Abstract: A height-adjustable capping chuck assembly is configured for use with an associated high-speed, automated capping machine for threadingly applying closures to associated containers. The chuck assembly includes a chuck body defining a cavity for receiving a closure to be applied, and a chuck mounting sleeve by which the chuck body is mounted on the associated capping machine. An adjustable interface, preferably in the form of a threaded connection, joins the chuck body to the chuck mounting sleeve so that the height of the chuck body with respect to the associated machine can be selectively varied. A releasable locking mechanism releasably retains the chuck body in the selected orientation with respect to the chuck mounting sleeve, whereby height adjustment can be readily effected without tools, and without replacement of the capping chuck assembly, or other components.

Abstract: A capping chuck assembly embodying the present invention comprises an outer chuck housing, and inner, central guide disc upon which a plurality of circumferentially spaced gripper segments are mounted. Each gripper segment includes an inner jaw portion for engagement with an associated closure, and an outer cam surface. The outer chuck housing defines a plurality of inwardly facing, cam drive surfaces positioned for respective engagement with the outer cam surfaces of the gripper segments, so that rotational drive of the outer chuck housing collectively drives the gripper segments and guide disc to urge the segments radially into engagement with an associated closure.

Abstract: A conveyor apparatus for conveying and orienting multi-diameter plastic closures includes a conveyor belt having a plurality of conveyor flights each having a channel configuration. Each conveyor flight includes a pair of spaced apart sidewalls which are spaced apart by a distance greater than a portion of the associated closure having a smaller diameter, but by a distance less than a larger diameter of the associated closure. By this arrangement, whereby each conveyor flight is engageable with each of the closures at generally diametrically opposed portions thereof, efficient and consistent handling and orientation of multi-diameter closures is facilitated.

Abstract: An object sorting and orienting apparatus is for sorting, orienting and discharging a plurality of objects, such as, container closures dispensed from a hopper. An endless conveyor transports the closures from a loading area, through an intermediate area, to a discharge area. At least one regulator, including an adjustable spill-plate, regulates the effects of object fill-level within the hopper during a sorting run. Orienting means, including an extension of the adjustable spill-plate and a plurality of flights on the endless conveyor, arrange the closures in a correct orientation. Sorting means, including a belt path disruptor and a substantially vertical belt path, sort incorrectly oriented closures from correctly oriented closures. Discharge means, including a removal device and at least one discharge chute, discharge correctly oriented closures from the discharge area.

Abstract: Filling apparatus and method of operation are provided for rapid, selectively controlled filling of flexible, plastic, webbed containers with a liquid. The apparatus includes a cutter which separates the lead container from the web whereupon a shuttle delivers the separated container to a filling head. The filling head rapidly loads the container with the desired liquid whereupon the container is thereafter directed from the filling head along a specially constructed air table. Programmable controlls allow precise movement of the container handling and filling operation to ensure rapid and efficient container loading.

Abstract: A motor driven panoramic mounting for cameras which provides an automatic pan range and the ability to pan over 360 degrees. Mechanical actuators on a fixed base act upon a turnstile on a shaft on the rotating table, with the turnstile shaft also rotating two cams that actuate three limit switches. One cam acts upon a single limit switch which determines the automatic range and reverses the table motion at the ends of the automatic range. The other cam acts on two end limit switches which stop the motion. The action of the turnstile and switches brings the table back to the preset automatic range regardless of where it is directed when it placed back in the automatic mode.

Abstract: A sealed and pressurized housing for a TV camera. The camera is mounted on a cradle which includes the sealing mechanism for both ends of the housing. Both ends are sealed with conventional "O" ring seals and end plates which are secured to the cradle. Since pressure is always equalized against both end plates and they are mechanically connected, when the housing is opened, no parts can be dangerously propelled upon release of the pressure. The cradle is also mounted so that, despite the internal pressure, it can be rotated relative to the fixed outer casing in order to adjust the angle of the camera to the horizontal.

Abstract: A low torque apparatus for tilting platforms. A leg attached to the platform protrudes from the bottom of the platform to a motor shaft which penetrates one of two vertical sides which form a box-like support structure for the platform. The platform pivots on supports which slide in horizontal slots near the top of each vertical side. The motor is mounted so that it slides in near vertical slots in the vertical sides of the support box to maintain the fixed distance between the motor shaft and the tilting platform.

Abstract: A lubrication retainer and distribution system for a worm gear and the mating worm. Porous pads saturated with lubricating fluid are attached to both sides of the worm gear and located so that they spread slightly and wipe the high ridges of the worm. To equalize the fluid distribution between the pads, at least one through hole is formed in the worm gear between the pads, and the hole's size is selected so that capillary action transfers the fluid between the pads as required. Also, to retain the lubricating fluid on the worm, "O" rings are fitted tightly upon the worm shaft just beyond the spiral thread of the worm to act as barriers to prevent fluid from escaping from the system along the worm shaft.