AU2011201654A1 - Article Carrier and Mechanisms Therefor - Google Patents

Abstract

CHW50B242AUPR ARTICLE CARRIER AND MECHANISMS THEREFOR Abstract The invention provides a tipping mechanism for an article carrier, the article carrier having a carrier frame for bearing the article and the carrier frame being pivotally mounted on the article carrier about a first axis to enable discharge of the article. The tipping mechanism includes a lever arm having a first portion for rotatably coupling to the article carrier about a second axis, and a second portion, spaced apart from the first portion, for impinging on the article carrier to effect tipping thereof. The second axis is spaced apart from the first axis. The invention also provides a novel camming mechanism for effecting tipping of a carrier frame, as well as an improved rotatable coupling. (FIGURE 3) 3BC> -B~~6 V __ 4 3BI 8 7 4E 4E 3A3883 88 D

Description

CHW508242AUPR ARTICLE CARRIER AND MECHANISMS THEREFOR Field of Invention The invention relates to carriers for articles, particularly for use within grading systems. The invention also relates to mechanisms for improving such devices, particularly the operability thereof. Background WO 94/14547 and WO 2004/67417 describe arrangements for use in article grading systems. These systems are most widely used for sorting produce such as fruit and vegetables and both these and the present invention will be described within this context. However, these earlier disclosures and systems and the present invention are not so limited and may be used to sort essentially any type of article based on a wide range of criteria such as weight, visual characteristics and other parameters known in the art. More particularly, WO 94/14547 describes an article carrier configured to couple to a conveyor. The carrier includes a roller and a support surface, the two forming a cup within which an article may be seated. In use, the roller may be used to rotate the article, enabling the underside thereof to be inspected. With appropriate control, the carrier discharges the article to a selected destination based on the determined characteristics of the article. This is achieved by tipping the carrier to a sufficient degree that the article falls or is more forcefully ejected out of the cup. The preferred arrangements of WO 94/14547 enable the carriers to be tipped in two directions such that articles may be discharged to either side of the conveyor. Typically in use, a plurality of said carriers are arranged along the conveyor. WO 2004/67417 describes a similar carrier but with an improved mechanism for locking the carrier in a carriage position. US 5,348,132 describes an alternative carrier. Particular reference is made to Figure 2 of this patent which is included here as Figure 1A and shows the positioning of actuators 13 used to tip the carrier. Figure 1B shows an alternative actuator 7 arrangement (taken from WO 2004/67417 - Figures 2B and 2C). While such actuators may perform their desired function, they are far from ideal both in terms of their impact on the design of a grading system (other components within the system must be configured to provide for appropriate clearance) and the force required. While such considerations may not cause much concern when handling smaller, CHWoB24-2AUPR 2 lighter articles, the problems are more pronounced for larger, heavier articles where space requirements as well as the amount of force required to tip the carrier are greater. It is an object of the invention to provide an improved article carrier for a grading system. Alternatively, it is an object to provide a mechanism for improving operability of an article carrier for a grading system. Alternatively, it is an object of the invention to at least provide the public with a useful choice. Summary of the Invention According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a tipping mechanism for an article carrier for a grading system, the article carrier having a carrier frame for bearing the article, the carrier frame being pivotally mountable on the article carrier substantially about a first axis to enable discharge of the article borne thereby in at least a first direction, the tipping mechanism including: a lever arm having: a first portion for rotatably coupling to the article carrier about a second axis; and a second portion, spaced apart from the first portion, for impinging on the article carrier to effect tipping thereof, wherein the second axis is spaced apart from the first axis. Preferably, the second axis is spaced apart from the first axis in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first axis (i.e., the first and second axes are not collinear). Preferably, the first and second axes are substantially parallel, although the invention is not limited thereto.. For many systems, carriers are oriented substantially vertically so as to provide a stable mounting for articles borne thereby. Also, carrier frames generally have a substantially horizontal or concave surface, providing for confidence in retention of the article in the carrier frame but enabling the article to be discharged when the carrier frame is tipped. The invention will be described with these embodiments in mind and relative positional terms are to be considered on this basis. However, the invention is not limited thereto. It will be appreciated that the carrier frame surface may be otherwise configured and this may be dependent at least in part on the general configuration of the articles to be carried. Furthermore, carriers may be CHWSO8242AUPR 3 configured other than substantially vertically for particular system configurations. Again, this may depend at least in part on the articles to be carried. The particular relationships defined hereinbelow may be adapted to be suitable for such arrangements without invention and are included within the scope of the invention. According to one embodiment, the second axis is positioned above and/or to a first side of the first axis. Depending on constraints imposed by other components of the system in which the carrier using the tipping mechanism is deployed as well as other design preferences or criteria, the second axis may be otherwise positioned. According to embodiments in which the second axis is positioned on a first side of the first axis, the second portion of the lever arm is preferably positioned on the second, opposite side of the first axis. This arrangement improves on the moment generated by the lever arm compared to one having the first and second axes collinear since the effective length of the lever arm is extended while maintaining the extent of protrusion of the lever arm to the second side the same. Consequently, the greater effectiveness of the lever arm in terms of force transmitted thereby is not at the expense of additional space requirements. Preferably, the lever arm includes a third portion configured to engage an actuator used to tip the carrier frame. Preferably said third portion is at or proximate to the second portion but on a substantially opposing face thereof. According to preferred embodiments, the actuator engages an underside of the lever arm and the upper surface is used to transfer force (directly or indirectly) to the carrier frame, preferably substantially directly above the point of contact with the actuator. Note that, depending on the configuration chosen, the second portion may not be at a single position. According to particular embodiments, the upper surface slidably engages the carrier frame or an element intermediate thereof as the lever arm is rotated to effect tipping. According to a particularly preferred embodiment, at least a part of the surface of the second portion is contoured so as to vary the amount of movement effected per degree of rotation of the lever arm as the lever arm rotates. The forces involved in initiating, continuing and completing tipping of the carrier frame vary. Varying the contour of the second profile to take account of the variation in required force provides for more efficient and effective tipping. According to one embodiment, a first part of the second portion is convex. The first part is preferably configured such that it provides for the transfer of force to the carrier frame (directly CHW5s242AUPR 4 or indirectly) during at least the early stages of the tipping process, the convex profile enabling less force to be required to generate movement. Preferably, the second portion includes a second part that protrudes generally upwards from the second portion. The second part is preferably transferring force to the carrier frame towards the end of the tipping process so as to impart an increased, propulsive force for improved ejection of an article from the carrier frame. Alternatively, the third portion may be spaced apart from the second portion, preferably substantially directly below the second portion when in a normal, rest position with the actuator deactivated. Such embodiments may be realised by the lever arm being configured as a substantially L-shaped member, with the first portion on the first arm thereof (preferably positioned at or proximate the end), the second portion positioned at the vertex and the third portion preferably provided at the end of the second arm. In the rest position, the first arm is preferably substantially horizontal with the second portion provided on the upper side of the arm preferably proximate the vertex with the second arm substantially extending downwards and the actuator positioned to engage the end of the second arm distal from the vertex. As will be appreciated, various modifications may be made to this design and are included within the scope of the invention. For example, the first and/or second portions may be provided between and not at the ends of the first arm, the second arm may be configured to couple to the actuator in a different manner and the first and/or second arm may be configured other than substantially linear. For example, at least the second arm may be curved to reduce the extent of sideways protrusion of the second arm as the lever arm rotates. Preferably, the tipping mechanism includes a second lever arm. The provision of a second lever arm enables the carrier frame to be tipped in a second, substantially opposite direction. Such functionality enables articles being carried to be discharged to either side of a conveyor. Preferably, the second lever arm is configured in a similar manner to the first lever arm but in broad terms is the mirror image thereof in that the second axis of the second lever arm is positioned above and/or to a second side of the first axis. Furthermore, the second portion of the second lever arm is preferably positioned on the first side of the first axis. Note that the first and second lever arms are not exact mirror images of one another with modification required for each to be able to move independently of the other.

CHWsos22AUPR 5 According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a tipping mechanism for an article carrier for a grading system, the article carrier having a carrier frame for bearing the article, the carrier frame being pivotally mountable on the article carrier substantially about a first axis to enable discharge of the article borne thereby in at least a first direction, the tipping mechanism including: means for engaging an actuator; means for impinging on the article carrier to effect tipping thereof; and means for improving the transfer of force and/or movement imparted by the actuator to the article carrier via the means for engaging and the means for impinging. The improvement may be a reduction of the magnitude of force required and/or a reduction in the extent of movement (i.e., stroke length) of the actuator. As will be appreciated, the use of a lever arm according to the first aspect is one way of providing such an improvement. According to a third aspect, there is provided a camming mechanism for a tippable article carrier, the camming mechanism being configured to directly or indirectly impart force and motion to a portion of the article carrier bearing the article, the camming mechanism configured to control or vary the magnitude of the force and/or the extent of movement imparted to the portion of the article carrier during the tipping process. Preferably, the camming arrangement comprises a first surface and a second surface, the first surface being configured to slidably engage the second surface. Preferably the first surface and/or the second surface is contoured to provide said control or variation in the magnitude of the force and/or the extent of movement. Further features of the first surface of the camming arrangement are analogous to the second portion of the lever arm of the first aspect. Note that the means for impinging of the second aspect may also be configured to provide a camming effect so as to vary force transfer and/or the rate of movement during tipping. According to one embodiment, at least a first portion of the second surface is substantially concave.

CHW508242AUPR 6 Preferably, the edge of the second surface is defined by a ridge or increased point of protrusion which serves to improve discharge of the article towards the end of the tipping process. When provided in combination with the opposed ridge of the first surface, as defined in the first aspect, this advantage is most pronounced and may forcibly discharge an article from the article carrier. Again, the means for impinging of the second aspect may be similarly configured. According to a fourth aspect, there is provided an axel for an article carrier, the axel including: first and second ends configured to engage a mounting of the article carrier such that rotation of the axel is at least reduced but preferably inhibited; and one or more bearing surfaces positioned between the first and second ends, the bearing surface(s) being configured to slidably engage the inner walls of a channel provided in a roller, the axel providing for support and rotation of the roller via the bearings surfaces. Preferably, the bearing surfaces include a plurality of ridges that circumscribe or substantially circumscribe the axel, such that the ridges are aligned in the same general direction as the rotation of travel. Such an arrangement reduces the friction between the axel and the inner walls of the roller but is not essential. The axel may define a continuous profile so as to further improve the spread of load. The roller may be configured as desired to define a continuous profile or a discontinuous profile, the latter of which may be viewed as a plurality of wheels. Preferably, the axel includes the roller. According to a fifth aspect, there is provided an article carrier including a tipping mechanism according to the first aspect and/or the second aspect and/or a camming mechanism according to the third aspect and/or an axel according to the fourth aspect. A preferred arrangement of an article carrier is described with reference to the accompanying drawings. For the avoidance of doubt, any of the first through fourth aspects may be independently incorporated within an article carrier or in any combination thereof. However, particularly for larger, heavier articles, it is preferred that at least one of the first and second aspects is included with the third and fourth aspects so as to improve operability and reduce maintenance requirements. Furthermore, each of the aspects may be included within a wide range of article carriers and not just those of the type illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

CHW508242AUPR 7 According to a sixth aspect, the invention provides an article grading system including a tipping mechanism according to the first aspect and/or the second aspect and/or a camming mechanism according to the third aspect and/or an axel according to the fourth aspect and/or an article carrier according to a fifth aspect. The invention further provides methods of tipping a carrier portion of an article carrier including through use of the tipping mechanism of the first aspect and/or the second aspect and/or the camming mechanism of the third aspect and/or the axel of the fourth aspect and/or the article carrier of the fifth aspect and/or the system of the sixth aspect. Features of said methods are analogous or derivable from the structural and relational features of the first through sixth aspects and are also discussed with reference to specific preferred embodiments hereinbelow. Note that the carrier or carrier frame referred to throughout this disclosure may be configured to carry more than one article. Such arrangements find particular application to systems in which it is not necessary to individually inspect each article. For example, grading may simply be performed based on the cumulative mass of the articles within the cup. Further aspects of the invention, which should be considered in all its novel aspects, will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading of the following description which provides at least one example of a practical application of the invention. Brief Description of the Drawings Embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: Figures 1A-IB show prior art carrier arrangements; Figure 2 is an end view of an embodiment of the invention shown bearing an example article; Figures 3A-3D shows end views of the embodiment of Figure 1 at various operational positions; Figure 4A-4B show side views of the embodiment of Figures 1 and 2 in a carry position and a weigh position, respectively; Figures 5A-5C are first and second assembled perspective views and an exploded perspective view, respectively, of the embodiment of Figures 1-3; Figure 6 is an exploded perspective view of a roller mechanism according to an embodiment of the invention; CHW50242AUPR 8 Figures 7A-7B are end views of a carrier in locked and unlocked configurations, respectively, with portions removed to show inner workings; and Figures 8A-8B are exploded representations of a carrier viewed from the front and underneath. Detailed Description of Preferred Embodiments Figure 2 is an end view of a carrier 1 according to one embodiment of the invention, shown bearing an article 2. Reference is also made to Figures 5A-5C which show alternative perspective views of the carrier 1. The carrier 1 includes mounting means 3 which, via a clip 3A, may be coupled, for example, to a chain of a conveyor (not shown). As will be appreciated, the mounting means 3 may be adapted as required and without invention to couple to any suitable conveyor means. The carrier 1 further includes a carrier frame 4, which in turn includes a support surface 4A and a roller 4C which together define a cup within which the article 2 is supported. The configuration of the cup (i.e., the support surface 4A and the roller 4C) may be adapted depending on the particular article to be handled. While the roller 4C is shown including a number of wheels that provide a discontinuous contact surface across the length of the roller, it will be appreciated that a continuous roller could be used (similar to that of Figure 1 of WO 94/14547) or one having more or less wheels. Also, the roller 4C may have a different profile. For example, it may be configured other than round and/or include teeth or other protrusions to better grip an article. Alternatively, where rotation of an article is not required, the roller 4C may be removed and replaced with a static surface (relative to support surface 4A) to maintain the article being carried in a desired position. Carrier frame 4 is movable relative to mounting means 3 about pivot 5. Similar to WO 2004/67417, pivot 5 is formed by a projection 4D which is preferably removably received by a slot 3C of the mounting means 3. As shown, the slot 3C preferably limits the extent to which the carrier frame 4 can move about the pivot 5. Other mechanical stops may be used to effect these limitations. Arrows A show the direction of such movement about the pivot 5. While the carrier frame 4 is shown as being movable to both sides of the mounting means 3 (i.e., capable of discharging articles to either side of a conveyor), this is only preferred and the invention is not limited thereto. The embodiment of Figure 1A may be readily adapted to tip in a single direction. For CHW5o242AUPR 9 example, the slot 3C (or an additional or alternative stop) may limit movement of the carrier 4 to only one side of a conveyor. Carrier 1 further includes a locking member 6, the functioning of which is best shown in Figures 7A and 76, which provide end views of a carrier of an embodiment of the invention with portions removed to better show the inner workings. The locking member 6 is shown including protrusions or ridges 6A that selectively engage respective recesses or grooves 3B of the mounting means 3. Similarly, protrusions or ridges 4B of carrier frame 4 selectively engage recesses or grooves 6B of the locking member 6. The locking member 6 has a similar function to that described in WO 2004167417 and serves to selectively inhibit or allow pivoting of carrier frame 4 about pivot 5. More particularly, in a first, locked position as shown in Figure 7A, the ridges 6A are engaged with grooves 3B and the ridges 4B are engaged with grooves 6B, such that substantially no rotational movement is possible between the mounting means 3, the carrier frame 4 and the locking member 6 about the pivot 5. In a second, unlocked position as shown in Figure 7B, the ridges 6A are disengaged from the grooves 3B but the ridges 4B remain engaged with the grooves 6B. In this position, the carrier frame 4 and locking member 6 are free to rotate about pivot 5. Note that, according to preferred embodiments, the ridges 4B and the grooves 6B are configured such that no or substantially no movement is required of the mounting means 3 for the carrier frame 4 (and the article 2) to be able to rotate about pivot 5, reducing the force required to transition to the unlocked position. Figures 8A and 8B are exploded front and underneath views of the carrier 1. Referring to Figures 7A, 7B and 8B, an alternative or additional means for mechanically limiting or stopping rotation of the carrier frame 4 and the locking member 6 is shown. As can be seen in these Figures, this is effected by a protrusion 11 engaging the walls of a slot 12. The invention is not limited to this arrangement and while having attendant advantages, the locking member 6 may be omitted or included in other forms known in the art or derivable from the disclosure herein. Furthermore, other groove / ridge arrangements will be apparent, as will other mechanical stops, and are included within the scope of the invention. The carrier 1 also includes a pair of lever arms 7, each being pivotally mounted and having a contact surface 7A that engages a surface 6C of the locking member 6 to effect tipping of the carrier frame 4 and the locking member 6, as shown in Figures 3A-3D. According to preferred CHW508242AUPR 10 embodiments, the axes of rotation of the lever arms are offset from the pivot 5. The horizontal offset, such that the pivot point of each lever arm 7 is on a different side (relative to the pivot 5) to the contact surface 6A is preferred so as to increase the moment that may be applied about the axis of the lever arm, while at the same time reducing the extent to which the lever arms are required to extend either side of the pivot 5. The vertical offset, such that the axes of the lever arms 7 are above the pivot 5, is preferred as this initially imparts more of an upwardly directed force and serves to improve ejection of an article 2 from the carrier frame 4. While these arrangements are preferred, others will be apparent to those skilled in the art and are included within the scope of the invention. Furthermore, different vertical and/or horizontal offsets may be used or the same axis as the pivot 5 may be used. However, offsets such as those shown provide for improved leverage. As will be apparent, only a single lever arm is required for embodiments configured to tip the carrier frame 4 in a single direction. Figure 3A shows carrier 1 in an initial configuration just before an actuator 8 urges on a lever arm 7. Lever arms 7 preferably have a generally L-shaped configuration. This helps prevent the active part of the actuator 8, such as a solenoid, from being impinged by articles, in use, by extending a predetermined length from the contact surface 7A, preferably generally downwards therefrom. This is also aided by the preferred reduced horizontal offset relative to the pivot 5, which enables actuator 8 to be positioned more compactly beneath carrier 1. Figure 3B shows an intermediate position in which the actuator 8 is at or close to its uppermost position. In this position, the lever arm 7 actuated by the actuator 8 has rotated causing the carrier frame 4 to tilt such that the centre of gravity C of the article 2 is laterally offset from the pivot 5, creating a moment about the pivot 5. As can be seen in Figures 3A and 3B, the engaging surfaces 6C and 7A are contoured such that a reduced level of force is required for initial movement to overcome inertia, while proximate the limit of movement as shown in Figure 3B, the protrusions at the edges of surfaces 6C and 7A provide for a greater level of movement per degree of rotation of the lever arm 7. This is readily achievable since part of the force required for rotation of carrier frame 4 is provided by the weight of the article. In Figure 3C, the carrier frame 4 is rotating due to the moment created by the weight of the article 2 about the pivot 5. The actuator 8 is no longer required to exert a force on the lever arm 7. Note that element 4E is the portion of carrier frame 4 that transfers the weight of the article 2 to the mounting means 3, via locking means 6. Figure 3D shows the maximum extent of movement of the carrier frame 4 with the lever arm 7 returned to its initial position.

CHW508242AUPR The carrier frame 4 is preferably returned to the position in Figure 3A by a sloped member placed to the side of the conveyor. A similar member may also be provided on the other side of the conveyor for systems in which carriers are configured to discharge articles to both sides of the conveyor. Alternatively, an actuator may be provided. Figures 4A and 4B show a side view of the carrier 1 with portions removed for sake of clarity to show the couplings between the mounting means 3, the carrier frame 4 and the locking member 6. The locking member 6 may extend between the carrier frame 4 and the mounting means 3, preventing the frame from tipping backwards off the mounting means 3. Alternatively, the locking member 6 may be engaged at both ends to the carrier frame 4, with protrusions that extend down to engage with the mounting means 3 to lock the carrier frame 4 in position. Figure 4A shows the carrier 1 in a carry position for transporting an article located on the carrier along a conveyor to which the carrier 1 is attached, in the direction E. The carrier frame 4 is secured to the locking member 6 through pivot means 9, which enable the carrier frame to pivot. In the carry position, the protrusion 4D at the pivot 5 extends through the slot 3C and the weight of any article is borne by the mounting means 3 through the roller 4C and the column 4E. Figure 4B shows the carrier 1 in a weighing position. More particularly, in the configuration of Figure 46, the weighbridge W (of which only the upper surface is shown for sake of clarity) has engaged a portion of the carrier 1 so as to measure the weight of the article being carried. While the configuration is somewhat different, the basic weighing principles and operation are similar to those described in WO 2004/67417 and reference is made thereto. As carrier 1 travels along the conveyor in the direction E, it travels past the weighbridge W which extends past the periphery of the carrier frame 4 just above the locking member 6. The weighbridge W contacts the carrier frame 4 and forces it upwards to the position shown in Figure 4B. The upwards and backwards movement caused by the weighbridge W causes the protrusion 4D at the pivot 5 to move out of the slot 3C as indicated by arrow F. When the carrier 1 is in this, the weighing, position, the locking member 6 performs the additional function of keeping the carrier frame 4 in location over the mounting means 3, allowing the carrier frame 4 to return to the position shown in Figure 4A after the weighbridge W is removed. The article 2 may be rotated using a drive that contacts a lower edge of the roller 4C and the roller of a like carrier immediately in front of the article carrier 1 and lifts the roller up past the position in Figure 4B until the article 2 is supported only or substantially only by the roller 4C CHWS0G242AUPR 12 and the roller of the article carrier in front. The drive can then rotate both rollers in the same direction, causing the article to rotate. Optical scanners and/or other detectors may be provided to montior the article as it rotates, according to known methodology. Again, the locking member 6 performs the function of retaining the carrier frame 4 over the mounting means 3. When the carrier frame 4 is in the position shown in Figure 4B, it is essentially disassociated from the mounting means 3, allowing an accurate measurement of the weight of an article on the carrier frame 4 to be taken, the known weight of the carrier frame then being subtracted to derive the weight of the article. After weighing has been completed, the article carrier I continues moving in direction E off the weighbridge W, allowing the carrier frame 4 to return to the carry position as shown in Figure 4A. Also shown in Figure 4A are the lever arm 7 surface 7A that engages surface 6C of the locking member and portion 7B of lever arm 7 that engages actuator 8. Figure 6 shows a preferred configuration of the roller 4C. Roller 4C includes an axel 400, roller rings 401 and 402 and roller halves 403. An important distinction over prior art arrangements is that axel 400 remains static as the roller rotates, improving serviceability by reducing the frequency of required maintenance. A key problem with prior art carrier arrangements in which the axel rotates is that wearing on the carrier is focussed on the bearing surfaces which contact with the axel. These wear down over time due to friction between the axel and the carrier frame during roller rotation. Wear occurs because although materials used have a low friction coefficient and are relatively hard wearing, the bearing surfaces are of such a small size that wearing still occurs. This problem is more pronounced for larger, heavier articles as the increased weight results in increased vertical support forces from the contacts, which in turn results in increased wear. The fixed axel arrangement shown in Figure 6 has a much larger bearing surface and is less vulnerable to wear. More particularly, the ridges of the axel 400 slidably engage the inner surfaces of the roller halves 403 such that the surface area of the axel and roller halves is much increased as compared to prior art rotatable axels. The axel 400 is prevented from rotating by virtue of non-round male ends that mate with corresponding apertures provided in the carrier frame 4. A further problem with prior art axel arrangements is that, in use, the carrier is in environments which can subject the carrier apparatus to dirt, grit etc. On current models the bearing surfaces CHW5OS242AUPR 13 are open to this environment which allows the foreign material to become lodged thereon, creating a rasping effect which greatly increases the friction coefficient. The new, internal axel arrangement of Figure 6 allows for the bearing surfaces to be contained in an exterior housing, at least reducing the effects of such environments on the operation of the carrier 1. Embodiments of the invention provide more pronounced benefits when handling larger, heavier articles both in terms of improved discharge provided by the arrangement of the lever arms 7 and the novel axel arrangement. Note that while embodiments may be configured to tip a carrier frame in a single direction, preferred embodiments provide a compact dual tipping arrangement, in that articles may be discharged to either side of a conveyor. According to preferred embodiments, the dual tipping functionality is made possible by two substantially L-shaped members which are pivoted on two separate axes which are preferably substantially parallel to one another and the pivot 5 of the cup which holds the fruit. According to preferred embodiments, the axes are preferably substantially parallel to the direction of travel of the carrier as it is conveyed through the system. While such arrangements are preferred, the invention is not limited thereto. More particularly, the lever arms or L-shaped members may be otherwise arranged and/or alternative means may be provided to reduce the burden on the actuators. Prior art arrangements, such as those shown in Figures 1A and 1B, required an actuator to be positioned farther away from the central pivot of the cup. This requires a faster and longer travel for the actuator to create sufficient force to overcome the rotational inertia of the carrier / article. Arrangements such as the lever arms of the preferred embodiments allow actuators to engage at a point closer to the central pivot of the cup, allowing for a more effective ejection of the fruit by tipping, preferably both in terms of reduced force requirements and length of stroke. Another advantage is that by allowing the solenoid to be closer to the central pivot point less material is required to suspend and support it from the main extrusion which the chain runs on (i.e., mounting means 3). This saves time and money in terms of reduced material requirements, improved ease of fabrication and assembly and also servicing. Furthermore, this enables the spacing between adjacent lanes to be reduced, providing for more compact systems as well as generally reducing design constraints imposed on system designers. The invention, such as when embodied by the new lever arm arrangement also allows for the arrangement of the actuators to be more compact to the axis of travel, resulting in reduced design constraints for lane configurations, particularly the spacing apart thereof. Prior CHW508B242AUPR 14 arrangements with actuators mounted at a larger distance away from the axis of travel relative to the size of the carrier result in instances where ejected articles contact an actuator (e.g. a solenoid). This problem can also arise when articles are directed to ramps or chutes which may be configured to receive discharged articles. Such problems may be mitigated by the novel, more compact arrangements of the invention, these being more compact at least relative to the carrier size and/or weight by better removing the actuators from possible points of impact with falling articles. Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the description and the claims, the words "comprise", "comprising", and the like, are to be construed in an inclusive sense as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense, that is to say, in the sense of "including, but not limited to". The entire disclosures of all applications, patents and publications cited above and below, if any, are herein incorporated by reference. Reference to any prior art in this specification is not, and should not be taken as, an acknowledgement or any form of suggestion that that prior art forms part of the common general knowledge in the field of endeavour in any country in the world. The invention may also be said broadly to consist in the parts, elements and features referred to or indicated in the specification of the application, individually or collectively, in any or all combinations of two or more of said parts, elements or features. In particular, the roller, surface contouring of the slidably engaged surfaces of the tipping mechanism and the lever arm arrangements of the invention may be practised in isolation, including with otherwise configured carriers and not limited to the arrangements shown. For example, at least the lever arm arrangements and/or the novel axel could be included within the illustrated embodiments of any of the acknowledged prior art documents. Wherein the foregoing description reference has been made to integers or components having known equivalents thereof, those integers are herein incorporated as if individually set forth. It should be noted that various changes and modifications to the presently preferred embodiments described herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention and without diminishing its attendant advantages. It is therefore intended that such changes and modifications be included within the scope of the invention.

Claims (32)

1. A tipping mechanism for an article carrier, the article carrier having a carrier frame for bearing the article, the carrier frame being pivotally mountable on the article carrier substantially about a first axis to enable discharge of the article borne thereby in at least a first direction, the tipping mechanism including: a lever arm having: a first portion for rotatably coupling to the article carrier about a second axis; and a second portion, spaced apart from the first portion, for impinging on the article carrier to effect tipping thereof, wherein the second axis is spaced apart from the first axis.

2. The tipping mechanism of claim 1, wherein the second axis is spaced apart from the first axis in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first axis.

3. The mechanism of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the first and second axes are substantially parallel.

4. The mechanism of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the article carrier is adapted to be coupled to a conveyor, wherein the first and second axes are substantially parallel to a direction of travel of the conveyor.

5. The tipping mechanism of any one of the preceding claims, wherein, in use, the second axis is positioned above and/or to a first side of the first axis.

6. The tipping mechanism of claim 5, wherein, in use, the second axis is positioned on a first side of the first axis and the second portion of the lever arm is preferably positioned on the second, opposite side of the first axis.

7. The tipping mechanism of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the lever arm includes a third portion configured to engage an actuator used to tip the carrier frame.

8. The tipping mechanism of claim 7, wherein said third portion is provided at or proximate to the second portion but on a substantially opposing face of the lever arm.

9. The tipping mechanism of claim 8, wherein, in use, an underside of the lever arm is configured to engage an actuator and an upper surface of the lever arm is adapted to transfer CW508242AUPR 16 force to the carrier frame.

10. The tipping mechanism of any one of claims 7 to 9, wherein, in use in a rest position, the second portion is substantially vertically above the third portion.

11. The tipping mechanism of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second portion of the lever arm is configured to slidably engage the carrier frame or an element intermediate thereof to effect tipping of the carrier frame.

12. The tipping mechanism of claim 11, wherein at least a part of the surface that engages the article carrier is contoured to control and/or vary the amount of movement and/or force imparted thereto.

13. The tipping mechanism of claim 12, wherein a first part of the second portion is convex.

14. The tipping mechanism of claim 12 or claim 13, wherein a second part of the second portion protrudes so as to impart an increased, propulsive force during a portion of the tipping process, in use.

15. The tipping mechanism of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the lever arm comprises or forms a substantially L-shaped member.

16. The mechanism of claim 15, wherein the first portion is provided by at least a part of the first substantially elongate arm of the L-shaped member, the second portion is positioned substantially at the vertex and the third portion provided by at least a part of the second substantially elongate arm, the vertex being positioned between the elongate members and together forming said L-shaped member.

17. The tipping mechanism of claim 16, wherein in use in a rest position, the first elongate arm is substantially horizontal with the second portion provided on the upper side thereof the second elongate arm extends substantially vertically downwards from the first elongate member, the lower extremity of the second elongate arm being configured to engage an actuator to effect said tipping.

18. The tipping mechanism of any one of the preceding claims, including a second lever arm, the second lever arm being substantially identical to the first lever arm but configured to discharge an article from the carrier frame in a second direction. cHWsOB2VAIPR 17

19. A calming mechanism for a tippable article carrier, the camming mechanism being configured to directly or indirectly impart force and motion to a portion of the article carrier bearing the article, the camming mechanism configured to vary the magnitude of the force and/or the extent of movement imparted to the portion of the article carrier during the tipping process.

20. The camming mechanism of claim 19, including a first surface and a second surface, the first surface being configured to slidably engage the second surface.

21. The camming mechanism of claim 20, wherein the first surface and/or the second surface is contoured to provide said variation in the magnitude of the force and/or the extent of movement.

22. The camming mechanism of claim 21, wherein at least a first portion of the second surface is substantially concave.

23. The camming mechanism of claim 21 or claim 22, wherein at least a second portion of the second surface is defined by a ridge or increased point of protrusion which serves to improve discharge of the article towards the end of the tipping process.

24. The camming mechanism of any one of claims 21 to 23, wherein at least a portion of the first surface is defined by a ridge or increased point of protrusion which serves to improve discharge of the article towards the end of the tipping process.

25. The camming mechanism of claim 24 when dependent on claim 23, wherein the ridges or increased points of protrusion are configured to engage one another during the tipping process.

26. A tipping mechanism for an article carrier, the article carrier having a carrier frame for bearing the article, the carrier frame being pivotally mountable on the article carrier substantially about a first axis to enable discharge of the article borne thereby in at least a first direction, the tipping mechanism including: means for engaging an actuator; means for impinging on the article carrier to effect tipping thereof; and means for improving the transfer of force and/or movement imparted by the actuator to the article carrier via the means for engaging and the means for impinging. CHW508242AUPR 18

27. The tipping mechanism of claim 26, wherein the means for improving includes the camming mechanism of any one of claims 19 to 25.

28. An axel for an article carrier, the axel including: first and second ends configured to engage a mounting of the article carrier such that rotation of the axel is at least reduced but preferably inhibited; and one or more bearing surfaces positioned between the first and second ends, the bearing surface(s) being configured to slidably engage the inner walls of a channel provided in a roller, the axel providing for support and rotation of the roller via the bearings surfaces.

29. The axel of claim 28, wherein the bearing surfaces include a plurality of ridges that circumscribe or substantially circumscribe the axel.

30. The axel of claim 28 or claim 29, wherein the roller defines a continuous profile or a discontinuous profile for the surface that bears against the article, in use.

31. An article carrier including any one or more of: a tipping mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 18; a camming mechanism according to any one of claims 19 to 25; a tipping mechanism according to claim 26 or claim 27; an axel according to any one of claims 28 to 30.

32. An article grading system including an article carrier according to claim 31.