Abstract: A loader/unloader assembly for use with a vertical tiltable platform stores conveyor having a horizontal load position, a vertical stowed position and an intermediate inclined unload position. The load platform contains guide pins cooperating with a race track-shaped guide groove for selectably positioning the load platform in the three positions. When the load platform is in the unload position, a spring biased camming plate prevents displacement of one of the guide pins except upon application of a predetermined downward force to the load platform which serves to move the camming plate to an inhibit position and activate a switch to disconnect power from the conveyor system and stop conveyor movement. The force necessary to trigger the inhibit action may be selectably adjusted on the loader/unloader assembly.

Abstract: A load-unload device is disclosed for use in a vertical conveyor system hng means for sensing a jam condition between a downward moving conveyor tray and an article that has failed to remove from the load-unload device. The device includes linkage means for creating an over-center locked condition automatically releasable at a preset force. A spring receives the load due to a jam and develops the force necessary to unlock the linkage and allow the platform to move to a position for relieving the overload. A limit switch opens the conveyor drive motor down circuit as the platform moves. Provision is made for presetting a limited amount of platform movement without shutting off the conveyor.

Abstract: A conveyor having generally horizontal shelves traveling vertically within a casing between load transferring stations provided with openings in the casing and transfer means at a load transfer station is characterized by a safety cable adjacent the upper portion of the opening to be in the path of only a misplaced article for deflection and actuation of a switch to turn off the driving electric motor and thus preventing jamming of the article between the upwardly moving shelf and casing. Further, the transfer mechanism is provided with transfer fingers that interdigitate with shelf fingers so that when the transfer fingers are in a horizontal position and supporting an article, the upwardly moving shelf will pick up the article from the fingers, and control means are provided to sense the transfer fingers in the horizontal position to permit upward travel of the conveyor and prevent downward travel of the conveyor.