Abstract: A grain facility has a grain receiving station and a grain transport line with a grain elevator, a distributor with at least one input spout, and at least one grain bin. The grain transport line moves grain from the grain receiving station to one of the at least one grain bins and the distributor directs the grain to a selected bin of the at least one grain bin. The grain facility further includes an optical sensing system having at least one optical sensor positioned in the grain transport line at or before the distributor, wherein the optical sensing system senses the type of grain in the grain transport line. A control system determines if the grain passing through the grain transport line is suitable for the selected grain bin and produces an alarm if the grain in the grain transport line is not suitable for the selected grain bin.

Abstract: The application is directed to a system for conveying fluid to one or more downstream locations including a plurality of downstream locations severally. The system includes one or more upstream fluid sources, a fluid routing system in fluid communication with the one or more upstream fluid sources via an upstream fluid line and each of the downstream locations via separate downstream fluid lines. The fluid routing system includes fluid connections corresponding to each of the downstream fluid lines and is operationally configured to fluidly connect with a particular fluid connection while remaining fluidly disconnected from the remaining fluid connections.

Abstract: The application is directed to a system for conveying fluid to one or more downstream locations including a plurality of downstream locations severally. The system includes one or more upstream fluid sources, a fluid routing system in fluid communication with the one or more upstream fluid sources via an upstream fluid line and each of the downstream locations via separate downstream fluid lines. The fluid routing system includes fluid connections corresponding to each of the downstream fluid lines and is operationally configured to fluidly connect with a particular fluid connection while remaining fluidly disconnected from the remaining fluid connections.

Abstract: A windrow chute assembly includes a plurality of movable chute sections. A first chute section has a first proximal end for receiving material, and a first distal end opposite the first proximal end. The second chute section has a second proximal end for receiving material, and a second distal end opposite the second proximal end. The first and second proximal ends define a transverse axis therebetween. The first and second chute sections are displaceable toward one another to a closed or partially closed configuration to control the width and placement of each windrow. The first and second chute sections are also displaceable away from one another to an open configuration to provide access to rear areas of the combine.

Abstract: A conveyor belt system comprises a main frame element, a first conveyor belt attached to the main frame element to transport the food product in a first direction, and a second conveyor belt attached to the main frame element to transport the food product in a second direction. The second conveyor belt is below the first conveyor belt, and a chute element is on a shaft that is substantially horizontal and perpendicular relative to the first direction and the second direction The chute element is below the first conveyor belt and above the second conveyor belt, at an outer end position of the first conveyor belt in the first direction. The chute is rotatable around the shaft between a first position, in which the first conveyor belt is in communication with the second conveyor belt via the chute, and a second position, in which such communication is prevented.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a self-filling agricultural tender with a conveyor assembly attached to the tender by a bin coupling assembly, a detachable first connection point near the conveyor assembly inlet, and a vertically and horizontally rotatable connection linkage near the conveyor center of gravity, enabling the tender to be configured for travel, for the discharge of the conveyor portion to be positioned for remote loading, or for the discharge of the conveyor portion to be positioned for self-filling.

Abstract: The various embodiments of the present invention are directed to valve devices, systems, and methods for controlling the distribution of materials to multiple locations. The improved valve devices, materials distribution systems, and materials distribution methods disclosed herein are particularly suitable for use in applications where the materials being distributed are, for example but not limited to, non-gaseous fluid materials (e.g., raw liquids, solutions, slurries, colloids, suspensions, and the like) and solid materials having some level of tackiness, moisture content, or like property. The valves, systems, and methods disclosed herein can be operated without having to stop the flow of materials therethrough in order to change the position of the valve from one outlet to another. Further, the valves and systems disclosed herein have few directional changes, therefore there are few, if any, points within the system where the material can get stuck and/or lodged.

Abstract: The various embodiments of the present invention are directed to valve devices, systems, and methods for controlling the distribution of materials to multiple locations. The improved valve devices, materials distribution systems, and materials distribution methods disclosed herein are particularly suitable for use in applications where the materials being distributed are, for example but not limited to, non-gaseous fluid materials (e.g., raw liquids, solutions, slurries, colloids, suspensions, and the like) and solid materials having some level of tackiness, moisture content, or like property. The valves, systems, and methods disclosed herein can be operated without having to stop the flow of materials therethrough in order to change the position of the valve from one outlet to another. Further, the valves and systems disclosed herein have few directional changes, therefore there are few, if any, points within the system where the material can get stuck and/or lodged.

Abstract: The various embodiments of the present invention are directed to valve devices, systems, and methods for controlling the distribution of materials to multiple locations. The improved valve devices, materials distribution systems, and materials distribution methods disclosed herein are particularly suitable for use in applications where the materials being distributed are, for example but not limited to, non-gaseous fluid materials (e.g., raw liquids, solutions, slurries, colloids, suspensions, and the like) and solid materials having some level of tackiness, moisture content, or like property. The valves, systems, and methods disclosed herein can be operated without having to stop the flow of materials therethrough in order to change the position of the valve from one outlet to another. Further, the valves and systems disclosed herein have few directional changes, therefore there are few, if any, points within the system where the material can get stuck and/or lodged.

Abstract: A grain distributor including a timer coupled to a distribution spout that generates a series of particular time values. The control processor is programmed with an algorithm to pivot the distribution spout and to receive and record signals from the sensor as the sensor confronts each of the code clusters and each of the proof windows. The control processor is programmed with the algorithm to associate each signal from each code cluster with a particular time value generated by the timer and to memorize the particular time value associated with each code cluster in a long term memory and the control processor being programmed with the algorithm to associate each signal from each of the proof windows in a long term memory. The grain distributor is also self programming.

Abstract: A grain distributor including a timer coupled to a distribution spout that generates a series of particular time values. The control processor is programmed with an algorithm to pivot the distribution spout and to receive and record signals from the sensor as the sensor confronts each of the code clusters and each of the proof windows. The control processor is programmed with the algorithm to associate each signal from each code cluster with a particular time value generated by the timer and to memorize the particular time value associated with each code cluster in a long term memory and the control processor being programmed with the algorithm to associate each signal from each of the proof windows in a long term memory. The grain distributor is also self programming.

Abstract: A grain distributor including a timer coupled to a distribution spout that generates a series of particular time values. The control processor is programmed with an algorithm to pivot the distribution spout and to receive and record signals from the sensor as the sensor confronts each of the code clusters and each of the proof windows. The control processor is programmed with the algorithm to associate each signal from each code cluster with a particular time value generated by the timer and to memorize the particular time value associated with each code cluster in a long term memory and the control processor being programmed with the algorithm to associate each signal from each of the proof windows in a long term memory. The grain distributor is also self programming.

Abstract: A grain distributor including a timer coupled to a distribution spout that generates a series of particular time values. The control processor is programmed with an algorithm to pivot the distribution spout and to receive and record signals from the sensor as the sensor confronts each of the code clusters and each of the proof windows. The control processor is programmed with the algorithm to associate each signal from each code cluster with a particular time value generated by the timer and to memorize the particular time value associated with each code cluster in a long term memory and the control processor being programmed with the algorithm to associate each signal from each of the proof windows in a long term memory. The grain distributor is also self programming.

Abstract: The various embodiments of the present invention are directed to valve devices, systems, and methods for controlling the distribution of materials to multiple locations. The improved valve devices, materials distribution systems, and materials distribution methods disclosed herein are particularly suitable for use in applications where the materials being distributed are, for example but not limited to, non-gaseous fluid materials (e.g., raw liquids, solutions, slurries, colloids, suspensions, and the like) and solid materials having some level of tackiness, moisture content, or like property. The valves, systems, and methods disclosed herein can be operated without having to stop the flow of materials therethrough in order to change the position of the valve from one outlet to another. Further, the valves and systems disclosed herein have few directional changes, therefore there are few, if any, points within the system where the material can get stuck and/or lodged.

Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus for scattering poured goods, comprising a distributor chute (1) having a feed area (12) and having an ejection area, wherein the distributor chute (1) can be rotated about a center axis, which runs vertically in the installed position in the gravity direction of the poured goods and is mounted inclined at an angle with respect to this center axis, wherein the distributor chute (1) has a first guiding longitudinal face, which forms the front face in the rotation direction, and a second longitudinal face, which trails with respect to the rotation direction, and wherein at least the second longitudinal face forms the ejection face of the distributor chute (1). The ejection face forms an ejection edge (7), which is curved in an S-shape.

Abstract: A chute for directing materials from a source conveyor to a plurality of discharge conveyors, the chute comprising an upper chute section having a central vertical axis; a chute body movable between a raised position and a lowered position and rotationally connected below the upper chute section by rotation means for rotating the chute body about the central vertical axis between at least two selected rotational positions; and a plurality of lower chute sections, each lower chute section reversibly connectable at an upper end to a lower end of the chute body at one of the selected rotational positions, and at a lower end to a conveyor.

Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus structured and arranged to transport rod-shaped articles of the tobacco-processing industry in a mass flow between an outlet of a first machine and inlets of a plurality of second machines. The apparatus includes guide rails having an inlet side in fixed relation to the outlet of the first machine and a moveable outlet side.

Abstract: A chute for directing materials from a source conveyor to a plurality of discharge conveyors, the chute comprising an upper chute section having a central vertical axis; a chute body movable between a raised position and a lowered position and rotationally connected below the upper chute section by rotation means for rotating the chute body about the central vertical axis between at least two selected rotational positions; and a plurality of lower chute sections, each lower chute section reversibly connectable at an upper end to a lower end of the chute body at one of the selected rotational positions, and at a lower end to a conveyor.

Abstract: A charging device for bulk material comprises a rotor having a substantially vertical axis of rotation a first drive for rotating the rotor and a chute supported by the rotor so as to be rotated with the latter. The chute can be rotated about its longitudinal axis. Its concavely curved sliding surface has a width that is diminishing from the top end to the bottom end of the chute, so that it is possible to vary the location where bulk material sliding down the chute channel leaves the latter by rotating the chute about its longitudinal axis.

Abstract: The present invention features a grain distribution apparatus having a top loading intake hopper adapted for direct attachment to the discharge end of a grain auger or similar conveyor. A pair of hingedly connected, movable discharge spouts each receive a portion of the incoming grain stream. Some of the incoming grain is directly discharged from the bottom of the intake hopper. Intermediate discharge ports located along each of the discharge spouts also allow controlled amounts of grain to be discharged. All remaining grain is discharged from the terminal (i.e., distal) ends of the discharge spouts. By controlling the angle of the discharge spouts with respect to a horizontal plane, the pattern of grain discharge by the apparatus may be controlled.

Abstract: Device at refuse chute comprising one shaft (1), provided with one or more inlet openings (2), which ends in a refuse chamber (4) or the like, and at least two subchannels (3a, 3b) arranged in the shaft for transfer of the waste, which are arranged to open into said refuse chamber. The subchannels (3a, 3b) are formed partly by at least one shaft separator (7) of a pliable material, which is formed to extend along an essential part of the shaft, and partly from pants of the shaft walls (14). The shaft separator (7) is arranged to divide the shaft longitudinally essentially diametrically and its one longitudinal side edge (8b) is aligned with the inlet opening(s) (2). The side edge (8b) is laterally, displaceably arranged by one channel selector (6) arranged in or close to the inlet opening (2).

Abstract: A material transfer system for transferring a material from a source to an open-topped receptacle wherein the material is capable of gravitationally flowing from a source utilizes a circular, rotary dumper having a plurality of open-topped compartments which extend radially from the vertical center axis of the dumper to the outer periphery thereof and a port-defining bottom within each of dumper compartment through which the contents of the compartment can be discharged. The dumper is supported for rotation about its vertical center axis, and a motor is adapted to rotate the dumper about the vertical center axis so that on one side of the vertical center axis of the dumper, the open tops of the compartments are movable into and out of vertical registry with material flowing therein from a source and so that on the opposite side of the vertical center axis of the dumper, the ports of the compartments are movable into and out of vertical registry with an open-topped receptacle to be filled from the dumper.

Abstract: A vibrating conveyor having a circular or helical conveying conduit driven with a vibrating motion by way of an electromagnet having alternating voltage. The conveying conduit emerges, at its end, into an overflow chute constructed in the form of a channel switching system. An overflow channel oscillates with a reciprocating motion about a pivoting shaft. Mechanical and electrical control devices are provided, so that the overflow channel can be brought into variable oscillating positions. The overflow channel includes a U-shaped section, pressing radially on a sliding surface, forming a circular zone and fixed on a pivoting shaft mounted on the sliding surface. This section is driven by a reciprocating motion in the peripheral direction of the circular zone about the pivoting shaft. Through the pivoting shaft, this section is rigidly connected to a guide rail open downwardly, arranged beneath the sliding surface and extending parallel thereto.

Abstract: An air distribution valve comprises a gimbal mounted flow directing nozzle connected to a feed conduit and selectively and pivotally advanceable about at least two intersecting and perpendicular axes into alignment with one of four outlet openings in a base plate each opening to an outlet conduit. The gimbal includes an outer gimbal ring supported in horizontal alignment above the base plate and an inner gimbal ring pivotally mounted to and inside the outer gimbal ring and rotatable about a first axis. The flow directing nozzle is pivotally mounted on mounting arms pivotally connected to the inner gimbal ring and pivotal about a second axis which intersects and extends perpendicular to the first axis. When used in a wave generating system, each outlet conduit communicates with one of four caissons at one end of the wave pool for selectively delivering pressurized air to the caisson from a centrifugal fan to force water out of the caissons in a selected order to create a desired wave pattern.

Abstract: A grain distribution apparatus and method is disclosed for positive positional control of the providing distribution of grain among a plurality of receiving ducts. A housing contains a distribution spout rotated by a drive motor among discharge positions at each receiving duct. A control wheel connected to the spout rotates with the spout to a selected discharge position. The control wheel has a plurality of sensible code clusters and position proof windows, one of each for each discharge position. Each code cluster has a unique series of data digits and a series of sequencing digits adjacent the data digits. The data digits and sequencing digits are serially read by a sensor. The sensor is connected to a control processor for identifying the position of the spout. The control wheel is configured as a driven sprocket and is engaged by the upper portion of a double wide roller chain around the entire periphery of the control wheel.

Abstract: A grain spreader apparatus for use with a silo that has a top and side walls includes a housing with an inlet portion for receiving grain to be stored in the silo and an exit portion communicating with a plurality of chutes. The spreader apparatus has a housing that includes a rotating and a non-rotating portion. The non-rotating portion is affixed to the top of the silo. A motor drive rotates the rotating portion of the housing about a vertical axis of rotation. The plurality of chutes include radially positioned chutes that are arranged along a common radial line, with each lower chute being of a smaller thickness than the previous chute. In this fashion, grain falling from the highest chute is divided into one portion that is received by the lower chute and another portion that falls freely to the floor of the silo.

Abstract: A recyclable material separating device which is placed into a window opening or a cut-out in a wall. When the selection handle is moved to a desired position and the inner access door is opened, recyclable material can be placed into an outside chute which carries material through an elbow chute to a specific collection receptacle below where it is stored for later retrieval.

Abstract: An installation is proposed for charging a shaft furnace comprising a rotating and pivoting distribution chute. The chute is supported in a removable manner by two lateral side plates of a "U"-shaped stirrup piece. When a first ring securely fastened to a dome performs a relative movement with respect to a second ring, the dome, via an arm causes the stirrup piece to pivot about its horizontal axis which transmits this pivoting to the chute. The end of the arm pivots, to this end, in a runner block sliding in a groove of the dome.

Abstract: In a preferred embodiment, a plurality of conduits extending from a kitchen area to bins in a level beneath the kitchen. In one embodiment, the upper ends of the conduits are concealed behind a vertical panel hinged at the lower edge to an "island" cabinet and forming a surface of the cabinet. The upper ends of the conduits are accessed by rotating the panel outwardly from the cabinet to expose the ends.

Abstract: An adjustable deck system including: a first, stationary deck; a second, rotatable deck partially overlying and pivotably mounted to the stationary deck; and a device for rotating the rotatable deck relative to the stationary deck. The rotating device includes: a pair of support brackets spaced from each other and secured to the stationary deck; a first shaft fixedly secured at its ends to the pair of support brackets; a traveling block slidably mounted on the shaft; a device for moving the block along the shaft; and a link pivotably secured at one end to the block and at its other end to the rotatable deck, whereby when the block is caused to move along the shaft, the link causes the rotatable deck to rotate with respect to the stationary deck.

Abstract: A flowline selector device has a housing with a single passage at the upper end and two or more passages at the lower end. A tube connects to the upper end and has a lower end that is offset from the axis of the housing. Reciprocating the tube up and down and rotating it causes the tube to index between the various ports in the lower end of the housing. The lower end of the tube stabs into cylindrical bores in each port. A piston located at the upper end of the tube cooperates with an orientation sleeve to cause the indexing and reciprocating movement.

Abstract: Refuse collecting and conveying apparatus for recycling various types of trash is provided which will separate and collect specific varieties of trash in exterior trash cans to be conveyed to a recycling plant.

Abstract: The device comprises an inclined rotating chute with adjustable angle of inclination, having an elongated flat sliding surface with a rectilinear longitudinal side provided with a retaining edge, the opposite longitudinal side being the pouring side and having overall the shape of an elongated "S" extending, without interruption and without corners, along the bottom end of the sliding surface as far as the bottom end of the rectilinear side.

Abstract: One of the hinges between sections of the distributing chute of a concrete mixer is provided with a stop which prevents abutment of chute section and the corresponding possibility of injury to hands of a workman engaged in unhinging the chute sections. One of the sections also has a cam which restores the abutment to a safety position when the sections are unhinged and folded back into transporting position.

Abstract: A grain spreader for being mounted within a grain bin directly beneath the inlet opening in the roof structure of the grain bin for causing any grain introduced into the grain bin through the inlet opening to be evenly spread within the grain bin. The spreader includes a funnel positioned directly beneath the inlet opening for initially receiving the grain passing through inlet opening, a chute positioned directly beneath the funnel for receiving grain from the funnel, a motor for causing the chute to slowly rotate, and a deflector positioned beneath the chute for receiving grain from the chute as the chute rotates and for directing the grain radially outward and downward from the funnel.

Abstract: A diverter assembly for diverting a pneumatically conveyed holder for a radioactive material between a central conveying tube and one of a plurality of radially offset conveying tubes includes an airtight container. A diverter tube having an offset end is suitably mounted in the container for rotation. A rotary seal seals one end of the diverter tube during and after rotation of the diverter tube while a spring biased seal seals the other end of the diverter tube which mvoes between various offset conveying tubes. An indexing device rotatably indexes the diverter tube and this indexing device is driven by a suitable drive. The indexing mechanism is preferably a geneva-type mechanism to provide a locking of the diverter tube in place.

Abstract: A safety brake is provided for a cement truck chute to immobilize the chute from lateral movement relative to the cement truck chassis. Movement of the cement truck chute is controlled by a ram which is secured to a vertically oriented ram pivot axle rotatably mounted in a sleeve secured to the truck chassis. A first horizontal brake pad is located concentrically about the ram pivot axle and is immobilized relative to the chassis. The safety brake includes a pneumatic actuator having a housing and a plunger actuable for reciprocal movement relative to the housing. A flat, horizontal ram coupling plate is rigidly secured to the ram pivot axle and holds the pneumatic actuator housing at a spaced elevation thereabove with the pneumatic actuator plunger coaxially aligned with the ram pivot axle. A horizontal intermediate plate is located between the ram coupling plate and the pneumatic actuator housing and is secured to the pneumatic actuator plunger.

Abstract: A gate for adjustably splitting a flow of granular material comprises an inlet pipe (1) which discharges onto a pivotal baffle plate (5) in an intermediate piece (2) overlying a circular plate which is formed with openings leading through respective hoppers (3) to respective ones of two or more outlet pipes (4). The baffle plate spreads the flow of material and pivoting of the baffle on a vertical shaft (6) adjusts the discharge of material through the various openings.

Abstract: A parcel sorting and distributing apparatus includes a plurality of inclined chutes which receive parcels at their open upper ends. Each parcel slides down a chute into a receptacle such as a mail hamper. The chutes are vertically stacked and arranged in a spoke-like fashion about a circle with the aggregate of their upper ends forming a cylindrical surface. A rotatable vertical mast at the axis of the cylinder includes a pivotally mounted carrier. In one position the carrier retains a parcel; when it pivots to a second position, the parcel spills out into one of the chutes. A first motor causes the mast to rotate and a second motor drives the carrier vertically along the mast. A parcel which has been identified as to its destination is loaded into the carrier, and a controller controls the first motor, the second motor and the carrier pivot so as to convey the parcel to the appropriate receptacle.

Abstract: An apparatus for distributing material flow having a distribution chamber defined by an upper receiving section and a lower discharge section integral therewith. The lower section is defined by a plurality of fixed downspouts arranged in a circle and communicating with each other at a portion of their upper end to form a cone with a common apex extending slightly into the receiving section at the central axis. A rotatable chute is positioned axially within the chamber to selectively distribute material flow to any one of the fixed downspouts.

Abstract: A separating chute system providing two discharge passage routes includes an inner chute having an upper chute section in the shape of an inverted frustrum of a cone, and a lower chute section. A pair of outer chutes are shaped to cover the outer periphery of the inner chute and are disposed around the outer surface of said inner chute. A first discharge chute mounted below the lower chute section of the inner chute is inclined radially outwardly of the inner chute, and a second discharge chute mounted below the pair of outer chutes collects weighed articles passing through the outer chutes into one passage and discharges them to the outside.

Abstract: An attachment for seed drills whereby a fraction of seed flow can be selectively diverted from an existing flow path to a secondary flow path and in which the diverted percentage of the seed flow can be delivered to a planting depth different from that set at the level of an existing planting shoe. Two levels of seed can be planted simultaneously. A valve mechanism is also provided to selectively guide seed flow either completely through the primary, existing discharge tube and shoe, or to be divided with a selected percentage flowing through the existing discharge tube and the remainder being directed through the secondary or auxiliary tube.

Abstract: The specification discloses linkage assemblies (16, 59) for effecting selective pivotal movement of hinged structures. The invention is particularly adapted for use with sectional chute assemblies of concrete mixers, either for moving adjacent chute sections between extended and retracted positions, or for swinging the entire chute assembly.

Abstract: A sample splitter is formed by a chute that is sloped towards its discharge end and is oscillated back and forth on a horizontal path that is substantially perpendicular to the axial center line of the chute. The chute itself is substantially symmetrical on opposite sides of the axial center line and the walls are sloped upward so that the material forming the sample to be split moves along the chute with a sliding or rolling action back and forth across the axial center line of the chute without significant bouncing of the discrete pieces of the material. An elongated V-shaped plow is positioned at the discharge end of the chute with the apex of the plow forming a substantially straight line that is in axial alignment with the center line of the chute at the mid-point of the oscillation of the chute. The oscillation motion of the chute causes the material of the sample to slide down the chute and to be projected off the discharge end on one side or the other of the apex of the plow.

Abstract: An automatic grain distributor for interfacing between a grain elevator discharge fitting and a plurality of remote delivery locations includes a grain distributor housing which is coupled by a grain inlet to the elevator discharging fitting and an inner spout which is disposed within the grain distributor housing and couples the grain inlet to a selected one of the grain delivery apertures. Movement of this inner spout from one grain delivery aperture to another grain delivery aperture is accomplished by means of an electromechanical mechanism which includes an eccentric plate and follower as well as a geneva-style mechanism. A gearmotor and clutch arrangement are coupled to the eccentric plate so as to provide a single revolution to the plate with each energizing command to the motor. As the eccentric plate makes a single revolution, it drives a follower which raises the inner spout to a slightly elevated position above its corresponding grain delivery aperture.

Abstract: A grain distributor assembly for a grain elevator which includes a manifold plate having a plurality of discharge openings connected to respective downspouts. A distributor elbow having an inlet at its upper end coaxial with the central axis, and an offset outlet at its lower end, is arranged to discharge into any one of the discharge openings. Mounted below the elbow and swingable with it is a closure disc seated upon the manifold plate and having a single window therein providing passage for the lower end of the elbow. The remainder of the disc seats upon and closes off the inactive, non-registering ones of the discharge openings. A selector is provided for swinging the closure disc and elbow in unison about the central axis for positioning the elbow and window in angular register with a selected one of the discharge openings while maintaining all the other such openings securely covered.

Abstract: A concrete mixing apparatus with a stationary mixing container and an upper circular cover plate arranged to rotate in relation to said container. The apparatus is provided with a machinery for rotating said cover plate and with a discharge channel for one or several materials. The discharge channel is arranged above the cover plate in substantially coaxial relation thereto. The apparatus further comprises a filling channel, the lower end of which is fastened onto said cover plate and the upper end of which is arranged in substantially coaxial relation to said discharge channel.

Abstract: Apparatus for stacking and storing a plurality of flat objects, such as letters. The apparatus includes at least one storage box and a loading device designed to transport the flat objects from a source and to project them into the interior of the box. The box and loading device are respectively positioned so that the flat objects are projected into the box at an incline with respect to its bottom and a portion of each object's leading edge impacts a stopping surface formed in one of the side walls of the box. This impact imparts a rotational couple to the object which brings the lower edge of the object into firm engagement with the box bottom. The object is then moved onto the stack of similar objects being formed in the box, either by gravity or an auxiliary device. In one preferred embodiment, relative movement is provided between the box and loading device so that the objects can be projected into the box at a point close to the top of the stack.

Abstract: An apparatus for sorting workpieces belonging to different classification classes from a loading device, to a plurality of outputs for the different classification classes, comprising a quide chute to direct the workpieces towards the relevant outputs and control apparatus adapted to receive signals responsive to the class of each workpiece in order to actuate the guide chute, the guide chute including a support adapted to let the workpiece to be sorted while in transit from the loading device to the relevant output, the support including a first end communicating with the loading device and a second end mobile in order to be selectively placed in communication with one of the outputs, the control apparatus being adapted to position the second end in correspondence to the output related to the workpiece to be sorted.

Abstract: A grain distributor for use with a bucket elevator. The distributor has an inlet at its upper end and an inner spout, the upper end of which is aligned with the inlet. The spout is inclined downwardly and is rotatable for aligning the lower end thereof with any one of a plurality of circularly arranged outlets at the lower end of the distributor. The spout is formed with a lower section which is adapted to be lifted out of and lowered into the distributor outlets.