Extendable gravity loader
US6484862B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 18, 2000 |
| Grant date | Nov 26, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 18, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB65G21/20
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An extendable gravity loader includes an extendable gravity propelled conveying surface and a user interface section having a driven conveying surface. The sidewalls of the conveyor define an upper edge which is above a conveying surface of the loader to prevent packages from being laterally dislodged therefrom. The sidewalls allow for a minimal height of the extendable units, while still providing a structurally robust loader with a minimal drop off between conveying surfaces of the respective units. The user interface section provided at an outer end of the loader may have at least a portion that is vertically adjustable via an actuator at the extendable unit of the loader. The actuator may be mounted to the gravity loader at a pair of compression springs, which function to absorb shock to the actuator when packages or the like are dropped or otherwise impact the user interface section. Additionally, a limit switch may be provided to deactivate the actuator in response to detection of resistance to upward and downward movement of the user interface section. An actuator assist device, such as gas springs or the like, is operable to assist the actuator in raising and lowering the u…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.