High speed method for translating articles from in-line array to side by side array

Abstract

High speed method for translating particulate articles, such as hollow containers or solid elongated articles from random or in-line array to side by side packaged arrays as a matrix of parallel rows. The articles are advanced upon a horizontal plane, then centrifugally accelerated outwardly at varying radial lengths, according to the desired side by side spacing. The articles are supported at the desired radial length, then dropped into the desired side by side array. Thus, the articles may be first advanced upon a horizontal plane into the inner ends of a series of radially outwardly extending chutes. The chutes are rotated such that centrifugal forces carry the articles to the outer ends of said chutes where they are supported until selectively dropped from the outer ends of the chutes into a side by side array as a matrix of parallel rows. The method is distinguished in its ability to discharge and align the articles in side by side relationship comprising a row of 20 or more articles and is especially adaptable to handling of articles at speeds approaching 2,000 per minute.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.