Abstract: Device for obtaining dust from minerals. The device has an excitation part for mechanical ultrasonic vibrations combined with a chisel. A suction device is provided to collect the dust produced. The device serves in particular to produce dust samples rapidly for quick analysis of minerals in prospecting, in the reconnaissance and evaluation of deposits and in the mining of minerals for the purposes of quality control, monitoring and controlling the mining process.

Abstract: Process for sorting coarse to fine materials according to their chemical composition, in which samples are taken and analyzed, and in which the transporting and/or further processing of the materials is controlled according to the results of the analysis. The samples are taken in the form of an air swirled mixture of coarse dust and fine dust (i.e., particles with grain sizes of less than 200 .mu.m) which is obtained as a by-product or is produced artificially. The coarser dust is separated from the mixture. All of the fine dust or a fraction thereof is analyzed.

Abstract: A process and apparatus are disclosed for the automatic examination of eggs for cracks or fractured surface areas in their shells. The process includes the steps of directing light from at least one light source onto the egg, and detecting and measuring the intensity of the light emanating from the egg. Cracks or fractured surface areas in the egg shell will allow a greater intensity of light to emanate from the egg. Such relatively higher intensity is measured to determine if a crack or fracture exists. The apparatus consists of at least one light source, a device for rotating the egg, apparatus for moving the light beam over the surface of the egg shell, and a device for detecting the intensity level of the light emanating from the egg.