Abstract: An article feeder assembly having a pocketed separator and a discharge tube configured to deliver articles to the pocketed separator. Some embodiments include an initial feeder assembly in overlying relation with a track extending from the initial feeder assembly to the discharge tube. Articles are oriented in end-to-end orientation in the initial feeder assembly and delivered to the pocketed separator in vertical end-to-end orientation. As pocketed separator rotates with respect to discharge tube, vertical retention members pass through a tunnel in the discharge tube and rotate articles out of the discharge tube. The discharged articles are secured in pockets delineated by the retention members. Some embodiments use one or more cam mechanisms to properly orient the discharged articles as the pocketed separator rotates. Properly oriented articles are then delivered to an advancing mechanism, such as a conveyor system.

Abstract: A system for monitoring a process step during manufacturing of an assembly sheet includes a detection camera configured to capture a first image of the assembly sheet, the first image including a locating feature of the assembly sheet, a vacuum hold-down device for selectively inhibiting advancement of the assembly sheet along a process step line for a predetermined measurement time, and a measurement camera configured to capture a second image of the assembly sheet responsive to the vacuum hold-down device inhibiting advancement of the assembly sheet, the second image including one or more features of a coupon of the assembly sheet.

Abstract: An apparatus includes: an image capture sensor configured to perform imaging by employing a rolling shutter method; a stand configured to move the image capture sensor; a processor; and a memory. A first still image is obtained by using the image capture sensor while the image capture sensor is moved by the stand at a first constant speed. A second still image is obtained by using the image capture sensor while the image capture sensor is moved by the stand at a second constant speed or is remained stationary. Inclination information, which indicates an inclination difference between an image of an object in the first still image and an image of the object in the second still image, is specified. Distance information, which indicates a distance, is generated by using the specified inclination information.

Abstract: A module (M) for a machine (100) for processing flat objects having a support structure (1, 2, 3, 4) above which the flat objects are transported along a given transport path. The module includes a discharge system for such objects, the discharge system is capable of discharging any flat object which falls below the transport path.

Abstract: In one embodiment, an inventory storage module has a pair of upper tracks and a pair of lower tracks that are connected to one another so as to define a closed movement path in a vertical plane. The module has a plurality of carriers arranged end-to-end along the upper and lower tracks. Each carrier is elongate along a direction that extends between a pair of the upper or lower tracks so as to carry a set of the storage containers that are arranged side-by-side. Each carrier has first and second first wheel assemblies that couple the carrier to the pairs of upper tracks and lower tracks when supported by the pairs of upper tracks and lower tracks, respectively. The storage module can move the inventory carriers around the movement path until a desired one of the inventory carriers is presented at one of the first and second ends.

Abstract: An egg orientation device is provided to position eggs downwards or upwards in egg retainers. The device includes a stationary lane with a support plate. The support plate includes a central zone and two lateral zones. The device also includes a pusher movable along the stationary lane and configured to push an egg over the support plate and around its longitudinal axis. The egg retainer is also movable in the beneath the support plate of the stationary lane in a synchronized manner with the pusher. A drop opening is provided in the support plate. The drop opening enables eggs to fall through such that they are positioned downwards or upwards in the egg retainer positioned beneath the drop opening. The drop opening is either located in the central zone or in the lateral zone.

Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed for providing rods formed from a continuous supply of filter material for use in the manufacture of cigarette filter elements, each rod having individual objects placed at predetermined spaced intervals along the length thereof. The apparatus comprises a first hopper configured to provide a reservoir for objects, a second hopper positioned to receive objects from the first hopper, and a reciprocating screen disposed between the first hopper and the second hopper. The reciprocating screen defines a plurality of passageways therein, and the reciprocating screen is configured to facilitate transfer of the objects from the first hopper to the second hopper. The apparatus also comprises an object insertion unit in operable communication with the second hopper and configured to introduce a plurality of objects into engagement with the continuous supply of filter material.

Abstract: System for feeding and processing bottles (1) to be conveyed to a device (30) for entry into a filling machine (40) operating at an assigned speed (Vp), the system comprising: a realignment centrifuge (100) fed randomly with the bottles (1) and having a tangential outlet (113); movement devices (12, 13, 14), able to convey the bottles (1) leaving the realignment centrifuge (100) and vary the speed of advancing movement thereof; at least one device (21) for handling the bottles; the realignment centrifuge is operated at an operating speed (Vc) greater than the speed (Vp) of the filling machine, and movement devices (12, 14) comprise at least a first device (12); a third device (14); said handling device (21) has means (5) for gripping the bottles.

Abstract: An apparatus for treating containers, including a first treatment unit which treats the containers in a first predefined manner, a transport device which transports the containers away from the first treatment unit, and a second treatment unit which is arranged downstream of the first treatment unit in the transport direction of the containers and which treats the containers in a second predefined manner, wherein the transport device has a first transport unit for transporting the containers and this first transport unit has a guide device which makes contact with the containers and relative to which the containers are moved. The transport device has a second transport unit which is arranged downstream of the first transport unit in the transport direction of the containers and which rotates the containers through a predefined angle relative to the container longitudinal axis during transport of the containers.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are disclosed for providing an aligned bunch of items of media. The apparatus includes a driven drum element arranged to rotate about a drum axis of rotation and at least one driven endless belt member, each arranged along a respective belt pathway. The belt pathway comprises a pathway portion in which the belt member extends in a co-operating relationship with more than sixty percent of the circumference of an outer surface of the drum element. The drum element and at least one belt member co-operate to receive and align items of media therebetween.

Abstract: An egg orientation mechanism orients eggs within an egg handling machine including a plurality of randomly arranged eggs on a first egg conveying mechanism. A lifter mechanism located on the first egg conveying mechanism raises each egg away from the egg conveying mechanism to off balance and rotate the egg so that the egg is oriented to with larger end of egg leading as egg is released into a second egg conveying mechanism. A clamshell egg receiver includes a front wall, a rear wall and egg receiving space formed between front wall and the rear wall. Either one of front wall or rear wall pivots about a pivot point located below a centerline of the egg receiving space. A method of releasing an egg includes holding an egg by an egg holder, rotating the egg holder and releasing the egg at an angle greater or less than 90 degrees.

Abstract: Disclosed are a method and an apparatus for aligning pieces of food dough that are conveyed downstream by a conveyor so that when aligning members contact the pieces, the deformation of the pieces and the adhesion between the aligning members and the pieces can be reduced.

Abstract: A bottle cap orienting apparatus including a cap transfer assembly having a pair of opposing transfer belts each having curved first and second ends and upright facing straight sides opposingly spaced apart to define a gap sized to be equal to or greater than a height of the caps being transferred and reoriented for subsequent feeding into a bottle capping apparatus. A cap feed chute is positioned centrally between the first ends for conveying unoriented bottle caps in edge upright orientation into the gap. Each of the transfer belts have suction holes positioned along each of the transfer belts. A vacuum source within each belt draws air inwardly into the suction holes which holds caps against the belt. The belts move in unison to carry the bottle caps to the second ends where a cap stripper detaches each cap from the transfer belts.

Abstract: The method relates to products such as bottles whose horizontal cross section of contact is oval and which are conveyed in the longitudinal direction, in single file and spaced apart, on a conveyor. The method includes introducing the bottles one by one into a neck, at the downstream end of which motorized rollers are disposed, applying the rollers to the opposite faces of each bottle to be orientated, providing the passive roller with a peripheral speed equal to the speed of conveyance of the bottles and providing the active roller with a higher peripheral speed to position the bottle diagonally on the conveyor.

Abstract: A conveying device for conveying substantially round objects, such as eggs or fruit. The conveyor device has a roller conveyor with an endless transport element and successive rows of one or more rollers An object receiving space for receiving an object is delimited by two successive rollers. The roller conveyor has a discharge end where said objects are discharged by falling from said roller conveyor. The conveyor device furthermore has a second conveyor with an endless element and successive rows of one or more object holders, each object holder having an opening allowing to receive an object therein The second conveyor has a receiving end which is positioned in line with the discharge end of the roller conveyor so as to receive objects discharged by falling from the roller conveyor in the object holders of the second conveyor.

Abstract: The device comprises: a chute, on which tubes arranged in a line and with a random orientation of closed and open heads thereof, fall by gravity towards a rotor activated by a motor with stepped 90° displacements. A head tube enters one of two housings realised in the rotor, one housing being perpendicular to the other housing and destined in turn to be aligned with the line of tubes. An endrun stop halts the head tube while the sensor organs ascertain whether a frontally-situated head of the head tube is open or closed. The motor activates the rotor in a direction or in another, according to a datum supplied by the sensor organs, such that the open head of the tube is always in a predetermined position. During rotation cam means act in cooperation with containing and guide means to raise the head tube into a predetermined collection position where it is picked up by handling organs. The raising enables a following tube to insert in the other housing, which has in the meantime become aligned with the chute.

Abstract: The invention relates to automated handling of baggage objects of variable sizes, shapes and consistencies, including baggage in an airport. The invention involves measuring at least length in two directions of the objects while supported on a conveyor means, turning selected objects in an angle according to a selection in response to the measured lengths in relation to a predetermined value, and transferring objects to a storage device to collect a plurality of objects, and preferably while the objects are supported on a conveyor means. The selection in response to at least one predetermined value provides one basis for deciding whether to turn the objects before the objects are transferred to the storage device. This facilitates automatic transfer of baggage objects without manual intervention.

Abstract: A bottle orienting device for orienting bottles including a neck with an opening on one end thereof in accordance with an embodiment of the present application includes a first belt operable to advance a bottle in a first direction, a stationary kicker extending upward relative to a lower surface of the bottle as it moves in the first direction and positioned in a path of travel of the bottle such that the bottle will rotate around the kicker as it passes the kicker, and a rotation deflector positioned above the kicker and upstream from the kicker, the rotation deflector positioned such that it prevents rotation of the bottle when desired.

Abstract: Method and device for pivoting plate elements travelling on a flat conveyor, the conveyor being provided with two parallel left and right paths, respective driven at different speeds. The paths define between them a separating line on which the plate elements are rotated around an axis by application of each of the two path speeds on a left portion of the plate element and on a right portion of the plate element defined by the separating line. The method involves maintaining the barycenter of each plate element sufficiently close to the separating line to extend the effect of the rotation applied to these plate elements.

Abstract: A machine for righting and aligning articles comprises at least one housing able to receive an article in a lying position, pre-oriented, and let it fall into a drop chute; end stop and support elements in the housing to hold a differentiated configuration of the article during its falling; a partition wall dividing the drop chute into two compartments; and a first diverter plate actuated to change position and direct the articles towards one and the other of the compartments, in an alternating manner. It includes two further partition walls dividing the two compartments into four subcompartments, each one for one article upright positioned, and a pair of second diverter plates actuated to change position and direct the articles towards one and other of said subcompartments, in an alternating manner.

Abstract: Manufacturing lines include inspection systems for monitoring the quality of parts produced. Manufacturing lines for making semiconductor devices generally inspect each fabricated part. The information obtained is used to fix manufacturing problems in the semiconductor fab plant. A machine-vision system for inspecting devices includes a flipper mechanism. After being inspected at a first station, a tray-transfer device moves the tray from the first inspection station to a flipper mechanism. The flipper mechanism includes two jaws, a mover, and a rotator. The flipper mechanism turns the devices over and places the devices in a second tray so that another surface of the device can be inspected. A second tray-transfer device moves the second tray from the flipper to a second inspection station. The mover of the flipper mechanism removes the tray from the first inspection surface and places a tray at the second inspection surface.

Abstract: A bailing apparatus includes a bailer feeder and a bailer. The bailer feeder is arranged to feed handles to the bailer. The bailer is adapted to couple the handles to containers.

Abstract: In the case of an envelope-turning station with a turning cylinder which is oriented parallel to the mail-conveying direction and is equipped with openable and closable jaws on its circumference, it is possible, following charging of the turning-cylinder jaws with horizontally flat items of mail and rotation of the turning cylinder through 90° and/or 270°, for a mail removal arrangement to remove items of mail in the mail-conveying direction, in a state in which they are standing on one of their longitudinal edges, and to feed them to further processing or handling stations of a mail-processing installation.

Abstract: An apparatus for transporting cylindrical objects, in particular containers, has at least two shafts that rotate in the same direction, axially perpendicular to the transporting direction of the objects. While being transported, the objects come to rest with their cylindrical wall on one shaft and with one face end on an adjacent shaft. By means of the axial spacing and/or the respective diameters of the shafts a predeterminable angular position of the objects to the plane of the axes of the shafts and an intrinsic rotation of the objects can be effected.

Abstract: A tablet conveying and cutting apparatus capable of adjusting the position of a tablet is a structure suitable for downsizing. A tablet conveying and cutting apparatus has an arranging device for arranging a long side of the tablet to be perpendicular to the tablet's moving direction by moving the tablet for a predetermined distance; and an oblique plate for making the tablet fall a predetermined distance.

Abstract: The invention relates to an arrangement by a conveyor (1, 2) for items (3), such as packaging bodies of glass, for example, with a means (4) for raising the items (3) from a lying position, in which the bottom of the respective item (3) is oriented in a random direction on the conveyor (1, 2), into a standing position with its bottom turned down against the conveyor (1, 2). In order to obtain, among other things, a compact and reliable construction for the conveyor (1, 2), the raising means is in the form of the raising means (4) extending, before the item (3) enters the raising means (4), essentially in an extension of an upper portion (1) of the conveyor. Further, the raising means (4) is supported rotationally about an axis (5), which is located downstream of the center of gravity of the item (3), when the item (3) has entered the raising means (4), so that on rotation of the raising means (4), the item (3) is raised with its bottom turned downwards, facing a lower portion (2) of the conveyor.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to an apparatus for conveying and folding flexible packaging material, comprising a conveyor (1) with a conveyor belt (3) which is provided with through-going holes and which, for a part of its length, extends substantially rectilinearly and with constant orientation along a suction box (9). By connecting the suction box (9) to a source of partial vacuum, a partial vacuum is created at the side of the belt facing towards the packaging material, which ensures that the packaging material is well-fixed and can thereby pass closely adjacent and be heated by a heating device (15) extending along the belt. The apparatus makes for concentrated, energy-efficient and well-defined heating of an edge region of the packaging material intended for thermosealing.

Abstract: The invention is an automatic, unmanned, powered, variable speed finger joint machine infeed apparatus which receives a random and haphazard delivery of blocks from a controllable supply conveyor. An intermittently operable infeed conveyor moves blocks from the supply conveyor to an unscrambler, through which a slat chain travels and picks up blocks. The slat chain is composed of two chain loops, connected at regular, equal intervals by slats. The unscrambler partially singularizes and orientates blocks transversely to the direction of travel and the slat chain pushes blocks over an even ending conveyor which aligns them to the inside of one of the chains. The slat chain pushes the even ended blocks under a block hold down, which allows excess blocks to drop out of the system, and then over a moisture detecting system.

Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed for positioning randomly oriented, asymmetrically-shaped articles in the same orientation, the apparatus comprising at least first and second oppositely arranged conduits dimensioned to receive the articles therein. Each conduit has an inlet end, and the inlet ends of the at least first and second conduits are spaced-apart to define an opening therebetween for receiving therein, one at a time, a plurality of asymmetrically-shaped articles that are randomly oriented in at least first and second orientations. Suction is created in both of the conduits, the suction being sufficient to selectively draw articles oriented in the first orientation from the opening into the inlet end of the at least first conduit, and sufficient to draw articles oriented in the second orientation from the opening into the inlet end of the at least second conduit, such that articles in the at least first and second conduits are all identically oriented relative to a path of travel through the conduits.

Abstract: Device for receiving, directing and dropping containers arranged randomly inside hoppers of rearranging machines and the like, which is formed by at least two side walls and by a back wall and comprises automatic rotating mechanisms for directing the container, which are arranged inside the device and extend in a substantially transverse direction with respect thereto, which mechanisms may be rotationally actuated by associated actuators so as to cause dropping of the container present inside the device, directed in a predefined manner.

Abstract: An electronic chip attitude changing device includes a rotor having, on the outer periphery, cavities that are formed at equal pitch to respectively contain and hold electronic chips with a part thereof projecting out; an air suction path for drawing and holding the electronic chips in the cavities of the rotor; a driving device for rotationally driving the rotor in a predetermined direction; and a chip guide placed at a fixed position close to the outer periphery of the rotor and having a guide face for making sliding contact with the projecting portions of the electronic chips held in the cavities so as to turn the attitudes of the electronic chips by 90°.

Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed for positioning randomly oriented, asymmetrically-shaped articles in the same orientation, the apparatus comprising at least first and second oppositely arranged conduits dimensioned to receive the articles therein. Each conduit has an inlet end, and the inlet ends of the at least first and second conduits are spaced-apart to define an opening therebetween for receiving therein, one at a time, a plurality of asymmetrically-shaped articles that are randomly oriented in at least first and second orientations. Suction is created in both of the conduits, the suction being sufficient to selectively draw articles oriented in the first orientation from the opening into the inlet end of the at least first conduit, and sufficient to draw articles oriented in the second orientation from the opening into the inlet end of the at least second conduit, such that articles in the at least first and second conduits are all identically oriented relative to a path of travel through the conduits.

Abstract: An adjustable unit for the unscrambling and lined up delivery of empty containers (A) has a plurality of compartments (6) connected to a first rotary structure (7) to receive containers (A) in a lying position. The compartments (6) have an open bottom delimited by arrangements (11 and 12) for supporting the open end (A1) of the container (A) in the vicinity of the leading and trailing sides. A plurality of discharge chutes (8) associated with each structure (7) below each compartment (6) receives the containers (A) as they fall, and to thus transfer them in an upright position and in a lined up arrangement onto another equipment. A supporting stationary floor (9) is interposed between the compartments (6) and said chutes (8), with a discharge gap (10) for supporting the open end (A1) of the container (A) in the vicinity of said leading side of the compartment (6).

Abstract: The present invention is [referred] directed to a device for aligning glass sheets on a roller conveyor of a annealing lehr. The device comprises a supporting structure. A cylinder-piston assembly is attached to the supporting structure. A retention member is connected to the cylinder-piston assembly for supporting or for releasing an edge of the glass sheet, the retention member having a forward movement for supporting the edge of the glass sheet and a backward movement for releasing the glass sheet. A cylindrical piece is attached to the supporting structure over and above of the-retention member, in order to facilitate the sliding and centering of the glass sheet toward the retention member.

Abstract: The mechanism (8) makes it possible to orient and dispense parts (29) that have an offset center of gravity with respect to the middle of their length (L). A first endless chain (9), extending in a vertical or oblique plane, with a horizontal upper strand, bears cups (11) distributed at regular spacing (P) and each cup having a receptacle (12) suitable for receiving one part (29). A second endless chain (10), extending in a plane perpendicular to that of the preceding chain, bears moving guides (21, 22, 23) distributed with the same spacing as the cups. The two chains (9, 10) are driven synchronously by a motor (15), the moving guides (21, 22, 23) passing above the cups (11) of the upper strand of the first endless chain (9), in correspondence with the intervals between the receptacles (12) of these cups. Means (25) to feed the parts (29) onto the mechanism (8). Application: mascara brushes, spray pumps, bottles, stoppers, etc., particularly in the cosmetics industry.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method of, and an apparatus for, turning articles (2), or products and/or semifinished products, during production and/or prior to packaging, in particular hygiene products, using a rotational arrangement (3) which has at least one carry-along element (5) which can be moved relative to the rotational arrangement (3) and receives the article (2) from a feeding transporting arrangement (8) and discharges it again to a continuing transporting arrangement (9).

Abstract: A fin alternating and delivering apparatus is provided for orientating and delivering fins emanating from a fin mill to a fin trayer for assembly into a heat exchanger. The fin alternating and delivering apparatus includes an entrance chute for receiving fins emanating from the fin mill in a horizontal position. The fin alternating and delivering apparatus also includes a sensor disposed adjacent the entrance chute to sense the fins entering the entrance chute. The fin alternating and delivering apparatus includes an air jet operatively connected to the sensor for delivering a blast of air to the fins upon sensing the fins entering the entrance chute to reorientate the fins from the horizontal position to a vertical position. The fin alternating and delivering apparatus further includes a discharge chute disposed adjacent the entrance chute for guiding the fins from the entrance chute to the fin trayer in the vertical position.

Abstract: An automated unit for the unscrambling and lined up delivery of articles including a plurality of adjacent compartments attached to the periphery of a rotary disk in motion below a gap provided in the peripheral edge of a bottom of a hopper. Each compartment is provided to receive a single article in a lying position. Below each compartment a discharge chute is provided traveling together therewith so as to receive the articles as they fall to subsequent transfer the articles in a lined up arrangement onto an out feed conveyor. A member is incorporated in each compartment for temporarily holding articles therein. The member is selectively tilted upon a signal being received from a sensor to thus drop articles in a conveniently oriented position into the discharge chutes.

Abstract: A bottle straightening and aligning machine (10) comprises a bulk bottle ding hopper (11) whose internal side wall bears paddles (12) for pushing the bottles onto a helical guide (14) which extends along the internal wall. At the end of the guide the bottles (13) are unloaded into an annular compartment (15) arranged around the periphery of the upper edge of the hopper where the bottles are taken to run in cradles (21) on a support (18) broken to let the bottles fall into straightening conveyors (22) rotating integrally with the cradles. From the conveyors the bottles are unloaded into peripheral compartments of a ring (20) rotating coaxially around the hopper.

Abstract: An apparatus for aligning flat, generally rectangular items includes a first conveyor for advancing the items in a conveying direction; a second conveyor for receiving the items from the first conveyor and for advancing the items in the same conveying direction; an endless conveyor chain having a length portion curved in a horizontal plane and being at a height level above the conveying plane of the second conveyor; a plurality of uniformly spaced carrier elements secured to the conveyor chain for catching items that have been advanced on the second conveyor and for guiding the items in a curvilinear path; and a third conveyor for receiving the items from the conveyor chain.

Abstract: An apparatus for orientating randomly organized articles formed of spaced planar members coupled along an edge of the planar members to define an opened end and a closed end along the edge where the planar members are coupled. The apparatus includes a conveyor for moving articles along a conveyor path between first and second positions, and at least one elongated member extending across the conveyor between first and second positions. The elongated member is aligned at an elevated height above a surface of the conveyor to define a gap between the member and the conveyor surface. The extent of the gap is sized greater than the thickness of the planar members and less than the height of the article formed by the planar members for orientating randomly organized articles.

Abstract: A method and unit for orienting pump-operated caps, whereby a disorderly succession of caps, each having an elongated head and a draw tube extending from the head, is fed on a conveying surface to an engaging station. At the engaging station the draw tube of each cap is engaged by an orienting seat and an elastic cord. The seat is movable with respect to the elastic cord, and cooperates with the elastic cord to rotate the cap about a respective axis of rotation crosswise to the conveying surface, so as to impart a given orientation to the cap.

Abstract: A chip feed apparatus capable of permitting a chip feed casing to be used for storage and transportation of chips in a distribution channel as well and preventing a weight of chips from being applied to a chip storage space of a hopper, resulting in positive separation and feeding of chips by the hopper. The chip feed apparatus includes a chip feed casing formed on a side surface thereof with a chip outlet, a hopper formed on a side surface thereof with a chip inlet and connected to the chip feed casing while enabling vertical movement of the hopper, a chip separating and aligning pipe inserted into a hole communicating with the chip storage space, and a chip feed path of which one end communicates with the chip separating and aligning pipe and the other end is defined at a chip pick-up position. The chip outlet of the chip feed casing is open at a lowermost end of a chip receiving space or below the lowermost end.

Abstract: An apparatus for transferring eggs from a first roller conveyor (1) to a second conveyor (2), with an orienting operation taking place during the transfer, so that the eggs on the second conveyor (2) are all oriented with their points to one side, the rollers (3) of the first roller conveyor being substantially hourglass-shaped and comprising a roller center part (3a) which is substantially cylindrical, the apparatus comprising pre-orienting devices (4) for bringing the eggs on the first roller conveyor (1) into a pre-oriented position (A), the apparatus being provided with a transfer conveyor (5) having grippers (6) which are each adapted to pick up an egg from the pre-oriented position (A), the grippers (6) being adapted to bring the eggs into an aligned position (C) and to transfer the eggs from the aligned position (C) to the second conveyor (2).

Abstract: An apparatus for feeding a setscrew having a recess includes an upper and a lower guide pipes, an inner cylindrical member, a supporting shaft, an outer cylindrical member and a dispensing member. The upper guide pipe is disposed between a setscrew supplier and the outer cylindrical member, while the lower guide pipe between the outer cylindrical and a setscrew fitting machine. The inner cylindrical member is inserted into a cavity of the outer cylindrical member in such a way that a first guide hole thereof is disposed in communication with a second guide hole of the outer cylindrical member. A pin, which extends radially inwardly in the cavity, is fitted into a circumferential groove of the inner cylindrical member and moves along it during the rotation of the outer cylindrical member. The outer cylindrical member is rotatably fixed onto the supporting shaft at one end and the other end is coupled to a rotating means.

Abstract: A machine for automatically positioning, aligning, and continuously feeding containers, for example, bottles or other hollow articles made from synthetic material, which may be of very different sizes and shapes. The machine includes a main hopper for receiving a plurality of randomly positioned containers. The bottom of the main hopper has a peripheral portion spaced from its side wall to provide a space through which containers can pass. A container holder support is supported below the hopper and includes a peripheral portion for movement in a path adjacent to the peripheral portion of the hopper's bottom. Container holders having recesses for receiving the containers and discharge openings, are mounted on the container holder support for movement therewith. A container support shelf supports the containers in a lying position in the recesses during movement of the container holder, until a discharge section of the support shelf is reached.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for orienting elongate members and, in particular tapered needle blanks. Generally, the apparatus includes a needle feeding assembly which receives needle blanks at an inlet and sequentially transfers the needle blanks to a needle orienting ramp which orients the needle blanks in a barrel end downward configuration. A barrel end of the needle blank, being heavier and having a greater diameter than that of a tapered point of the needle blank, moves down the rampway such that the barrel end of the needle blank advances ahead of a tapered point of the needle blank causing the needle blank to assume a barrel end downward or toward orientation on the rampway. A collecting assembly is provided at an outlet end of the needle orienting ramp to collect and maintain the needle blanks in oriented fashion.

Abstract: A high efficiency facility for producing yarn is provided wherein fibers pass through machines in the following order: a mixing mechanism (1), a first pair of cleaners (5, 7), a laydown cross blender (11), a second pair of cleaners (15, 17), an air fiber separator (23), a pair of vertical mixers (26, 28), a pair of air fiber separators (33, 35), and a pair of multiple chute feeders (41, 43). A plurality of carding machines (61) receive the fibers from the feeders (41, 43) and produce carded sliver from the fibers. A coiling apparatus (63) receives the carded sliver from each of the carding machines (61) and coils it into a plurality of carding containers, from which a drawing frame (71) feeds the carded sliver into a plurality of drawing containers. A plurality of open-end spinning machines (81) spin the carded sliver into yarn packages.

Abstract: Most articles such as component parts have a bottom end and a top end, and can take a normal stable upright attitude with said top end up, and an inverted stable upright position with the bottom end up, and has a gravitational center which is offset from a middle point between the top end and the bottom end toward the bottom end. Such component parts may be conveniently oriented into a uniform attitude by placing each component part on a fulcrum at its middle point, and allowing it to assume one of the stable attitudes. Preferably, the fulcrum is defined by a ridge extending longitudinally along a laterally central part of a bottom surface of a channel along which the component part is conveyed. Thus, all the component parts handled by this orienting device are properly oriented in a highly efficient manner and with a minimum dwell time in this device.

Abstract: Apparatus for orienting cap assemblies presented serially in a stream of random oriented cap assemblies, each cap assembly having a span between a leading edge and a trailing edge and an axis located intermediate the leading and trailing edges, the apparatus including a gate having opposite abutments spaced relative to the span and the axis of each cap assembly, and a rotor for advancing the cap assemblies through the gate such that a selected one of the leading edge and the trailing edge of each cap assembly will engage one of the opposite abutments as the cap assembly passes through the gate to turn the cap assembly into the desired orientation for delivery of a stream of uniformly oriented cap assemblies.