Method and apparatus for separating objects
US6401904B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 5, 1999 |
| Grant date | Jun 11, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 5, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB65G2201/0244
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
The present disclosure relates to a method and apparatus for separating objects. The apparatus typically includes a separation conveyor that forms a shallow peak within a pitched region upon which an object can be temporarily balanced, and at least two guide rails extending along the separation conveyor in a laterally spaced relationship. Upstream from the pitched region, the guide rails laterally support objects travelling along the separation conveyor. Within the pitched region, the guide rails are laterally spaced so as to permit lateral tipping of the objects when within the pitched region. At least one nozzle is positioned at a lateral position within the pitched region of the separation conveyor and is oriented so as to be capable of selectively ejecting a gentle burst of gas transversely across the separation conveyor to laterally tip an object balanced on the shallow peak to cause the object to slide under its own weight in a desired direction.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.