Abstract: A method of handling recyclable materials through the use of distinctive, and relatively rugged plastic bags is provided. Such bags are furnished to one or more communities as part of a recycling program. The bags preferably include source identification codes particular to each community. The bags are filled with recyclable materials, closed, and left at curb side or other location for pick up by collection equipment. The bags, which may be comingled with other, non-recyclable waste materials, are gathered and compacted in order to reduce the volume thereof. The rugged construction of the bags ensures that a relatively high percentage survive the compaction process without spilling the materials contained therein. Bags are then transported to a delivery point where they are separated from other comingled waste materials. Bags may then be emptied and the materials contained therein recycled.

Abstract: A system and method are disclosed for enabling the technique of deferred processing of OCR scanned mail to be compatible with existing techniques for mechanical sortation of mail that use standard sort barcode formats which are common to a given destination postal system. This enables deferred OCR processed mail to be sorted on an unsegregated basis along with other types of mail which have not been processed by the deferred OCR technique. This allows the OCR encoded mail to be processed along with other types of encoded mail during standard sort barcode that has been imprinted using prior technology such as OCR or manual code desks.

Abstract: An overhead system for sorting clothing items held by hooks, having a closed circuit conveyor belt with openings which carries the single items to the final station. The items--loaded randomly and in large quantities on the system--are transported to this belt one at a time, after having been separated from the others and identified electronically within specific operating stations installed before the conveyor belt. A first operating station has a pair of rods which slide vertically and select a single item to advance onto the conveyor belt. An optical reader is at a second operating station to identify each item. A series of extracting units are installed along the belt to unload the item form the belt.

Abstract: An apparatus for recycling waste materials includes a first conveyor for conveying a combination of waste material including magnetic responsive metals, magnetic non-responsive metals, glass materials in both large and small particles, and plastics. A magnetic separator is positioned to receive the waste materials from the first conveyor and is capable of removing the magnetic responsive metals. A vibrating shaker screen then receives the waste materials and by virtue of its vibration causes the smaller broken glass to pass through spaces in the screen. Next, an air sorter including a large blower receives the waste materials and blows a stream of air across the waste materials so as to blow the lighter metals, such as aluminum and the plastics away from the remaining large glass materials, such as bottles. The glass bottles are carried away on a second conveyor, and the aluminum and plastics are carried away on a third conveyor.

Abstract: Process for rendering a plastic identifiable by adding 5 to 10,000 ppb of a fluorescent marker to the plastic during or after is manufacture.

Abstract: An apparatus for recovering and cleaning contaminated abrasive blast media. The blast media is transported in a vacuum airstream to a rotatable drum. Within the rotatable drum is a blocking assembly which selectively channels high-velosity air through an upper region of the rotatable drum and restricts the flow of air through a lower region of the drum. The blast media is repeatedly scooped up and dropped to the high-velocity airstream, thus subjecting it to repeated air-washing. The blocking member includes a flexible member which provides both the open channel region and the restriction to the airflow under the force of gravity as the drum rotates. The abrasive blast media is thus assured of being adequately washed even if the air velocity varies randomly during the cleaning of the blast media.

Abstract: An apparatus loads hooked members supporting articles onto a conveyor. The conveyor has a plurality of latches, wherein each latch is adapted to receive and support a respective hooked member. A loading member is adapted to successively receive the hooked members and, in turn, load the hooked members one after another into the latches. The free end of a piston is coupled to the loading member and is operated to drive the loading member between a first position for receiving a hooked member, and a second position for loading the hooked member into a latch. A scanning device is adapted to scan coded labels on articles supported on the hooked members and, in turn, generate output signals indicative of the identifying information coded on the labels. A computer is coupled to the scanning device and to the conveyor, and is adapted to store the output signals and, in turn, sort the articles loaded onto the conveyor.

Abstract: The method is characterized by identifying each form stack (8) with regard to the identity received during manufacture thereof, the information received regarding the identity of the form stack (8), comparing the information received regarding the identity of the form stack (8) with stored information regarding the identities of one or more form stacks (8) sorted in the storage system (11), sorting form stacks (8) with a certain identity in such compartments in the storage system (11) containing a form stack or form stacks (8) with the same identity if, during the identity comparison, it is determined that there is/are one or more form stacks (8) with the same identity in a certain compartment in the storage system (11), sorting form stacks (8) with a certain identity in a free compartment in the storage system (11) if, during the identity comparison, it is determined that there is/are not one or more form stacks (8) with the same identity in the storage system, and removing stored identity information when a

Abstract: A specimen sorting apparatus sorts specimens such as blood or urea from different subjects into predetermined classes according to examination items.

Abstract: An apparatus and method are provided for sorting laundry. The method includes laundering a plurality of items each having a separable tag portion of a laundry ticket bearing bar coded identification data associating an item of laundry with a laundry ticket, arranging tickets for the plurality of items into a randomly ordered stack, and scanning bar coded identification data from the randomly ordered stack of tickets for the laundered items into a control computer. The method includes scanning identification data for each laundered item into the computer, placing the scanned items onto a rotating pickup assembly, and bringing collector arms, one at a time, toward the rotating pickup assembly. The method also includes removing the items, one at a time, from the rotating pickup assembly to the collector arms according to the identification data so that items may be assembled with the associated ticket without altering the rotational speed of the rotating pickup assembly.

Abstract: A franking machine module is provided with one or more selectively operated mail item feed modules to feed items such as envelopes or labels from hoppers in the feed modules to the franking module. The modules are constructed with common interfaces whereby a number of feed modules may be arranged side by side such that mechanical and electrical drive is transmitted from one module to its adjacent module and feed paths of the modules are co-planar to permit items to be fed into and along a common feed path.

Abstract: An apparatus for recycling waste materials includes a first conveyor for conveying a combination of waste material including magnetic responsive metals, magentic non-responsive metals, glass materials in both large and small particles, and plastics. A magnetic separator is positioned to receive the waste materials from the first conveyor and is capable of removing the magnetic responsive metals. A vibrating shaker screen then receives the waste materials and by virtue of its vibration causes the smaller broken glass to pass through spaces in the screen. Next, an air sorter including a large blower receives the waste materials and blows a stream of air across the waste materials so as to blow the lighter metals, such as aluminum and the plastics away from the remaining large glass materials, such as bottles. The glass bottles are carried away on a second conveyor, and the aluminum and plastics are carried away on a third conveyor.

Abstract: This invention relates to methods and apparatus for marking letter mail or mail pieces to provide a fast and convenient way of determining zip code breaks in a stack of letter mail. The mail pieces have marks printed on the edges thereof indicative of the continuity of the same zip codes thereon. The marks are visible when the mail pieces are stacked. Adjacent envelopes with the same zip codes will have an edge mark at the same location, but upon the zip code changing, the next envelope will have a mark placed at a different location. Numbers in sequence can be printed on each of the letters so that a mail clerk can inspect the last letter within a zip code group to determine if there is a sufficient number of mail pieces within that zip code set to allow a postal discount.In an alternative embodiment, the markings on the side of the mail pieces are printed in a pattern so as to form numbers when a stack is viewed from the side. In addition to forming numbers, a pattern line can extend between the numbers.

Abstract: The present invention concerns a method of collecting recyclable materials and separating recyclable materials from household and commercial refuse for recycling at a recyclable material recovery facility. The method comprises placing recyclable material into a flexible receptacle or container having a rugged construction sufficient to withstand forces experienced under compaction, transfer and dumping, during curbside pick-up, delivery along with mixed solid waste to a delivery point and transferral to a picking station of a solid waste facility. Each flexible receptacle has a predetermined color rendering the flexible receptacle highly visible against and distinguishable from other solid waste. The flexible receptacle is delivered to the delivery point for transferral to a picking station solid waste facility, for the purpose of recycling the recyclable material placed therein.

Abstract: A sorting system in which uniquely coded garments are hung on trolleys, also having unique identification bar codes. The trolley bar code is read as it progresses through the sorting system and is compared with a computer data base of garment information to determine the sorting route. The garment identification is initially correlated in the computer data base before sorting with the trolley identification code. Once all garment trolleys and associated garments of a lot have been identified and correlated by the computer, an algorithm is carried out for assigning a sort value to each trolley. A master distributor switch then distributes the garment trolleys a first time to a plurality of sort paths based upon a least significant digit of the sort value. Second and subsequent digits of the sort value of each trolley are employed to recirculate and resort the garment trolleys to the plural sort paths to complete the sorting operation with the parallel paths.

Abstract: A memory chip for storing information relating to an individual textile package and a device for manipulating the package and a chip reading device to access the information stored on the memory chip are provided. The memory chip can be loaded with individual package information such as, for example, the time, date and machine location at which the package was produced and the information can preferably be extinguished from the memory chip for loading of the memory chip with individual information concerning another package. To this end, the memory chip is preferably removably secured to the textile material or the tube of the textile package for subsequent removal for reuse on another package. The manipulating device moves the package and the chip reading device relatively to one another so that the chip reading device enters a reception area of predetermined size and location relative to the memory chip in which it can read, extinguish or supplement the information stored on the memory chip.

Abstract: A method and an apparatus for automatically detecting the approximate percentage of humidity in predetermined types of lumber cut to specific lengths. A conveyor is provided for conveying individual pieces of cut lumber to a weighing station which consists of platforms on which individual pieces of lumber are conveyed. One or more weighing cells are associated with the platforms for detecting the weight of the piece of lumber thereon. A control circuit is connected to the weighing cell and also to sensors which detect a predetermined length of the lumber pieces and the cross-sectional dimension thereof, and receives information signals therefrom to identify and classify the individual lumber pieces in accordance with one or more reference signals related to selected humidity content weight(s) of the lumber pieces. The apparatus compares the apparent density with selectable density(ies) used as criterium for sorting.

Abstract: Improved methods and apparatus are provided for sorting and arranging garments in a selected order which have been sequentially placed in an unordered sequence. The garments are identified by a marking affixed to each garment, and each garment is arranged in its identified sequence on a sorting conveyor having a multiplicity of movable carriers each for receiving a garment. Identification signals are rearranged in a preselected order, and a plurality of arranged signals are assigned to each one of a corresponding plurality of pick-off mechanisms positioned along the sorting conveyor. A computer calculates bidirectional movement of the sorting conveyor to minimize conveyor movement for positioning a garment for pick-off in its proper sequence by a respective one of the pick-off mechanisms. The conveyor is driven in a bidirectional mode to properly position the garment, and a pick-off mechanism is activated to remove the garment from the sorting conveyor and position the garment on an unloading conveyor.

Abstract: A portable hull separator includes a closed housing defining a pair of apertures which support removable drawers together with a plurality of air apertures. An air flow chamber within the housing is subjected to an air flow created by a motor driven fan. A seed bin within the housing is coupled to a descending air passage such that seed and hull material within the bin is caused to flow downwardly through the passage in which it is subjected to a transverse air flow. Adjustable gates are provided which alter the air flow characteristics and thereby the hull separation characteristics of the separator in accordance with an external adjustment.

Abstract: Improved methods and apparatus are provided for sorting and arranging garments in a selected order which have been sequentially placed in an unordered sequence. The garments are identified by a marking affixed to each garment, and each garment is arranged in its identified sequence on a sorting conveyor having a multiplicity of movable carriers each for receiving a garment. Identification signals are rearranged in a preselected order, and a plurality of arranged signals are assigned to each one of a corresponding plurality of pick-off mechanisms positioned along the sorting conveyor. A computer calculates bidirectional movement of the sorting conveyor to minimize conveyor movement for positioning a garment for pick-off in its proper sequence by a respective one of the pick-off mechanisms. The conveyor is driven in a bidirectional mode to properly position the garment, and a pick-off mechanism is activated to remove the garment from the sorting conveyor and position the garment on an unloading conveyor.

Abstract: A computer-controlled slide projector tray unloader for use with a slide archival storage system. A slide magazine (10) is placed below a slide gate (7). A tray (9) is held above the slide gate such one of the compartments coincides with the slide gate. A transporting mechanism (30) at the slide gate (7) transports a slide from the selected one compartment of the tray such that the slide drops into the magazine (10). An advance mechanism is provided for advancing the tray to position a particular compartment to coincide with the slide gate. A Tray Table maintained by software running on the computer associates a unique location number for each one of the plurality of compartments of the tray with a previously assigned serial number, each serial number identifying a slide stored in a compartment of the tray.

Abstract: Sheets or a web of bank note imprints are advanced in single file through an indexing station where a unique identifying index is applied to each imprint. The indexed imprints are stacked as a pile of strips, downstream of the indexing station, and the pile of strips cut into piles of individual indexed bank notes.Strips containing imprints with printing blemishes or incorrect indexes are rejected before reaching the stacking station. Computer-control of the indexing units in the indexing station maintains an unbroken sequence of indexes on the imprints advanced to the stacking station despite the presence of reject strips.

Abstract: The invention relates to a package handling and sorting system which sorts small packages according to destination, segregating those with the same destinations for combined shipments. The system depends on a unique combination of conveying equipment automatically controlled by programmed data processing units which utilize data obtained by scanning electronically readable package labels, as well as other information and detection equipment, to examine packages introduced into the system, and to transfer those consigned to the same location to vehicles routed to such locations. The system also generates an electronic trail of package movements, thus providing the capability to trace packages lost in transit.

Abstract: A tag having a tag body and a suspension tape is attached to a baggage. The baggage is conveyed by a conveyor. During the conveying the tag is caught by a catcher. A carrier is provided for gripping the tag caught by the catcher. The carrier is driven by a motor to carry the baggage. A loader is provided for loading the carried baggage in a container.

Abstract: A process for monitoring defects in the material of a moving web of paper or defects in operations performed on the web of paper. An air brush spray head applies ink for a predetermined duration at a location along an edge of the moving web of paper during a press operation and after a predetermined period of time to indicate that a defect has passed. A scanner senses the ink during a subsequent collating operation so that the process line can be stopped and the defect corrected. The location of the ink on the web of paper is at a point wherein the defect has passed and good material is present.

Abstract: An apparatus for controlling the transportation of cured tires on a tire feed path including a device for supplying a white tire which can be discriminated positively from the cured tires on the tire feed path, a device for placing cured tires on the tire feed path in such an order that the white tire is followed by the cured tires, a photoelectric sensor for detecting the white tire on the tire feed path to generate a reference signal, a memory circuit for storing tire identification signals by means of which the tires have been cured by curing machines, a circuit for reading the tire identification signals out of the memory circuit under the control of the reference signal, and a device for selectively transporting respective cured tires into predetermined paths in accordance with the read out tire identification signals.

Abstract: An apparatus for the manipulation of products, comprising a conveyor for conveying a plurality of products in a prescribed path, a locator for emitting light at the position of a specific product out of the plurality of products being conveyed in a detection zone on the path of the conveyor a video sensor and a microcomputer for receiving the light and, based on the received light, issuing a position coodinate signal indicating the position of the specific product in the detection zone, a conveyor speed detector for detecting the speed of the conveyor and issuing a travel speed signal corresponding to the speed, a microcomputer for issuing a current position coordinate signal indicating the position of the specific product in a separation zone of the conveyor situated downstream relative to the detection zone based on the position coordinate signal issued by the video sensor and microcomputer and the travel speed signal issued by the conveyor speed detector, and a removing device for giving necessary treatmen

Abstract: Seed materials are presorted by directing a stream of air across a cascade of the materials into heavy, mixed and light fractions and only the mixed fraction is then subjected to the usual gamut and further sorting and classifying operations. The heavy fraction consists predominantly of good seed which does not require such futher processing.

Abstract: A system for the preparation of items to be mailed, preparation of each item varying in accordance with selected values of pre-determined parameters. The system includes apparatus for marking each item with selected identification code values; apparatus for preparing each item to be mailed in accordance with stored parameters, the preparing apparatus having a detector for detecting and outputting identification values from the items; a data base system for storing selected values of the parameters in associated with the identification codes, a control system responsive to the output identification codes to access the associated selected values for output to the preparation apparatus. The preparation apparatus of the subject system includes an inserted system and the pre-determined parameters include parameters defining the inserts to be assembled with an item.

Abstract: Apparatus is provided which includes structure for preparing a letter including a returnable stationery item for sending to an addressee, wherein the returnable stationery item includes a code. In addition, the apparatus includes structure for routing the stationery item, when it is returned, to a selected one of a plurality of locations. The routing structure includes structure for sensing the code. Further, the apparatus includes a computer coupled to the routing structure. The computer is programmed for controlling the routing structure and for storing a dispositive data listing for the code. The dispositive data listing includes information defining the selected location. The computer causes the routing structure to route the stationery item to the selected location when the code on the stationery item is sensed. In addition, structure is provided for changing the dispositive data listing, whereby the selected location may be changed.

Abstract: The print carriers which bear security-paper prints arranged in longitudinal and transverse rows and on which misprints are marked are numbered in such a way that all security-paper prints arranged in succession in a longitudinal row, but excluding misprints, receive a consecutive numerical sequence. Each longitudinal row contains security-paper prints of a specific numerical series. The print carriers are then cut into strips transversely relatively to the longitudinal rows. Approximately every 100 strips are stacked, in the order in which they occur, into a strip stack (T), in which all the security-paper prints arranged vertically on top of one another, if appropriate mixed with misprints, have a consecutive numerical sequence of a particular series. The strip stacks (T) are cut into security-paper bundles (U) which are sorted according to numerical series by means of a distributor station (10, 11a, 11b) and are fed to as many separate buffer stores (12A to 12F) as there are numerical series.

Abstract: A system for controlling a dump gate in a conveyor system (e.g. carrying printed copy from a high-speed printing press to stackers) detects a marker carried by a marred product (e.g. a metal tab fitted when splicing a new reel of paper) to start a counter which counts the products passing and opens the dump gate a predetermined count. A counter closes the dump gate again when a second predetermined count of passing products is reached.

Abstract: An apparatus for sorting tires according to an alphanumeric code printed directly on the tread surface of each tire. Green (uncured) tires are supplied on a feed conveyor, single file, to a receiving station of a tire painting machine (tire painter), and each is elevated, then indexed to a painting station (booth) where the green tire is to be painted, inside and outside, before it is taken to a curing press. While in the elevated position in the booth, the code is optically read by a line-scan camera system, before the tire is painted. The information read is stored and processed by a microprocessor after it locates the code which determines how the tire is to be sorted, and disregards another production code not pertinent to the task at hand. A first programmable controller (PC) locates the horizontal center line of the tire, indexes to the next of three station in the painter on cue, and imparts rotation to the tire so that the camera system can perform its functions.

Abstract: An article handling system, particularly for baggage routing, has a tag affixed to each article of baggage, each tag bearing human and machine readable destination data disposed immediately adjacent to a uniquely configured target symbol of predetermined and known characteristics. Video cameras disposed adjacent to the baggage transport assembly are effective, in combination with control networks, to detect the target symbol and electronically read the destination data on the tags, so that the baggage can be routed along transport paths respectively corresponding to the intended destination of each article of baggage. The control network is also effective to transform the video image of the target to a desired orientation and configuration, as well as to select for processing the destination data viewed by the camera having the best image of the target.

Abstract: A device for simultaneously separating cohesively bonded particles, by the action of a turbulent air stream, and classifying them according to their size, the device has a horizontal hood connected to the upstream and downstream air ducts. Equipped with an air fan, the upstream air duct has a converging section to accelerate a stream of air. Feed hoppers distribute the particles into the upstream end of the hood where they are separated and classified. Collecting devices are below the hood to receive the classified particles. A recirculating air duct is disclosed including a built-in filter device. A method is also disclosed for simultaneously separating cohesively bonded particles and classifying them according to their size.

Abstract: In a method of marking faults on rapidly moving material webs the material web is moved past a fault detection scanning device, which cyclically scans the web transverse to its longitudinal direction, and past a marking device at a defined distance therefrom. Signals coming from the fault detection scanning device (16) are analyzed one after the other to determine whether they are fault signals or structure signals. The fault signals which are detected are stored with their web coordinates. Checks are made at short time intervals as to whether a fault signal is present in the store (11) which corresponds to the longitudinal coordinate which is just moving past the marking device (13). A marking is effected if a fault signal is present at the corresponding web coordinates (FIG. 1).

Abstract: A bulk mail list is produced in which all the address entries in the list are in order by bundle, with separators providing an indication of the divisions between bundles. Utilizing a computer and printer, a bulk mail sorted list of address labels is automatically produced. The zipcode, city, and state of each address entry in a random address file is entered into the computer, and the computer automatically sorts all of the address entries in the file according to bulk mail criteria. That is (for a third class mailing) all entries ten or more in number having the same zipcode are provided in a bundle, each ten or more entries having the same city of multi-zipcode cities are provided in a bundle, all entries of ten or more having the first three digits of the zipcode the same are provided in a bundle; all entries of ten or more having the same state designation are provided in a bundle; and any remaining entries are in a mixed state bundle. The address file must contain at least 200 hundred entries.

Abstract: A computer-controlled slide previewer, sorter, projector tray loader and archiving system. Slides are held in a stack in a hopper in a known sequence. A slide release mechanism is provided to deliver one slide from the stack of slides to a position over one of a plurality of sorting bins or compartments of a projector tray. An accession number is derived for each slide either from a number read from a label affixed to the slide or from the relative position of the slide in the hopper. This accession number is transmitted to a sorting logic. In accordance with a sort algorithm using the accession number, the sorting logic positions the appropriate bin or compartment to receive the slide. The sorting logic then activates the release mechanism to deliver the slide into the bin or compartment positioned to receive the slide.

Abstract: Containers, e.g. bottle crates, industrial containers, of a common issue (Fxx1), e.g. a manufacturing series, are provided with a specific marking which indicates that they belong together. The mixing up of the various issues (Fxx1 . . . Fyz1 . . . Fzz2) which occurs during the circulation (Z, RZ) can again be reversed in an automatic sorting process, which makes it possible to sort out a desired sub-quantity (Fxx1) and to subject same to a further process stage (Rxx1, Axx1). The marked containers display an optically readable marking (3, 4), from which the information for the automatic sorting out of an issue can be noted.

Abstract: Processing is based on print carriers in the form of security paper webs or security paper sheets, containing security paper prints which are arranged in the manner of matrices in transverse rows and longitudinal rows and on which spoilt notes are identified by a mark which can be read by a reading instrument. The print carriers pass, in succession, by a reading instrument which detects the positions of the spoilt notes and feeds them into a computer for storage, a cancellation printer controlled by this computer, which provides spoilt notes with a cancellation print, and a numbering machine. The numbering mechanisms of this numbering machine are moved forward by the computer in such a way that always the satisfactory security paper prints, placed in succession in any longitudinal row, are serially numbered, the spoilt notes being neglected.

Abstract: A zip code sorter for an article labeling and stacking system of the type having a labeling head for applying address labels to articles and a stacker for stacking the addressed articles, the labels having control marks identifying the end of a zip code group, with a mode selector for programming either split or oversize stacking, a look ahead counter for programming a minimum stack count, a stack counter for programming a maximum stack count, and a control responsive to selection of split stack mode to establish a threshold count whereat looking ahead for a change of zip code group mark is commenced so that when the threshold count is reached, scanning of the labels for a change in zip code group mark is commenced at an upstream label count equal to the count for which the look ahead counter is programmed, the control responding to detection of an end of zip code group mark to set the eject flag for the stack currently being stacked and assure a last stack in the zip code group having the minimum stack count

Abstract: An apparatus for identification of animals passing through a packing plant including an elevated track extending through the packing plant for guiding carcasses through various processes and testing stations. A plurality of trolleys, one for each carcass, is provided for moving along the track. A gambrel is provided for attaching such animal carcasses to the trolley. The trolley identification is operably attached to each of the trolleys for providing positive identification of each individual trolley. Animal identification is attached to each carcass which is hung from each gambrel for providing individual carcass identification information. A trolley identification reader is provided adjacent to the track for automatically reading each one of the trolley identification numbers and inputting the information into a computer. Similarly, a carcass identification reader is provided adjacent to the path of the carcasses being moved along the track and this information is also input into the computer.

Abstract: A method and system for controlling assembly of various models, types and specifications of assemblies, such as vehicle bodies, are effective for indentifying components to be assembled to a base component. A plurality of color marks of different colors are used to identify the components to be assembled to the base component. The color marks of the same color are applied to both the base component and the component to be assembled to the base component according to the model, type and specifications of the finished assembly. Therefore, by selecting the components to be assembled to the base component having the color marks matching those appearing on the base component, selection of the proper components to be assembled onto the base component exactly according to the instructions and specifications of the finished assembly.

Abstract: A device for measuring the offset between the funnel and panel of a kinescope includes a pivotable member which engages the reference pads on the funnel. The pivotable member is mounted on a slidable mount which is biased to an extended position. When the reference pads are engaged, the mount slides whereby all kinescope sizes can be measured. The pivotable member supports a gage which measures the offset and provides a reject signal when the offset exceeds a predetermined amount.

Abstract: A ticket handling system for use in a ticket preparation system that includes a signal processor for providing print signals to indicate information to be printed on the tickets and write signals to indicate information to be encoded on the tickets; a printer for printing information on ticket stock in response to the print signals; and a transducer for encoding information on the ticket stock in response to the write signals. The ticket handling system includes a feeder module including a feed system for feeding a strip of ticket stock; a cutter module; a cutting device for cutting ticket blanks of a given length from the fed end of the strip; a printer module including the printer for printing ticket information on the ticket blanks in response to the print signals; and a transport module including the transducer for encoding ticket information on the ticket blanks in response to the write signals.

Abstract: A dry material sorting device for selectively sorting mixtures of granular material comprising component materials such as sand and gold having different specific gravities. The use of a horizontal wind tunnel to sort the materials is described. Use of a prescreening device to segregate particles into separate batches based on particle size prior to blowing of the material in the wind tunnel is disclosed. An alternate mode comprising screening of particles after blowing in the wind tunnel using a dynamic screen having variable aperture sizes therein is also disclosed.

Abstract: A process is disclosed for the separation of a mixture of particles containing differing concentrations of a selected component into three fractions of similar concentration of the selected component. The process comprises conditioning the mixture of particles with a hydrophobic or hydrophilic surface-active agent to selectively coat each of the particles relative to the concentration of the selected component in each particle. In combination with the surface-active agent there is provided a fluorescent dye which either adheres to the coated or non-coated particles. The mixture of conditioned particles is then irradiated to excite and induce fluorescence of the fluorescent dye to a degree sufficient to distinguish among the intensities of fluorescence of the fluorescent dye on the various particles. The particles are separated into concentrate, middling and tailing fractions based upon distinguishing among the intensities of fluorescence.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for electrically testing individual elements of multi-cell batteries comprises sequentially locating batteries at a test location whereat they are engaged by test probes which are sequentially associated with a testing device which tests the individual cells. If faults are detected, the individual faulty cell is marked. Auxiliary test indicator lights provide a visual indication of the individual testing of each cell as it occurs.

Abstract: A method for the separation of magnesium-bearing ore particles containing an exposed magnesian-rich mineral on the surface from the lean ore particles containing a lesser surface area of the exposed magnesian mineral which comprises conditioning the ore with a coupling agent of hydroxyquinoline; irradiating the conditioned ore to excite and induce fluorescence; and separating the magnesian-rich mineral from the lean ore particles by detecting the difference of the fluorescence intensity.

Abstract: A method and a system for grading and sorting articles comprising a conveyor for sequentially conveying a plurality of articles passed a coding station. The coding station identifies a first one of a plurality of articles with an electronically stored information code indicative of specific characteristics of the first article. A sequentially operable visual indicator device identifies the location of the first article moving along a predetermined portion of the conveyor line at the coding station where the information code is to be stored. The visual indicator is activated until the information code is completed and a termination signal to that effect is generated. The visual indicator then identifies the following article as being a first article in the predetermined portion.