Patent ID: 7021674
Filing Date: 2006-04-04
Classification: B65B

Abstract:
1. A rotatable vacuum connection usually for providing a vacuum connection for a full 360° of rotation comprising; a drive spindle having a central passage extending from a distal end and a side outlet extending from the central passage to the side wall of the drive spindle; a bushing surrounding said spindle about said side outlet and forming an annular chamber between the bushing and spindle; said bushing having a side passage therethrough that is in communication with said annular chamber, said side passage being operably connectable to said vacuum source; a bearing and seal assembly being located at each end of said bushing to rotatably mount said bushing to said spindle and to provide an air tight seal of said annular chamber with respect to the ambient exterior of said bushing; said bushing having a press fit within an outer fixed housing that also has a side aperture aligned with the side passage in said bushing and being operably connectable to a vacuum source; said drive spindle having a sleeve section about the side outlet with side apertures therethrough; said sleeve section to form said annular chamber with said bushing.