Method and apparatus for automatically separating boxes in a counter ejector into stacks

An apparatus for separating from a stream of boxes a preselected number of boxes into a stack of boxes, the boxes each having a leading edge and a trailing edge spaced by a specific longitudinal length, the apparatus comprising:

• a conveyor for transporting the stream of boxes in a longitudinal direction;
• stop means spaced longitudinally from the conveyor the specific longitudinal length of the boxes;
• means for determining the speed of the boxes on the conveyor;
• means for counting individual boxes and determining when the trailing edge of the box is at a selected location;
• a processor responsive to the speed determining means, the counting and trailing edge determining means for making a determination (i) when the trailing edge of the last of the preselected number of boxes has passed the selected location, and (ii) when the leading edge of the last of the preselected number of boxes is expected to reach the stop means, and for outputting a control signal in response to the determination;
• and
• a separator responsive to the control signal for interrupting the sequence after the last of the preselected number of boxes has reached the stop means.