Apparatus and process for inspecting sealed packages
US6105419A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 14, 1997 |
| Grant date | Aug 22, 2000 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 14, 2017 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01M3/329
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An apparatus for inspecting sealed packages of product includes a conveyor belt for receiving the packages. An inspection belt contacts the packages and moves away from the conveyor belt a particular distance depending on whether the packages are properly sealed. When engaged by a package with a good seal, the inspection belt is moved a first distance which causes an indicator carried thereon to send a signal which prevents removal of the good package from the conveyor belt. However, when a leaky bag contacts the inspection belt, the inspection belt is moved a second distance which is insufficient to cause the indicator to send a signal. Consequently, the improperly sealed package is removed from the conveyor belt. The inspection belt may be mounted for linear or pivotal movement upon being contacted by the packages carried by the conveyor belt. In addition, a package engaging member can be used to press the packages prior to passing under the inspection belt to facilitate the discharge of air from leaky packages, e.g., pre-squeezing the packages.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.