Abstract: Method and apparatus for sorting objects according to the degree to which they possess a required characteristic. Objects are moved in a line on a conveyor belt past a line of detectors each responsive to the required characteristic. Each detector produces a time sequence of output signals and the signals from successive detectors are accumulated. The objects are projected from the downstream end of the conveyor belt in a free flight path past an optical scanner and a series of air blast nozzles. The scanner determines the portions and sizes of the objects and objects selected on a comparison of the detector signals and signals from the scanner are blasted with air jets from appropriate nozzles so as to be deflected from their free flight trajectory. Deflected and undeflected objects are caught in separate collection bins.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for sorting scrap metal pieces dependent on the type of metal therein. The apparatus includes a conveyor and a feeding arrangement to feed the scrap metal pieces on to the conveyor, together with an X-ray fluorescence detector to examine each metal piece and determine the type of metal as a result of the characteristic X-rays emitted. A respective control signal is utilized to move pegs on the conveyor so as to permit the respective metal piece to exit from the conveyor along a respective path and to enter a bin for that particular type of metal. In this way scrap metal pieces of different metal are collected in different bins for subsequent processing.

Abstract: Apparatus for separating a selected material from a batch of particulate material in which a stream of the particulate material is irradiated with pulsed electromagnetic radiation such as X-rays to cause the selected material to fluoresce. The fluorescing material is then detected and ejected from the stream.

Abstract: A method of and apparatus for sorting pieces or particles of radioactive ore where the particles are moved through the apparatus in an asynchronous or non-constant manner. The particles are moved one at a time to a position in front of a radiation detector where they are temporarily stopped. The counts from the particle are accumulated with respect to time. In a control unit of the apparatus there is data representing a cut-off grade radiation rate and early upper and lower decision limits are established with regard to the cut-off rate. As soon as the accumulated count/time ratio from the detector exceeds the upper limmit or falls below the lower limit, the control unit is able to provide a decision to accept or reject the particle. If the particles are not closely sized then the size of each particle is determined before it is positioned in front of the radiation detector and the size determination is used to modify the cut-off grade and upper and lower early decision limits.

Abstract: The method for separating particles having mixed density and/or size, comprises dispersing the particles in a fluid stream, passing the fluid stream into a housing which causes the fluid stream to be diverted from its original direction, and capturing certain of the particles within the housing which deflect the least amount in response to the directional diversion of the fluid stream. Apparatus for accomplishing this method include a channel in which the air flow undergoes a change in direction of 90.degree., one boundary being a right angle bend and the other being formed from a circular curve or rectangular hyperbola. Another device for accomplishing the method includes an inlet channel which enlarges in diameter and which includes capturing means placed along the longitudinal axis of the inlet channel, whereby the fluid must divert radially outwardly around the capturing means as it passes from the inlet channel through the enlarged portion thereof.

Abstract: Standardization is provided to control system gain of a penetrating radiation testing system by periodically inspecting a reference object in the same manner as the product samples so as to generate a stabilization signal which is compared to a reference signal. The difference, if any, between the stabilization signal and the reference signal is integrated and the integrated signal is used to correct the gain of the system.

Abstract: An improved apparatus for and method of measuring the mass of the contents of a product is described, in which the mass of the contents of the product is relatively small compared to the mass of the entire product. The products are sequentially conveyed to an inspection station where preferably a predetermined portion of the volume of the product (which includes at least a portion of the volume of the contents) is substantially instantaneously irradiated with a beam of radiation and preferably only scattered radiation from the contents of the product thus irradiated is detected to provide an electrical signal whose magnitude is representative of the mass of the contents of the product. The products can then be sorted in accordance with the measured mass of their contents.

Abstract: A rotary capsule receiving platform is provided having a plurality of vertical hollow receiving tubes, with means for positioning each tube beneath a filled capsule supply hopper for receiving a capsule in an upright position. A plurality of retaining sleeves closely envelop the tubes and extend beyond the free ends of the tubes in a first position for receiving the filled capsule and upon advancing to an X-ray emitting and measuring unit are lowered into a second position to fully expose the filled capsule.

Abstract: A method, system, and attachment for sorting articles, such as laundry or the like whereby each article includes as a part thereof a quantity of each of a number of different materials of the type which each produce secondary radiation at a characteristic energy level when x-ray, gamma or other radiation impinges thereon, the combination of materials forming a code uniquely identifing the article. Each article is passed through a pneumatic tube or on a conveyor line substantially one at a time past a source of radiation and a multi-channel energy level detector which produces an electrical output signal indicating the article, and also indicating when two or more combination codes are being simultaneously passed. The articles are then diverted in accordance with the electrical signal.

Abstract: The separator comprises a housing with a charging apparatus arranged above an apparatus for delivering and preparing the ore in a layer one grain thick. The apparatus for delivering is made as a bowl provided with a drive for rotation. Enveloping the bowl is a vertical partition dividing the interior of the housing into annular compartments for receiving the products of separation. Disposed above the bowl is a horizontal light-insulating partition on which X-ray tubes, photocells and air ejectors are mounted. The horizontal partition is formed with an opening to receive the charging apparatus and with slots for the passage of X-ray radiation, X-ray luminescence and air pulses.