Abstract: Singulating conveyors having transporting rollers are divided into multiple longitudinal zones in a forward or herringbone portion of the conveyor, preferably six or eight zones. Each longitudinal zone is divided into a pair of side-by-side outside and inside lateral zones. The rollers of each lateral zone are driven by a separate motor so that the speed of the rollers in the multiple longitudinal zones can vary along the herringbone portion, and the speed of the rollers in the outside lateral zones can operate at a higher speed than the rollers of the adjacent inside lateral zones. The discharge or skew portion of the conveyors is also divided into multiple longitudinal zones, preferably seven, each of which is driven by a separate motor so that the speed of the discharge rollers can be varied. The singulating conveyors can be expanded by utilizing a modular manufacturing method.

Abstract: A singulating conveyor having a herringbone pattern includes transporting rollers extending from the entry end to the exit end. The rollers are divided into four longitudinal zones, and each longitudinal zone is divided into a pair of side-by-side complementary outside and inside lateral zones. The rollers of each of the eight lateral zones are driven by a separate motor and V-Belt drive system that can be operated at differing speeds. The speed of the transporting rollers in the four longitudinal zones increases successively from the longitudinal zone adjacent the conveyor entry end towards the longitudinal zone having the discharge rollers, and the speed of the rollers of the outside lateral zones operate at higher speeds than the rollers of the adjacent inside lateral zones. Some of the rollers in the outside lateral zones preferably have higher coefficients of friction than the rollers of adjacent inside lateral zones.

Abstract: An extendable and retractable telescoping conveyor conveys parcels from a supply source to the interior of a freight trailer or other load body. The conveyor includes a pair of elongated conveyor sections which are oriented in overlying relation when in retracted position. The lower conveyor section is extended longitudinally in relation to the upper conveyor section when in an extended position. Each conveyor section includes a declining conveyor structure extending from an elevated infeed end to a lower discharge end with each conveyor structure including a plurality of closely spaced, transversely extending parallel undriven rollers for movement of parcels or other items or materials by gravity throughout the length of the conveyor sections when the conveyor sections are in extended on partially extended relation.