Abstract: A device for the automatic and rapid inspection of ears of corn to select ears having a predetermined length wherein the kernels meet selection standards and the ear has uniform characteristics which length will be trimmed from the ear to provide cut lengths of corn for subsequent treatment. The device includes a first conveyor and inspection area for segregating ears as to conditions of acceptability and determination of quality for ultimate use including trimming of certain of the ears into predetermined lengths with a second transport station arranged to receive the ears and to sort them for subsequent use and to convey the ears of predetermined quality to a trimming device wherein the ear of corn is cut into at least one acceptable length.

Abstract: A unit for the orientation of corn cobs to provide introduction of the ear of corn into a kernel stripping machine. An upper rotative member is provided for removal of the ears from a delivery conveyor with a lower wheel indexing and shifting the ear for proper orientation. A sensing and detecting unit controls the operation of the unit and determines the proper orientation of the cob.

Abstract: A device for obtaining the proper end to end orientation of articles that are delivered to the device in a random orientation, the articles having a common longitudinal characteristic, the device including a rotating pick up and feed device for introduction of the articles to a first fee conveyor, an inspection device arranged to scan the article being carried therepast on the conveyor, a selector responsive to a signal from the inspection device and actuated in response thereto to shift the article into position for rotation, allow the same to continue its travel without rotation or to eject the article dependent upon the size of the article and a rotating wheel element to accomplish the rotation of the articles that are positioned for rotation by the selector and to propel and deliver such articles and those articles that do not require rotation to a final delivery conveyor.