Abstract: A hand drill including a housing (2), a rotary drive (8-15) arranged in the housing (2) for driving a chuck (6) provided at a front, in the drilling direction, end of the housing and in which a drill or a chisel tool is received, a compressed air-operated hammer mechanism having a pneumatic cylinder (22), a die member (15) for imparting axial blows to the drill or chisel tool, and a percussion piston (30) displaceable in the pneumatic cylinder 922) upon being impinged by compressed air for intermittently applying axial blows to the die member (15), and a reversing valve for connecting the hammer mechanism (22) with a source of compressed air, integrated in the percussion piston (30), and having a plurality of recesses and bores (46-52) alternatively operationally connectable with at least one inlet opening (23) and at least one discharge opening (24) of the pneumatic cylinder (22) for feeding the compressed air into the pneumatic cylinder (22) and for discharging the compressed air therefrom.

Abstract: A drill bit for directional boring of all earth formations such as dirt, sand, rock and/or any type combination of formations, utilizing a bit body containing fixed and semi-floating cutting points and one or more fluid channels for the purpose of lubricating and dispersing cut and/or fractured formations.

Abstract: A method and an arrangement for controlling the feed of a rock drill. In the method, the pressure in a pressure conduit (7a) of a pressure-fluid-operated feed motor (6) is measured, and when the pressure value measured is below the pre-set threshold value, the volume flow of the pressure fluid delivered to the feed motor and thereby the feed rate of the feed motor (6) are adjusted, and when the pressure value measured is above the pre-set threshold value, the feed is adjusted by adjusting the pressure of the pressure fluid delivered to the feed motor (6). In the arrangement, a pressure detector (13) is arranged in the pressure conduit (7a) of the feed motor (6).

Abstract: Apparatus for controlling a diamond drill feed cylinder which includes a linear position sensor coupled to the feed cylinder for generating a position signal, a positioning module for generating a feed control signal in dependence upon the position signal, a proportional flow control valve having two hydraulic ports for connecting to the feed cylinder and responsive to the feed control signal for controlling flow rate of the two hydraulic ports, a plurality of operation sensors coupled to the diamond drill for generating operation status signals, a plurality of input modules for receiving the operation status signals and converting them to digital operation status signals and a programmable logic controller connected to the plurality of input modules for modifying the feed control signal in dependence upon the digital operation status signals. The rate of penetration of the diamond drill is controlled by controlling the flow rate applied to the feed cylinder.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for a deployment valve used with an underbalanced drilling system to enhance the advantages of underbalanced drilling. The underbalanced drilling system may typically comprise elements such as a rotating blow out preventer and drilling recovery system. The deployment valve is positioned in a tubular string, such as casing, at a well bore depth at or preferably substantially below the string light point of the drilling string. When the drilling string is above the string light point then the upwardly acting forces on the drilling string become greater than downwardly acting forces such that the drilling string begins to accelerate upwardly. The deployment valve has a bore sufficiently large to allow passage of the drill bit therethrough in the open position. The deployment valve may be closed when the drill string is pulled within the casing as may be necessary to service the drill string after drilling into a reservoir having a reservoir pressure.

Abstract: The present invention is a device for controlling the direction of the trajectory of a wellbore, comprising a shaft (1) driven in rotation, a drill bit (11) secured to the shaft, a substantially cylindrical body (2) coaxial with the shaft and freely rotating in relation to the shaft pads (3) carried by the body that can move radially, and a pad displacement mechanism (96). The displacement mechanism individually comprises, for each pad, at least one thruster (7) whose longitudinal displacement in relation to the axis of the device causes an extension of the pad. Actuators (9) are driven by hydraulic energy supplied by drilling fluid circulating in the shaft and comprise a system (8) for selecting radical displacement of less than all of the pads.

Abstract: A underreamer drill bit assembly including a pilot bit and extendable underreaming arms operatively connected to the pilot bit. The underreaming arms have an extended position for underreaming, and a retracted position in which the overall diameter of the underreamer drill bit assembly is less than the inside diameter of the well casing, permitting the entire bit assembly to be withdrawn through the well casing. In another aspect of the invention, the bit assembly is operatively connected to a dual wall pipe assembly. A supply of compressed air is conducted through the annulus of the dual wall pipe assembly to a down hole pneumatic hammer. Exhaust air from the down hole hammer is directed to the bit assembly for continuous removal of drilling debris through a central evacuation tube of the dual wall pipe assembly. In another aspect of the invention, a pressurized, incompressible fluid is injected into the annulus between the well casing and the downhole pneumatic hammer.

Abstract: In an air actuated down-the-hole hammer for rock drilling, a piston reciprocates within a casing to impact against a rear anvil surface of a drill bit. Upon making such impact, some fluid disposed between the impact surface and the anvil surface is forced radially inwardly toward a foot valve which fluidly inner connects central passages extending through the piston and the drill bit. In order to minimize the wear of the foot valve imposed by such forced fluid, either the piston or the drill bit includes a projection extending around a radially inner peripheral edge thereof for deflecting the forced fluid in a direction having an axial component to minimize an impact force of the fluid against the foot valve.

Abstract: A fitting for reducing friction between a drilling string and the wall of a well. In a first aspect the fitting has recesses (6) provided along the bore of the fitting to lubricate the interface between the fitting and the drill string to minimise friction. In a second aspect a fitting is provided on a drill string having rotatable roller means (21) which can rotate about a point of rotation (23) so as to minimise both axial and rotational friction. According to a third aspect the fitting comprises an inner section (30) secured to a drill pipe (35) or other fitting and an outer section (31) rotatable about the inner section (30). Preferably a sealed bearing (36, 42-47, 37, 38) is provided between the inner section (30) and outer section (31).

Abstract: An earth-boring bit has a bit body and at least one cutter rotatably secured to the bit body. The cutter has a cutter shell surface including a gage surface and a heel surface. A plurality of cutting elements inserts are arranged in generally circumferential rows on the cutter. At least one scraper cutting element is secured at least partially to the heel surface of the cutter. The scraper cutting element includes an outermost surface, generally aligned with the gage surface of the cutter, that defines a plow edge or point for shearing engagement with the sidewall of the borehole while redirecting cuttings up the borehole.

Abstract: A sugar cane harvester for harvesting two rows of cane stalks is equipped with a pair of endless track assemblies which each include a track frame suspended from the main frame of the harvester by a four-point suspension including tilt and elevation cylinders that permit side-to-side tilting, and elevation adjustments of the harvester main frame so as to place base cutters at the best attitude for cutting cane contained in the rows, even if the rows are at different elevations.

Abstract: A clutch for altering the direction of a drive unit of a transportation device between a first direction of travel and a second direction of travel, the drive unit having at least one drive wheel connected to a shaft, the shaft being rotatably mounted with respect to the transportation device between at least a first position, corresponding to the first direction of travel, and a second position, corresponding to the second direction of travel, the clutch comprises a housing to receive a portion of the shaft, a lock having a first preset locked position corresponding to the first direction of travel and a second preset locked position corresponding to the second direction of travel and, a connecting member connected to the shaft and the lock for alternately locking the shaft in one of the directions of travel.

Abstract: A towing apparatus capable of moving aircraft and other workpieces about an airfield or other workspace. The present invention includes a first frame which is rotatable relative to a second frame about a common substantially vertical axis. A wheel assembly is positioned within the first frame and driven by a motor which is also mounted on the first frame. A gripper assembly for engaging the aircraft or other workpiece is attached to the second frame. In this manner, the present invention provides for the towing of aircraft or other workpieces along an axis which is proximate the axis of the wheel assembly. Additionally, it provides for a low center of gravity significantly enhancing the stability and maneuverability of the present invention in a towing attitude or a non-towing attitude.

Abstract: A hybrid vehicle comprising an an internal combustion engine controllably coupled to road wheels of the vehicle by a clutch, a traction motor coupled to road wheels of said vehicle, a starting motor coupled to the engine, both motors being operable as generators, a battery bank for providing electrical energy to and accepting energy from said motors, and a microprocessor for controlling these components is operated in different modes, depending on its instantaneous torque requirements, the state of charge of the battery bank, and other operating parameters. The mode of operation is selected by the microprocessor in response to a control strategy.

Abstract: An all wheel drive system for a motor vehicle comprising a front differential, a pair of front halfshaft assemblies operatively connected to the front differential whereby the front differential supplies torque to the pair of front half shaft assemblies, each of the pair of front half shaft assemblies connected to a respective front wheel, a power takeoff unit operatively connected to the front differential, a constant velocity joint connected to the power takeoff unit whereby the front differential supplies torque to the constant velocity joint through the power takeoff unit, a first propshaft having a first end and a second end, the first end connected to the constant velocity joint, a plunging constant velocity joint connected to the second end of the first propshaft, a second propshaft having a first end and a second end, the first end connected to the plunging constant velocity joint, a universal joint having a first end and a second end, the first end of the universal joint connected to the second end o

Abstract: An arrangement for controlling at least one predetermined function, which can be transmitted from at least one transmission apparatus (1) to a receiving apparatus (11) via a serial data bus, is protected against unintentional triggering of the predetermined function in that in order to control a predetermined function the transmission apparatus (1) dispatches an associated, predetermined data message on the serial data bus (7) and adjusts a transmission parameter of the data bus to a predetermined value, and in that the receiving apparatus (11) triggers the predetermined function only if the predetermined data message appears on the data bus (7) with the predetermined transmission parameter.

Abstract: A travel drive apparatus for a hydraulic drive work vehicle and control method therefor, the apparatus including: a travel hydraulic pump driven by the power of an engine; a hydraulic motor that receives discharged oil from the travel hydraulic pump and causes the vehicle to travel; a travel changeover valve that receives the discharged oil from the travel hydraulic pump, supplies the discharged oil to the hydraulic motor and discharges return oil from the hydraulic motor to a tank, in which the travel drive apparatus comprises; an accelerator for controlling an engine rotational speed; an operation unit for selecting vehicle forward travel, stop, and reverse travel; the travel changeover valve being adapted for receiving signals from the operation unit, switching the discharge oil supplied from the travel hydraulic pump to the hydraulic motor, and controlling vehicle forward travel, stop and reverse travel; a relief valve that regulates pressure for controlling the hydraulic motor when the vehicle has decele

Abstract: A differential mounting assembly 10 which allows a differential 12 to be selectively and securely mounted within a vehicle and which substantially reduces and/or eliminates undesirable roll and pitch of the operatively mounted differential 12.

Abstract: A steering system of a non-tracked motor vehicle whose steered vehicle wheels are connected in the normal operation with respect to the effect with a steering handle only by way of an electronic automatic control unit which continuously monitors itself with respect to a correct operation. As a function of a desired-value generator, which is operated by the steering handle, and an actual-value generator operated by the vehicle wheels, this automatic control system operates an adjusting drive for the steering adjustment of the steered vehicle wheels. In the event of a malfunctioning of the automatic control system, a forced coupling is automatically switched effective between the steering handle and the steered vehicle wheels. When the forced coupling is switched on, the steering system operates as much as possible in the manner of a conventional power steering system.

Abstract: A muffler for quieting exhaust expelled from a pneumatic hand tool having a handle and an exhaust passage. The muffler includes an inner tube having a plurality of holes, a number of dividers fixedly and spacedly positioned about the inner tube, and an end cap attachable to the handle for closing off the exhaust passage. At least one of the end cap and the handle including an exit opening. The inner tube has distal and proximal ends and an exterior surface. A cutoff wall is located below at least one airflow opening. The cutoff wall forces exhaust air to exit the inner tube via the at least one airflow opening thereabove. Each divider extends outward from the inner tube exterior surface a distance less than the width of the main section. The combination of the inner tube and dividers are located within the main section.

Abstract: A middle layer (22) having partitioned cavities (28) is sandwiched between an imperforate sheet (24) and an optional perforate sheet (26) to form a low resistance acoustic liner (22). A preferred method of manufacture of the low resistance acoustic liner (20) uses aspects of the buried septum technique including placing an uncured imperforate septum (36) between a support layer (32) and a partitioned cavity middle layer (22), pressing the middle layer into the imperforate sheet (24) and through the support layer (32), curing the imperforate septum 36 to form the imperforate sheet (24), removing the support layer (32), and attaching a perforate sheet (26) of roughly at least 15% open area to the top side of the middle layer. A preferred embodiment of inner and outer linings (47), (49) is provided. Each lining includes a combination of annuluses of absorptive and/or low resistance liners (51), (53).

Abstract: A panel which diffuses sound incident thereupon is provided having a rectangular perimeter and wedge-shaped configuration wherein the front surface of the panel is angularly disposed with respect to its flat rear surface. The front surface contains a series of parallel elongated depressions. A multitude of such panels are employed along with sound reflecting and sound absorbing panels to produce a wall-mounted assemblage of sound-interactive panels capable of desirably modifying the subjectively perceived quality of sound in a room or auditorium.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to a dolly for supporting a ladder during movement of the ladder to a work site. The dolly has a frame which is adapted to be attached by clips to the rungs of the ladder. The dolly has a single relatively large wheel in terms of the width of the ladder pivotally mounted on the frame for providing a rolling support for the ladder and to enable a single individual to move a long heavy ladder conveniently into position for use at a work site. The dolly is especially useful when moving a ladder, especially a heavy ladder such as an extension ladder, over sloping or rough ground to a work site.

Abstract: Access to an operator station of a large track-type tractor is provided by a ladder support structure pivotally attached to a portion of the radiator guard of the tractor. The ladder support structure extends over a track of the tractor and has a ladder pivotally attached to a distal end of the ladder support structure that provides steps over a push arm and a tilt cylinder of the tractor. When the ladder assembly is moved to its carry position, the ladder is moved to a position inside the ladder support structure, and the ladder support structure raised to a vertical position adjacent a side panel of the radiator guard of the tractor. The present invention avoids the problem of machine operators climbing on the push arms, tilt cylinders, radiator, radiator guard, track, hood, and engine enclosures in order to gain access to the operator station.

Abstract: A sawhorse includes an upper cross member having two ends. A pair of legs is hingedly connected to each end of the upper cross member. Each leg has an upper portion and a lower portion slidingly received by the upper portion. Each leg is therefore independently adjustable in length. There is a latch mechanism on each leg for releasibly latching the upper and lower portion of each leg together. A plurality of spaced-apart steps extend between the legs on each side of the sawhorse. The steps are parallel to the upper cross member. At least one of the steps is removable. Preferably at least one of the steps is removably connected to the lower portions of the legs.

Abstract: An apparatus and method is disclosed for lubricating the spaced apart beads of a pneumatic tire prior to mounting of the tire on a wheel. A conveyor is provided for moving the tires having different outside diameters, axial widths, and central opening diameters fed in random succession along a fixed path through a lubrication station. An interceptor is positioned in proximity to the station and is moveable between a first position where tires delivered to the station by the conveyor move freely through the station, and a second position where tires delivered to the station by the conveyor engage the interceptor to stop the tires on the conveyor at the station. The interceptor stops successive tires of varying sizes to perform a lubrication operation on the tires of varying sizes when intermixed on the conveyor in random order. The interceptor is selectively moveable between the first and second position. At least one longitudinally extending, lubricating member is provided having a first axis.

Abstract: Each elevator corridor of an elevator system has a transponder beacon disposed near each access to the corridor, each potential passenger, including regular tenants and visitors, carries a responder, such as an RFID responder, so as to provide an indication of entrance into and exit from the elevator corridor. Passengers that are not visitors have a history developed as to the likely travel route of each passenger as the passenger enters the elevator lobby; that is, whether the passenger is likely to take the elevator at this time, or likely to exit the elevator corridor to some other facility. Entered calls can be cancelled if the passenger leaves the lobby, and passenger travel patterns are updated with each passage through the elevator lobby.

Abstract: A car structure for an elevator car, having two robust frame elements which bound the enclosure of the elevator car. A support structure and two crosspieces join the frame elements to form a framework which stiffens the elevator car. The frame elements support the upper guide shoes. The lower guide shoes being fastened to the side plates of the supporting structure together with the safety gears. Wall elements fastened to the frame elements, a floor plate resting on the supporting structure and having a floor element, and a ceiling plate fastened to the frame elements, form the shell of elevator car. The instruments and the mechanical and electrical subassemblies required for an elevator car ready for operation can be fastened to the frame elements, which serve as mountings, and to the ceiling plate.

Abstract: A dual handle brake (10) has a dual master cylinder (12) having a dual master cylinder rear brake fluid pipe (12A) attached thereto connected to a first master cylinder. A half pipe configured front brake handle (14A) is movably attached to the dual master cylinder front brake connector (12D). A cylindrical rear brake handle (14B) is movably attached to the dual master cylinder rear brake connector (12C). A U-shaped brake connector (14C) has a sufficient width to accept the cylindrical rear brake handle (14B) having the front brake handle (14A) contained therein. An attacher (16) securely connected to the dual master cylinder (12) and removably connectable to a handle bar (18).

Abstract: An eddy current reduction braking system in which with high speed rotation of a brake drum, magnetic flux produced by magnets is concentrated to increase magnetic flux density and thereby enhance braking force. According to the invention, there is provided a guide tube formed of a non-magnetic material and having a hollow portion in the shape of a rectangle in section disposed interiorly of a brake drum. A number of ferromagnetic pole pieces are disposed at annularly equal intervals on an outer surface of the guide tube and at least one magnet support tube is movably mounted in the hollow portion of the guide tube. Magnets are mounted on the magnet support tube such that their polarities with respect to the ferromagnetic pole pieces are alternately different.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for actuating a parking brake which is electromechanically operable by an actuator by way of a force-transmitting element, the actuator being composed of an electric motor and a self-locking gear which is interposed between the electric motor and the force-transmitting element, and it also relates to a system for actuating an electromechanically operable parking brake. To permit an adjustment of necessary actuating force nominal values, according to the present invention, the current to be supplied to the actuator and the actuator position are evaluated to determine a voltage that is to be applied to the actuator corresponding to the desired actuating force and the actuating force gradient.

Abstract: A load brake having a load shaft, a flange-like pressure plate fixedly mounted onto the load shaft, and a cogwheel arranged on the load shaft. A tension device produces an axial motion and force in the cogwheel as the wheel rotates with respect to the load shaft, and a ratchet wheel is mounted between the pressure plate and the cogwheel. A pawl prevents the rotation of the ratchet wheel at least in the release direction of the load shaft, and friction surfaces are provided between the pressure plate and the ratchet wheel, and the ratchet wheel and the cogwheel. Rotation that tends towards the release direction of the load shaft and that is faster than the speed of rotation of the cogwheel brings the pressure plate and the cogwheel closer together in the axial direction and presses them against the ratchet wheel.

Abstract: A suspension damper includes a tube and a damping piston assembly disposed within the tube and slidably mounted therein for reciprocal movement in the tube. The suspension damper also includes a piston rod extending through the tube and connected to the damping piston assembly, a rod guide assembly closing one end of the tube and a self-aligning rebound cut-off disc carried in the tube between the rod guide assembly and the damping piston assembly and cooperating with the rod guide assembly to provide a rebound cut-off effect and to compensate for misalignment between the piston rod and the damping piston assembly.

Abstract: An electric machine with a stator and a rotor arranged in the drive train of a drive unit is disclosed. A vibration insulation device is incorporated in the rotor of the electric machine. The electric machine can function as a starter/generator, a generator vehicle brake, an auxiliary drive and/or an active vibration damper.

Abstract: A power line (1) wherein an elongated enclosure (4) houses a first and a second conducting line (27, 23), a striplike base portion (63) made of ferromagnetic material, an electric contact portion (71) superimposed on the base portion (63), and a releasable connecting device (64, 72) for connecting the base portion and the electric contact portion. The releasable connecting device (64, 72) permits disconnection of the striplike base portion (63) in the event a portion of the electric contact portion (71) remains in the raised position following extinction of the magnetic field, so that the base portion (63) drops down and establishes a short-circuit connection, indicating a malfunction, between the first and second conducting lines (27, 23).

Abstract: A modular power line (1) defined by a number of elongated enclosures (4), each housing a conducting line (27) and an elastically deformable strip element (60) of finite length, which interacts with a magnetic field generated by an electric vehicle (80) to attract a portion (60a) of the strip element (60) into a contact position in which an electric connection is established between the conducting line (27) and at least one power plate (34) outside the enclosure (4). The enclosure carries, at each end, a supporting device (62) for supporting an end portion (60e) of the strip element (60) and permitting movement of the end portion (60e) with respect to the enclosure. The supporting device (62) also provides for connecting adjacent end portions (60e) of strip elements (60) housed in different enclosures (4).

Abstract: An electronically controlled transmission has microprocessor and a clutch housing including an integrated solenoid controlled valve; the clutch housing including a valve track operatively receiving a valve element connected for operation by the integrated solenoid controlled valve; and a friction disc pack within the clutch housing having a piston actuator pressurized by fluid flow regulated by operation of the integrated solenoid controlled valve in response to electronic control signals from the microprocessor.

Abstract: A friction clutch equipped with a flexible flywheel. The friction clutch has at least two natural resonant frequencies below a certain frequency. The ratio of a second resonant frequency relative to a first resonant frequency is at least 1.5. The friction clutch of the present invention reduces noise and increases useful life.

Abstract: A small diameter plastic eel with an overrunning clutch assembly mounted to the hub of the wheel. The wheel designed to be used with self-propelled power equipment operating at less than 1000 RPM. The overrunning clutch includes a clutch housing of generally annular cross-section having an outer periphery and an inner periphery. The housing has a radial stiffness which prevents deformation of the housing during use. The housing has recesses spaced equidistantly thereabout. Each recess has a throat opening, an outer wall, and a pair of side walls. A roller bearing is located in each of the recesses. One of the side walls has a concave surface. The other side wall has a spring for engaging the roller bearing and biasing the roller bearing toward the concave surface of the side wall.

Abstract: A speed control device having a high-efficiency, electromagnetically actuated wrap spring clutch that is capable of generating a high torque output using a low power input is provided. Both a control collar and a coil housing of the clutch have annular flanges portions that are axially adjacent and extend in directions perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the shaft. The geometry of the two flanges portions results in a high level of magnetic flux transfer between the housing and the control collar when a current is generated in the coil by application of an input power. The high level of magnetic flux transfer draws the control collar and the shaft hub into a tight frictional engagement even with a low power input to the clutch. As a result, the clutch is able to generate a high torque output despite a low power input. The inventive clutch is used in a vehicle speed control device.

Abstract: A spring plate member is connected to a hub. The spring plate member includes a plate spring portion generating a resilient force to separate an armature from a rotor, and an outer ring portion, which faces the armature. An elastic member is provided between the armature and the outer ring portion for connecting the armature directly with the outer ring portion. Thus, operation noises of the electromagnetic clutch and a compressor are efficiently reduced. Further, the axial dimension of elastic member can be made much smaller than that of the conventional cylindrical elastic member.

Abstract: An improved electric clutch for driving refrigeration compressors and the like includes an annular ferromagnetic annular armature that is connected with a drive shaft via the outer peripheral portion of an annular resilient disk the inner peripheral portion of which is connected with a rotor that in turn is connected with the drive shaft. The armature is normally biased in the direction of the rotor toward an inactive de-energized position in spaced relation relative to an annular driven member that is connected with the driven shaft. A stationary electromagnetic coil is mounted on the opposite side of the driven member from the armature, so that when the coil is energized, the armature is attracted toward an active energized position in frictional engagement with the driven member, thereby to cause the driven shaft to be driven by the drive shaft.

Abstract: A clutch disk assembly 1 includes a second plate 13, an output rotary member 4, an intermediate body 3, an intermediate member 9b, second springs 10, third springs 5 and a damper 8. The intermediate body 3 is disposed radially outside the output rotary member 4. The intermediate member 9b is disposed near the output rotary member 4 and the intermediate body 3. The second plate 13 is located on a second axial side of the intermediate body 3. The second springs 10 circumferentially and elastically couple the plate 9b and the intermediate body 3 together. The third springs 5 circumferentially and elastically couple the intermediate body 3 and the second plate 13 together. The damper 8 is axially shifted from the intermediate body 3. The damper 8 has first springs 7 circumferentially and elastically coupling the output rotary member 4 and the plate 9b together.

Abstract: A conveyor roller includes a generally cylindrical roller tube and a pair of stub shafts rotatably mounted in each end thereof. At least one of the stub shafts is mounted for axial movement between an extended position and a retracted position. When in the extended position, the stub shafts on each end of the conveyor engage respective mounting holes in the conveyor frame. To insert the conveyor roller in the conveyor frame, the movable stub shaft is moved to a retracted position while the roller is lowered into the conveyor frame. When the stub shaft aligns with the mounting holes in the conveyor frame, the stub shaft is urged back to the extended position by a biasing member to engage the mounting hole in the conveyor frame.

Abstract: An object-sorting system includes a plurality of conveyor platforms traveling along a travel path between a loading zone and an unloading zone. The unloading zone includes a plurality of exits spaced apart along the travel path for receiving respective ones of the objects. Each conveyor platform receives and unloads objects in a direction transverse to the travel path. Two objects are loaded onto each platform so that the first object to be unloaded is disposed closest to the side of the platform from which it is to be discharged. The loading station is arranged to load the two objects without stopping the conveyor platform. The loading station includes two loading conveyors arranged to load objects onto each platform at respective locations along the travel path.

Abstract: An apparatus and method is disclosed for transporting and reorienting items between two locations. The apparatus includes first and second upstanding members each having a first end and a second end. The first and second upstanding members are joined together at the first ends by a third member to form a frame. A track is formed in the first, second and third members which defines a path which spans at least 180 degrees and a set of four sprockets interact with the track. A movable member is positioned within the track and is looped around the set of four sprockets. An integral carrier is secured to the movable member. The integral carrier includes first and second members each having a first end, and a third member affixed to the first ends of the first and second members to form a nonadjustable, approximately C-shaped configuration wherein the first and second members are permanently spaced apart from one another and aligned in a parallel relationship.

Abstract: The invention relates to a portable apparatus for cleaning containers that can be installed alongside a conventional conveyor belt on which containers are transported. The cleaning apparatus comprises a container pick-up station designed to direct oncoming containers toward a local transport system designed to transport the containers through various container processing stages. The container processing stages include a first station that blasts ionized gas into the container to place contaminants in suspension and a second station that sucks out the suspended contaminants from the container. Once the container processing has been completed, the container is transported to a container return station that directs the container onto the conveyor.

Abstract: System for grouping and transferring articles from an upstream station to a downstream station. Articles are pushed onto a transfer station table and transferred as a row of articles to a downstream conveyor extending at right angles to the direction of the upstream conveyor. The transfer cycle is initiated by an article deflecting a whip switch, which actuates a pilot actuator. The pilot actuator sends air to a lifting ram, thus causing a rocker arm with a tooth to disengage from a timing wheel; the disengaged rocker arm opens an air valve, pressurizing a master cylinder. The master cylinder forces a ratchet arm to rotate a shaft having push-rod assemblies mounted on it. As the shaft rotates, push-rods jut up through slots in the transfer station table and push the row of articles onto a staging area, as new articles continue to move onto the transfer station. Flow of air to the lifting ram is interrupted as the article loses contact with the ship switch.

Abstract: Apparatus for adjusting the relative position of side-walls (11,11a,12,12a,13,13a) delimiting channels for receiving containers (2) in machines (1) for forming arrays of containers, the apparatus comprising actuating devices (21,22,23) arranged in a substantially transverse direction with respect to the direction of feeding of the containers (2) and connected to the side-walls by associated coupling mechanism (61,62,63), a device (30) also being provided for operating the actuating devices (21,22,23).

Abstract: A conveyer system for receiving, orienting and conveying pouches is disclosed. The conveyor system includes a plurality of pucks, each puck having a lower extent with a recess extending upwardly from the lower surface thereof and having an upstanding cylindrical wall. An indexing conveyer includes a belt in a closed loop configuration supported by an idler roller at one end and with a drive roller at the other end with a motor to drive the rollers and belt in a step and repeat operation. The exterior surface of the belt is formed with a plurality of plates with a cleat on each plate to receive the recesses of a plurality of pucks thereacross. An infeed conveyer has a spine alignable with the cleat at the input end of the indexing conveyor adapted to receive and orient pucks from the infeed conveyer to the indexing conveyer. The infeed conveyer has an input end and an output end, the output end being located adjacent to the input end of the indexing conveyer.