Abstract: A diverter assembly for conveyor systems that moves in a substantially linear direction in and out of the path of loads on the conveyor system.

Abstract: A conveyor system including a first fixed conveyor section fixedly positioned with respect to a supporting surface and a second fixed conveyor section positioned with respect to the first fixed conveyor section, and fixedly positioned with respect to the supporting surface. An adjustable conveyor section is initially positioned with respect to the first fixed conveyor section, and slidably movable with respect to the first fixed conveyor section to an operating position between a minimum position and a maximum position, and connectable to each fixed conveyor section.

Abstract: A directional input device includes a transfer belt having a conveying surface. A first plow assembly is positioned with respect to the transfer belt, and includes a first plow belt positioned generally perpendicular to the transfer belt. A drive unit is operatively connected to the first plow assembly. In one preferred embodiment of this invention, a directional input device system includes a queuing belt; a directional input device positioned downstream from the queuing belt, and including a transfer belt having an entrance end portion operatively connected to a discharge end portion of the queuing belt and a plow-centering unit; and a machine positioned downstream from the directional input device having a machine belt operatively connected to a discharge end portion of the transfer belt.

Abstract: A baggage handling system includes a plurality of baggage trays for carrying baggage and a conveyor for transporting the trays at a given speed. A diverter selectively removes baggage from the conveyor and positions the baggage on an accumulator. An unloader is provided to unload the baggage from the accumulator. The accumulation in one mode slows baggage as received from the conveyor and presents the slowed baggage to an unloading device at a generally constant rate, such a rate being dependent of the rate at which the baggage is diverted from the conveyor. The unloader uses a tipping mechanism employing wheel guides an and actuator for gentle tipping of the baggage from the accumulator to another zone such as a make-up area in an airport baggage handling system.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for handling cargo are disclosed which include a plurality of cargo carriers capable of being operated manually by human operators or remotely by a central controller. The carriers are operated in their manual mode to traverse paths near aircraft or other movable objects whose stopping positions cannot be accurately known until arrival. Once the carriers have been loaded and manually guided away from the movable object, they are driven onto a track from which point an automated controller takes over to guide the carriers to their destinations.