Patent ID: 7544038
Filing Date: 2009-06-09
Classification: B65G

Abstract:
1. A tray handler for stacking and de-stacking ophthalmic prescription trays, the tray handler comprising: a plurality of spaced clamp assemblies defining a stack area along a conveyor, wherein each of said clamp assemblies comprises a bracket and a gripper assembly pivotally connected thereto; a lift plate operably disposed within the stack area; a first actuator operably associated with said clamp assemblies, said clamp assemblies inwardly and outwardly moveable relative said lift plate upon actuation of said first actuator; a second actuator operably associated with said lift plate, said lift plate vertically moveable within the stack area upon actuation of said second actuator; an actuator plate disposed beneath said lift plate and coupled to said gripper assemblies, said actuator plate moveable between first and second positions via actuation of said first actuator, wherein said gripper assemblies are pivoted inwardly toward said lift plate when said actuator plate is moved from said first position to said second position, and said gripper assemblies are pivoted outwardly away from said lift plate when said actuator plate is moved from said second position to said first position; a controller in communication with said first and second actuators for controlling actuation thereof; wherein said gripper assembly includes a support post connected to said bracket and a body with a bore extending therethrough, said support post disposed within said bore; wherein said support post includes a fulcrum flange extending from a central portion thereof so that said body is gimbaled thereon; and wherein said support post includes first and second elastomeric flanges disposed thereon, said fulcrum flange intermediate said first and second elastomeric flanges.