Abstract: An apparatus for inspecting various articles in connection with the present invention comprises a structure for operating a retractable door which includes a shaft member, a flexible door member carried by and windable on the shaft member, a motor structure for driving the shaft member, and a gear train mechanically linking the motor and shaft member. The gear train includes a drive gear and a driven gear with the driven gear being connected to the shaft member and the drive gear being connected to and driven by the motor. The drive gear and driven gear both comprise gear teeth about only a portion of the respective circumferences. A switch member for controlling the motor is provided, and an actuating control structure is provided with respect to the drive gear for controlling the switch member.

Abstract: An article transfer and inspection apparatus comprising chamber-defining means, substantially impermeable to x-rays; and x-ray source for directing x-rays to a first portion of said chamber; feed and extraction conveyor systems individually having at least a portion thereof outside the chamber and respectively serving to introduce and remove an article into and from the chamber, the feed conveyor system being operable at a first speed; an inspection conveyor system located between the feed and extraction conveyor systems and at least partly disposed at the chamber first portion, the inspection conveyor system being operable at a second speed at least equal to the first speed and serving to carry the article through the chamber first portion; and means for converting x-rays passing through the first portion and the article into a visual image.The apparatus can also include means for achieving a pre-determined spacing between various articles.