Container feed apparatus
US4793461A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 26, 1987 |
| Grant date | Dec 27, 1988 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 26, 2007 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB65G2205/04
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Apparatus for feeding cylindrical containers (cans) to a rotary filling machine having a turntable with a plurality of work stations (can stations) spaced around its border. Signal producing devices, such as cone-jet sensors, are provided to produce gate operating signals each time an inactive (malfunctioning) work station passes the signal producing device. The container feed apparatus includes a conveyor which receives containers into an elongated section wherein the containers form two parallel rows confined between parallel sides from which they pass into a funnel section wherein the containers form a single file and discharge sequentially to the infeed of a worm which delivers the containers sequentially to a transfer mechanism (star wheel) which transfers the containers to the work stations. A gate incorporated at the discharge end of the funnel section closes and opens to prevent containers from being fed to the inactive work station. The upper run of a conveyor belt supports and advances the containers through the container feed apparatus and preferably also removes the filled containers from the filling machine. When the gate is closed the containers in the elongated secti…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.