Abstract: Apparatus for sorting containers such as bottles according to their shape, size or color in which there is a conveyor along which the containers pass with a plurality of exits. Container recognition apparatus is provided which controls means to direct the different containers to selected ones of the exits.

Abstract: Apparatus for identifying containers comprises a memory in which data relating to physical characteristics of containers is stored, a conveyor for transporting containers through a scanning station comprising a plurality of light detectors and a light source and signal generating means for generating signals distinguishing between those detectors obscured from said source by a container passing through said station and those not so obscured and means for comparing those signals with said data to identify the container. There is also disclosed a method of identifying containers utilizing such apparatus.

Abstract: Apparatus for conveying articles of different physical characteristics, particularly bottles of different sizes and weights which comprises a generally upright tubular guide through which the articles pass and, towards a lower delivery end of the guide tube, a rotating roller projects into the tube to contact the articles and slow them down before the articles are delivered to article receiving members from which they are ejected to be transported to a receiving station.

Abstract: An apparatus for automatic recognition and registration of bottles includes detectors positioned to detect a light pattern from bottles passing a sensing stage. The outputs of the sensors are detected and converted to unique output signals for application to a computer and registration circuit. The computer circuit is pre-programmed to provide an output corresponding to the value of a given bottle passing through the sensing stage. The output of the computer is applied to a printing system for enabling a printer output corresponding to the value assigned to a series of bottles registered by the apparatus.