The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
Jul. 07, 1992
Filed:
May. 24, 1990
Wilbert D Beck, Utica, MI (US);
Mark D Stapels, New Baltimore, MI (US);
David L Stapels, Utica, MI (US);
Gregory A Stapels, Clinton Township, Macomb County, MI (US);
Michael G Yocum, Lake Orion, MI (US);
James D Scannell, Grosse Pointe Farms, MI (US);
Brothers Industries, Inc., Madison Heights, MI (US);
Abstract
A 'lift and carry' transfer apparatus is provided for transferring or 'indexing' a workpiece between successive work stations in a multi-operation process. The transfer apparatus includes a modular support structure from which a generally elongated shuttle assembly is horizontally supported. A first drive mechanism is provided for generating a predetermined amount of reciprocable rectilinear vertical movement of the shuttle assembly through a predetermined range of motion. The transfer apparatus further includes structure for selectively indexing the workpiece along a horizontal plane relative to the shuttle assembly. In particular, a second drive mechanism is provided for generating rectilinear horizontal motion of the workpiece. A programmable controller is provided for selectively controlling the actuation of the first and second drive mechanisms.