Abstract: A sizing apparatus has input and output ends and a sampling window therebetween. Sizing means determines the size of each item passing through the sampling window. Singulating means arranges the items in a line and delivers them sequentially at the input end of the sizing apparatus. A lower conveyor belt extends through the sizing apparatus from the input end through the sampling window to the output end. The lower conveyor belt is translated at a speed sufficient to receive, transport, and maintain the items in sequential fashion. A flexible upper stabilizer belt is arranged above and generally in alignment with the lower conveyor belt, and is driven to match the speed of the lower conveyor belt. The upper stabilizer belt is suspended so as to engage the items incoming from said singulating means and to maintain loose contact with them until the items have passed through the sampling window.

Abstract: A sizing apparatus has input and output ends and a sampling window therebetween. Sizing means determines the size of each item passing through the sampling window. Singulating means arranges the items in a line and delivers them sequentially at the input end of the sizing apparatus. A lower conveyor belt extends through the sizing apparatus from the input end through the sampling window to the output end. The lower conveyor belt is translated at a speed sufficient to receive, transport, and maintain the items in sequential fashion. A flexible upper stabilizer belt is arranged above and generally in alignment with the lower conveyor belt, and is driven to match the speed of the lower conveyor belt. The upper stabilizer belt is suspended so as to engage the items incoming from said singulating means and to maintain loose contact with them until the items have passed through the sampling window.

Abstract: A conveyor belt comprised of a plurality of rigid, elongated bars arranged in parallel, spaced relation. The ends of each bar are connected to parallel, lateral belts, to support the bars and maintain their registration. Each bar has a plurality of elements, extending from either side of the bar. Elements on one side of a bar arranged in interdigitized relation with respect to adjacent elements extending from an adjacent bar. Rollers are provided within of the arcuate ends of the lateral belts, with at least one roller being driven. The rollers may be smooth or toothed, to engage the undersides of the lateral belts. The belt may be endless, or assembled from one or more belt segments. Two or more belts may be combined laterally, to increase the width of the conveyor belt.

Abstract: An apparatus and a method for sizing and sorting articles in an article stream. A scanning station includes a plurality of laser line beam generators and a linear array including a plurality of photo detectors. A first group of generators and detectors is horizontally oriented, and second group is vertically oriented. The area between the generators and the detectors defines an exposure window through which the articles are passed. Each line beam generator has a respective cylindrical lens for collimating its output across the exposure window. The output information is sampled, digitized, stored, and analyzed. Computer-based determinations are made regarding the size, configuration, and weight of the articles. Articles determined to have predetermined physical characteristics are selectively removed from the article stream, and directed to diverting conveyors carrying articles having like characteristics.