Abstract: The invention is directed to an optical reader station for reading an object and a method of controlling an illumination source in the station for illuminating the object. The optical reader station comprises a mount for an optical reader and a stand with a surface for receiving the object; the optical reader includes an imager with an object field of view in which the object to be read is positioned. The station further includes a radiation source positioned within the object field of view and arranged to be obstructed by the object when the object is in position to be read. A detection mechanism, which is positioned to receive radiation from the radiation source when the radiation source is not obstructed by the object, deactivates the illumination source when radiation source radiation is detected.

Abstract: A continuous cleaning system to prevent clogging of screens in screening machines used to sort materials such as aggregates, such system comprising positioning a cleaning device such as a chain in line with the length of and on top of, a screen to be cleaned, and then using a motor assembly to rotate said cleaning device thereby moving it back and forth across the top of said screen, so that substantially the entire area of the top of said screen comes in contact with said rotating cleaning device, which taps or otherwise contacts the surface of said screen as it moves back and forth across the top of a screen deck, thereby dislodging any dust or other material that might otherwise clog or block the openings in said screen. In a preferred embodiment, a motor rotates the cleaning device which has the effect of driving it back and forth along a tight cable on which said pulley travels. The speed, power, and direction of the motor are subject to controls, which may be easily set by an operator.

Abstract: A continuous cleaning system to prevent clogging of screens in screening machines used to sort materials such as aggregates, such system comprising positioning a cleaning device such as a chain in line with the length of and on top of, a screen to be cleaned, and then using a motor assembly to rotate said cleaning device thereby moving it back and forth across the top of said screen, so that substantially the entire area of the top of said screen comes in contact with said rotating cleaning device, which taps or otherwise contacts the surface of said screen as it moves back and forth across the top of a screen deck, thereby dislodging any dust or other material that might otherwise clog or block the openings in said screen. In a preferred embodiment, a motor rotates the cleaning device which has the effect of driving it back and forth along a tight cable on which said pulley travels. The speed, power, and direction of the motor is subject to controls which may be easily set by an operator.