Abstract: A gate is provided for temporarily stopping a flow of objects moving along a conveyor. The gate is operated by a pneumatic actuator which overcomes the force of a spring to close the gate. The spring which holds the gate open is preferably a helical torsion spring which exerts relatively even force against the arm over the entire travel of the arm. Spring tension is adjustable to minimize the force exerted by the spring. The diaphragm of the pneumatic actuator is made to withstand pressures of up to 120 p.s.i.

Abstract: An orienting and combining device for use with conveyor systems where it is desirable to reduce a random orientation of a plurality of articles into a single file row for further conveying in that form. The device can be attached to existing conveying systems and is comprised of an outer frame structure which positions a plurality of triangular shaped blocks on each side of a conveyor belt. The blocks are offset from one another on opposite sides of the conveyor belt and together define a particular zig-zag course through which the article must pass. The dimensions of the blocks are dependent upon the diameter of the articles being conveyed and will orient the article efficiently and quickly virtually without jamming into a configuration that will easily permit the formation of the single file row.