Abstract: An apparatus for processing articles moving in succession along a path includes a conveyor device, a splitter device and a weighing device. The conveyor device is arranged to convey a succession of individual articles from and along a single upstream path to and along a first split downstream path and a second split downstream path. The splitter device splits the succession of articles onto the first and second split downstream paths. Also, the splitter device directs alternate ones of the succession articles being conveyed on the single upstream path onto the respective first and second split downstream paths. The weighing device weighs each article while the articles are conveyed along the first and second split downstream paths.

Abstract: A method and apparatus is provided for monitoring the processing of a group of articles having different properties, for example differing weights and/or quality grades. The method includes the steps of obtaining information about the differing properties of the group, using this information to provide a main visual model of the property distribution within the group, and providing a first subsidiary visual model relating to the processing of a first sub-group of articles from within the group, the provision of the first subsidiary model causing a modified form of the main visual model to appear, related to the remaining articles of the group after removal of the articles forming the first sub-group. The method is particularly effective for use in monitoring the processing of poultry carcasses being conveyed in succession along a path, for sorting by weight and grade of carcass.

Abstract: The invention discloses a weight sorting system wherein a single weighing station controls a plurality of weight-range article removal stations. These removal stations are disposed downstream of the weighing station and sorting information is synchronously passed with the articles on route to discharge. The rate at which articles are selected for removal at a given station is controlled by varying the weight range for that station. The weighing system is constantly re-calibrated by employing a plurality of test weights, one for each sorting weight range, carried by the conveyor system and an electronic compensating unit.

Abstract: Grading apparatus is provided for use in associating one of a plurality of a grade with each of a plurality of articles travelling in succession along a feed path. The apparatus comprises a grading station of sufficient length to accommodate at least two articles at any one time, a control unit, and at least two means of feeding a grading signal to the control unit. Although the same amount of work is involved it is easier for an operator to grade say four articles at a time over a distance of say 2 feet, rather than to grade one article at a time over a distance of 6 inches.

Abstract: A sensing device is provided which increases the versatility of sorting and conveying systems employing the device while simplifying their construction. The sensing device comprises a weight sensor and means for at least momentarily causing the weight of an article to apply a force directly or indirectly to the weight sensor.