Vaccination system for delivering vaccine to avian pullets, and associated methods, devices, and assemblies

A vaccination system for delivering a vaccine substance to avian pullets is provided. Such a system includes a vaccine delivery assembly configured to perform a vaccine delivery procedure for delivering a vaccine substance to the avian pullets. A plurality of positioning devices is provided, with each positioning device receiving an avian pullet for presentation to the vaccine delivery assembly. Each positioning device is transported to individually mate with the vaccine delivery assembly to deliver the vaccine substance during the vaccine delivery procedure. Associated methods, devices, and assemblies are also provided.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure generally relates to vaccination systems. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to an automated vaccination system capable of delivering one or more vaccine substances to poultry in an effective and high throughput manner, and associated methods, devices and assemblies.

BACKGROUND

Typically, poultry birds that are raised for protein, egg-laying or breeding purposes may be vaccinated post-hatch against a variety of diseases and parasites. Such vaccinations may prevent debilitation or mortality, while optimizing bird growth and productivity. In many instances, the vaccines or other medicines may be administered manually. This can be done by capturing individual birds and presenting the individual birds to a vaccination device, as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,802,541 to Jones et al. and U.S. Pat. No. 8,211,058 to Jorna. Such methods are extremely limiting with respect to throughput.

In other instances, vaccination may be accomplished by presenting the birds for manual inoculation by means of a rotatable drum, as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,609,479 to Storer et al. In such a configuration, the birds are injected with different vaccines or medicines at separate workstations by individual operators. While this vaccination method and other similar conventional methods are effective, they require highly skilled operators to properly deliver the vaccines. Along with the ancillary personnel needed to herd the birds, the net result is a costly method to handle the large quantities of birds that are typical in the poultry industry.

Accordingly, it would be desirable to provide a vaccination system capable of automatically delivering one or more vaccine substances to poultry birds in an effective and high throughput manner. Furthermore, it would be desirable to provide an associated method that would facilitate vaccination of poultry birds in an effective and high throughput manner. Additionally, it would be desirable to provide an automated device and associated method for delivering multiple vaccine substances to poultry birds during a vaccine delivery procedure.

BRIEF SUMMARY

The above and other needs are met by aspects of the present disclosure which, according to one aspect, provides a vaccination system for delivering a vaccine substance to avian pullets. The system includes a vaccine delivery assembly configured to perform a vaccine delivery procedure for delivering a vaccine substance to an avian pullet. A plurality of positioning devices is configured to individually mate with the vaccine delivery assembly. Each positioning device is adapted to receive an avian pullet and to present the avian pullet to the vaccine delivery assembly for the vaccine delivery procedure.

Another aspect provides a method of delivering a vaccine substance to avian pullets. The method comprises positioning an avian pullet in one of a plurality of positioning devices. The method further comprises transporting the positioning device proximate to a vaccine delivery assembly. The method further comprises delivering a vaccine substance to the avian pullet during a vaccine delivery procedure administered by the vaccine delivery assembly.

Yet another aspect provides a vaccination system for delivering a plurality of vaccine substances to an avian pullet. The system includes vaccine delivery means for performing a vaccine delivery procedure to deliver a plurality of vaccine substances to an avian pullet. The system further includes positioning means for positioning the avian pullet with respect to the vaccine delivery means during administration of the vaccine delivery procedure. The system further includes transport means for transporting the positioning means proximate to the vaccine delivery means.

Still another aspect provides a vaccine delivery assembly having a vaccine delivery frame. A wing web injection device operably engaged with the vaccine delivery frame is configured to deliver a first vaccine substance to at least one wing web of an avian pullet. An intramuscular injection device operably engaged with the vaccine delivery frame is configured to deliver a second vaccine substance to a breast of the avian pullet. A subcutaneous injection device operably engaged with the vaccine delivery frame is configured to deliver a third vaccine substance to an inguinal fold of the avian pullet. A spray delivery device operably engaged with the vaccine delivery frame is configured to deliver a fourth vaccine substance to a facial region of the avian pullet.

Yet still another aspect provides an automated method of delivering a plurality of vaccine substances to an avian pullet. The method comprises providing a vaccine delivery assembly having a wing web injection device, an intramuscular injection device, a subcutaneous injection device, and a spray delivery device. The method further comprises delivering a first vaccine substance to at least one wing web of an avian pullet using the wing web injection device. The method further comprises delivering a second vaccine substance to a breast of the avian pullet using the intramuscular injection device. The method further comprises delivering a third vaccine substance to an inguinal fold of the avian pullet using the subcutaneous injection device. The method further comprises spraying a fourth vaccine substance into a facial region of the avian pullet using the spray delivery device.

Another aspect provides an injection device capable of delivering a vaccine substance to a wing web of an avian pullet. The injection device includes a needle. A reservoir assembly is adapted to couple to a vaccine vial containing a vaccine substance. The reservoir assembly defines a pair of holes through which the needle extends. An actuator is operably engaged with the needle and is configured to extend and retract the needle.

Thus, various aspects of the present disclosure provide advantages, as otherwise detailed herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

Various aspects of the present disclosure now will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all aspects of the disclosure are shown. Indeed, this disclosure may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the aspects set forth herein; rather, these aspects are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout.

According to some aspects, the present disclosure is directed to systems, assemblies and automated methods for delivering vaccines to an avian bird, such as, for example, a pullet. The aspects disclosed herein provide automated solutions to improve efficiencies related to delivering vaccines to avian birds. For example, aspects of the present disclosure may allow for administration of multiple different vaccinations simultaneously by automated means. Further, aspects of the present disclosure may also provide improved means for presenting an avian bird for various purposes, including presenting an avian bird for a vaccination procedure. In addition, aspects of the present disclosure may provide for increased vaccination throughput of avian birds in a commercially viable manner.

As shown inFIG. 1, a vaccination system1may be provided for vaccinating avian birds, such as an avian pullet, in an automated queuing manner. According to some aspects, the vaccination system1may generally include a transport assembly200, a vaccine delivery assembly400(which, in some instances, may be provided as part of a vaccine delivery apparatus500), and a plurality of positioning devices600. As shown inFIG. 6, one or more operators5may load avian pullets into the positioning devices600in a loading zone10. The positioning devices600may be engaged with the transport assembly200such that each positioning device600may be transported proximate to the vaccine delivery assembly400about the transport assembly200in direction15. When a respective positioning device600reaches the vaccine delivery assembly400, the avian pullet may undergo one or more injection procedures, such as, for example, a vaccine delivery procedure, as administered by the vaccine delivery assembly400. In some instances, multiple vaccines may be delivered simultaneously to the avian pullet by the vaccine delivery assembly400. WhileFIG. 1illustrates the vaccination system1as having eight positioning devices600, it will be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to any particular quantity of positioning devices600. For purposes of clarity,FIGS. 3-5illustrate only a single positioning device600engaged with the transport assembly200.

According to some aspects, the vaccine delivery assembly400may be moveable between a mating position20and a release position25. In this regard, the vaccine delivery assembly400may be capable of move or oscillate between the mating position20and the release position25in order to allow continuous movement of the positioning devices600on the transport assembly200. To that end, throughput of the vaccination system1may be improved since the positioning devices600do not need to be stopped proximate to the vaccine delivery assembly400such that the vaccine delivery procedure can be administered. Of course, aspects of the present disclosure are not limited to continuous transport of the positioning devices600and, in some instances, it may be desirable to stop or pause each positioning device600relative to the vaccine delivery assembly400during administration of the vaccine delivery procedure to an avian pullet.

In instances where continuous movement of the positioning devices600is desired, each positioning device600may transport an avian pullet to the mating position20where the positioning device600mates with the vaccine delivery assembly400and then moves therewith until the positioning device600reaches the release position25, at which point the vaccine delivery assembly400returns to the mating position20to engage a subsequent positioning device600. Between the mating position20and the release position25, the avian pullet may be subjected to the vaccine delivery procedure. After undergoing the vaccine delivery procedure and clearing the release position25, the avian pullet may be manually or automatically unloaded from the positioning device600such that the positioning device600is available for loading of another avian pullet once reaching the loading zone10.

As shown inFIGS. 2-5, the transport assembly200may be portable such that the transport assembly200is capable of being moved around a facility by one or more operators. In this regard, the transport assembly200may include one or more handles202and wheels204coupled or otherwise connected to a transport assembly frame206. In some instances, the transport assembly frame206may be constructed of aluminum in order to maintain the weight of the transport assembly200in a range that can be handled by the operators, while additionally providing corrosion resistance. A safety rail208may be mounted to the transport assembly frame206on the side of the loading zone10to keep the operators at a safe distance from the moving components of the transport assembly200. The safety rail208may be retractable or removable to reduce the overall width of the transport assembly200for permitting passage thereof through doorways or other limited spaces.

According to some aspects, the transport assembly200may include a guide system240for guiding the positioning devices600about the transport assembly200such that the positioning devices600may move between the loading zone10for receiving an avian bird and then return to the loading zone10for loading of an additional avian bird after vaccination and unloading of the previous avian bird. In this regard, the transport assembly200may transport avian birds from one or more manual loading stations in the loading zone10to a single vaccination station in continuous manner. The guide system240may include a guide rail system having an inner guide rail242and an outer guide rail244supported by the transport assembly frame206. The inner guide rail242and the outer guide rail244may be constructed of metal (e.g., stainless steel) to provide strength and corrosion resistance. The guide system240may be configured to engage or interact with a carriage assembly700(FIG. 11) coupled to the positioning device600, wherein the guide system240may be capable of facilitating guidance of the positioning devices600about the transport assembly200in a stable manner.

The transport assembly200may include means for moving the positioning devices600about the guide system240or otherwise about the transport assembly200. For example, as shown inFIG. 7, the transport assembly200may include a conveyor assembly275for moving the positioning devices600to transport the avian pullets. In some instances, the conveyor assembly275may be a belt conveyor assembly having a power driven belt280, wherein the drive belt280may be driven by any appropriate power means, such as, for example, electric or hydraulic power. The guide rail assemblies700and/or the positioning devices600may be attached, fastened, or otherwise coupled to the conveyor assembly275(e.g., the drive belt280) using coupling means (e.g., a coupling device282) fastened to the belt280such that movement of the drive belt280causes the guide rail assemblies700and/or the positioning devices600to move about the transport assembly200. A corresponding linkage means (e.g., linkage device715) may be provided on the carriage assembly700or the positioning device600and configured to fixedly engage with the coupling device282. As such, the guide rail assemblies700may be connected to the drive belt280, which may be driven by a drive assembly (e.g., a gear motor assembly) and pulley set having associated pulleys284. In this regard, the conveyor assembly275may facilitate movement of the avian pullets from one or more manual loading stations to the vaccine delivery assembly400in continuous fashion. The linkage device715may include a release means to disengage the positioning device600from the drive belt280in the event of a mechanical interference.

Power for the transport assembly200may be provided using an umbilical connection from the vaccine delivery apparatus500using an appropriate electrical connector, which may be used to provide electrical power for the drive assembly, power/signal for associated electronic components, and emergency stop feature. One or more junction boxes may be installed on the transport assembly200for the umbilical connection to be made. In some instances, the transport assembly200may not function without the umbilical connection. An electronic encoder may be installed on the drive assembly for timing of motion of the vaccine delivery assembly400with the motion of the positioning device600. The encoder may be used to provide alignment between the positioning device600and vaccine delivery assembly400in order to facilitate proper vaccine administration. However, any appropriate means may be used to synchronize movement between the positioning device600/carriage assembly700with the vaccine delivery assembly400. In some instances, one or more sensors may be installed on the transport assembly200to detect the presence of an avian pullet in the positioning device600at the vaccine delivery assembly400and to detect proper unloading of the avian pullet after undergoing the vaccine delivery procedure.

According to some aspects, the transport assembly200may require a physical connection to the vaccine delivery apparatus500for vaccinations to occur. In some instances, such a docking connection may be achieved by one or more docking devices. For example, one or more projecting members230may be mounted on the side of the transport assembly200at the location of the vaccine delivery assembly400, while mating sockets232may be mounted on an end of the vaccine delivery apparatus500. When the vaccine delivery apparatus500is pushed towards the projecting members230, which are received within the mating sockets232, the vaccine delivery apparatus500may be guided into alignment both vertically and horizontally by the projecting member230. A jack assembly may be provided for leveling the vaccine delivery apparatus500after the projecting members230are engaged with the mating sockets232. Further, the transport assembly200and the vaccine delivery apparatus500may be coupled together using clamping devices234. A flexible skirt525may be provided on the vaccine delivery apparatus500to prevent avian pullets from hiding underneath.

As shown inFIG. 11, the carriage assembly700may include a mount plate702for mounting the positioning device600to the carriage assembly700.FIG. 10illustrates the connection between the mount plate702and the positioning device600. In some instances, the positioning device600may be pivotably engaged with the carriage assembly700. This pivoting feature may be used for various purposes including, for example, to aid release of the avian pullets from the positioning device600. In this regard, the carriage assembly700may include a hinge720and associated hinge fasteners to allow the positioning device600to pivot or rotate with respect to the carriage assembly700and particularly with respect to the mount plate702.

The carriage assembly700may further include various brackets forming the general structure thereof. One or more guide wheel assemblies may be provided to engage the guide system240. For example, a first guide wheel assembly704(shown exploded) and a second guide wheel assembly706(shown assembled), each formed of two wheels708, may be provided and fastened on opposite ends of the mount plate702. The first and second guide wheel assemblies704,706may engage the outer guide rail244when the carriage assembly700is engaged with the transport assembly200. A third guide wheel assembly710may be provided on the carriage assembly700for engaging the inner guide rail242of the guide system240. In addition, a roller guide assembly712may be provided such that the inner guide rail242is between the third guide wheel assembly710and the roller guide assembly712when the carriage assembly700is engaged with the guide system240. In this regard, the carriage assembly700may be provided as a tri-wheeled assembly having two pivoting axles and one floating axle to provide support for the positioning device600while affording the ability to traverse tight radii in the guide system240without binding. The carriage assembly700may further include the linkage device715for facilitating attachment of the carriage assembly700to the conveyor assembly275.

In some instances, a magnetic plate730may be provided on the carriage assembly700and/or the positioning device600to aid in coupling and aligning the positioning device600with the vaccine delivery assembly400during the vaccine delivery procedure, as discussed further herein below. In this regard, the magnetic plate730may serve as a target for coupling the positioning device600with the vaccine delivery assembly400.

According to some aspects, the positioning device600may be mounted to the carriage assembly700such that the positioning device600is moved about the transport assembly200in connection with movement of the guide rail assemblies700as driven around the guide system240by the conveyor assembly275. In some instances, as shown inFIGS. 8-10, the positioning device600may include a base plate602capable of being mounted to the mount plate702of the carriage assembly700and fastened thereto using appropriate, hinges, brackets and/or fasteners. As mentioned previously, in some instances the positioning device600may be pivotably connected to the carriage assembly700to aid with release of the avian pullets, but in other instances the positioning device600may be attached to the carriage assembly700in a fixed relationship.

The positioning device600may be specifically configured to comfortably retain the avian pullet during queuing and during the vaccination delivery procedure. Additionally, the positioning device600may be particularly configured to optimally present the avian pullet to the vaccine delivery assembly400for the vaccination delivery procedure. In general, the positioning device600may be configured to position the avian pullet in a posture similar to a flight form, with its wings held above the back, together and nearly vertical. The head of the avian pullet may be positioned down and forward, with the legs extended straight back nearly horizontal. Because of the configuration of the positioning device600, the weight of the avian pullet may be supported under the breast, at the large wing feathers and at each leg. In this regard, the positioning device600may particularly provide comfort for the avian pullet, as well as placing the body in optimal position for each vaccination of the vaccine delivery procedure.

According to one particular aspect, as shown inFIGS. 8-10, the positioning device600may generally include a holder frame604. In some instances, the positioning device600may include rotatable knobs605that may be tightened or loosened to allow the upper portion of the positioning device600to rotate in a folded-up manner, as shown inFIG. 35, to allow for transportation of the positioning devices600when attached to the transport assembly200. The positioning device600may have one or more pairs of frame members606,608extending from the base plate602.

A breast support610for supporting the breast of the avian pullet may be connected to one or more breast support brackets612extending from the frame members608. In some instances, the breast support610may be formed of discrete breast support members614,616that cooperate to form a dip or saddle-shape for receiving the breast of the avian pullet. In other instances, however, the breast support610may be formed of a unitary structure. According to some aspects, the breast support members614,616may define apertures618, which allow needles or other injection devices to pass therethrough for injecting the avian pullet.

A wing mount620may be provided for maintaining the wings of the avian pullet in a substantially up-right, vertical position. In this regard both wings may be held above the back of the avian pullet, together and nearly vertical, to be received within the wing mount620. The wing mount620may be mounted to a wing mount plate622extending between the frame members608. The wing mount620may include a pair of wing mount brackets624, each having a plurality of pliant members626extending inwardly toward the other wing mount bracket624so as to form opposing finger-like structures. The opposing pliant members626may cooperate to form a channel628therebetween for receiving the wings of the avian pullet, wherein the channel628extends substantially perpendicular to the projecting direction of the pliant members626. In this regard, the wings may be inserted between the flexible and opposing pliant members626along the crease such that the pliant members626interact with the wings for firmly gripping and maintaining the wings within the wing mount620. However, the pliant members626may be configured in such a manner that when the positioning device600reaches the unloading position and the positioning device600is rotated up slightly past vertical, gravity easily pulls the wings of the avian pullet out of the wing mount620. In some instances, the pliant members626may be angled with respect to the wing mount brackets624such that opposing pliant members626extending from opposite wing mount brackets624form an apex-like structure. The pliant members626may be formed or molded of various shapes and sizes as appropriate and may be constructed from materials have resilient type properties, such as, for example, silicone.

In some instances, the wing mount620may position both wings in an upright position for access to the wing web of the bird on either side, while also minimally restraining the wing motion in one direction with the pliant members626. According to some aspects, as shown inFIG. 32, at least one of the wing mount brackets624may be hinged with a hinge device690so as to assist with the automated release of the avian pullet based on gravity when the positioning device600rotates into a release position. The hinge device690may be attached or otherwise coupled to the holder frame604. In some instances, the hinge device690may include a hinge pin691extending through a hole defined by a hinge bracket694and attached to one of the wing mount brackets624. A displacement pin695attached to the wing mount bracket624may also be provided for abutting the hinge bracket694when the wings are positioned within the wing mount620so as to prevent the hinge pin691from moving laterally within the hole. Upon release of the bird, by rotating the positioning device600forward, the wing mount bracket624may pivot away from the holder frame604as facilitated by the hinge pin691to cause the displacement pin695to be transported along a chamfered portion696of the hinge bracket694, thereby allowing the hinge pin691to move laterally within the hole such that the wing mount bracket624also moves laterally away from the other wing mount bracket624. Thus, the hinge device690may be used to increase spacing between the wing mount brackets624in order to improve the release conditions for the avian pullet upon the positioning device600being rotated to a release position.

In some instances, as shown inFIG. 32, the wing mount620may include a wing separator680that creates a backdrop to prevent the wings from moving away during vaccination of the wing web. Such a feature may eliminate some of the compliance of the flexible wing web skin, while improving a perforation rate of the wing web. The separator680may include a projecting portion682that creates separation of the wings.

A pair of leg mounts630may be provided for maintaining the legs of the avian pullet in an outstretched position. The leg mounts630may be particularly configured to grip the leg shank of the avian pullet. The leg mounts630may be mounted to a leg mount plate632connected to a pair of frame rods607extending from the frame members608. Each leg mount630may include a pair of leg mount brackets634. Each leg mount bracket634may have a plurality of pliant members636extending inwardly toward the other associated leg mount bracket634so as to form opposing finger-like structures. The opposing pliant members636may cooperate to form a channel638therebetween for receiving a leg (e.g., leg shank) of the avian pullet, wherein the channel638extends substantially perpendicular to the projecting direction of the pliant members636. In this regard, a leg may be inserted between the flexible and opposing pliant members636along the crease such that the pliant members636interact with the leg to firmly grip and maintain the leg within the leg mount630. However, the pliant members636may be configured in such a manner that when the positioning device600reaches the unloading position and the positioning device600is rotated up slightly past vertical, gravity easily pulls the legs of the avian pullet out of the respective leg mount630. In some instances, the pliant members636may be angled with respect to the leg mount brackets634such that opposing pliant members636extending from opposite leg mount brackets634form an apex-like structure. The pliant members636may be formed or molded of various shapes and sizes as appropriate and may be constructed from materials have resilient type properties, such as, for example, silicone. According to some aspects, as shown inFIG. 32, a connector685fixedly attached to the leg mount plate632may be hinged to a leg support bracket689at a hinge point687using a hinge pin688so as to assist with the automated release of the avian pullet based on gravity when the positioning device600rotates forward to a release position.

The positioning device600may include a leg support640for providing support to the legs of the avian pullet when the legs are positioned within the leg mounts630. In some instances, the leg support640may include a pair of discrete leg support members642coupled to a leg support bracket644extending from the leg mount plate632. The leg support members642may be adjustably mounted to the leg support bracket644such that position adjustments can be made to accommodate avian pullets of various sizes. In some instances, the leg support members642may define apertures646, which allow needles or other injection devices to pass therethrough for injecting the avian pullet.

According to some aspects of the present disclosure, the leg support members642may be configured to stretch the skin of the avian pullet in the leg region to present an optimal target for injection. One such target may be the inguinal fold as targeted for a subcutaneous injection. In the groin area of the avian pullet there is skin between the leg and lower abdomen that facilitates the movement of the legs. The groin is referred to as the inguinal area, and when the skin is extended by lateral leg position, a subcutaneous space known as the inguinal fold is formed. In this regard, the leg support member642may be configured to spread the leg and abdomen of the avian pullet, thereby creating access to the inguinal fold. The leg support640may cooperate with the leg mounts630to spread the inguinal fold over the leg support members642for subcutaneous injection. Formation of the inguinal fold over the leg support members642may advantageously provide a safe angle for needle insertion at the subcutaneous depth.

In some instances, the leg support640may be configured such that the leg of avian pullet is not supported along its length so that the avian pullet cannot push the leg against anything for escape. The leg support members642may be particularly shaped to provide access to the inguinal fold for injection. In this regard, the leg support members642may be angularly spaced-apart such that the leg support640does not interfere with the leg or abdomen of the avian pullet. In some instances, extension of the leg for gripping in the leg mount630causes the inguinal fold to lie over the leg support member642. The leg support members642may be spaced-apart from the leg support bracket644in such a manner that accommodates the width and depth of the lower abdomen of the avian pullet without making contact. The configuration of the leg support members642may allow a desirable perpendicular needle to inguinal fold interface. In some instances, the leg support members642may include leg skin stops648that allow the avian pullet to be placed in the correct position without sliding low enough to be out of position.

According to some aspects of the present disclosure, as shown inFIGS. 32-35, the breast support610and leg support members642may be integrated into a single unit1100that is formed to support the breast of the avian pullet and present it as a vaccine target, while also separating the legs of the avian pullet in order to provide access to the inguinal folds thereof. In some instances, the apertures618may not be provided on such an integrated component such that needles or other injection devices need not pass therethrough for performing the breast injection(s) of the avian pullet.

The breast support610, wing mount620, leg mounts630, and leg support640may cooperate to present and maintain the avian pullet in a position optimal for the vaccine delivery procedure, or any other procedure, test, or evaluation related to the avian pullet. In this regard, the avian pullet may be positioned similar to that of a flight form position. The spatial relationship between the breast support610, wing mount620, leg mounts630, and leg support640may be varied to accommodate avian pullets of various sizes, such as to accommodate the difference between a layer pullet and a broiler/breeder type pullet.

In some instances, the positioning device600may include a shield assembly650that wraps at least partially about the head of the avian pullet when maintained in the positioning device600. The shield assembly650may be provided to contain overspray of a substance (e.g., vaccine) sprayed at the facial or head region of the avian pullet. In addition, the shield assembly650may serve as a blinder to help calm the avian pullet upon loading into the positioning device600. In other instances, as shown inFIGS. 32-35, the positioning device600may include a tube670configured to position the head of the avian pullet for a targeted spray vaccination, while also serving to contain any overspray of such sprayed vaccine. An end of the tube670may be angled in some instances.

As shown inFIGS. 32-34, a size adjustment assembly675may be provided on the positioning device600for accommodating avian pullets of various sizes. The size adjustment assembly675may be adjustable for re-configuring an entrance672into the tube670for the neck and head of the avian pullet. As shown inFIGS. 33 and 34, an arcuate member676of the size adjustment assembly675may be rotated about the entrance672to allow for various sizes of avian pullets to be appropriately positioned within the positioning device600. The arcuate member676may be a partial annular member, wherein a section is missing therefrom. The positioning device600shown inFIG. 33may be used for smaller avian pullets since the position of the arcuate member676allows the shoulders of the avian pullet to reach the holder frame604at the lower portion of the entrance672. The positioning device600shown inFIG. 34may be used for larger avian pullets since the position of the arcuate member676prevents the shoulders of the avian pullet from reaching the holder frame604at the lower portion of the entrance672. The size adjustment assembly675may include one or more locking devices678or assemblies, such as, for example, including a locking pin, to lock the arcuate member676in the desired position.

According to some aspects of the present disclosure, as shown inFIGS. 12 and 13, the vaccination system1may include release means, such as a release assembly300, for automatically releasing the avian pullets from the positioning devices600and the vaccination system1after the avian pullets have been administered the vaccine delivery procedure. In some instances, the release assembly300may be formed of a cam arrangement310connected to the transport assembly200. In such instances, each positioning device600may include a displacement device660configured to interact with the cam arrangement310for pivoting the positioning device600to facilitate release of the avian pullet therefrom. In the regard, the displacement device660may interact with the cam arrangement310to displace and rotate the positioning device600away from the mount plate702of the carriage assembly700.

According to one particular aspect, the displacement device660may configured as a pronged member connected to the base plate602, while the cam arrangement310is a wire-form cam mounted on the transport assembly200at an unloading position downstream from the mating and release positions20,25. The circuitous path of the wire-form cam according to one particular aspect is illustrated inFIGS. 4, 5, 12 and 13. In such instances, the pronged member may be pushed upward and outward by the cam shape, thus rotating the positioning device600at the hinge720that attaches the positioning device600to the carriage assembly700. At the maximum rotation of the positioning device600, as shown inFIG. 13, the positioning device600may be slightly past vertical so as to allow gravity to pull the avian pullet out of the positioning device600without assistance from an operator. In some instances, a ramp350may be provided to reduce the distance the avian pullet may fall upon release from the positioning device600. A cover plate (not shown) may be provided on the transport assembly200to prevent the positioning device600from rotating except for at the unloading position. This may be particularly helpful during loading of an avian pullet into the positioning device600such that the operator does not have to contend with a pivoting positioning device600.

According to some aspects of the present disclosure, as shown inFIG. 14, the vaccine delivery apparatus500may provide the control, power supply and vaccine delivery mechanism of the vaccination system1. The vaccine delivery apparatus500may include a portable cart-like structure having a frame502with wheels504and a handle506provided at a steerable axle end of the vaccine delivery apparatus500such that the vaccine delivery apparatus500can be moved around by one or more operators.

Electrical power for both the vaccine delivery apparatus500and the transport assembly200may be fed from a main power source by means of a flexible power cord and appropriate plug end. Power may be conditioned and distributed in an electrical enclosure mounted on the frame502. A controller device for controlling the vaccination system1may be mounted in the electrical enclosure. In some instances, separate enclosures may be included to house pneumatic controls and the power supply and variable frequency drive that run the conveyor assembly275. In some instances, compressed air may be used to operate the various vaccine delivery mechanisms and may be supplied by a self-contained air compressor510mounted on the vaccine delivery apparatus500. A display device520may be mounted in an enclosure on the top of the vaccine delivery apparatus500. The display device520may display, for example, current operating parameters, and may also provide the means by which an operator chooses the appropriate vaccine delivery procedure, speed of the conveyor assembly275, etc. to control the entire vaccination system1. In some instances, the enclosure may house buttons for power, start, stop and emergency-stop features. In some instances, a color coded system status indicator light530may be mounted to the vaccine delivery apparatus500. According to some aspects, the controller device may be capable of record-keeping, counting, data gathering and analysis, etc. to prevent avian pullets from receiving duplicate vaccinations.

A treatment substance, such as, for example, vaccine, may be fed to various vaccination devices of the vaccine delivery assembly400by means of one or more fluid delivery systems150, depending on the number of vaccination devices. The fluid delivery system150may include any suitable means or mechanisms, or combinations thereof, for supplying fluid to a vaccination device. Such fluid delivery systems150may include, for example, peristaltic pumps, diaphragm pumps or any other types of fluid pumps. In any instance, the fluid delivery systems150may be mounted on the vaccine delivery apparatus500and preferably mounted as close as is practical to the vaccine delivery assembly400to minimize potential vaccine waste in the delivery tubing. Vaccine supply reservoirs for each fluid delivery system may be positioned above associated pump inlets in order to provide positive head to the fluid delivery systems.

According to some embodiments, the vaccine delivery apparatus500may include the vaccine delivery assembly400. In this regard, the vaccine delivery assembly400may be mounted on the vaccine delivery apparatus500such that it may be easily transported proximate to the transport assembly200for appropriate engagement therewith. In some instances, the vaccine delivery assembly400may be stationary during operation of the vaccination system1, wherein each positioning device600may be delivered proximate to the vaccine delivery assembly400and then stopped such that the avian pullet carried thereby may undergo the vaccine delivery procedure as administered by the vaccine delivery assembly400.

In other instances, however, as previously described the vaccine delivery assembly400may be moveable with the positioning devices600such that the positioning devices600can move in a continuous manner about the transport assembly200without stopping. In this regard, the vaccine delivery apparatus500may include a shuttle assembly800mounted to the frame502. The shuttle assembly800may be configured to move the vaccine delivery assembly400back and forth between the mating position20and the release position25in a somewhat oscillating manner. As such, the vaccine delivery assembly400may be synchronized to move with a respective positioning device600once it reaches the mating position.

To ensure proper mating and alignment between the positioning devices600and the vaccine deliver assembly400, the vaccination system1may include one or more alignment assemblies. For example, an actuatable member490such as, for example, a pin assembly may be actuated to extend outward to engage a mating member of the positioning device600or the carriage assembly700for physically coupling and mating the positioning device600/carriage assembly700with the vaccine delivery assembly400. As another example, the vaccine delivery assembly400may include an electromagnetic coupling device495capable of being actuated to interact with the magnetic plate730of the carriage assembly700for coupling and mating the carriage assembly700with the vaccine delivery assembly400in a non-contact manner.

As shown inFIG. 15, the shuttle assembly800may include a shuttle platform802to which the vaccine delivery assembly400may be mounted. The shuttle platform802may be driven linearly by an appropriate drive assembly, which in some instances may include, for example, a linear motor or a rotary servo driving a linear table, or other suitable drive means to move in unison with the positioning device600. In this regard, the controller device may be configured to receive an encoder signal from the drive assembly of the conveyor assembly275and convert the encoder signal into a drive signal to the drive means of the shuttle assembly800to move the vaccine delivery assembly400along with the positioning device600. The shuttle platform802may be configured to move back and forth along one or more shafts808and between end plates804mounted to a base plate806.

According to various aspects of the present disclosure, the vaccine delivery assembly400may be capable of providing one or more treatment substances (e.g., vaccines, nutritional supplements, etc.) to the avian pullet according to a vaccine delivery procedure while the avian pullet is maintained in the positioning device600. In this regard, the vaccine delivery assembly400may include one or more vaccination devices capable of injecting, spraying, or otherwise delivering treatment substances to the avian pullet. In some instances, the controller device of the vaccine delivery apparatus500may be capable of enabling and disabling certain vaccination devices of the vaccine delivery assembly400so as to allow for customized vaccine delivery procedures. That is, any one, combination, or all of the vaccination devices may be selected for operation. The treatment substances may be individually supplied to each vaccination device such that multiple treatment substance may be used. In some instances, the injections or delivery of the treatment substances may occur simultaneously, while in other instances the injections or delivery of the treatment substances may occur sequentially.

According to one particular aspect, as shown inFIGS. 16 and 17, the vaccine delivery assembly400may be particularly configured to administer seven vaccinations to an avian pullet, including two separate intra-muscular breast injections, two separate wing web injections or piercings through the loose skin between each wing and the sides of the body, two subcutaneous injections in the inguinal folds of skin, and one spray application into the facial region of the avian pullet to be ingested, inhaled, and absorbed through the mucous membranes surrounding the eyes. It will be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the particular configuration illustrated and is only provided as one exemplary embodiment. Because the vaccination devices are on a different device (i.e., the vaccine delivery assembly400) than the positioning devices600, automated means and mechanisms may be needed to reach into the positioning device600to deliver the treatment substance.

According to one particular aspect, the vaccine delivery assembly400may include a pair of wing web injection devices410connected to a vaccine delivery frame402and capable of delivering a treatment substance to the wing webs of an avian pullet. Each wing web injection device410may be pneumatically operated to result in the piercing of a wing web with a needle424wetted with a treatment substance. In some instances, the wing injection device410may include a three part actuation assembly to carry out the wing web injection procedure.FIG. 16illustrates the wing web injection device410in a fully actuated position, ready for injecting. A wing web carriage assembly412may be raised to an appropriate height by a first actuator device414(e.g., a pneumatic cylinder). A vaccinator arm416of the wing web carriage assembly412may be rotated or articulated into a position proximate to the location of the wing web via a second actuator device418(e.g., a pneumatic cylinder) so as to position a needle holder assembly420proximate to the wing web.FIG. 17illustrates the vaccinator arm416in a non-actuated position. A wetted wing web needle424may then be extended by a third actuator device426(e.g., a pneumatic cylinder) to pierce the wing web skin of the avian pullet so as to drag the treatment substance into the tissue of the avian pullet.

As shown inFIGS. 19-22, a reservoir assembly425may hold a vaccine vial422(FIG. 16) of a treatment substance at the needle holder assembly420so as to facilitate a quick change out process for spent vials. The reservoir assembly425may provide guidance of the needle424, load the vaccine substance onto the needle424, and receive and hold the vaccine vial422to avoid having to pour vaccine substance from its original container (i.e., the vaccine vial422). To that end the reservoir assembly425may include a reservoir portion427defining a reservoir423and also defining a pair of holes428at each end thereof for guiding the needle424therethrough to become wetted by passing through the vaccine fluid contained within the reservoir423. In this regard, loading of vaccine substance into a pocket or groove (not shown) on the side of the needle424may be met by the needle424passing through the reservoir423filled with vaccine substance from the vaccine vial422naturally by gravity flow (i.e., the vial is upside down such that the vaccine substance flows therefrom naturally into the reservoir423). The reservoir portion427may also serve as a sealing means around the needle424to prevent dripping of vaccine fluid from around the needle424, as shown inFIG. 16. The reservoir assembly may further include a coupling portion429for facilitating attachment of the vaccine vial422to the reservoir assembly425. Thus, receipt and retention of the vaccine vial422may be accomplished by the coupling portion429, which may be in some instance molded to fit directly over a neck of a standard vaccine vial422containing vaccine substance used for wing web injections. The vaccine vial422may be uncapped and then span fit onto the coupling portion429.

The vaccine delivery assembly400may include a pair of intramuscular injection devices430connected to the vaccine delivery frame402and capable of delivering a treatment substance to the breast of an avian pullet. In some instances, the intramuscular injection devices430may be stationary with respect to positioning of the avian pullet such that the intramuscular injection devices430do not need to be moved into a different position when the positioning device600is mated with the vaccine delivery assembly400. Each intramuscular injection device430may include an intramuscular injector assembly432having an injector needle that may be driven into the breast muscle of the avian pullet by, for example, actuation of an actuator431(e.g., pneumatic cylinder) extending beneath the breast support610. The injector needle may pass within the aperture618defined by the respective breast support member614,616to inject the breast muscle.

The vaccine delivery assembly400may include a pair of subcutaneous injection devices450connected to the vaccine delivery frame402and capable of delivering a treatment substance to the inguinal folds of an avian pullet. In some instances, the subcutaneous injection devices450may be stationary with respect to positioning of the avian pullet such that the subcutaneous injection devices450do not need to be moved into a different position when the positioning device600is mated with the vaccine delivery assembly400. Each subcutaneous injection device450may include a subcutaneous injector assembly452having an injector needle that may be inserted into the inguinal fold skin of the avian pullet by, for example, actuation of an actuator451(e.g., pneumatic cylinder). The injector needle may pass within the aperture618defined by the respective breast support member614,616to inject the breast muscle.

The intramuscular injection devices430and subcutaneous injection devices450may be configured to allow for easy insertion and removal of tubing with luer lock fittings and luer lock needles.

The vaccine delivery assembly400may include a spray delivery device470connected to the vaccine delivery frame402and capable of delivering a treatment substance to a facial region of an avian pullet. In some instances, the spray delivery device470may be pneumatically operated using, for example, a pneumatic actuator (e.g., a pneumatic cylinder). In this regard, the spray delivery assembly470may include a spray assembly472mounted to a cylinder474pneumatically operated to extend the spray assembly472proximate to the head or facial region of the avian pullet when the positioning device600mates with the vaccine delivery assembly400. The spray delivery device470may include one or more support rods478for providing support to the spray assembly472.

The spray assembly472may have one or more nozzle orifices476configured to deliver a treatment substance to the facial region of the avian pullet as a spray. As shown inFIG. 18, within each nozzle orifice476may be positioned a nozzle insert assembly480. One or more resilient annular members475(e.g., O-rings) may be provided about the nozzle insert assembly480for retaining the nozzle insert assembly480within the nozzle orifice476, while also providing an air sealing means. In some instances, the nozzle insert assembly480may be formed of a nozzle body481and a nozzle member482. The nozzle body481may define a cavity483for receiving at least a portion of the nozzle member482. The cavity483may be in fluid communication with an air passage484defined by a manifold block473of the spray assembly472. The nozzle body481may include a dispersion nozzle485configured to assist with controlling dispersion of the vaccine fluid dispensed from the spray delivery device470. The nozzle body481may define a channel486extending around the exterior thereof, while further defining one or more holes487within the channel486such that alignment of the air passage484with the holes487is unnecessary when fluidly communicating air to the cavity483. The nozzle member482may include a nozzle tip488for dispensing the vaccine fluid delivered through a fluid passage491of the nozzle member482when the nozzle insert assembly480is connected to a vaccine fluid supply source at a connector end489.

In operation, a vaccine fluid may be provided under pressure to the nozzle tip488where the fluid interacts with compressed air provided at the dispersion nozzle485to deliver the vaccine fluid in a spray form at a desired pressure and with a desired droplet size. In this regard, the nozzle insert assembly480may be particularly configured to spray droplets of a desired size distribution and with an appropriately sized spray pattern at relatively low pressures. For example, the spray assembly472may deliver a 100 μL shot of vaccine in droplet form with a particle size of greater than or about 100 μm. Disposability and low cost may be accomplished by only having the nozzle insert assembly480being wetted by vaccine. The nozzle insert assembly480may be discarded after a predetermined number of vaccinations, at the end of shifts, etc. In this instance, the manifold block473and other supporting components may not be exposed to the vaccines and thus may be re-used. Connected to the nozzle insert assembly480may be a fluid pump system capable of precise delivery of small vaccine doses. In some instances, the introduction of the air stream may be transverse to the fluid path at the point of mixing the vaccine and the air stream such as at the nozzle tip488and the dispersion nozzle485.

According to some aspects, the vaccine delivery assembly400may be mounted on the shuttle assembly800. In this regard, a base plate404of the vaccine delivery assembly400may be attached to the shuttle platform800. The vaccine delivery assembly400may include a pair of side plates406attached to the base plate404. The vaccine delivery assembly400may include various other brackets, plates, spacers, or structures for providing appropriate mounting means to the various vaccination devices, with particular attention to appropriate spacing and orientations thereof.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, as shown inFIGS. 23-29, the vaccination system1may be a turn table based apparatus with onboard vaccine delivery assembly400and positioning devices600such that a unified assembly may be used. In some instances, the positioning devices600may be evenly spaced apart on the transport assembly200. In some instances, the transport assembly200may include a rotatable mounting arrangement950mounted to a cart frame900, wherein the positioning devices600may be attached to the rotatable mounting arrangement950via a linkage assembly975. One or more electrical/pneumatic enclosures940may be provided as part of the vaccination system1. The positioning devices600, regardless of the number thereof, may rotate to a loading position110, a vaccination position120, and a release position130. Upon successful loading, the avian pullet may be rotated to the vaccination position120such that the avian pullet may be vaccinated according to a predetermined protocol. When the next avian pullet is loaded, the previous avian pullet may be rotated to the release position130and gently released back to the floor without human intervention. The rotatable mounting arrangement950may be driven by a motor assembly and associated components that facilitate such rotation. For example, the rotatable mounting arrangement950may be driven by a servo worm gear reducer and electrical motor (DC) mounted beneath the rotatable mounting arrangement950. A cover plate952may be provided to protect the gear reducer and motor assembly from dirt or vaccine spills. The vaccination system1may include a switch956extending from a switch arm954that allows the operator to initiate rotation of the positioning devices600to the next position.

As described previously, the vaccination system1may include the release assembly300to facilitate automatic release of the avian pullets from the positioning devices600after the avian pullets have been administered the vaccine delivery procedure. Each positioning device600may include the displacement device660configured to interact with the cam arrangement310for pivoting the positioning device600to facilitate release of the avian pullet therefrom. In the regard, the displacement device660may interact with the cam arrangement310, in which some instances may be a rod extending within or between the cart frame900, to displace and rotate the positioning device600at the release position130away from the mounting arrangement950, as shown inFIGS. 23, 24, 26, 27, 29 and 37. In this regard, the release assembly300allows the positioning device600in the release position130to rotate forward for automated release of the avian pullet.FIG. 28illustrates the positioning device600rotating into the release position130, during initial engagement with the cam arrangement310.FIGS. 28, 29 and 37only show a single positioning device600for purposes of clarity.

The release mechanism may be assisted by the hinged wing mount620and hinged leg mount630that open via gravity when the positioning device600is rotated forward so as to allow the avian pullet to be gently released onto its feet from close to ground height. In some instances, the positioning device600may remain rotated forward until the switch956is activated by the operator, whereby the positioning device600returns to its standard upright position according to the cam arrangement310as the positioning device600rotates to the loading position110.

A retention device960may be provided to prevent the positioning devices600, when positioned at the loading position110or vaccination position120, from flipping or rotating forward by restricting motion of the displacement device660. The retention device960may be absent at the release position130in order to allow the displacement device660to engage the cam arrangement310for rotating forward the positioning device600for automatic release of the avian pullet.

The vaccination system1may include a home sensor965and a release sensor970. Upon initial start of a vaccination protocol, the vaccination system1may perform an automated homing function by rotating the mounting arrangement one step. The home sensor965at the vaccination position120may look for a home flag on the positioning device600and reset to a home position (e.g., the loading position110). The release sensor970may be used to ensure that the positioning device600at the release position130is rotated forward from the upright position into the correct release position at initial startup of the vaccination system1in order to prevent any possible damage to the vaccination system1due to incomplete setup. The release sensor970may prevent the homing routine from executing if the positioning device600is not detected in the correct position.

According to some aspects, weight measurements of the avian pullets may also be carried out via the vaccination system1. In some instances, weight measurements may be taken when an avian pullet is at the vaccination position120, and in some instances prior to the vaccination cycle or protocol. In some instances, two weight measurements may be taken and the average weight of the two measurements forwarded to a controller for data logging. A weight indication may be displayed on a weight indicator display980wherein various colors may be used to indicate predetermined weight thresholds being achieved or not (e.g., green=average, red=above threshold, amber=below threshold), based on user entered thresholds. The controller may log the measured weight data together with a date and time stamp. The raw data may be exported. The operator may have the option to clear the log file at the beginning of the day when entering user thresholds for the upper and lower weight limits.

As shown inFIG. 28, a weighing device985may be provided on the vaccination system1to allow for taking weight measurements of the avian pullets. For example, a load cell device986or strain gauge device may be incorporated into the vaccination system1at the vaccination position120. The positioning device600may stop directly on top of the load cell device986, wherein the weight of the avian pullet causes the positioning device to deflect downward such that the weight may be measured by the load cell device986via the physical interaction between the load cell device986and the positioning device600(or the linkage assembly975). In some instances, each positioning device600may have a projection603(FIG. 36) for physically engaging or interacting with the load cell device986. An arm support(s)987may guide the positioning device600to the correct position without exercising lateral forces on the load cell device986. The load cell device986may support various weights up to a predetermined maximum weight, while being mechanically protected against overloading. The load cell device986may be in communication with an energy amplifier and/or conditioner present at the controller and may, in some instances, collect two consecutive weight measurements within 300 milliseconds.

The controller may average the two weights and forward such information for data logging. The controller may actuate the appropriate weight indicator display980until the next positioning device600reaches the vaccination position120, indicating that the weight of the avian pullet is above (red), within (green) or below (amber) user entered thresholds. A water tight USB port990may be provided on an HMI enclosure995for data export of the raw weight measurements. The weight measurement feature may be used to determine the absence or presence of an avian pullet in the positioning device600at the vaccination position120. In this regard, the vaccination system1may be configured such that no vaccination occurs if an avian pullet is not present, thereby preventing vaccine spillage and waste.

According to some aspects, the vaccine delivery assembly400may include a main actuator460capable of moving an intramuscular injection actuator461, a subcutaneous injector actuator462, and a wing web injection actuator463to a position that allows for injection of the respective body part of the avian pullet, as shown inFIG. 31. As shown inFIG. 30, the main actuator460may retract when the vaccination protocol has been completed, and all needles and actuators have returned to their individual retract positions. Once the main actuator460is actuated, the needles for the intramuscular and subcutaneous injections may extend, the appropriate pump systems activated, and the vaccination protocol initiated. The main actuator460may be equipped with extend and retract sensors for monitoring and controlling the vaccination protocol. In some instances, the intramuscular injection actuator461and subcutaneous injector actuator462may be equipped with extend sensors for monitoring and controlling the vaccination protocol.

Upon actuation of the main actuator460, the wing web injection actuators463may extend toward the wings of the avian pullet held within the positioning device600. When positioned, the needles of the wing web injection devices410may extend upon actuation of wing web needle actuators464so as to pierce the skin of the avian pullet for delivering the vaccine. In some instances, the wing web injection actuators463may be equipped with extend and retract sensors for monitoring and controlling the vaccination protocol. In some instances, the wing web needle actuators464may be equipped with extend sensors for monitoring and controlling the vaccination protocol.

As previously described, the vaccine delivery assembly400may include the spray delivery device470for delivering a treatment substance to a facial region of an avian pullet disposed within the tube670. In some instances, the spray delivery device470may include a spray device actuator465that may be actuated approximately with or concurrently with the main actuator460. As shown inFIG. 31, the spray delivery device470may be carried by a guide466so as to extend beneath the tube670such that the vaccine may be sprayed or delivered upwardly to the face of the avian pullet. In some instances, the spray device actuator465may be equipped with extend and retract sensors for monitoring and controlling the vaccination protocol.

In some instances, the holding pen in which the vaccination system1is placed may be separated through netting100into a non-vaccinated side and a vaccinated side, as shown inFIG. 27. All avian pullets may be initially herded to the non-vaccinated side, wherein the vaccination system1may be placed between the two sides with the loading position110on the non-vaccinated side and the release position130on the vaccinated side.

In use, a helper (kneeling or sitting) may grab an avian pullet from the floor on the non-vaccinated side and transfer it to the loader (standing at the loading position110) while holding both wings in one hand and both legs in the other. The loader may then place the avian pullet in the positioning device600by directing the head thereof into the tube670and resting its shoulders against the tube670, resting the breast on the breast support610, folding the wings up and placing them into the pliant members626of the wing mount620with one hand, then using both hands to separate the legs and placing the feet into the pliant members636of the leg mounts630. If the bird is loaded satisfactorily, the loader may actuate the switch956in direct continuation of a loading motion to initiate the automated rotation of the avian pullet to the vaccination position120and subsequently to the release position130. This process may be repeated until refill of the vaccines is needed or all avian pullets are vaccinated.

According to some aspects, the vaccination system1may keep track of vaccine counts and may alert (e.g., audible or visual alarms) the operator when vaccine levels are reaching predetermined levels.

As shown inFIGS. 38 and 39, the vaccination system1may include a display device1000for displaying a user interface1020that may have a variety of information presented to the operator. For example, the display device1000may display the weight of an avian pullet at the vaccination position or the count of doses remaining for a particular injection device of the vaccine delivery assembly400. Further, the user interface1020may display one or more icons1040capable of being actuated for initiating an operation of the vaccination system1or otherwise accessing additional functionality or icons. In some instance, the user interface1020may be a touchscreen interface with which the operator may touch to actuate the icons1040.

Many modifications and other aspects of the present disclosure set forth herein will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings. For example, the positioning device600and the carriage assembly700may be formed as a single unit. As described herein, the positioning device600and the carriage assembly700may be separable for various reasons, including ease of transport, replacement, cleaning, etc. Therefore, it is to be understood that the present disclosure is not to be limited to the specific aspects disclosed and that modifications and other aspects are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation.