Abstract: A tansport system for biospecimens includes a conveyor including a conveyor each divided into two or more lanes by lane dividers means. Specimen carriers, each carrying one biospecimen container, include a base which engages the conveyor to transport the biospecimen container and at least three retainer members which are biased together to accept and retain the biospecimen container on the carrier. A variety of traffic control devices, such as diverters and singulators, as well as other control mechanisms such as orientation rails and orientation rollers are combined into control stations to manage the transport of the biospecimens through the system.

Abstract: This invention relates to a log handling system for use in processing logs to be used in the paper pulp industry and in saw mill operations. More particularly, this invention includes a series of operable cutting means for cutting a log into a plurality of predetermined lengths. A log feeding means is operatively associated with the log cutting means for moving a log past the cutting means to effect the cutting operations. The log feeding means includes a ramp portion detailed for feeding logs by gravity to the log feeding means. The ramp portion includes a selectively movable section detailed for movement between a ramp log feeding position and an elevated position which will allow a log to be dropped onto a first conveying means for conveying selected logs away from the plurality of cutting means. The first conveyor means includes an operative stop means for stopping the selected logs at a predetermined location along the conveying route.

Abstract: A variable aperture shutter is provided with a pair of shutter blades reciprocably mounted on a drive formed by an endless belt stretched between, and driven by, a pair of capstans. One blade is attached to each side of the endless belt loop and both extend across the width of the loop. Reversible rotation of the capstans controls the separation of the blades. A light beam, aligned orthogonally with the shutter, is intercepted when the shutter blades are in the closed position, with their adjoining edges abutting. Light is permitted to pass through a gap between confronting blade edges upon controlled rotation of the capstan drive. Apertures of varied sizes and shapes may be generated by superimposing two or more shutters and selectively controlling their capstan drives.