Abstract: An improved method and apparatus for automatically loading a pallet including placing an empty pallet into loading position, loading items onto the pallet in a preselected arrangement, and removing the loaded pallet. The apparatus includes a conveyor system for delivering items to the loading means; the loading means may move laterally, vertically and rotatably. The entire operation may be hydraulic, and may be controlled by a program, such as by the use of a program tape, or program cards, or by a conventional relay control panel.

Abstract: An improved method and apparatus for automatically loading a pallet including placing an empty pallet into loading position, loading items onto the pallet in a preselected arrangement, and removing the loaded pallet. The apparatus includes a conveyor system for delivering items to the loading means; the loading means may move laterally, vertically and rotatably. The entire operation may be hydraulic, and may be controlled by a program, such as by the use of a program tape, or program cards, or by a conventional relay control panel.

Abstract: An improved method and apparatus for automatically loading a pallet including placing an empty pallet into loading position, loading items onto the pallet in a preselected arrangement, and removing the loaded pallet. The apparatus includes a conveyor system for delivering items to the loading means may move laterally, vertically and rotatably. The entire operation may be hydraulic, and may be controlled by a program, such as by the use of a program tape, or program cards, or by a conventional relay control panel.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for automatically replacing damaged conveyor grates which can be remotely controlled. The apparatus is disposed slightly above the empty, return side of the conveyor at the cool end, and performs its function in this maintenance area. The apparatus employs a plurality of working heads which remove the damaged grate and replace it with a new grate without interrupting conveyor motion. The working heads are suspended above the conveyor in the maintenance area by a plurality of carriages which permit the working heads to access any grate within the maintenance area. The carriages also allow the working heads to move with the conveyor during the grate replacement cycle. Although the manipulation of these heads and carriages is largely automatic, the operator can initiate, direct and observe the apparatus' movements from a remote station thereby isolating him from a hazardous environment.