Abstract: A density-current method and apparatus for separating produce, such as potatoes, from debris, such as roots, vines, corn cobs, wood, metal objects, and rocks. An elongated tank with a non-turbulent flow of water allows the objects to stratify. A chain conveyor seperates the upper strata of debris. An increase in velocity causes the water and produce to be removed from the apparatus. The objects that sink are removed from the apparatus by a chain conveyor. The invention is an efficient method for separating debris from large volumes of produce.

Abstract: An automatic carton filling and weighing device including a means for automatically assuring that a predetermined weight of product is placed in an empty carton which is continuously provided by a conveyor belt means. The filling and weighing device removes the cartons from the control of the conveyor belt and simultaneously releases the product to fill the carton. Following a short delay after the product has been placed within the carton the carton and its enclosed product are weighed thereby avoiding distortion generated by inertial forces. The weighing device incorporates a flexible cantilever system which accurately reflects the total weight of the carton and its contents regardless of whether the particular loading within the carton is uniform and further avoids problems inherent with the inertial loading forces. Upon the carton reaching the predetermined weight level the carton is returned to control of the conveyor and removed thus releasing the weighing station for the next succeeding carton.