Patent Description:
It is known to coat a fertilizer pellet with film. However, a need exists for improved systems and methods for coating pellets with fertilizer and other agricultural compounds that can be run generally continuously, and especially in situations where there is less than a <NUM>% core fill rate. <CIT> (<NUM>-<NUM>-<NUM>) provides background art. The system of the present invention as in claim <NUM> is characterized in that each core support further includes a plurality of bridges which extend between the pedestal and the connecting structure of the exterior face of the carrier, the plurality of bridges being separated by a plurality of apertures of a second fluid conduit; and in that the system further comprises a vacuum system in fluid communication with the first fluid conduit and the second fluid conduit.

Carriers are provided for supporting a plurality of agricultural cores on a plurality of core supports for coating by a flexible film. The plurality of core supports may include a pedestal for supporting a respective agricultural core and a core periphery region having a plurality of bridge elements which couple the pedestal to the connecting structure between the plurality of core supports. The carriers may include a vacuum system that independently communicates a partial vacuum to an aperture in each respective pedestal and a plurality of apertures in the core periphery region of a respective core support between the bridge elements.

In an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a system is provided for coating agricultural cores with a flexible film. The system may comprise a carrier having an exterior face including a connecting structure and a plurality of core supports recessed relative to the connecting structure. Each core support may include a pedestal sized and shaped to support one of the agricultural cores to be coated. The pedestal may include an aperture of a first fluid conduit. A plurality of bridges may extend between the pedestal and the connecting structure of the exterior face of the carrier, and the plurality of bridges may be separated by a plurality of apertures of a second fluid conduit. A vacuum system may be in fluid communication with the first fluid conduit and the second fluid conduit. The plurality of bridges may connect the connecting structure and the pedestal such that when an agricultural core is not positioned on the pedestal the flexible film is capable of conforming to the shape of the pedestal, the plurality of bridges, and the connecting structure. A top surface of the pedestal may be below a top surface of the connecting structure. Each of the plurality of bridges may have a top surface extending above the top surface of the connecting structure, or each of the plurality of bridges may have a top surface positioned completely lower than the top surface of the connecting structure. The pedestal may include a concave section surrounded by an outer shelf. The concave section may include the aperture of the first fluid conduit. The carrier may include a base having a plurality of recesses and a plurality of inserts. Each of the plurality of inserts may be positioned in a respective one of the plurality of recesses. Each of the plurality of inserts may include the pedestal and bridges of the respective core supports. The system may utilize biodegradable film. The system may comprise a plurality of elongated film securing apertures.

In another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a method of simultaneously coating a plurality of agricultural cores with a flexible film is provided. The method may comprise the steps of supporting a first integer number of the plurality of agricultural cores on a first carrier having an exterior face including a connecting structure and a second integer number of core supports recessed relative to the connecting structure, each core support may include a pedestal sized and shaped to support one of the agricultural cores to be coated and a plurality of bridges which may extend between the pedestal and the connecting structure of the exterior face, the second integer number being greater than the first integer number. The method involves positioning a flexible film over the first integer number of agricultural cores, coating an upper portion of each of the first integer number of agricultural cores with a first number of pieces of the flexible film broken off of the overall flexible sheet film, and conforming a remainder of the flexible sheet film to the pedestal and plurality of bridges of a third integer number of core supports of the carrier, the third integer number being equal to the first integer number subtracted from the second integer number. The flexible film may be treated to increase a formability of the flexible film, which treatment may include heating. Biodegradable film may be used. The upper portion of each of the first integer number of agricultural cores with the first number of pieces of the flexible sheet film broken off of the overall flexible sheet film may include the steps of applying a partial vacuum to a plurality of apertures positioned between the plurality of bridges of each core support and around a periphery of the first number of agricultural cores supported on each core support of the first number of core supports. The flexible sheet film may be stretched to a breaking point to separate the first number of pieces of the flexible sheet film from the overall sheet film. The step of conforming the remainder of the flexible sheet film to the pedestal and the plurality of bridges of the third integer number of core supports of the carrier may include the steps of applying a partial vacuum to a plurality of apertures positioned between the plurality of bridges of each core support of the third number of core supports and applying a partial vacuum to an aperture in the pedestal of each core support of the third number of core supports. The flexible film may be secured to a film support by a plurality of elongated film securing apertures. The film support may be at a different level, higher or lower, than the plate that holds the cores. The step of removing the remainder of the flexible film from the carrier subsequent to the first number of pieces of the flexible film being broken off of the overall flexible sheet film may include portions of the flexible film being positioned over the connecting structure and portions conformed to the pedestals and the plurality of bridges of the third integer number of core supports.

In another embodiment for a system for coating agricultural cores with a flexible film, the system may comprise a carrier having an exterior face including a connecting structure and a plurality of core supports recessed relative to the connecting structure. Each core support may include a central region to support the respective agricultural core. The central region may include an aperture of a first fluid conduit. A core periphery region may surround the respective agricultural core. The core periphery region may include a plurality of apertures of a second fluid conduit. A vacuum system may be in fluid communication with the first fluid conduit and the second fluid conduit. The vacuum system may control an application of a partial vacuum to the first fluid conduit independent of an application of a partial vacuum to the second fluid conduit. The vacuum system may permit the application of the partial vacuum to the second fluid conduit to stretch and break the flexible film. The vacuum system may permit the application of the partial vacuum to the first fluid conduit when the respective core support is positioned to receive an agricultural core. The flexible film may be secured to a film support by a plurality of elongated film securing apertures.

In another embodiment, a system for coating agricultural cores with a flexible film is provided. The system may comprise a carrier having a plurality of core supports connected by a connecting structure. A first film support may be positioned along a first side of the connecting structure, and a second film support may be position along a second side of the connecting structure, opposite the first side of the connecting structure. The first film support and the second film support may include a plurality of elongated film securing apertures. A vacuum system may be in fluid communication with the plurality of elongated film securing apertures in the first film support and the second film support. The vacuum system may control an application of a partial vacuum to the plurality of elongated film securing apertures to hold the flexible film relative to the carrier. The system may have a core support that includes a central region to support the respective agricultural core, and the central region may include an aperture of a first fluid conduit. The vacuum system may control an application of a partial vacuum to the first fluid conduit independent of the application of the partial vacuum to the plurality of elongated apertures in the first film support and the second film support. Each core support may include a core periphery region surrounding the central region, and the core periphery region may include a plurality of apertures of a second fluid conduit. The vacuum system may control an application of a partial vacuum to the second fluid conduit independent of the application of the partial vacuum to the first fluid conduit.

The above-mentioned and other features and advantages of this disclosure, and the manner of attaining them, will become more apparent and will be better understood by reference to the following description of exemplary embodiments taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:.

Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views. The exemplification set out herein illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure and such exemplifications are not to be construed as limiting the scope of the present disclosure in any manner.

For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles of the present disclosure, reference is now made to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings, which are described below. The embodiments disclosed herein are not intended to be exhaustive or limit the present disclosure to the precise form disclosed in the following detailed description. Rather, the embodiments are chosen and described so that others skilled in the art may utilize their teachings. Therefore, no limitation of the scope of the present disclosure is thereby intended. Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views.

The terms "couples", "coupled", "coupler" and variations thereof are used to include both arrangements wherein the two or more components are in direct physical contact and arrangements wherein the two or more components are not in direct contact with each other (e.g., the components are "coupled" via at least a third component), but yet still cooperate or interact with each other).

In some instances, throughout this disclosure and in the claims, numeric terminology, such as first, second, third, and fourth, is used in reference to various components or features. Such use is not intended to denote an ordering of the components or features. Rather, numeric terminology is used to assist the reader in identifying the component or features being referenced and should not be narrowly interpreted as providing a specific order of components or features.

Disclosed herein are various systems and methods for positioning agricultural cores or coating agricultural cores with a flexible film. Exemplary agricultural cores are illustrated in <FIG>. In <FIG>, a tablet shaped agricultural core <NUM> is shown having a generally cylindrical shape. In embodiments, agricultural cores <NUM> may be about <NUM> millimeters in height. In <FIG>, a generally spherical shaped agricultural core <NUM> is shown. In embodiments, agricultural cores <NUM> may be about <NUM> millimeters in diameter, although size of the core may vary depending upon the agricultural application. In other embodiments, the size of the agricultural core is matched to the approximate size and shape of the seed with which it may be planted.

As used herein the terms "agricultural core" and "core", used interchangeably, mean a solid having one or more agriculturally beneficial substances which promote plant growth, promote desired plant characteristics, and/or reduce detrimental influence of the environment on a desired plant. Exemplary agriculturally beneficial substances include fertilizers, herbicides, insecticides, fungicides, plant growth regulators, surfactants, shelf-life extenders, micronutrients, macronutrients, liming materials, and inert ingredients, if any. Exemplary micronutrients include iron (Fe), boron (B), chlorine (Cl), manganese (Mn), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), molybdenum (Mo), nickel (Ni). Exemplary macronutrients include nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), calcium (Ca), sulfur (S), magnesium (Mg), carbon (C), oxygen(O), and hydrogen (H).

In embodiments, flexible film <NUM> is a thermoformable flexible film. In embodiments, the softening temperature of the thermoformable flexible film is at least <NUM> degrees Celsius lower than the melting temperature of the core to be coated. In one embodiment, the softening temperature of the thermoformable flexible film is between about <NUM> degrees Celsius and <NUM> degrees Celsius. In embodiments, the flexible film includes multiple layers. In other embodiments, the flexible film is a single layer.

Exemplary flexible films include films including a single polymer such as polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, polyethylene terephthalate, polyester, nylon,, cellophane, polyacrylate, polyvinyl chloride, polyvinylidene chloride, polycarbonate, thermoplastic polyurethane, fully and partially hydrolyzed polyvinyl alcohol, ethylenevinyl acetate copolymer, acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer, biodegradable or compostable polymer such as polylactic acid, polybutylene succinate, polycaprolactone, polyhydroxyalkanoate, copolyester, cellulosic polymer, starch polymer. Further exemplary films include films composed of a blend of the polymers mentioned herein. Still further exemplary films include films composed of a single polymer or a blend of polymers and a filler that is known in the field to improve the performance of the film. Exemplary fillers include plasticizers, impact modifiers, mineral fillers, water-soluble fillers and pigments. Still further exemplary films include biodegradable films of a single component or a blend of components. Exemplary biodegradable films are films derived from renewable biomass sources, such as vegetable fats and oils, starch such as corn starch, plant based cellulose, lactic acid, straw, woodchips and/or food waste.

In embodiments, suitable exemplary films include films having a thermal shrinkage of less than about <NUM>% at about <NUM> in both the machine direction (MD) (i.e., horizontal to the flow of the film, as shown in <FIG>, and the transverse direction (ID) (i.e., parallel to the flow of the film), as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, with or without annealing. Further, in embodiments, suitable exemplary films include films having an elongation at break (separation of film coating core from remainder of film) at about <NUM> of less than about <NUM>-<NUM>% in both the MD and the ID. Further, in embodiments, suitable exemplary films include films having a difference in elongation at break between the MD and the ID resulting in a ratio between elongation at break in the MD and elongation at break in the ID of approximately <NUM> to <NUM>, an impact strength greater than <NUM> Joules (<NUM> ft-lb, <NUM> N-mm) and a permeability or water vaper transmission rate of <NUM>-<NUM>/m<NUM>/day at <NUM>. One example of a film exhibiting such characteristics includes a film comprising a blend of <NUM>% polybutylene succinate and <NUM>% polylactic acid which has been melt extruded to a <NUM> millimeter or less film in such a way that the shrinkage is less than <NUM>% in both the ID and the MD. In various embodiments, the exemplary films may include approximately <NUM>% or less of an additive such as clay. Additional exemplary films are provided in Table <NUM>. For the films listed in Table <NUM>, BIOMAX is DuPont BIOMAX Strong <NUM>; PBSA grade is Mitsubishi FZ91PD; PLA4032D is NATUREWORKS INGEO 4032D; and PLA 10361D is NATUREWORKS INGEO 10361D.

Referring to <FIG>, a portion of an exemplary carrier <NUM> is shown. Carrier <NUM> includes an exterior face <NUM> which includes a plurality of core supports <NUM> and connecting structure <NUM> interposed between the plurality of core supports <NUM>. The cores supported by the plurality of core supports <NUM> are to be covered with a flexible film coating by a system incorporating carrier <NUM>.

Each of plurality of core supports <NUM> includes a pedestal <NUM> on which a respective core is supported. The pedestal includes an outer shelf <NUM> and a concave region <NUM> positioned within shelf <NUM> (see <FIG>). A central portion of concave region <NUM> includes an aperture <NUM> which is in fluid communication with a vacuum system as described in more detail herein. In embodiments, the profile of pedestal <NUM> may include one or more steps and/or have alternative shapes.

Each of the plurality of core supports <NUM> further includes an outer shelf <NUM> having a top surface <NUM> which is raised relative to connecting structure <NUM>. Outer shelf <NUM> and pedestal <NUM> are connected by a plurality of bridge elements <NUM> which are separated by a plurality of apertures <NUM> (see <FIG>). Apertures <NUM> are in fluid communication with a vacuum system as described in more detail herein. In general, apertures <NUM> are positioned to correspond generally to a periphery region of the core supported on pedestal <NUM> (see <FIG>).

As illustrated, each bridge element <NUM> includes a ramp surface <NUM> which spans from a top surface of outer shelf <NUM> of pedestal <NUM> and a top surface <NUM> of outer shelf <NUM>. In embodiments, bridge element <NUM> may have a non-linear contour and/or may be offset from one or both of the top surface of outer shelf <NUM> of pedestal <NUM> and top surface <NUM> of outer shelf <NUM>.

In an alternative embodiment (see <FIG>), top surface <NUM> of outer shelf <NUM> is recessed relative to connecting structure <NUM> instead of raised relative to connecting structure <NUM> as shown in <FIG>. In another alternative embodiment (see <FIG>), outer shelf <NUM> is not included and bridge elements <NUM> connect directly to connecting structure <NUM>. In embodiments, bridge element <NUM> may have a non-linear contour and/or may be offset from one or both of the top surface of outer shelf <NUM> of pedestal <NUM> and top surface <NUM> of outer shelf <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, a first exemplary carrier <NUM> is illustrated that may incorporate the exterior face <NUM> of the exemplary carrier <NUM> shown in <FIG> including the plurality of core supports <NUM> (one marked) and the connecting structure <NUM> or the alternative embodiments. As illustrated, carrier <NUM> includes a plurality of core supports <NUM> arranged in multiple rows and columns such that multiple cores may be coated simultaneously. Carrier <NUM> is a drum that rotates about axis <NUM> and that may be part of a rotatable coating system. Carrier <NUM>, in embodiments, is a chill roll whose temperature is controlled to reduce adherence of the flexible film used for coating to the exterior face <NUM> of carrier <NUM>. Carrier <NUM>, in embodiments, includes portions of a vacuum system which is capable of independently applying a partial vacuum to fluid conduits terminating in aperture <NUM> and apertures <NUM> of respective core supports <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, a second exemplary carrier <NUM> is illustrated that may incorporate the exterior face <NUM> of the exemplary carrier <NUM> shown in <FIG> including the plurality of core supports <NUM> (one marked) and the connecting structure <NUM> or the alternative embodiments. As illustrated, carrier <NUM> includes a plurality of core supports <NUM> arranged in multiple rows and columns such that multiple cores may be coated simultaneously. Carrier <NUM> is a plate which may be part of a linear coating system. Carrier <NUM>, in embodiments, is a chill plate whose temperature is controlled to reduce adherence of the flexible film used for coating to the exterior face <NUM> of carrier <NUM>. Carrier <NUM>, in embodiments, includes portions of a vacuum system which is capable of independently applying a partial vacuum to fluid conduits terminating in aperture <NUM> and apertures <NUM> of respective core supports <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the operation of carrier <NUM> is illustrated. <FIG> correspond to <FIG> with a core <NUM> supported by pedestal <NUM> and a flexible film <NUM> positioned over core <NUM>, core support <NUM>, and connecting structure <NUM>. In embodiments, a vacuum system <NUM> holds core <NUM> to pedestal <NUM> by pulling a partial vacuum on an underside of core <NUM> through a fluid conduit <NUM> terminating in aperture <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, vacuum system <NUM> does not pull a partial vacuum through fluid conduits <NUM> terminating in apertures <NUM>.

Exemplary vacuum systems include one or more vacuum pumps, one or more valves, one or more fluid conduits, and combinations thereof. In embodiments, vacuum system <NUM> is able to independently apply a partial vacuum to fluid conduit <NUM> and to fluid conduits <NUM>; thereby controlling which regions of core support <NUM> are under a partial vacuum. An advantage, among others, of having the ability to selectively apply a partial vacuum to different regions of core support <NUM> is increased efficiency in the operation and operational cost of vacuum system <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG> (corresponding to <FIG>) and <FIG> (corresponding to <FIG>), vacuum system <NUM> has applied a partial vacuum to both fluid conduit <NUM> terminating in aperture <NUM> and fluid conduits <NUM> terminating in apertures <NUM>. As a result, flexible film <NUM> has been pulled downward in direction <NUM>. The partial vacuum in a core periphery region <NUM> corresponding to bridge elements <NUM> and apertures <NUM> stretches flexible film <NUM> to the point of breaking flexible film <NUM> into multiple pieces, specifically piece <NUM> of flexible film <NUM> which has adhered to an upper portion of core <NUM> and piece <NUM> which overlays outer shelf <NUM> and connecting structure <NUM>. Piece <NUM> coats core <NUM> and forms part of the flexible film covering for core <NUM>. The other side of core <NUM> may be coated by flipping core <NUM> over and repeating the application of flexible film <NUM>. In embodiments, core <NUM> is flipped by transferring core <NUM> to another core support <NUM> of a second carrier <NUM>. Piece <NUM> of flexible film <NUM> is removed as a sheet of material with holes corresponding to the locations of pieces <NUM> which had adhered to cores <NUM> supported by the plurality of core supports <NUM>. As mentioned herein, carrier <NUM> may be chilled to assist in the removal of piece <NUM> from outer shelf <NUM> and connecting structure <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG> (corresponding to <FIG>) and <FIG> (corresponding to <FIG>), one of the plurality of core supports <NUM> does not have a corresponding core <NUM>. Vacuum system <NUM> has applied a partial vacuum to both fluid conduit <NUM> terminating in aperture <NUM> and fluid conduits <NUM> terminating in apertures <NUM>. As a result, flexible film <NUM> has been pulled downward in direction <NUM> and remains as a single sheet. Flexible film <NUM> does include perforations corresponding to the regions over aperture <NUM> and apertures <NUM>, but as shown in <FIG> the portions over pedestal <NUM>, bridge elements <NUM>, outer shelf <NUM>, and connecting structure <NUM> remain interconnected and flexible film <NUM> generally conforms to the shapes of pedestal <NUM>, bridge elements <NUM>, outer shelf <NUM>, and connecting structure <NUM>.

In practice, a majority of the plurality of core supports <NUM> will have cores <NUM> supported thereon and a minority of the plurality of core supports <NUM> will have cores <NUM> missing. Thus, when flexible film <NUM> is removed, flexible film <NUM> is a sheet of material with holes corresponding to the locations of pieces <NUM> which had adhered to cores <NUM> supported by the majority of the plurality of core supports <NUM> and portions generally conforming to the shape of outer shelf <NUM>, bridge elements <NUM>, and pedestal <NUM> of core supports <NUM> with missing cores <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, an exemplary embodiment <NUM> of carrier <NUM> is illustrated. Carrier <NUM> has the same general structure as carrier <NUM> with some minor exceptions. For example, bridges <NUM> and apertures <NUM> of carrier <NUM> have different shapes than bridges <NUM> and apertures <NUM> of carrier <NUM>. Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, flexible film <NUM> is shown after having been conformed to the shape of connecting structure <NUM>, outer shelf <NUM>, bridges <NUM>, and core support <NUM>. The flexible film <NUM> is continuous in at least a plurality of regions from the connecting structure <NUM> to core support <NUM>. <FIG> illustrates an upper side of flexible film <NUM> which was not adjacent to carrier <NUM> and <FIG> illustrates a lower side of flexible film <NUM> which was adjacent to carrier <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, another exemplary carrier <NUM> is shown. Carrier <NUM> includes a plate <NUM> having an upper surface <NUM> and a plurality of core supports <NUM> (five marked in <FIG>) formed in recesses in plate <NUM>. Referring to <FIG>, plate <NUM> is recessed relative to film supports 310A, 310B positioned on the longitudinal sides of plate <NUM>. An exterior face <NUM> of carrier <NUM> is composed of the top surfaces 314A, 314B of film supports 310A, 310B, the upper surface <NUM> of plate <NUM>, and the upper surfaces of the plurality of core supports <NUM>. A first one of core supports <NUM> is supporting a core <NUM>. A second one of core supports <NUM> is supporting a spherical core <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, a vacuum system <NUM> is represented. Vacuum system <NUM> includes a plurality of pumps 322A-C, a plurality of valves 324A-C, a plurality of fluid conduits 326A-C, and an electronic controller <NUM>. In embodiments, each of the plurality of valves is formed by a stationary plate having radial openings in communication with the respective pump <NUM> and a moveable plate having openings in fluid communication with the respective apertures of carrier <NUM>. As the moveable plate moves relative to the stationary plate, a first opening in the moveable plate aligns with a radial opening in the stationary plate to bring the respective apertures of carrier <NUM> into fluid communication with the respective pump <NUM> of vacuum system <NUM> ("valve open"). When the first opening in the moveable plate is not aligned with the radial opening in the stationary plate, the respective apertures of carrier <NUM> are not in fluid communication with the respective pump <NUM> of vacuum system <NUM> ("valve close").

Fluid conduit 326A is in fluid communication with a plurality of film securing apertures <NUM> in top surfaces 314A, 314B of film supports 310A, 310B. Fluid conduit 326A is in fluid communication with valve 324A which is in fluid communication with pump 322A. Valve 324A and pump 322A are operatively coupled to electronic controller <NUM> and controlled by electronic controller <NUM>. Film <NUM> is positioned on top surfaces 314A, 314B of film supports 310A, 310B and held in place due to the partial vacuum pulled through film securing apertures <NUM> by pumps 322A when valves 324A is open. An advantage, among others, of holding the edges of film <NUM> relative to the central portion of the film above the cores <NUM> to be coated. Another advantage, among others, of holding the edges of film <NUM> is to minimize retraction of film <NUM> in a transverse direction.

In the illustrated embodiment, film securing apertures <NUM> are elongated along a longitudinal direction of the film supports 310A, 310B. An advantage, among others, of elongating the apertures along the longitudinal direction is that it increases the force holding the film <NUM> to the film supports 310A, 310B without increasing a transverse diameter of the apertures. This advantage, over other aperture shapes, such as spherical apertures, allows the film to be more securely attached to the film support. The elongated film securing apertures shown in the Figures, such as in <FIG> and <FIG>, comprise a plurality of elongated film securing apertures in the shape of elongated ovals or slots. As used herein, the term plurality of elongated film securing apertures also encompass a continuous or near continuous elongated aperture defining a border of the film support that secures the film to the support.

Fluid conduit 326B is in fluid communication with a plurality of apertures <NUM> in the central portions of core supports <NUM> and are positioned to hold cores <NUM> to core supports <NUM>. Fluid conduit 326B is in fluid communication with valve 324B which is in fluid communication with pump 322B. Valve 324B and pump 322B are operatively coupled to electronic controller <NUM> and controlled by electronic controller <NUM>. Cores <NUM> are positioned on top core supports <NUM> and held in place due to the partial vacuum pulled through apertures <NUM> by pump 322B when valve 324B is open.

Fluid conduit 326C is in fluid communication with a plurality of apertures <NUM> in core supports <NUM> and are positioned between bridges <NUM> of core supports <NUM> around the periphery of the cores <NUM> to stretch film <NUM> over cores <NUM>. Fluid conduit 326C is in fluid communication with valve 324C which is in fluid communication with pump 322C. Valve 324C and pump 322C are operatively coupled to electronic controller <NUM> and controlled by electronic controller <NUM>. Film <NUM> is positioned on top of cores <NUM> which are held in place by film supports 310A, 310B and stretched over cores <NUM> due to the partial vacuum pulled through apertures <NUM> by pump 322C when valve 324C is open.

Electronic controller <NUM> includes logic which controls the operation of valves 324A-C (if electronically controlled) and pumps 322A-C. In embodiments, the logic may be software instructions and data stored on memory which is accessible by electrical controller <NUM> for execution. The term "logic" as used herein includes software and/or firmware executing on one or more programmable processors, application-specific integrated circuits, field-programmable gate arrays, digital signal processors, hardwired logic, or combinations thereof. Therefore, in accordance with the embodiments, various logic may be implemented in any appropriate fashion and would remain in accordance with the embodiments herein disclosed. A non-transitory machine-readable medium comprising logic can additionally be considered to be embodied within any tangible form of a computer-readable carrier, such as solid-state memory, magnetic disk, and optical disk containing an appropriate set of computer instructions and data structures that would cause a processor to carry out the techniques described herein. This disclosure contemplates other embodiments in which electronic controller <NUM> is not microprocessor-based, but rather is configured to control operation of valves 324A-C, pumps 322A-C, and/or other components of carrier <NUM> or the system including carrier <NUM> based on one or more sets of hardwired instructions. Further, electrical controller <NUM> may be contained within a single device or be a plurality of devices networked together or otherwise electrically connected to provide the functionality described herein.

In other embodiments, individual valves are not controlled by an electronic controller. For example, as mentioned herein, an alternative is to bring fluid passageways in the carrier into fluid communication with the vacuum system based on the position of the carrier relative to a support having openings in fluid communication with the vacuum system. Thus, when a respective fluid passageway in the carrier is aligned with the opening in the support the vacuum system is in fluid communication with the openings in the carrier connected to the fluid passageway and when the respective fluid passageway in the carrier is not aligned with the opening in the support the vacuum system is not in fluid communication with the openings in the carrier connected to the fluid passageway.

Referring to <FIG>, plate <NUM> includes a plurality of recesses <NUM> (one marked) in upper surface <NUM> of plate <NUM>. Recesses <NUM> form apertures <NUM> of core supports <NUM>. Plate <NUM> includes a first plurality of recesses <NUM> (one marked in <FIG>) which intersects two of recesses <NUM> and couples recesses <NUM> to fluid conduit 326C. Plate <NUM> further includes a second plurality of recesses <NUM> (one marked in <FIG>) and a third plurality of recesses <NUM> (one marked in <FIG>). Each of recesses <NUM> is in fluid communication with a central portion of a corresponding recess <NUM> and each of recesses <NUM> is in fluid communication with a plurality of recesses <NUM>. Each of recesses <NUM> and recesses <NUM> are in fluid communication with fluid conduit 326B.

The central support <NUM> of core supports <NUM> and bridges <NUM> are part of an insert <NUM> (see <FIG>) which is received in recesses <NUM>. The central support is provided by a support <NUM> of insert <NUM>. Bridges <NUM> separate recesses <NUM> into a plurality of apertures <NUM> of core supports <NUM> which are positioned about the periphery of the cores supported on core supports <NUM>. Insert <NUM> is coupled to plate <NUM> by either a press fit of lower portion <NUM> of insert <NUM> into recess <NUM>, threaded engagement between lower portion <NUM> of insert <NUM> and the walls of recess <NUM>, or other suitable connections. Insert <NUM> further includes a fluid conduit <NUM> which brings apertures <NUM> into fluid communication with fluid conduit 326B.

An alternative insert <NUM> is shown in <FIG>. Insert <NUM> includes a body <NUM> which defines a central aperture <NUM> (corresponding to aperture <NUM> of insert <NUM>) which is in fluid communication with a fluid conduit <NUM> (corresponding to fluid conduit <NUM> of insert <NUM>). Cores <NUM> or <NUM> are positioned on support <NUM> surrounding aperture <NUM>. Insert <NUM> further includes bridges <NUM> (corresponding to bridges <NUM> of insert <NUM>) which connect support <NUM> to exterior surface <NUM> of plate <NUM> when insert <NUM> is received in recesses <NUM>. Bridges <NUM> separate recesses <NUM> into a plurality of apertures <NUM> (see <FIG>) of core supports <NUM> which are positioned about the periphery of the cores supported on core supports <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, insert <NUM> is positioned in a first recess <NUM> of plate <NUM> and insert <NUM> is positioned in a second recess <NUM> of plate <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, bridges <NUM> of insert <NUM> extend closer to upper surface <NUM> of plate <NUM> than bridges <NUM> of insert <NUM>. Referring to <FIG>, bridges <NUM> of insert <NUM> extend above support <NUM> of insert <NUM>. In contrast, support <NUM> of insert <NUM> extends above bridges <NUM> of insert <NUM>. Both of bridges <NUM> of insert <NUM> and bridges <NUM> of insert <NUM> connect the respective central core support portion <NUM>, <NUM> of the respective insert <NUM>, <NUM> to the walls of the respective recess <NUM> to provide a continuous connection for flexible film <NUM> to conform to in the absence of a core on the respective core support portion <NUM>, <NUM>.

An advantage, among others, of having bridges <NUM> of insert <NUM> lower than support <NUM> is that a greater distance is provided for film <NUM> to stretch and break relative to upper surface <NUM> of plate <NUM> without contacting bridges <NUM> when a core is supported by support <NUM>. The distance from upper surface <NUM> to bridges <NUM> remains small enough for the film being used that in the absence of a core <NUM> supported by support <NUM> the film does not break in the region over bridges <NUM>, but rather conforms to the upper surface of bridges <NUM> to continue to connect the flexible film <NUM> over the recess <NUM> and insert <NUM> to the remainder of the film lattice.

Insert <NUM> is coupled to plate <NUM> by either a press fit of lower portion <NUM> of insert <NUM> into recess <NUM>, threaded engagement between lower portion <NUM> of insert <NUM> and the walls of recess <NUM>, or other suitable connections. Insert <NUM> further includes a fluid conduit <NUM> which brings aperture <NUM> into fluid communication with fluid conduit 326B (see <FIG>).

Each of inserts <NUM> and <NUM> are shown with four respective bridges <NUM>, <NUM>. In embodiments, fewer or more bridges may be included. In embodiments, at least two bridges are provided. In embodiments, up to six bridges are provided.

In embodiments, plate <NUM> and inserts <NUM>, <NUM> are made of aluminum. In embodiments, a temperature of plate <NUM> and inserts <NUM>, <NUM> is maintained below about <NUM> degrees Celsius.

Referring to <FIG>, a system <NUM> is illustrated. System <NUM> includes a sorting and alignment system <NUM> which arranges cores <NUM> into an arrangement corresponding to a plurality of core supports of a first carrier <NUM>. Carrier <NUM> rotates in a first direction <NUM> and includes a vacuum system which couples the cores <NUM> to carrier <NUM>. The cores <NUM> are transferred to a second carrier <NUM>.

Carrier <NUM> rotates in a second direction <NUM>. As carrier <NUM> rotates in direction <NUM>, a flexible film <NUM> is unwound from a roller <NUM> and overlaid on cores <NUM> as described herein and held relative to carrier <NUM> as described in connection with carrier <NUM>. The flexible film <NUM> is treated to increase a formability of the flexible film. Exemplary methods of treatment include exposure to radiation, heating, chemical treatment, and other suitable methodologies. In the illustrated embodiment, the flexible film <NUM> is heated by a heating system <NUM> and coats the upper portion of cores <NUM> as described herein in connection with carriers <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and the excess flexible film <NUM> is removed. In embodiments, carrier <NUM> is temperature controlled to assist in the removal of the excess flexible film <NUM> from the surface of carrier <NUM>. The half coated cores <NUM> are transferred to a third carrier <NUM>.

Carrier <NUM> rotates in first direction <NUM>. As carrier <NUM> rotates in direction <NUM>, a flexible film <NUM> is unwound from a roller <NUM> and overlaid on cores <NUM> as described herein and held relative to carrier <NUM> as described in connection with carrier <NUM>. The flexible film <NUM> is heated by a heating system <NUM>, coats the upper portion of cores <NUM> (which corresponded to the lower portions of cores <NUM> on carrier <NUM>) as described herein in connection with carriers <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and the excess flexible film <NUM> is removed. In embodiments, carrier <NUM> is temperature controlled to assist in the removal of the excess flexible film <NUM> from the surface of carrier <NUM>. The fully coated cores <NUM> are transferred to a fourth carrier <NUM>.

Carrier <NUM> rotates in second direction <NUM> and includes a vacuum system which couples the cores <NUM> to carrier <NUM>. The cores <NUM> are transferred to a collection system <NUM>. Exemplary collection systems <NUM> include bins and other suitable receptacles.

Each of carriers <NUM> and <NUM> are in fluid communication with a vacuum system that is in fluid communication with the core supports of carriers <NUM> and <NUM>. In embodiments, a rotational position of the respective carrier <NUM> and <NUM> controls when the core supports of the respective carrier <NUM> and <NUM> are in fluid communication with the vacuum system. For example, a fluid passageway in the respective carrier which is in fluid communication with a respective core support of the carrier moves as the carrier is rotated and is in fluid communication with the vacuum system when the fluid passageway aligns with an opening in a support to which the carrier is coupled. The opening in the support is in fluid communication with the vacuum system. When the fluid passageway in the carrier is not aligned with the opening in the support, the respective core support is not in fluid communication with the vacuum system. In embodiments, a respective core support is in fluid communication with an angular opening in the support that is in fluid communication with the vacuum source when the respective core support is in a transfer-in zone <NUM> (see <FIG>) and is not in fluid communication with the vacuum source when the respective core support is in a transfer-out zone <NUM> (see <FIG>).

Referring to <FIG>, in the transfer-in zone <NUM> of carrier <NUM>, cores <NUM> are coupled to carrier <NUM> from sorting and alignment system <NUM> and held to carrier <NUM> until alignment with carrier <NUM> for transfer to carrier <NUM>. When aligned with carrier <NUM>, the respective core support of carrier <NUM> passes to the transfer-out zone <NUM> and the vacuum system is not in fluid communication with the respective core support. Referring to <FIG>, in the transfer-in zone <NUM> of carrier <NUM>, cores <NUM> are coupled to carrier <NUM> from carrier <NUM> and held to carrier <NUM> until transfer to collection system <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the vacuum zones of carrier <NUM> are shown. In embodiments, carrier <NUM> has the arrangement of carrier <NUM> positioned about the cylindrical shape of carrier <NUM> and is connected to vacuum system <NUM>. In the transfer-in zone <NUM> of carrier <NUM>, a respective core support <NUM> couples a core <NUM> from carrier <NUM> whose corresponding core support is now in the transfer-out zone <NUM>. As shown in the following table, vacuum system <NUM> pulls a partial vacuum on the underside of core <NUM> through aperture <NUM> of the respective core support <NUM> in the transfer-in zone <NUM>. As the respective core support <NUM> rotates to the film apply zone <NUM>, vacuum system <NUM> further pulls a partial vacuum on the edges of flexible film <NUM> through film securing apertures <NUM>. The flexible film <NUM> is heated by heating system <NUM> in this zone. In embodiments, heating system <NUM> heats flexible film <NUM> above the glass transition temperature of the flexible film <NUM> to render the flexible film <NUM> pliable and conformable to the shape of cores <NUM>. As the respective core support <NUM> rotates to the stretch/break zone <NUM>, vacuum system <NUM> further pulls a partial vacuum through apertures <NUM> to stretch and break flexible film <NUM> about core <NUM> (see <FIG> for example). As the respective core support <NUM> rotates to the film remove zone <NUM>, vacuum system <NUM> is not in fluid communication with film securing apertures <NUM> nor with apertures <NUM>. As the respective core support <NUM> rotates to the transfer-out zone <NUM>, vacuum system is not in fluid communication with any of film securing apertures <NUM>, <NUM>, nor <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the vacuum zones of carrier <NUM> are shown. In embodiments, carrier <NUM> has the arrangement of carrier <NUM> positioned about the cylindrical shape of carrier <NUM> and is connected to vacuum system <NUM>. In the transfer-in zone <NUM> of carrier <NUM>, a respective core support <NUM> couples core <NUM> from carrier <NUM> whose respective core support is in the transfer-out zone <NUM> of carrier <NUM>. As shown in the above table, vacuum system <NUM> pulls a partial vacuum on the underside of core <NUM> through aperture <NUM> of the respective core support <NUM> in the transfer-in zone <NUM>. As the respective core support <NUM> rotates to the film apply zone <NUM>, vacuum system <NUM> further pulls a partial vacuum on the edges of flexible film <NUM> through film securing apertures <NUM>. The flexible film <NUM> is heated by heating system <NUM> in this zone. In embodiments, heating system <NUM> heats flexible film <NUM> above the glass transition temperature of the flexible film <NUM> to render the flexible film <NUM> pliable and conformable to the shape of cores <NUM>. As the respective core support <NUM> rotates to the stretch/break zone <NUM>, vacuum system <NUM> further pulls a partial vacuum through apertures <NUM> to stretch and break flexible film <NUM> about core <NUM> (see <FIG> for example). As the respective core support <NUM> rotates to the film remove zone <NUM>, vacuum system <NUM> is not in fluid communication with film securing apertures <NUM> nor with apertures <NUM>. As the respective core support <NUM> rotates to the transfer- out zone <NUM>, vacuum system <NUM> is not in fluid communication with any of apertures <NUM>, <NUM>, nor <NUM>.

In embodiments, a spacing between the individual carriers <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> may be adjusted based on a size of cores <NUM> or cores <NUM>. An advantage, among other, of the ability to adjust the spacing between the individual carriers <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> is that lower vacuum levels may be used to transfer cores between the respective carriers due to the reduced spacing between the cores and the carrier to which the cores are to be transferred.

Referring to <FIG>, an exemplary sorting and alignment system <NUM> is shown. Sorting and alignment system <NUM> includes a hopper <NUM> into which a bulk amount of cores <NUM> are deposited. Hopper <NUM> includes side walls <NUM> and an end wall <NUM>. Sorting and alignment system <NUM> further includes a conveyor system <NUM> having a carrier <NUM>, illustratively a plurality of plates (one marked), moveable in direction <NUM>. In other various examples, carrier <NUM> may be a continuous member such as a belt or a continuous plate. A bottom of hopper <NUM> is open to accommodate carrier <NUM>. As carrier <NUM> moves in direction <NUM>, individual cores <NUM> are received in recesses <NUM> (one marked) of carrier <NUM>. In examples, carrier <NUM> is arranged to travel upward at an angle relative to horizontal to assist in the movement of individual cores into recesses <NUM> of carrier <NUM>. In one example, carrier <NUM> is arranged to travel upward at an angle of about <NUM> degrees to about <NUM> degrees.

Referring to <FIG>, the side walls <NUM> of hopper <NUM> terminate at a width aligned with the outer edge of the arrangement of recesses <NUM> in plates <NUM>. In examples, a length of hopper <NUM> is about <NUM> (about <NUM> inches).

Returning to <FIG>, an upper portion of hopper <NUM> includes a rotating brush <NUM> which rotates in direction <NUM>. Brush <NUM> assists in the arrangement of cores <NUM> in individual recesses <NUM> of carrier <NUM>.

In examples, lane dividers are provided in the bottom of the hopper <NUM> and produce apertures through which the individual cores <NUM> pass to enter the recesses <NUM> of carrier <NUM>. Depending on the arrangement of recesses <NUM> of carrier <NUM>, it may be necessary to run carrier <NUM> through multiple hoppers <NUM>, each hopper <NUM> having lane dividers aligned with different rows of recesses <NUM> in carrier <NUM>. In examples, recesses <NUM> of carrier <NUM> may be elongated along direction <NUM> to aid in receiving cores <NUM>.

In examples, a top portion of conveyor <NUM> is positioned proximate to carrier <NUM> to transfer the cores <NUM> from carrier <NUM> to carrier <NUM>. In other examples, carrier <NUM>, once filled, is transitioned to a horizontal conveyor section for transfer of cores <NUM> to carrier <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, an exemplary conveyor system <NUM> having a plurality of plates <NUM> (two marked) moveable in direction <NUM> is shown. Cores <NUM> are received in apertures <NUM> of plates <NUM> when a respective plate <NUM> is positioned below hopper <NUM>. In examples, apertures <NUM> of plates <NUM> are elongated along direction <NUM> to aid in receiving cores <NUM>.

Cores <NUM> rest on a support <NUM> which is positioned below plates <NUM>. Support <NUM> has a first portion <NUM> positioned below hopper <NUM> with a first separation from plates <NUM> when plates <NUM> move overtop of portion <NUM> of support <NUM>. Support <NUM> further has a second portion <NUM> positioned below the transfer zone <NUM> of carrier <NUM> with a second separation from plates <NUM> when plates <NUM> move overtop of portion <NUM> of support <NUM>. First portion <NUM> of support <NUM> is connected to second portion <NUM> of support <NUM> through a third, transition portion (not shown) that changes the separation between support <NUM> and plates <NUM> from the first separation to the second separation. In examples, the transition portion has a ramp profile from the first portion <NUM> to the second portion.

As illustrated in <FIG>, the first separation is larger than the second separation. In examples, the first separation is at least one half of the average height of cores <NUM> and up to the average height of cores <NUM>. An advantage, among others, for this separation distance is to permit cores <NUM> to be retained in apertures <NUM> as the cores slide past the cores remaining in hopper <NUM> above plate <NUM>. In examples, the second separation is less than one half of the average height of cores <NUM> which results in cores <NUM> protruding above an upper surface of plates <NUM>. An advantage, among others, for this separation distance is to permit cores to be more easily transferred to carrier <NUM> with the aid of a vacuum source.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, an example of a portion of conveyor system <NUM> is shown. First portion <NUM> of support <NUM> is received under plates <NUM>. Support <NUM> remains stationary and plates <NUM> are pulled in direction <NUM> through a chain drive system <NUM> which is coupled to plates <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, an exemplary conveyor system <NUM> having a plurality of plates <NUM> (two marked) moveable in direction <NUM>. Cores <NUM> are received in apertures <NUM> of plates <NUM> when a respective plate <NUM> is positioned below hopper <NUM>. In examples, apertures <NUM> of plates <NUM> are elongated along direction <NUM> to aid in receiving cores <NUM>.

Support <NUM> is a moveable support, such as a belt, which is moved by a drive wheel <NUM>. In examples, support <NUM> moves in direction <NUM>, but at one of a higher or lower speed than the movement of plates <NUM> in direction <NUM>. An advantage, among others, of running support <NUM> at a higher or lower speed than plates <NUM> is that cores <NUM> may be jostled and positioned in apertures <NUM> against a wall of the apertures <NUM>. A further advantage, among others, of running support <NUM> at a lower speed than plates <NUM> is that an incline of plates <NUM> relative to horizontal proximate transfer zone <NUM> may be reduced since the lower speed will continue to retard cores against a back edge of apertures <NUM>. In other examples, support <NUM> moves in direction <NUM>, opposite to direction <NUM>.

In examples, support <NUM> is smooth. In other examples, support <NUM> is textured.

As illustrated in <FIG>, the first separation is larger than the second separation. In examples, the first separation is at least one half of the average height of cores <NUM> and up to the average height of cores <NUM>. An advantage, among others, for this separation distance is to permit cores <NUM> to be retained in apertures <NUM> as the cores slide past the cores remaining in hopper <NUM> above plate <NUM>. In examples, the second separation is less than one half of the average height of cores <NUM> which results in cores <NUM> protruding above an upper surface of plates <NUM>. An advantage, among others, for this separation distance is to permit cores to be more easily transferred to carrier <NUM> with the aid of a vacuum source.

Referring to <FIG> an alternative example of conveyor system <NUM>' includes a vibration device <NUM> to vibrate support <NUM>. An advantage, among others, of vibrating support <NUM> is to aide in the alignment of cores, particularly table shaped cores <NUM>. Exemplary vibration devices include pneumatic and electrical industrial vibrators.

Referring to <FIG>, portions of another exemplary conveyor system <NUM> are shown. Conveyor system <NUM> includes a carrier <NUM>, illustratively a plurality of plates, moveable in direction <NUM> towards a core lifter <NUM>. In various examples, carrier <NUM> may be a continuous member such as a belt or one continuous plate. Cores <NUM> (two shown) are received in recesses <NUM> of carrier <NUM> when a respective portion of carrier <NUM> is positioned below hopper <NUM>. In the illustrated example, recesses <NUM> of carrier <NUM> are elongated along direction <NUM> to aid in receiving cores <NUM>. Each of recesses <NUM> includes a plurality of supports <NUM> which support a respective core <NUM> and an aperture <NUM> which permits core lifter <NUM> to interact with cores <NUM>. In various examples, the width of aperture <NUM> is less than that of cores <NUM> and recesses <NUM> such that cores <NUM> remain within recess <NUM> without additional support.

In various examples, core lifter <NUM> may include a stationary or moveable member configured to raise the cores <NUM> within recesses <NUM>. Referring to <FIG>, an exemplary core lifter <NUM> includes an actuator configured to raise the core, where when in a lowered position the core is supported by support <NUM>. In various examples, core lifter <NUM> may lift cores <NUM> relative to carrier <NUM> by lifting support <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, another exemplary core lifter <NUM> includes a plurality of fingers <NUM> (one marked) which are aligned with the apertures <NUM> in recesses <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, fingers <NUM> are positioned below the transfer zone <NUM> of carrier <NUM> and have a profile that will raise cores <NUM> relative to carrier <NUM>. In various examples, fingers <NUM> may be stationary, while in other various examples, fingers <NUM> may be moveable. Other examples of core lifter <NUM> include a rotating roller with raised portions to lift the cores <NUM> or a continuous belt with spaced apart raised areas to raise cores <NUM> up in recesses <NUM> when pulled the belt is pulled through.

Referring to <FIG>, cores <NUM> are received in recesses <NUM> of carrier <NUM> when fingers <NUM> are not positioned below the recesses <NUM> having the illustrated cores <NUM>. In examples, cores <NUM> are about <NUM> percent received in the respective recesses <NUM> such that only about <NUM> percent of the core <NUM> is above an upper surface of carrier <NUM>. Referring to <FIG>, when fingers <NUM> are positioned below the recesses <NUM> having cores <NUM>, the fingers <NUM> press upward on cores <NUM> and raise cores <NUM> relative to carrier <NUM>. In examples, cores <NUM> are raised to a position wherein about half of the core <NUM> is received by recess <NUM>.

The carriers disclosed herein may be used to coat a plurality of agricultural cores with a flexible film. In an exemplary example, a method of simultaneously coating a plurality of agricultural cores with a flexible film is provided. The method including supporting a first integer number of the plurality of agricultural cores on a first carrier having an exterior face including a connecting structure and a second number of core supports recessed relative to the connecting structure. Each core support including a pedestal sized and shaped to support one of the agricultural cores to be coated and a plurality of bridges which extend between the pedestal and the connecting structure of the exterior face. The second integer number being greater than the first integer number. The method further including positioning a flexible film over the first integer number of agricultural cores and coating an upper portion of each of the first integer number of agricultural cores with a first number of pieces of the flexible film broken off of the overall flexible sheet film. The method further including conforming a remainder of the flexible sheet film to the pedestal and plurality of bridges of a third integer number of core supports of the carrier such that the flexible sheet conformed to the third number of core supports is removed with the remainder the overall flexible film positioned over the connecting structure. The third integer number being equal to the first integer number subtracted from the second integer number. For example, if the carrier included <NUM> core supports and <NUM> cores were present then the third integer number would be zero. In another example, if the carrier included <NUM> core supports and <NUM> cores were present then the third integer number would be <NUM>.

Claim 1:
A system for coating agricultural cores (<NUM>) with a flexible film (<NUM>), the system comprising:
a carrier (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) having an exterior face (<NUM>, <NUM>) including a connecting structure (<NUM>, <NUM>) and a plurality of core supports (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) recessed relative to the connecting structure (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>), each core support (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) including
a pedestal (<NUM>) sized and shaped to support one of the agricultural cores (<NUM>) to be coated, the pedestal (<NUM>) including an aperture (<NUM>, <NUM>) of a first fluid conduit (<NUM>);
characterized in that
each core support (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) further includes a plurality of bridges (<NUM>, <NUM>) which extend between the pedestal (<NUM>) and the connecting structure (<NUM>) of the exterior face (<NUM>) of the carrier (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>), the plurality of bridges (<NUM>, <NUM>) being separated by a plurality of apertures (<NUM>) of a second fluid conduit (<NUM>);
and in that the system further comprises a vacuum system (<NUM>, <NUM>) in fluid communication with the first fluid conduit (<NUM>) and the second fluid conduit (<NUM>).