Abstract: A unit for the orientation of corn cobs to provide introduction of the ear of corn into a kernel stripping machine. An upper rotative member is provided for removal of the ears from a delivery conveyor with a lower wheel indexing and shifting the ear for proper orientation. A sensing and detecting unit controls the operation of the unit and determines the proper orientation of the cob.

Abstract: A device for obtaining the proper end to end orientation of articles that are delivered to the device in a random orientation, the articles having a common longitudinal characteristic, the device including a rotating pick up and feed device for introduction of the articles to a first fee conveyor, an inspection device arranged to scan the article being carried therepast on the conveyor, a selector responsive to a signal from the inspection device and actuated in response thereto to shift the article into position for rotation, allow the same to continue its travel without rotation or to eject the article dependent upon the size of the article and a rotating wheel element to accomplish the rotation of the articles that are positioned for rotation by the selector and to propel and deliver such articles and those articles that do not require rotation to a final delivery conveyor.