In-line inspection of containers
US6172355A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 13, 1998 |
| Grant date | Jan 9, 2001 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 13, 2018 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S209/917
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Apparatus for inspecting containers traveling in sequence on a linear conveyor that includes an infeed mechanism having a first endless drive belt with a portion overlying the conveyor for abutting engagement by containers in sequence traveling on the conveyor, and a first motor driving the belt at a speed greater than the speed of the conveyor for diverting containers laterally at least partially off the conveyor. An abutment assembly is disposed in opposition to the first belt for abutting engagement by containers diverted by the infeed mechanism, such that containers diverted from the conveyor and engaged between the first belt and the abutment assembly are rotated during longitudinal travel along the abutment assembly. Apparatus inspects the containers as they are rotated during travel along the abutment assembly. An outfeed mechanism is disposed adjacent to the abutment assembly for engaging containers in sequence following engagement with the abutment assembly, and for diverting the containers back onto the conveyor.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.