Abstract: A method and apparatus for sorting objects includes providing a sorter having a conveying surface, a plurality of pusher shoes capable of traveling laterally of the conveying surface, a plurality of diverting rails extending diagonally under the conveying surface, and a plurality of diverters associated with the diverting rails. The pusher shoes including an article-contacting member extending at least partially above the conveying surface to laterally displace articles on the conveying surface and a transfer assembly having a magnetic member below the conveying surface. The transfer assembly engages ones of the diverting rails to laterally displace the corresponding one of the pusher shoes. Actuators are provided at the diverters. The actuators are selectively energized to attract at least one of the magnetic members towards the associated one of the diverting rails. Residual magnetic attraction between the actuators and the magnetic members is reduced when the actuators are not being energized.

Abstract: A force sensing device providing an output signal indicative of applied force includes a compressible spring, preferably a Belleville type spring, inserted between a force application lever and a reaction force member and the spring is compressed when a force is applied to the lever. In one embodiment, the reaction force member is a push rod and the spring is disposed in a housing attached to a pin on the force lever and the push rod is provided with a longitudinally extending slotted opening in the area of the force pin such that the spring is compressed when the force pin is moved in the elongated area of the push rod. In another embodiment, the spring is disposed in a housing having one end connected to the force lever and a reaction force push rod engages the housing in an opening at its other end and the spring is compressed against the push rod when a force is applied to the force lever.

Abstract: An electronic horn of compact dimensions. Oscillator circuits coupled to a mixing node produce a multiple frequency signal used to drive a horn transducer. One horn replaces the two horns used in the prior art. A reverberating chamber in close proximity to the transducer includes a cone shaped structure having multiple spiraling reflecting walls connected to the convex surface of the cone. Sound waves emitted by the transducer reverberate within the chamber as they bounce off the reflecting walls.