Patent ID: 7134956
Filing Date: 2006-11-14
Classification: A22C

Abstract:
1. A device for grasping and supporting a live object, the device comprising: a pair of counter rotating supporting structures configured to compel the live object in an x-translational direction at an x-translational speed, each supporting structure including an upper portion and a lower portion, and wherein the upper portion includes a plurality of apertures having a first configuration and the lower portion includes a plurality of apertures having a second configuration; a compliant finger disposed within each of the plurality of apertures, the pair of counter rotating supporting structures are further configured to provide an opening for receiving the live object and wherein the compliant fingers are further configured to grasp and hold a body of the live object; a speed control module for controlling the speed and timing of the rotation of the supporting structures; a pallet assembly having a perch bar supporting structure, the perch bar supporting structure including perch bars; a shackle assembly movably affixed to the pallet assembly, the shackle assembly comprising a pair of non-rigid grippers; a trap bar assembly, the trap bar assembly rotatably affixed to the pallet assembly; a shackle control mechanism affixed to the shackle assembly, the shackle control mechanism configured to lock and release the shackle assembly from the pallet assembly; a trolley configured to move in an x-translational direction, the trolley affixed to the pallet assembly; and said pallet assembly comprising a bottom panel, a first side panel hingedly connected to a side of said bottom panel, and a second side panel hingedly connected to a side of said bottom panel at a location opposite to the first side panel.