Robotic food service packaging system

摘要

A handling and packaging system for utensils comprised of a device for packaging the utensils; and a device for obtaining the utensils and moving them to the packaging device. Preferably, the obtaining device includes N specialized end-effectors which seize the utensils, where N>/=1 and is an integer. A method for utensil handling and packaging. The method comprises the steps of obtaining the utensil and packaging the utensil. Preferably, the obtaining step includes the steps of moving an end-effector in proximity to the utensil. An end-effector for a robot comprising a structure and a device for producing magnetic force to seize objects made of metal. The producing device is supported by the structure. A bin for holding utensils. The bin is comprised of a base; and a container wherein the utensils are stored. The container is supported by the base such that one end of the container is higher than the other end of the container. A bin for holding utensils. The bin is comprised of a base having a center line. The bin is also comprised of a first divider disposed on the base on one side of the center line and offset therefrom. Moreover, there is a second divider disposed on the base of the other side of the center line and also therefrom but not opposite the first divider such that utensils are stored in the base behind the first and second dividers and are maintained in a longitudinal alignment thereby.