GB191414637A - An Improved Process and Apparatus for Counting Objects of Approximately Equal Size. - Google Patents

Abstract

14,637. Maggi Ges. July 7, 1913, [Convention date]. Void. [Published under Section 91 of the Act.] Counters for articles.-A method of counting objects of approximately equal size, such as boxes, cubes, and small packages, consists in causing the objects to fill an inclined channel, then holding one of the objects at a predetermined place by a pin, feeler, or the like, which at the same time releases a shutter at the end of the channel, thus allowing the objects below the one held to be discharged; the pin &c. is now released, the shutter closes, and the channel fills again ready for the next discharge. A counting-apparatus connected to the shutter indicates either the number of strokes of the shutter or the number of objects which has passed through the channel. Fig. 1 shows one form of apparatus. The objects to be counted are contained in a hopper 1 and are fed one behind the other into the channel 2. The pin or feeler 10 is carried in a bar 4 which is operated by a rotating cam 5 acting against a counterweight &c. which tends to lift the bar. A spring 13 within the bar 4 presses the pin 10 towards the channel 2, a stop 12 preventing the pin from falling out. When the channel has filled with objects, the bar 4 moves downwards and brings the pin 10 into contact with the object at 3. The further movement of the bar causes the upper end of the pin to operate on the lever 8 and withdraw the shutter 15, whereupon the objects below that held at 3 are discharged. The bar 4 then moves back, the shutter 15 is closed by a spring 16, and the pin 10 is withdrawn, thus allowing the channel to fill with objects ready for a fresh series of operations. A counting - device may be connected with the shutter 15. In a modification, several channels are arranged side by side, a single bar 4 provided with a pin 10 being used for each channel. As an additional means for securing the closure of the shutter, spring-pulled levers 22, Fig. 3, are pivoted on pins 23 connected to the frame, their upper ends moving in a guide on the bar 4, and the movement being limited by the bar and by a pin 24 thereon, which, during part of the travel of the bar, acts positively on the lever.