjacent a nuclear reactor core, the movement structure including a platform configured to move horizontally and vertically; a tool carrier coupled to the underside of the platform and configured to be moved with the platform; and at least one tool carried by the tool carrier configured to perform an operation related to nuclear reactor refurbishment. A system for nuclear reactor refurbishment for a nuclear reactor, the nuclear reactor including a movement structure provided adjacent a nuclear reactor core, the movement structure including a platform configured to move horizontally and vertically, the system for nuclear reactor refurbishment includes: a tool carrier configured to be coupled to an underside of the platform and move with the platform; and at least one tool carried by the tool carrier configured to perform an operation related to nuclear reactor refurbishment.
G21C 19/00 - Arrangements for treating, for handling, or for facilitating the handling of, fuel or other materials which are used within the reactor, e.g. within its pressure vessel
G21C 19/32 - Apparatus for removing radioactive objects or materials from the reactor discharge area, e.g. to a storage placeApparatus for handling radioactive objects or materials within a storage place or removing them therefrom
According to an aspect herein, there is provided a method of decorating multiple parts, the method includes: loading a plurality of parts onto a pallet; registering location of each of the plurality of parts in relation to the pallet; registering location of each of the plurality of parts with each of a plurality of templates; decorating the plurality of parts using the plurality of templates; and inspecting the decorated parts to monitor for defects. According to another aspect herein, there is provided a method of decorating a part, the method includes: positioning a part for decoration; starting a decoration process for the part; and adjusting one or more parameters of the decoration process during the decoration process based on predetermined characteristics of the part or the decoration to provide for enhanced print coverage or quality.
H01L 21/67 - Apparatus specially adapted for handling semiconductor or electric solid state devices during manufacture or treatment thereofApparatus specially adapted for handling wafers during manufacture or treatment of semiconductor or electric solid state devices or components
B41F 33/00 - Indicating, counting, warning, control or safety devices
G01N 21/956 - Inspecting patterns on the surface of objects
G01N 21/88 - Investigating the presence of flaws, defects or contamination
H01L 21/673 - Apparatus specially adapted for handling semiconductor or electric solid state devices during manufacture or treatment thereofApparatus specially adapted for handling wafers during manufacture or treatment of semiconductor or electric solid state devices or components using specially adapted carriers
63.
SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING A MOVING ELEMENT IN A LINEAR MOTOR CONVEYOR
A system for controlling moving elements including: a zone controller; a first network and a second network operatively connected to the zone controller; at least one first motor gateway associated with a portion of the conveyor and assigned to the first network; and at least one second motor gateway associated with a different portion of the conveyor and assigned to the second network; wherein the zone controller, the at least one first motor gateway, and the at least one second motor gateway are configured to: communicate data related to control of the moving elements via the first network and the second network in a structured manner to compensate for network or processing timing. A method for controlling moving elements including: communicating data related to control of the moving element conveyor between a zone controller and at least one first motor gateway and at least one second motor gateway, wherein the data is communicated in a structured manner to compensate for network or processing timing.
B65G 35/06 - Mechanical conveyors not otherwise provided for comprising a load-carrier moving along a path, e.g. a closed path, and adapted to be engaged by any one of a series of traction elements spaced along the path
B65G 43/10 - Sequence control of conveyors operating in combination
B65G 54/02 - Non-mechanical conveyors not otherwise provided for electrostatic, electric, or magnetic
A method for manufacturing a curvilinear track section including: forming a curvilinear track portion; cutting out a first slot grouping from an exterior edge of the curvilinear track portion, the first slot grouping at a first predetermined angle; cutting out a second slot grouping from the exterior edge of the curvilinear track portion, the second slot grouping at a second predetermined angle; and inserting motor units into the first and second slot groupings. A curvilinear track section having: a curvilinear track portion; a first slot grouping formed in an exterior edge of the curvilinear track portion, wherein the first slot grouping is at a predetermined angle relative to the exterior edge; a second slot grouping formed in the exterior edge of the curvilinear track portion, wherein the second slot grouping is at a second predetermined angle; and motor units inserted into the first and second slot groupings.
A method for manufacturing a curvilinear track section including: forming a curvilinear track portion; cutting out a first slot grouping from an exterior edge of the curvilinear track portion, wherein the first slot grouping is at a first predetermined angle; cutting out a second slot grouping from the exterior edge of the curvilinear track portion, wherein the second slot grouping is at a second predetermined angle; and inserting motor units into the first and second slot groupings. A curvilinear track section having: a curvilinear track portion; a first slot grouping formed in an exterior edge of the curvilinear track portion, wherein the first slot grouping is at a predetermined angle relative to the exterior edge; a second slot grouping formed in the exterior edge of the curvilinear track portion, wherein the second slot grouping is at a second predetermined angle; and motor units inserted into the first and second slot groupings.
A system for controlling moving elements including: a zone controller; a first network and a second network operatively connected to the zone controller; at least one first motor gateway associated with a portion of the conveyor and assigned to the first network; and at least one second motor gateway associated with a different portion of the conveyor and assigned to the second network; wherein the zone controller, the at least one first motor gateway, and the at least one second motor gateway are configured to: communicate data related to control of the moving elements via the first network and the second network in a structured manner to compensate for network or processing timing. A method for controlling moving elements including: communicating data related to control of the moving element conveyor between a zone controller and at least one first motor gateway and at least one second motor gateway, wherein the data is communicated in a structured manner to compensate for network or processing timing.
B65G 54/02 - Non-mechanical conveyors not otherwise provided for electrostatic, electric, or magnetic
B65G 35/06 - Mechanical conveyors not otherwise provided for comprising a load-carrier moving along a path, e.g. a closed path, and adapted to be engaged by any one of a series of traction elements spaced along the path
B65G 43/10 - Sequence control of conveyors operating in combination
According to an aspect herein, there is provided a method of decorating multiple parts, the method includes: loading a plurality of parts onto a pallet; registering location of each of the plurality of parts in relation to the pallet; registering location of each of the plurality of parts with each of a plurality of templates; decorating the plurality of parts using the plurality of templates; and inspecting the decorated parts to monitor for defects. According to another aspect herein, there is provided a method of decorating a part, the method includes: positioning a part for decoration; starting a decoration process for the part; and adjusting one or more parameters of the decoration process during the decoration process based on predetermined characteristics of the part or the decoration to provide for enhanced print coverage or quality.
There is provided a system for inspecting an edge area of a transparent media, the transparent media having a decoration on a surface, the system includes: an illuminator to direct light to the transparent media for inspection, wherein the illuminator directs light to the transparent media at an oblique angle relative to a surface of the transparent media which is opposite the surface with the decoration; an optical element to capture light transmitted through the transparent media; and a sensor to obtain an image from the light captured by the optical element. There is also provided a method for inspecting an edge area of a transparent media, where the transparent media has a decoration on a surface.
There is provided a system for inspecting an edge area of a transparent media, the transparent media having a decoration on a surface, the system includes: an illuminator to direct light to the transparent media for inspection, wherein the illuminator directs light to the transparent media at an oblique angle relative to a surface of the transparent media which is opposite the surface with the decoration; an optical element to capture light transmitted through the transparent media; and a sensor to obtain an image from the light captured by the optical element. There is also provided a method for inspecting an edge area of a transparent media, where the transparent media has a decoration on a surface.
A system for tracking position and identification of a moving element on a conveyor system having a track, the system including: a machine readable medium provided to one of the moving element or the track, wherein the machine readable medium is configured with at least two channels with a predetermined phase difference therebetween; a sensor provided to the other of the moving element or the track, wherein the sensor is configured to read the at least two channels; and a controller configured to receive data from the sensor and determine a position and/or identification of the moving element on the track based on the phase difference.
B65G 17/30 - Conveyors having an endless traction element, e.g. a chain, transmitting movement to a continuous or substantially-continuous load-carrying surface or to a series of individual load-carriersEndless-chain conveyors in which the chains form the load-carrying surface DetailsAuxiliary devices
B65G 43/08 - Control devices operated by article or material being fed, conveyed, or discharged
B65G 47/22 - Devices influencing the relative position or the attitude of articles during transit by conveyors
71.
SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR TRACKING A MOVING ELEMENT IN A CONVEYOR SYSTEM
A system for tracking position and identification of a moving element on a conveyor system having a track, the system including: a machine readable medium provided to one of the moving element or the track, wherein the machine readable medium is configured with at least two channels with a predetermined phase difference therebetween; a sensor provided to the other of the moving element or the track, wherein the sensor is configured to read the at least two channels; and a controller configured to receive data from the sensor and determine a position and/or identification of the moving element on the track based on the phase difference.
B65G 43/08 - Control devices operated by article or material being fed, conveyed, or discharged
B65G 17/30 - Conveyors having an endless traction element, e.g. a chain, transmitting movement to a continuous or substantially-continuous load-carrying surface or to a series of individual load-carriersEndless-chain conveyors in which the chains form the load-carrying surface DetailsAuxiliary devices
B65G 47/22 - Devices influencing the relative position or the attitude of articles during transit by conveyors
There is provided a conveyor system including: a track comprising a first magnetic element; and a moving element comprising a second magnetic element for interacting with the track to provide a magnetic force that retains the moving element on the track; wherein absent the magnetic force, the moving element is released from the track. In another aspect, there is provided a conveyor system that includes: a track having at least one guide rail; and a moving element; wherein a magnetic force controls movement of the moving element in a direction of travel and the magnetic force supports the moving element in a second direction perpendicular to the direction of travel; and wherein the at least one guide rail supports the moving element in a third direction perpendicular to both the direction of travel and the second direction.
There is provided a conveyor system including: a track comprising a first magnetic element; and a moving element comprising a second magnetic element for interacting with the track to provide a magnetic force that retains the moving element on the track; wherein absent the magnetic force, the moving element is released from the track. In another aspect, there is provided a conveyor system that includes: a track having at least one guide rail; and a moving element; wherein a magnetic force controls movement of the moving element in a direction of travel and the magnetic force supports the moving element in a second direction perpendicular to the direction of travel; and wherein the at least one guide rail supports the moving element in a third direction perpendicular to both the direction of travel and the second direction.
A system for tracking position and identification of a moving element on a conveyor system having a track, the system including: a machine readable medium provided to one of the moving element or the track, wherein the machine readable medium is configured with at least two channels with a predetermined phase difference therebetween; a sensor provided to the other of the moving element or the track, wherein the sensor is configured to read the at least two channels; and a controller configured to receive data from the sensor and determine a position and/or identification of the moving element on the track based on the phase difference.
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
G06Q 40/00 - FinanceInsuranceTax strategiesProcessing of corporate or income taxes
G06Q 90/00 - Systems or methods specially adapted for administrative, commercial, financial, managerial or supervisory purposes, not involving significant data processing
G11B 20/14 - Digital recording or reproducing using self-clocking codes
G11B 27/32 - IndexingAddressingTiming or synchronisingMeasuring tape travel by using information detectable on the record carrier by using information signals recorded by the same method as the main recording on separate auxiliary tracks of the same or an auxiliary record carrier
75.
Computer numerical control assembly or processing of components
The invention relates to an automated method of assembling or processing components using computer numerical controlled drives to decouple the stages of delivering components to a tool, into a series of separately programmable stages, namely, a component loading stage, a component separating stage, an accelerating stage and a delivery stage, wherein the timing, position, speed, velocity, and acceleration of each component during each stage is selected through programming of the computer numerical controls.
G05B 19/418 - Total factory control, i.e. centrally controlling a plurality of machines, e.g. direct or distributed numerical control [DNC], flexible manufacturing systems [FMS], integrated manufacturing systems [IMS] or computer integrated manufacturing [CIM]
G05B 19/18 - Numerical control [NC], i.e. automatically operating machines, in particular machine tools, e.g. in a manufacturing environment, so as to execute positioning, movement or co-ordinated operations by means of programme data in numerical form
B23P 21/00 - Machines for assembling a multiplicity of different parts to compose units, with or without preceding or subsequent working of such parts, e.g. with programme control
A conveyor system pallet is provided, having: a pallet body; and a guiding system operatively attached to the pallet body and designed to abut against at least one side rail of a conveyor system, the guiding system including: a plurality of first directional guides; and a plurality of second directional guides oriented approximately orthogonally to the first directional guides. A further guiding system for a conveyor pallet is provided, having: a plurality of first directional guides having: a plurality of guides designed to abut against a first side rail of the conveyor system; and a plurality of guides designed to abut against a second side rail located above the first side rail of the conveyor system; and a plurality of second directional guides designed to engage an underside of the first side rail.
B65G 35/06 - Mechanical conveyors not otherwise provided for comprising a load-carrier moving along a path, e.g. a closed path, and adapted to be engaged by any one of a series of traction elements spaced along the path
B65G 17/00 - Conveyors having an endless traction element, e.g. a chain, transmitting movement to a continuous or substantially-continuous load-carrying surface or to a series of individual load-carriersEndless-chain conveyors in which the chains form the load-carrying surface
B65G 17/18 - Conveyors having an endless traction element, e.g. a chain, transmitting movement to a continuous or substantially-continuous load-carrying surface or to a series of individual load-carriersEndless-chain conveyors in which the chains form the load-carrying surface comprising individual load-carriers which are pivotally mounted, e.g. for free-swinging movement and move in contact with a guiding surface
77.
SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING VACUUM TO A MOVING ELEMENT
A system for providing vacuum to a moving element of a transport system, the system includes: a vacuum chamber on the moving element for storing vacuum; a vacuum source; a vacuum inlet provided on the vacuum chamber and for connection to the vacuum source; and a vacuum outlet in communication with the vacuum chamber and positioned on the moving element. The vacuum source may be provided on and travel with the moving element or on the transport system and periodically engage with the vacuum chamber. Where the vacuum source is provided on the moving element, a vacuum chamber may not be required. Further, the vacuum source may be driven by electrical energy and/or mechanical energy in various configurations.
A system for providing vacuum to a moving element of a transport system, the system including a vacuum chamber on the moving element for storing vacuum, a vacuum source, and a vacuum inlet provided on the vacuum chamber for connection to the vacuum source. The system further includes a vacuum outlet in communication with the vacuum chamber and positioned on the moving element. The vacuum source may be provided on and travel with the moving element or on the transport system and periodically engage with the vacuum chamber. Where the vacuum source is provided on the moving element, a vacuum chamber may not be required. Further, the vacuum source may be driven by electrical energy and/or mechanical energy in various configurations.
B65G 47/91 - Devices for picking-up and depositing articles or materials incorporating pneumatic, e.g. suction, grippers
B65G 54/02 - Non-mechanical conveyors not otherwise provided for electrostatic, electric, or magnetic
B65G 35/06 - Mechanical conveyors not otherwise provided for comprising a load-carrier moving along a path, e.g. a closed path, and adapted to be engaged by any one of a series of traction elements spaced along the path
H01L 21/677 - Apparatus specially adapted for handling semiconductor or electric solid state devices during manufacture or treatment thereofApparatus specially adapted for handling wafers during manufacture or treatment of semiconductor or electric solid state devices or components for conveying, e.g. between different work stations
79.
SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PRODUCING SILICON SLIM RODS
A method and system for preparing polysilicon slim rods, the method and system including: placing a piece of polysilicon on a fixture; applying a predetermined laser beam or abrasive jet to the piece of polysilicon; and separating a polysilicon slim rod from the piece of polysilicon. The laser beam may be used for either cutting or for cracking depending on the operating parameters chosen. There may also be various combinations of cutting and cracking used in order to separate the slim rod from the piece of polysilicon. For example, the laser cut may be a scribing and/or partial cut and the separation may be completed by cracking the remaining silicon. In this case, the cracking may be accomplished by, for example, mechanical bending or laser cracking. Generally speaking, a laser beam used for cracking may be different from and have differing operating parameters from a laser beam used for cutting.
B23K 26/00 - Working by laser beam, e.g. welding, cutting or boring
B23K 26/12 - Working by laser beam, e.g. welding, cutting or boring in a special environment or atmosphere, e.g. in an enclosure
B23K 26/14 - Working by laser beam, e.g. welding, cutting or boring using a fluid stream, e.g. a jet of gas, in conjunction with the laser beamNozzles therefor
A conveyor system that includes a track section including a control system, a drive system that is controlled by the control system and that is configured to provide power through a first electromagnetic field and through an alternating second electromagnetic field, a plurality of moving elements that are driven by the drive system and that are configured to receive power through the first electromagnetic field, where at least one of the plurality of moving elements includes a pick-up unit configured to receive power through the alternating second electromagnetic field, a pallet support apparatus, and a plurality of pallets that are configured to engage with the plurality of moving elements and move on the pallet support apparatus.
A method of optical sensing comprising generating optical data associated with an object of interest, generating non-optical data associated with the object of interest, and analyzing the optical and non-optical data.
G01B 11/245 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of optical techniques for measuring contours or curvatures using a plurality of fixed, simultaneously operating transducers
G01B 21/20 - Measuring arrangements or details thereof, where the measuring technique is not covered by the other groups of this subclass, unspecified or not relevant for measuring contours or curvatures, e.g. determining profile
G01N 21/41 - RefractivityPhase-affecting properties, e.g. optical path length
G01N 21/90 - Investigating the presence of flaws, defects or contamination in a container or its contents
There is described a method for sterilizing a device. The method includes: masking a portion of the device from a sterilization protocol using a mask; sterilizing a portion of the device using a first sterilization protocol; and sterilizing a portion of the device using a second sterilization protocol; where the mask shields the masked portion of the device from at least one of the sterilization protocols or attenuates the effect of at least one of the sterilization protocols in the masked portion. There is also described a system for sterilizing a device. The system includes a first sterilant; a second sterilant; and a mask for shielding a portion of the device from at least one of the sterilants.
A61L 2/00 - Methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising materials or objects other than foodstuffs or contact lensesAccessories therefor
A61L 2/16 - Methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising materials or objects other than foodstuffs or contact lensesAccessories therefor using chemical substances
83.
THREE DIMENSIONAL OPTICAL SENSING THROUGH OPTICAL MEDIA
A method of optical sensing comprising generating optical data associated with an object of interest, generating non-optical data associated with the object of interest, and analyzing the optical and non-optical data.
G01D 5/26 - Mechanical means for transferring the output of a sensing memberMeans for converting the output of a sensing member to another variable where the form or nature of the sensing member does not constrain the means for convertingTransducers not specially adapted for a specific variable using optical means, i.e. using infrared, visible or ultraviolet light
G01B 11/245 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of optical techniques for measuring contours or curvatures using a plurality of fixed, simultaneously operating transducers
G01N 21/90 - Investigating the presence of flaws, defects or contamination in a container or its contents
H04N 5/30 - Transforming light or analogous information into electric information
84.
PALLET-BASED POSITION ADJUSTMENT SYSTEM AND METHOD
A conveyor system that includes a track section including a control system, a drive system that is controlled by the control system and that is configured to provide power through a first electromagnetic field and through an alternating second electromagnetic field, a plurality of moving elements that are driven by the drive system and that are configured to receive power through the first electromagnetic field, where at least one of the plurality of moving elements includes a pick-up unit configured to receive power through the alternating second electromagnetic field, a pallet support apparatus, and a plurality of pallets that are configured to engage with the plurality of moving elements and move on the pallet support apparatus.
A coloured photovoltaic module and method for its production, where the module includes: a photovoltaic cell; and an appearance modifying film, encapsulant or glazing; where the appearance modifying film, encapsulant or glazing includes: a light-control film; graphic material; a phosphor; a dichroic film; nano-particles; micro-dots; metal flakes; paint; an additive material for 3-D printing, Selective Laser Augmentation (SLA) or Selective Laser Sintering (SLS); or any combination thereof.
H01L 31/052 - Cooling means directly associated or integrated with the PV cell, e.g. integrated Peltier elements for active cooling or heat sinks directly associated with the PV cells
H01L 31/055 - Optical elements directly associated or integrated with the PV cell, e.g. light-reflecting means or light-concentrating means where light is absorbed and re-emitted at a different wavelength by the optical element directly associated or integrated with the PV cell, e.g. by using luminescent material, fluorescent concentrators or up-conversion arrangements
86.
SELF-ALIGNING PALLETS AND A SYSTEM FOR AUTOMATED CONVEYING OF COMPONENTS THROUGH AN ASSEMBLY LINE
The disclosure is directed at a system for conveying apparatus over a conveyor belt assembly. The system includes a set of pallets which support the apparatus and travel within parallel driving conveyors of the conveyor belt assembly. While the pallets in both driving conveyors are capable of rotation, only the pallets in one of the driving conveyors may move in a direction perpendicular to the direction of travel so that the apparatus may be centred over the conveyor belt assembly when the pallets are in motion.
A conveyor system that includes a track section including a control system, a drive system that is controlled by the control system and that is configured to provide power through a first electromagnetic field and through an alternating second electromagnetic field, a plurality of moving elements that are driven by the drive system and that are configured to receive power through the first electromagnetic field, where at least one of the plurality of moving elements includes a pick-up unit configured to receive power through the alternating second electromagnetic field, a pallet support apparatus, and a plurality of pallets that are configured to engage with the plurality of moving elements and move on the pallet support apparatus.
The disclosure is directed at a system for conveying apparatus over a conveyor belt assembly. The system includes a set of pallets which support the apparatus and travel within parallel driving conveyors of the conveyor belt assembly. While the pallets in both driving conveyors are capable of rotation, only the pallets in one of the driving conveyors may move in a direction perpendicular to the direction of travel so that the apparatus may be centred over the conveyor belt assembly when the pallets are in motion.
B65G 15/12 - Conveyors having endless load-conveying surfaces, i.e. belts and like continuous members, to which tractive effort is transmitted by means other than endless driving elements of similar configuration comprising two or more co-operating endless surfaces with parallel longitudinal axes, or a multiplicity of parallel elements, e.g. ropes defining an endless surface with two or more endless belts
B65G 15/02 - Conveyors having endless load-conveying surfaces, i.e. belts and like continuous members, to which tractive effort is transmitted by means other than endless driving elements of similar configuration for conveying in a circular arc
B65G 17/02 - Conveyors having an endless traction element, e.g. a chain, transmitting movement to a continuous or substantially-continuous load-carrying surface or to a series of individual load-carriersEndless-chain conveyors in which the chains form the load-carrying surface comprising a load-carrying belt attached to, or resting on, the traction element
89.
SELF-ALIGNING PALLETS AND A SYSTEM FOR AUTOMATED CONVEYING OF COMPONENTS THROUGH AN ASSEMBLY LINE
The disclosure is directed at a system for conveying apparatus over a conveyor belt assembly. The system includes a set of pallets which support the apparatus and travel within parallel driving conveyors of the conveyor belt assembly. While the pallets in both driving conveyors are capable of rotation, only the pallets in one of the driving conveyors may move in a direction perpendicular to the direction of travel so that the apparatus may be centred over the conveyor belt assembly when the pallets are in motion.
A photovoltaic cell tab including: a front contact portion having a first profile; and a back contact portion having a second profile, wherein the first profile or second profile are complex shapes that may be dissimilar to each other. A system and method for forming photovoltaic cell tabs comprising: a feeding mechanism to feed wire; a first forming tool to trim and shape the wire to tabs; and a placement tool configured to match a profile of the tabs and place and attach the tabs on photovoltaic cells. In the system and method, the tabs may be formed to have a complex profile or shape that will affect incident light and/or mechanical or other characteristics of the tabs.
H01L 31/0232 - Optical elements or arrangements associated with the device
H01L 31/04 - SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICES NOT COVERED BY CLASS - Details thereof adapted as photovoltaic [PV] conversion devices
H01L 31/052 - Cooling means directly associated or integrated with the PV cell, e.g. integrated Peltier elements for active cooling or heat sinks directly associated with the PV cells
91.
System and method for providing power to a moving element
A system and method for providing power to a plurality of moving elements in a transport system that include: tracking a position of each of the plurality of moving elements in the transport system; and selectively operating a power system provided to the transport system based on the position of each of the plurality of the moving element such that power is independently transferred to each of the plurality of moving elements. In another embodiment, the system and method include: adapting the plurality of moving elements to receive power from a drive component used to drive the plurality of moving elements along the transport system; and controlling the drive component to provide power to the plurality of moving elements, and, in particular, while the moving elements are moving.
A system and method for providing power to a plurality of moving elements in a transport system that include: tracking a position of each of the plurality of moving elements in the transport system; and selectively operating a power system provided to the transport system based on the position of each of the plurality of the moving element such that power is independently transferred to each of the plurality of moving elements. In another embodiment, the system and method include: adapting the plurality of moving elements to receive power from a drive component used to drive the plurality of moving elements along the transport system; and controlling the drive component to provide power to the plurality of moving elements, and, in particular, while the moving elements are moving.
B60L 13/00 - Electric propulsion for monorail vehicles, suspension vehicles or rack railwaysMagnetic suspension or levitation for vehicles
B65G 17/30 - Conveyors having an endless traction element, e.g. a chain, transmitting movement to a continuous or substantially-continuous load-carrying surface or to a series of individual load-carriersEndless-chain conveyors in which the chains form the load-carrying surface DetailsAuxiliary devices
B65G 23/23 - Arrangements or mountings of driving motors of electric linear motors
B65G 47/00 - Article or material-handling devices associated with conveyorsMethods employing such devices
H02J 50/10 - Circuit arrangements or systems for wireless supply or distribution of electric power using inductive coupling
93.
SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING POWER TO A MOVING ELEMENT
A system and method for providing power to a plurality of moving elements in a transport system that include: tracking a position of each of the plurality of moving elements in the transport system; and selectively operating a power system provided to the transport system based on the position of each of the plurality of the moving element such that power is independently transferred to each of the plurality of moving elements. In another embodiment, the system and method include: adapting the plurality of moving elements to receive power from a drive component used to drive the plurality of moving elements along the transport system; and controlling the drive component to provide power to the plurality of moving elements, and, in particular, while the moving elements are moving.
H02J 17/00 - Systems for supplying or distributing electric power by electromagnetic waves
B65G 17/30 - Conveyors having an endless traction element, e.g. a chain, transmitting movement to a continuous or substantially-continuous load-carrying surface or to a series of individual load-carriersEndless-chain conveyors in which the chains form the load-carrying surface DetailsAuxiliary devices
B65G 23/23 - Arrangements or mountings of driving motors of electric linear motors
B65G 47/00 - Article or material-handling devices associated with conveyorsMethods employing such devices
B60L 13/00 - Electric propulsion for monorail vehicles, suspension vehicles or rack railwaysMagnetic suspension or levitation for vehicles
A conveyor system pallet is provided, having: a pallet body; and a guiding system operatively attached to the pallet body and designed to abut against at least one side rail of a conveyor system, the guiding system including: a plurality of first directional guides; and a plurality of second directional guides oriented approximately orthogonally to the first directional guides. A further guiding system for a conveyor pallet is provided, having: a plurality of first directional guides having: a plurality of guides designed to abut against a first side rail of the conveyor system; and a plurality of guides designed to abut against a second side rail located above the first side rail of the conveyor system; and a plurality of second directional guides designed to engage an underside of the first side rail.
B65G 21/20 - Means incorporated in, or attached to, framework or housings for guiding load-carriers, traction elements or loads supported on moving surfaces
B65G 35/06 - Mechanical conveyors not otherwise provided for comprising a load-carrier moving along a path, e.g. a closed path, and adapted to be engaged by any one of a series of traction elements spaced along the path
A conveyor system pallet is provided, having: a pallet body; and a guiding system operatively attached to the pallet body and designed to abut against at least one side rail of a conveyor system, the guiding system including: a plurality of first directional guides; and a plurality of second directional guides oriented approximately orthogonally to the first directional guides. A further guiding system for a conveyor pallet is provided, having: a plurality of first directional guides having: a plurality of guides designed to abut against a first side rail of the conveyor system; and a plurality of guides designed to abut against a second side rail located above the first side rail of the conveyor system; and a plurality of second directional guides designed to engage an underside of the first side rail.
B65G 17/00 - Conveyors having an endless traction element, e.g. a chain, transmitting movement to a continuous or substantially-continuous load-carrying surface or to a series of individual load-carriersEndless-chain conveyors in which the chains form the load-carrying surface
B65G 17/18 - Conveyors having an endless traction element, e.g. a chain, transmitting movement to a continuous or substantially-continuous load-carrying surface or to a series of individual load-carriersEndless-chain conveyors in which the chains form the load-carrying surface comprising individual load-carriers which are pivotally mounted, e.g. for free-swinging movement and move in contact with a guiding surface
96.
AUTOMATED ASSEMBLY METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR MOLDED HOUSINGS
A system and method for producing molded parts with a marking component comprising: providing an insert tape comprising an insert portion configured to act as the marking component and a web portion; and molding a part around the insert tape such that the insert portion is exposed and such that the web portion acts as a carrier for the molded part in an automated process.
A light generating system comprising: a plurality of solid state emitters (SSEs) and a stability control system for controlling the spectral stability of the SSEs. In a particular case, the stability control system ma}' comprise: a power regulator to regulate power supplied to a sub-set of the plurality of SSEs; a constant current circuit connected to the power regulator to provide a constant current to the sub-set of SSEs; a current regulation set point connected to the constant current circuit; and a controller configured to set the regulation set point based on metrology relating to the state of the SSEs.
A light generating system comprising: a plurality of solid state emitters (SSEs) and a stability control system for controlling the spectral stability of the SSEs. In a particular case, the stability control system may comprise: a power regulator to regulate power supplied to a sub-set of the plurality of SSEs; a constant current circuit connected to the power regulator to provide a constant current to the sub-set of SSEs; a current regulation set point connected to the constant current circuit; and a controller configured to set the regulation set point based on metrology relating to the state of the SSEs.
H01J 7/24 - Cooling arrangementsHeating arrangementsMeans for circulating gas or vapour within the discharge space
H01L 33/08 - SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICES NOT COVERED BY CLASS - Details thereof characterised by the semiconductor bodies with a plurality of light emitting regions, e.g. laterally discontinuous light emitting layer or photoluminescent region integrated within the semiconductor body
A clamping mechanism having: a drive; a shaft connected to the drive; an eccentric hub that is driven to rotate by the shaft; a fixed support structure that supports the eccentric hub such that the eccentric hub can rotate; and a moving support structure that is connected to the eccentric hub such that the moving support structure is driven substantially linearly based on rotational motion of the eccentric hub and serves to clamp an object between the moving support structure and a fixed structure adjacent to the moving support structure. A clamping system is provided having, a single drive; a shaft connected to the drive; and a plurality of clamping mechanisms.
B30B 1/26 - Presses, using a press ram, characterised by the features of the drive therefor, pressure being transmitted directly, or through simple thrust or tension members only, to the press ram or platen by cams, eccentrics, or cranks
B30B 1/06 - Presses, using a press ram, characterised by the features of the drive therefor, pressure being transmitted directly, or through simple thrust or tension members only, to the press ram or platen by lever mechanism operated by cams, eccentrics, or cranks
B30B 11/04 - Presses specially adapted for forming shaped articles from material in particulate or plastic state, e.g. briquetting presses or tabletting presses using a ram exerting pressure on the material in a moulding space co-operating with a fixed mould
B30B 15/00 - Details of, or accessories for, pressesAuxiliary measures in connection with pressing
A conveyor system pallet is provided, having: a pallet body; and a guiding system operatively attached to the pallet body and designed to abut against at least one side rail of a conveyor system, the guiding system including: a plurality of first directional guides; and a plurality of second directional guides oriented approximately orthogonally to the first directional guides. A further guiding system for a conveyor pallet is provided, having: a plurality of first directional guides having: a plurality of guides designed to abut against a first side rail of the conveyor system; and a plurality of guides designed to abut against a second side rail located above the first side rail of the conveyor system; and a plurality of second directional guides designed to engage an underside of the first side rail.
B65G 21/20 - Means incorporated in, or attached to, framework or housings for guiding load-carriers, traction elements or loads supported on moving surfaces
B65G 35/06 - Mechanical conveyors not otherwise provided for comprising a load-carrier moving along a path, e.g. a closed path, and adapted to be engaged by any one of a series of traction elements spaced along the path
