Apparatus and methods for dynamically controlling the spacing of conveyed objects
AssigneeLaitram, L.L.C.
InventorsMatthew L. Fourney, Robert K. Paquin, James L. Brun, Christopher B. Spicer, David L. Marsh
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A conveying system employs independently controlled flights. The flights are controlled separately from a conveying surface using a linear transport system. The linear transport system allow the position of the flights to be controlled based on a parameter, such as the length of a conveyed object. The flights are pivotally mounted to a mover of the linear transport system and can pivot relative to the conveying surface to allow the flights to fit in a space between an end of carryway and a receptacle.
Claims15
A flight for a conveyor comprising:
- a flight body rotatably mounted on a mounting bar;
- a mounting assembly receiving the mounting bar to pivotally mount the flight body to a mover of a linear transport system;
- and
- a pivot mechanism for selectively pivoting the flight body relative to the mover.
A flight for a conveyor comprising:
- a mounting bar;
- a tubular base pivotally mounted on the mounting bar;
- a tapering body portion extending from the base having a front surface and a rear surface;
- a curved tip extending from the rear surface;
- and
- an adapter extending from the base including a central opening for receiving the mounting bar and openings for receiving fasteners to fasten the flight to a mounting assembly.
A flight for a conveyor comprising:
- a base;
- a body portion extending from the base having a front surface and a rear surface;
- a curved tip extending from the rear surface including openings in a terminal edge to form fingers;
- a mounting bar extending through the base;
- a clamp for receiving the mounting bar and fixing the mounting bar to a base plate connected to a mover of a linear transport system.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.