Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus and process for ultrasonically identifying and coating articles having differing dimensional characteristics wherein, a series of such articles are moved in a random sequence past a predetermined point where the presence of each article is electronically sensed. At least two ultrasonic wave transmitters located at known distances from this point impinge waves on each article when it arrives at said point. One of the wave transmitters is positioned above the article. Waves reflected from the articles are received by ultrasonic receivers and are compared to and matched with similar code-number-identified wave patterns contained in a computer data base to identify each article's dimensional characteristics and select a predetermined control sequence program for a means for coating the articles.

Abstract: An optoelectronic scanning device comprising two sets of photoresponsive elements adjusted to operate at different detection levels and aligned to scan materials marked with luminous paint and illuminated with ultraviolet light. The photo-elements are specially aligned to be optically responsive over an array of contiguous in-line domains and are coupled to trigger circuits to provide snap-action operation. The photo-elements and associated electrical components are heated and maintained at a constant temperature to ensure stable operation of the device.