Inspection and sorting apparatus
US12138664B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 20, 2023 |
| Grant date | Nov 12, 2024 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 20, 2043 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB07C5/3427
- WIPO fieldChemical engineering
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
An inspection and sorting apparatus includes a support frame supporting a transport mechanism with an endless transport belt extending along an inspection zone with an inspection mechanism for transported items and a sorting zone with a sorting mechanism for moving rejected items transverse to a transport path to a sorting side. When in an operation state, a space lateral to and alongside the sorting zone is covered by a housing cover but is open to the sorting zone and to a downside to allow rejected items to further fall or slide down by gravity. Alternatively, or additionally, the apparatus includes a side cover covering a region below the sorting zone laterally from the sorting side. The housing cover and/or the side cover is movable between a covering position in the operation state of the apparatus and a release position granting lateral access to the sorting zone and/or to said region from the sorting side.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.