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:
Feb. 01, 2000
Filed:
Oct. 16, 1997
Ronald O Simpson, Charlotte, NC (US);
Roberts Systems, Inc., Charlotte, NC (US);
Abstract
An apparatus for assembling fiber optic strands into sign components comprising a dispenser in continuous communication with a supply of fiber optic strand; a first positioner for moving the dispenser to a dispensing position adapted to be opposite a receiving aperture of a housing; engaging means in communication with the fiber optic strand for inserting a first end of the fiber optic strand through the dispenser and into one of the preselected housing apertures; a cutting apparatus for cutting the fiber optic strand at a predetermined location, thereby providing a first calculated length of a cut strand having a first end insertable into one of said housing apertures and a second cut end; a manipulator for grasping the second cut end of the cut strand; a second positioner for moving the manipulator to a predetermined position opposite a signage display panel; and an inserter, carried by the manipulator, for directing the second cut end of the cut strand a prescribed depth into the signage display panel.