摘要 |
<p>An end of arm tool that is capable of handling fragile items such as eggs that are packaged in containers (e.g., egg cartons) that require special handling is provided. The end of arm tool comprises pivotal clamps operated by sliding-contact linear actuators and return springs. A retractable gripper for placing divider sheets between packages in the cases may be disposed above the clamps and oriented 90 degrees from the clamps, so that the clamps and gripper may be attached to the same tool without either obstructing the operation of the other. In addition, a method of loading packages, and optionally divider sheets, into cases using the end of arm tool apparatus of the present invention is provided.</p> |