Transition plate position sensor for safe check-out counter conveyor operation
US7648020B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 3, 2008 |
| Grant date | Jan 19, 2010 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 9, 2028 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB65G47/66
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A transition plate assembly and a position sensor assembly are used to detect a dislodged or removed transition plate from a gap between the discharge end of a conveyor and the first end of a run-out ramp. The position sensor assembly may detect a safe seated position of a hinged transition plate protecting the gap and generate a motor-enabling signal to a drive motor that drives the conveyor. An interrupted motor-enabling signal, corresponding to an unsafe condition, may turn off the drive motor to prevent damage to articles or persons until an enabling signal is restored. In one embodiment, the termination of the power to the drive motor continues until a delay period has elapsed following the detection of an enabling signal.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.