Group end sensor
US4440288A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 4, 1981 |
| Grant date | Apr 3, 1984 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 4, 2001 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB65G2203/042
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A grouping system (10) includes parallel conveyor belts (28) for conveying the objects from an unloader system (14) to an oven-ready conveyor (24). A group end sensor (64) is moveable along the grouping system (14) between the conveyor belts (28). The sensor includes both forward and rearward sensors (128, 130) for sensing the proximity of pans at a predetermined separation in the direction of travel. The group end sensor moves longitudinally until the forward sensor senses an object representing the last stopped pan. The conveyor operates at full speed until the rearward sensor senses the following pan. The conveyor speed is then reduced so that the pan contact does not damage the dough.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.