Abstract: An apparatus for coating an optical fibre with a selected one of a plurality of different resins includes respective reservoirs for the resins, an applicator for applying a resin coating to the optical fibre and a distributor between the reservoirs and the applicator including a valve device which is operable for putting any selected one of the reservoirs in flow communication with the applicator. The valve device includes a first body defining a plurality of inlet passages each of which is interconnected to a respective reservoir by a respective inlet conduit and a second body defining an outlet passage which is interconnected to the applicator via an outlet conduit. A flow control device is disposed between the bodies and the bodies are relatively moveable for putting any selected one of the inlet passages in alignment with the outlet passage.

Abstract: A dual component mixing system for coating comprises a first tank containing a main agent, a second tank containing a hardening agent diluted with thinner, a mixer which mixes the main agent and the hardening agent and supplies the mixture to a manually operated coating gun, a main agent line connecting the mixer and the first tank, a hardening agent line connecting the mixer and the second tank, a flow meter disposed within the main agent line, a flow meter and a flow regulating valve disposed within the hardening agent line, and a feedback control device which receives signals from the flow meters and controls the flow regulating valve so that the amount of hardening agent is a predetermined ratio with respect to the amount of main agent. The dual component mixing system according to the present invention provides an adequate control of the main agent/hardening agent ratio regardless of the differences among individuals manipulating the coating gun.

Abstract: There is provided a liquid injection apparatus for use in a method of lining the internal surface of a pipe. The apparatus comprises a push car having a frame structure, a liquid tank for storing a necessary amount of liquid to be injected into the pipe, a liquid pump for pumping the necessary amount of liquid so as to inject the liquid into the pipe, and a liquid injection controlling device for controlling the pressure of the liquid being supplied through the liquid pump, for stopping the liquid injection after a predetermined amount of liquid has been injected into the pipe, and for stopping the liquid injection if the liquid pressure in the pipe changes beyond a predetermined range. The liquid tank, the liquid pump and the liquid injection controlling device are installed together in the push car so as to be easily movable.

Abstract: A fluid dispenser for use in consistently depositing relatively thick and lumpy materials onto receiving surfaces which employs a supply path to a plurality of pump/valve combinations and a feedback pressure line to assure an adequate pressure at the point of deposit. There are positive displacement pumps which operate continuously through the plurality of valves with an additional feedback path to assure constant flow of the material.

Abstract: An apparatus for supplying electrically conductive coating material, such as water-based paint, includes a manifold connected to a high voltage electrostatic power supply and to one or more coating dispensers, and, a number of coating transfer units which are movable between a discharge position or station at the manifold and a filling station physically spaced from the manifold. Each of the transfer units includes a combined shuttle and pumping device which initially receives coating material at the filling station, and is then movable to the discharge station where the coating material is transferred from the pumping device, through the manifold, and then to one or more coating dispensers for deposition onto a substrate.

Abstract: A pan oiler for spraying oil into cavities in pans moving on a conveyor including a stationary center nozzle assembly and spaced outer nozzle assemblies. The outer nozzle assemblies are mounted on opposite ends of a drive screw having right hand threads formed on one end and left hand threads formed on the other end for moving the outside nozzle assemblies in unison relative to the stationary center nozzle assembly. A pair of electrically charged electrodes are positioned adjacent the nozzle assemblies for setting up an electric field across the spray paths of the nozzle assemblies for reducing overspray.

Abstract: An apparatus applies dressing fluid to a bowling lane surface in a discreet pattern laterally across a plurality of zones on the bowling lane. A carriage, for movement along a bowling lane, has an applicator mounted thereon for applying the dressing fluid to the bowling lane surface. Dressing fluid is supplied from a reservoir by a plurality of pulse valves which supply the dressing fluid to a plurality of fluid dispersion chambers, each having an inlet connected to one of the pulse valves and having an outlet positioned to apply dressing fluid to the applicator. The outlet has a width equal to the width of one of the zones. A controller is provided for selectively activating each of the pulse valves to discharge a discrete amount of fluid dressing into each dispersion chamber. Each zone may be the width of one board across the bowling alley so that different discrete amounts of oil can be applied to each board.

Abstract: In the method described, a compound substantially in the form of a paste is fed by means of a pump from a storage container (1) to a metering device (3) which determines the amount of paste to be applied to a workpiece (B). From the metering device, the paste is fed to a spray head (S) where it is mixed with compressed air from a cylinder (4) or other suitable supply and sprayed on to the workpiece (B). The amount of compressed air supplied to the paste for spraying purposes is controlled by means of a control unit (6) in such a way that a strip of substantially constant width is applied to the workpiece (B).

Abstract: An electrode capable of pushing against a silicon substrate with a constant force is mounted inside a vacuum chamber or a gas-replacing chamber. A bias voltage source can supply a given electrical current between the silicon substrate and the electrode. A temperature-controlled heater and a positioning mechanism are mounted under the silicon substrate. A gas inlet nozzle for adjusting the ambient is mounted close to the location of the substrate.

Abstract: An apparatus for applying a liquid lubricant in a pattern to a face of a sheet workpiece has a support frame through which the workpiece is transported in a travel direction substantially parallel to its face, a plurality of axles in the frame extending along respective axes generally perpendicular to the direction and individually displaceable generally perpendicular to the direction and to the respective axes, and respective liquid-pervious rollers journaled on the axles about the respective axes. A liquid lubricant is fed to the rollers and respective actuators connected between the axles and the frame displace the respective rollers perpendicular to the direction and to the respective axes into and out of contact with the workpiece as same passes in the direction through the frame. A controller connected to the actuators individually controls and operates same to apply the liquid lubricant in the rollers to the workpiece in a predetermined pattern as the workpiece passes through the frame.

Abstract: An apparatus for forming a protective layer on a card by use of a resin solution, includes a coating head having a fiber member, wherein the coating head is relatively positioned on the card so as to be brought in contact with a portion of a surface of the card so that the resin solution is transferred onto the contact portion of the card through the fiber member. The apparatus includes a moving device to selectively move at least one of the coating head and the card so as to move the contact portion along the surface of the card so that the surface of the card is coated with the resin solution.

Abstract: A fluid dispenser for use in consistently depositing relatively thick and lumpy materials onto receiving surfaces which employs a supply path to a plurality of pump/valve combinations and a feedback pressure line to assure an adequate pressure at the point of deposit. There are positive displacement pumps which operate continuously through the plurality of valves with an additional feedback path to assure constant flow of the material.

Abstract: In the method described, a compound substantially in the form of a paste is fed by means of a pump from a storage container (1) to a metering device (3) which determines the amount of paste to be applied to a workpiece (B). From the metering device, the paste is fed to a spray head (S) where it is mixed with compressed air from a cylinder (4) or other suitable supply and sprayed on to the workpiece (B). The amount of compressed air supplied to the paste for spraying purposes is controlled by means of a control unit (6) in such a way that a strip of substantially constant width is applied to the workpiece (B).

Abstract: A paint system utilizes a paint pumping station comprising a plurality of small paint pots, one for each color inventoried in the system. A pump is provided for each paint pot and is connected through a like plurality of lines to color changers at each paint station. Each color changer utilizes lighted push buttons that are energized by an encoder that tracks vehicles moving through the spray booth and directs the painter to the proper paint for the vehicle being painted.

Abstract: An external pipe covering apparatus is provided for coating exterior surfaces of uncoated longitudinal, helical and girth weld joints of a pipe to provide protection against corrosion, to minimize the weld projection by filling in any voids on either side of a weld, and to further provide a uniform smooth surface for a later applied tape. The apparatus is moved along a pipe by a crane or similar mechanical device. The apparatus has a carriage to which is attached wheels, a reservoir attached to the upper frame of the carriage for holding liquid resin, a circular member having at least one sensor therein attached to the lower frame of the carriage, a microprocessor attached to the upper frame of the carriage, a circular dispenser for dispensing liquid resin having at least one nozzle and at least one solenoid valve attached to the lower frame of the carriage for dispensing resin from the reservoir, and a pump for delivery of liquid resin to the nozzle.

Abstract: A flowable substance is applied to at least one predetermined area of a major surface of a plate-shaped fuel cell component by directing at least one stream of the flowable substance toward a predetermined zone that is situated in a plane along which the major surface of the component extends, facing the stream. The size of the predetermined zone is smaller than that of the predetermined area, and relative movement along the plane is effected between the component and the predetermined zone so that at least the entire predetermined area of the major surface gradually advances through the predetermined zone in a predetermined advancement direction and path. The stream is controlled so that it is in existence only while the zone is completely within the predetermined area, and until the zone has coincided with all of the predetermined area.

Abstract: In the case of an apparatus for the contact-free application of a liquid strip, more particularly a strip of glue, on a moving web of material, comprising at least one application head, which is provided with at least one nozzle arranged at a distance from the web of material and a valve adapted to put the nozzle into and out of operation and adapted to be operated in accordance with the desired pattern of application, the aim of the invention is to provide such an improvement using simple and low-price means that despite the contact-free application of liquid high accuracy becomes possible. This accomplished by a modification such that the timing of the valve is modified to depart from the basic values, which are dependent on the application pattern, in accordance with a correction value which is a function of the speed of the web of material and at least the distance of the web from the nozzle.

Abstract: An apparatus for painting an edge of a workpiece that is moving in a travel direction generally parallel to the edge past a painting station has a support movable horizontally transversely of the direction in the station and an actuator connected to the support for displacing the support transversely of the direction. A generally tubular casing mounted on the support has a rear end and a front end and a front plate engaged over the front end of the casing is formed with a narrow nose in turn formed with a notch having a shape complementary to the workpiece edge. The front plate is releasably secured over the front end of the casing. A vacuum tank adjacent the station has a large-diameter flexible vacuum hose connected to the rear end of the casing for drawing in air through the nose at the notch.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for controlled spray etching, in which panels, such as printed circuit boards are delivered through an etching chamber, to have a spray etchant sprayed generally on upper and lower surfaces of the panel. The spray is controlled such that a reduced amount of etchant is provided on the perimeter surface portions of the panel, relative to the central surface portions of the panel, transversely of the path of travel of the panels through the etching chamber. The spray may be varied in amount, preferably by varying the pressure at different locations transversely of the chamber; the spray longitudinally through the chamber, may vary, to spray leading and trailing surface portions of the panels a lesser amount than central portions of the panels, measured longitudinally. The control of the spray of leading and trailing surface portions of the panels may be facilitated by one or more sensors that control an intermittent discharge of spray etchant near the inlet to the etch chamber.

Abstract: A roll (30) of adhesive worked between two rollers (10, 12) of the gumming device is supplied by feed nozzles (34a, 34b) projecting fine streams of adhesive (35a, 35b) with monitored flow. In case of an increase in the measured viscosity of the adhesive or stopping of the machine on which the gumming device is used, a water-atomizing device (40) allows the viscosity to be reduced and prevents the adhesive from drying out. A dimension of the adhesive roll is monitored and controls regulation of the output of the adhesive-feeding nozzles. The gumming device thereby ensures proper gumming of a strip of paper (2).

Abstract: A method and apparatus for painting traffic marking lines over old paint markings on road pavement is disclosed. The apparatus, normally installed on a marking vehicle having a paint gun and a paint supply, includes a detector which illuminates the pavement and utilizes a spectroscope to analyze the return inspection for the presence of one or more known preselected constituents of the old paint marking to control actuation of the valve on the paint gun and also track the old pavement marking. The apparatus also provides a paint gun delay function to account for the lead distance between detector and paint gun and enables the application of new paint markings directly over the old markings at a relatively high rate of vehicle speed.

Abstract: Apparatus for applying a predetermined glue pattern to a predetermined surface of a workpiece, which workpiece is moved in a stepwise, indexed fashion, such that this predetermined surface thereof follows a given path. The predetermined pattern includes first portion which extends along a line which intersects the given path. The apparatus includes a non-contact glue valve having an outlet; a carrier for mounting the glue valve for bidirectional motion along the line intersecting the given path with the outlet thereof in alignment with the first portion of the predetermined pattern and spaced closely above the predetermined surface of the workpiece. A control is provided for turning the glue valve on and off in a predetermined fashion for depositing glue upon the predetermined surface of the workpiece in the first portion of the pattern.

Abstract: A system for use on an automated assembly line having an adhesive applicator disposed to deposit adhesive on cartons progressing along the assembly line. A flap closing device which is utilized only during scheduled or unscheduled cycle stops of the assembly line is operatively associated with a pair of applicator heads. During normal, continuous operation of the assembly line, the flaps of a carton are sealed downstream of the application of adhesive. Effective sealing of all cartons upon a cycle stop is provided by including the second flap closing device at the applicator heads. The applicator heads are within the arc of movement of a carton flap closed by the second flap closing device, but operatively associating the applicator heads with the flap closing device displaces the heads from the path of the flap. Movement of the heads can be a rotational or linear motion.

Abstract: A quantitative fluid discharge device includes an arrangement for pressurizing fluid within a container and discharging the fluid from the container at a predetermined rate. A dispense control apparatus is provided for controlling the rate of fluid discharge from the container. The dispense control apparatus includes a keyboard from which signals for effecting initialization and discharge may be input, and a microcomputer for receiving those signals from the keyboard. An interface receives a digital pressure command signal from the microcomputer, and an electropneumatic regulator receives an analog pressure command signal from this interface. The electropneumatic regulator includes an air channel, and a solenoid valve is disposed in a middle part of this air channel. A pressure sensor for detecting the discharge air pressure acting on the fluid is disposed at a location which permits detection of the discharge air pressure while the fluid is being discharged from the container.

Abstract: An electrically-actuated liquid spraying system for controlling the volumetric flow through pressure-atomization spray nozzles is disclosed. Each nozzle is attached to a direct acting, in-line solenoid valve which is connected to a liquid supply at constant pressure. The valve is excited by square wave pulses of variable frequency and duty cycle to reciprocate between its fully open and closed positions and thereby control the flowrate over a range without changing droplet size and spray pattern. The frequency and duty cycle of the square wave pulses are varied and controlled by feedback data of relative target movement, size, shape and other factors as well as by gated sampling of the dynamic pressure in a region between the valve seat and nozzle orifice.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for controlling the operation of a plurality of nozzles for spraying a liquid substance on a product. The nozzles have different flow volumes and are located adjacent the product. A sensor measures the quantity of the product, and a control responsive to the sensor opens selected nozzles to produce a desired ratio of the quantity of the substance to the quantity of the product. There is further provided another sensor for measuring the quantity of the substance, the control being responsive to the two sensors and operative to determine the actual ratio of the quantity of the substance to the quantity of the product and to adjust the actual ratio to match the desired ratio.

Abstract: Silicone application apparatus and method for applying a controlled amount of silicone emulsion to the surface of a moving web such as a continuous web in a printing press. The applicator comprises a silicone supply tank, a silicone emulsion applicator tray, a pump for pumping silicone emulsion from the supply tank to the applicator tray, and applicator rollers in contact with the silicone emulsion in the tray and the moving web to apply the silicone emulsion to the moving web. The application tray includes an operating level drain to maintain an operating level of silicone emulsion in the tray, a overflow drain at a higher level which prevents overflow of the application tray in the event that the operating level drain is clogged.

Abstract: An adaptor for liquid dispensing of precisely controlled amounts through an outlet of a liquid filled syringe includes a valve shaft extended through an inlet of the syringe, along the syringe and seated against a valve seat assembly at the outlet of the syringe. The valve seat assembly and a cylindrical casing cooperatively mount the syringe to a housing assembly. A spring within the housing assembly biases the valve shaft to a normally closed position against the valve seat assembly. By pressurizing the liquid in the syringe, timer actuation of a solenoid within the housing assembly retracts the valve shaft away from the valve seat assembly to an open position to force the pressurized liquid through the outlet and out of the syringe.

Abstract: Fluid to be dispensed is delivered under pressure to a dispensing nozzle by way of an infinitely variable valve which is disposed in sufficiently close proximity to the nozzle that very little fluid pressure drop takes place in the region between the valve and the nozzle. A parameter correlated to the rate of flow of fluid discharged from the nozzle is sensed between the valve and the nozzle to generate a flow rate signal from which a control signal is derived by comparing the flow rate signal with a signal representing a desired rate of flow. Where the nozzle is to be moved relative a workpiece for dispensing fluid material thereon, the latter signal may be derived from a signal correlated to the speed of relative movement between the nozzle and the workpiece such as a tool speed signal from the robot.

Abstract: A spraying method wherein the distance between a spray apparatus and an article is measured by a distance measuring means provided on the spray apparatus, and a spraying condition in which a substance is sprayed is varied in accordance with the measured distance. Also disclosed is a spray apparatus which is suitable for carrying out the above-described method. The apparatus has a supply passage for a substance which is to be sprayed, a nozzle for jetting out the spray substance, and a control valve means provided within the supply passage and adapted to control the flow rate of the spray substance flowing out through the nozzle. A distance measuring means is provided integral with the spray apparatus in one unit, the means being adapted to measure the distance between the spray apparatus and an article and output a signal corresponding to the measured distance. The degree of opening of the control valve means is determined on the basis of the signal output from the distance measuring means.

Abstract: A method and apparatus is disclosed for providing a jet stream applied hot melt adhesive bead of consistent, uniform section to the interior surface of a paperboard cannister for the purpose of securing and sealing a metal or plastic and closure. Fluidized hot melt adhesive is delivered by a gear pump into a circulation loop which includes a jet nozzle supply spur. Electric solenoid valves control adhesive flow direction into the spur or circulation loop, alternatively. A variable flow restriction in the circulation loop downstream of the jet nozzle supply spur is adjusted to maintain substantially constant fluid pressure at the spur junction in either delivery mode.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling the sequential coating of motor-vehicle bodies using a preprogrammed painter-robot is provided. As a result of wear, the signal/response delay times of valves and other control elements deviate from the information stored in the program. According to the subject invention, the actual signal/response delay time is measured and compared with the stored information stored in the program. In the event of unacceptable deviations in the actual verses stored signal/response delay times, the actuating times controlled by the program are changed in response thereto, and signals warning of excessive actual delay time are given.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for dispensing fluid material whereby the fluid is discharged from a nozzle onto a workpiece. Delivery of fluid to the nozzle is controlled by a metering valve located in close proximity to the nozzle. The flow of dispensed fluid is sensed by a pressure transducer disposed to sense the pressure drop across the nozzle. The pressure transducer generates a feedback signal which can be applied by way of a closed loop control system to an electropneumatic servovalve which operates a double-acting air cylinder the pressure drop across the nozzle thereby controlling the flow of dispensed fluid in accordance with a driving signal. Where the dispenser is carried by a robot, the driving signal can be correlated to the relative speed between the workpiece and the nozzle to accurately control the amount of fluid per unit length contained in a bead deposited on the surface of the workpiece.

Abstract: A gravity feed apparatus has a plurality of deflecting baffles positioned within a treatment chamber to disperse a flow of plant seed within a treatment chamber and apply sprays of a chemical solution used to treat the plant seed.

Abstract: A computer controlled concrete injector pump and process for lining pipe comprises a pump chamber having an outlet connected to a spray lance through a first check valve and having first and second inlets, one inlet being connected through a second check valve to a hopper, and the second inlet being connected to an injector tube having a piston moveable therein by a hydraulic cylinder. The hydraulic cylinder is controlled by a programmable logic controller in a control system which has provisions for operator input of lining process parameters. The volume and flow rate of material from the pump may be controlled accurately by controlling the movement of the piston within the injector tube. The valve housing of the second check valve between the chamber and the hopper is split into two portions which are connected by a quick-disconnect coupling. The valve housing may be separated for access to its interior for maintenance and cleaning.

Abstract: A fluid distribution bar, such as for applying a liquid or other fluent medium to a tumbling bed of material to be coated, has concentrically mounted inner and outer tubes in the described embodiment. The inner tube has a plurality of outlets along a length of the tube which are alignable with corresponding openings formed in the outer tube by relative movement of the tubes. A plurality of slidable seals each corresponding to an inner tube outlet are mounted in the interior of the outer tube to overlie and seal the inner tube outlets in a first position, with the relative movement of the tubes unsealing the outlets in a second position for fluid distribution. The described embodiment uses seals comprising an elongated flexible resilient sealing strip mounted at each end in apertures formed in the outer tube such that the flexible strips are elastically deformed to slidably bear against the exterior surface of the inner tube for a good sealing engagement.

Abstract: Heavy wall, ceiling and floor coverings with closed surfaces can be pulled or pushed off relatively easily if the material connecting the coating with the substrate in an adhesive joint can at least be loosened with the aid of a stripping fluid. In accordance with the invention, a stripping fluid is pressed in an air-free, pulse-like way with the aid of a needle nozzle (1) through the coating with a high pressure into the adhesive joint (FIG. 1).

Abstract: A seed treating and conveying apparatus includes an elongated auger unit on which a liquid chemical applicator tank is mounted for treating the seeds as they are conveyed through the auger tube. The auger includes a central shaft having brush flighting thereon for gentle handling of the seeds as well as for picking up treatment and thoroughly and uniformly applying it to the seeds. The auger unit is pivotally supported for adjusting the position of the discharge end without moving the vehicle on which it is mounted.

Abstract: In a labeling machine for a can or bottle, a label on a vacuum drum is wiped on the reverse face near one edge with a solvent and also is sprayed on the reverse face near the other edge with an adhesive, the label then being wrapped around and affixed to the can or bottle to expose the obverse face of the label. Mechanism for accomplishing these actions and for synchronizing adhesive spraying and wrapping speed is disclosed.

Abstract: A moving part has material initially applied to it a predetermined distance from its leading edge. Whenever a sensor senses a notch in a flange of the moving part, application of material to the moving part is stopped for a predetermined distance prior to the start of the notch to a predetermined distance beyond the notch. Application of material to the moving part is finally stopped a predetermined distance prior to its trailing edge. Two separate sensors are used to control each of three spray guns for applying the material in the selected areas.

Abstract: An apparatus for applying a fluid such as an insecticide to grain or similar material that is carried by a conveyor. A flap device which is formed from a sheet of resilient flexible material is pivotably mounted at one of its ends to a supporting structure which is located above the conveyor, and the flap device is positioned to contact and ride over the material that is carried by the conveyor. A distributor extends across the width of the flap device and includes a series of distribution channels which open to a lower surface of the flap device. The fluid is delivered to the distributor and is directed into the material which, in being carried by the conveyor, is contacted by the flap device. A sensing device is incorporated in the apparatus for detecting the degree of pivotal movement of the flap device as it rides over the material on the conveyor and, thus, for providing a measure of the quantity of material on the conveyor.

Abstract: An apparatus for permanently setting pre-formed creases of a pair of pants comprises a stanchion member and a pair of spaced-apart substantially parallel support members extending substantially horizontally from the stanchion member. A substantially horizontal upper crease blade is fixed to each support member and has a lower crease blade pivoted thereto. The free ends of the crease blades extend away from the stanchion member and include applicator nozzles that are directed upward for the upper crease blades and downward for the lower crease blades. When a pair of pre-creased pants are slipped over the crease blades and the lower crease blades are pivoted downward, the pants are pulled taut at the hems between the pre-formed creases. As the pants are pulled off of the crease blades a pumping mechanism supplies a flowable, curable setting material such as silicone rubber to the applicator nozzles, which apply a coating of setting material to the inside surfaces of the pant legs along the creases.

Abstract: In a labeling machine for a can or bottle, a label on a vacuum drum is wiped on the reverse face near one edge with a solvent and also is sprayed on the reverse face near the other edge with an adhesive, the label then being wrapped around and affixed to the can or bottle to expose the obverse face of the label. Mechanism for accomplishing these actions and for synchronizing adhesive spraying and wrapping speed is disclosed.

Abstract: Apparatus for intermittently dispensing either fragile particulate material, such as sesame seeds, or flaky material, such as bran, through openings in a tube to spread material over an array of spaced rows and columns of a food product in a pan. The dispensing apparatus comprises a hopper from which fragile particulate material is dispensed through a dispensing tube in which a mandrel driven by a reversible variable speed motor is rotatably disposed. The mandrel has spaced spline teeth formed on its outer surface in dispensing sections separated by blocking collars spaced longitudinally of the mandrel such that rotation of the mandrel causes particulate material to be dispensed in parallel columns and such that intermittent rotation of the mandrel causes the columns to be divided to form rows.

Abstract: The decoating device 21 comprises a spraying section 22, a heating zone 9, a cleaning station 23 and a gumming station 24. Containers 5a, 5b, 5c for various developing liquids are connected via a multiway valve 5 to one or more flat-jet nozzles 6 in the spraying section 22. A first sensor 4 registers the incoming printing plate 1 and actuates the multiway valve 5 in order to admit decoating liquid from one of connected containers 5a, 5b or 5c to the flat-jet nozzle(s) 6. The decoating liquid sprayed past the printing plate 1 is conveyed via a collecting trough 7 into a collecting container 8. The thin film of decoating liquid on the printing plate 1 is heated to the preselected temperature by means of the radiator 25 in the heating zone 9. A pair of squeezing rollers 11 cleans the printing plate surface. A second sensor 14 registers the front edge of the printing plate 1 and then switches on the cleaning station 23 and gumming station 24 known per se.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for wetting pourable solid matter. A preferred apparatus includes a tank (31) for accepting the solid matter, a mixing mechanism (32) for moving and breaking up the solid matter within the tank (31), at least one apparatus (5) for spraying the liquid substance supplied from a reservoir (11) into the tank, and an apparatus (2) for continuously feeding solid matter into the tank (31), characterized by the fact that the apparatus for spraying in the liquid substance includes at least one spraying nozzle (5) with an unchangeable (fixed) outlet opening (178) and a closure member (15, 16) that is to be opened (for aerating) and closed continuously, in a controllable sequence, that is connected to a feed line (9) that is under almost uniform pressure, and that is to be opened intermittently, for example electropneumatically, by control signals furnished from the apparatus (2) for supplying the solid matter.

Abstract: A new metering and proportioning apparatus for directly applying a two-component adhesive in a wood laminating process is described. The key element of the invention is a valve system regulating flow of resin and hardener to and from double-acting cylinder pumps. The new system eliminates conventional spool valve difficulties. Each component cylinder pump is supplied with a pair of 3-way ball valves which are manifolded to direct component flows. A pneumatic control system senses completion of a component discharge stroke and causes simultaneous reversal of the ball valve pair for discharge of component and refilling of the emptied side of the cylinder on the return stroke. A two-level optical sensor detects a workpiece and opens extruder head discharge. The sensor operates a modulating valve in the resin supply line as the workpiece proceeds ensuring even spread rate.

Abstract: An adhesive applicator receives liquid adhesive from an adhesive supply and has a pneumatically operated valve for controlling the flow of adhesive through the applicator to a sheet driven along a path past the applicator. A pneumatic proximity switch is located along the path for sensing the sheet as it approaches the applicator. Air from a pressure amplifier is provided to the pneumatically operated control valve of the applicator in response to the proximity switch sensing the presence of a sheet along the path. The proximity switch also can be connected to a pneumatically operated electrical switch that provides a signal to a logic and control unit for indicating to a machine operator that a paper jam exists in the event the sheet does not clear the proximity switch within a predetermined time interval.

Abstract: Apparatus for intermittently dispensing fragile particulate material, such as sesame seeds through openings in a tube to spread material over an array of horizontally and vertically spaced rows and columns such as upper surfaces of buns in a pan. The dispensing apparatus comprises a hopper from which fragile particulate material is dispensed through a dispensing tube in which a mandrel driven by a variable speed motor is rotatably disposed. The mandrel has spaced spline teeth formed on its outer surface in dispensing sections separated by blocking collars spaced longitudinally of the mandrel such that rotation of the mandrel causes particulate material to be dispensed in parallel columns and such that intermittent rotation of the mandrel causes the columns to be divided to form rows.

Abstract: A system which dispenses sauce or the like onto selected areas of plates moving in a train beneath a dispenser. The areas upon which the sauce is to be dispensed may for example be those containing meat portions of non-uniform width in directions normal to the direction of motion of the plate or the conveyor. A slot-shaped dispensing aperture on the lower side of the dispenser is automatically opened and closed progressively by a movable closure in such manner that the length of the open portion of the slot matches the corresponding dimension of the areas to be dispensed upon as they move beneath the dispenser. This enables complete coverage of these areas with the sauce, without dispensing it upon other portions of other areas where it is not desired.