SECTION I - CLASS DEFINITION
GENERAL STATEMENT OF CLASS SUBJECT MATTER
A power-driven conveyor is an assemblage of elements for moving
a load over a predetermined path or path section. The assemblage
generally includes a single frame structure mounting a power-driven
load-advancing means which is used to advance the load over the predetermined
path.
The load-advancing means may comprise either a single load-advancing
element or a group of like members acting as a single load-advancing
device. A group of like members may be considered as acting as
a single unit if they coact one with the other to effect movement
of the load, where said coaction occurs along the entire length of
said path or path section. Some other criteria which generally
indicate that a group of like members is acting as a single unit
are: a common frame structure supporting all the members; or a
drive means for all the members, with the elements being driven
at the same speed or over the same speed range. The above are merely certain
parameters that most groups acting as a single unit exhibit. As
with any rule or definition, there will be exceptions.
See the Glossary, below, for clarification and limitation of
the concepts of the terms Chute and Condition Responsive, applying
to the manner in which they are encountered in this class (193).
SECTION II - LINES WITH OTHER CLASSES AND WITHIN THIS CLASS
ORGANIZATION OF THE CLASS
Perusal of the first-order (capitalized) titles of the schedule
will show that the class is composed of a relatively few major collections
of subclasses. Search fields are provided for special-purpose and
particular-function conveyors as well as for particular combinations
of conveyor structure and subcombinations of conveyor structure.
Generally, in order of superiority, the major collections provide
for the following search fields.
1. Conveyor on a vehicle (subclasses 300+) or for
people (subclasses 321+).
2. Selective conveyor (subclasses 348+).
3. Conveyors handling a specific article or specific group
of articles, including: (a) a conveyor "orienting" an
article (subclasses 667+); or (b) a system of conveyors
grouping plural articles into a group (subclasses 418+);
or (c) a system of conveyors conveying articles as a stream wherein
articles are successively arranges (subclasses 434+); or
(d) a system of conveyors conveying articles each as a separate
article (subclasses 463+).
4. Special conveyor or one having special features (subclasses
339+, 493+, 502.1, 506+, and 347).
5. Arrangement of plural conveyors of which (a) one conveyor
is not power-driven (subclasses 523+); and (b) all conveyors
are power-driven (subclasses 570+).
6. Methods of conveying (subclass 617).
7. Conveyor, per se, including subcombinations (subclasses
618+).
8. Stopping of a conveyor (subclasses 854+).
9.The frame or supporting structure for a conveyor (subclasses
860.1).
In some of the collections summarized above (step 3), the
disclosed intent of the claimed apparatus is significant and important.
Mechanisms that are apparently similar in structure are used for
different functions by modifying the arrangement or providing a
different adjunct to the structure.
See Subclass References to the Current Class, below, for subclasses
with apparently similar structure used for different functions.
Subclass 584 of this class (198) should be limited to a conveying
system composed of a plurality of sections which are joined to each
other by means allowing ready connection or disconnection of the
sections, said means further allowing the sections, to partake of
a pivotal motion relative to each other. Examples of the type of patent
which will be placed here are nonambulant articulated trains or
movable articulated trains which are connected to a stationary element
in the system.
LINE BETWEEN CLASS 198, CLASS 193, CLASS 226, CLASS 242, CLASS
414, AND CLASS 72
The conveyor, per se, is in Class 198. As between Class 193,
Conveyors, Chutes, Skids, Guides, and Ways; Class 198, Conveyors:
Power-Driven; Class 226, Advancing Material of Indeterminate Length;
Class 242, Winding, Tensioning, or Guiding; Class 294, Handling:
Hand and Hoist-Line Implements; Class 414, Material or Article Handling,
Class 72 is superior.
However, in the case of a subcombination for structure or
process wherein it is not clear from the claims whether handling
or deforming is involved, a reasonable interpretation of the total
disclosure will determine whether classification should be in Class
72, as a deforming subcombination. For example, a claim reciting
a "roller pair" may be considered as a feeding
subcombination in the absence of disclosure of deformation. On the
other hand, "a configured roller" will usually
be a deforming device unless it is feeding a correspondingly configured
workpiece. A claimed "pinch-roll couple" may be
disclosed (a) with many details showing its effectiveness as a feeder,
or (b) may be sparsely described as a deforming device and still
be clearly a deformer.
A patent including a claim involving both metal deforming
and work handling is classified in Class 72, unless both the following
criteria are met (a) there is no claim limited to deforming, per
se, and (b)the claims to handling and deforming recite deforming
by name only. Search subclasses 137.1+ for the combination
of a conveyor with provision to load or unload a buoyant vehicle.
LINE BETWEEN CLASS 241, CLASS 198, AND CLASS 83
See Class 241, Solid Material Comminution or Disintegration,
especially the various feeding and discharging subclasses, for comminutors
combined with power conveyors. See the Class 241 main class definition, "Material
Handling, Excavating, Distributing, Harvesting" for a statement
of the line. However, when such instrumentality is set forth with
structural specificity, the claimed congregation of elements is
properly placed with the work modifying instrumentality (Class 83).
For example: A claim reciting structurally defined work-handling
means (not claimed as synchronized with "work-modifying
means", or "tool", or "cutter",
or "punch", or "knife", etc.)
is properly placed in Class 198, on the basis of the work-handling
means. A claim reciting a power conveyor and, for instance, a work
station including "a reciprocating tool", or "a
tapered tool", or "a round cutter", or
a "rotary cutter", etc., is properly placed in
the class of the specified tool set forth.
In addition, Class 83, Cutting, receives patents for classification
therein which claim a cutting tool (of the type provided for in
Class 83) synchronized with, or in power transmitting relation with,
a work handling means, regardless of whether such tool is claimed
significantly or merely nominally.
See References to Other Classes, for various fields of search
for devices related to those in this class (198)
SECTION III - SUBCLASS REFERENCES TO THE CURRENT CLASS
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 301, | for a control means responsive to a sensing means
when carried by a ground vehicle. |
| 323, | for a control means responsive to a sensing means
when part of a people-carrier. |
| 326+, | particularly for an endlessly orbiting conveyor, either
as one belt or chain or as a plurality of connected components when
used as a people-carrier. |
| 341, | for a control means responsive to a sensing means
when part of a working station. |
| 368+, | for a control means responsive to a sensing means
when part of a selective conveyor system. |
| 375+, | 384+, 393, 397, 404+, and 408
for an endlessly orbiting conveyor, either as one belt or chain
or as a plurality of connected components when used for orienting
articles. |
| 376+, | for a control means responsive to a sensing means
when part of an orienting mechanism, and particularly for a reciprocating
or oscillating conveyor when part of a conveyor section. |
| 395, | or 401 for a control means responsive to a sensing
means when part of an orienting mechanism. |
| 418+, | most of the subclasses for a control means responsive
to a sensing means when used to control the operation of a group-forming
mechanism control of this operation is so much a part of grouping
that the control subclasses have not been specifically set out. |
| 429+, | particularly for a reciprocating or oscillating conveyor
when used to form a group of articles. |
| 437, | for a control means responsive to a sensing means
when the function is the formation or arrangement of a stream of
items. |
| 440+, | and 449+, particularly for an endlessly
orbiting conveyor, either as one belt or chain or as a plurality
of connected components when used in a stream-moving conveyor system. |
| 464.1, | for a control means responsive to a sensing means
when the function is to separate or convey a particular article. |
| 467.1, | particularly for a rotating screw or helix when used
to separate or convey a particular article. |
| 468.01+, | particularly for a reciprocating or oscillating conveyor
when used to separate or convey a particular article. |
| 469.1, | particularly for an endlessly orbiting conveyor, either
as one belt or chain or as a plurality of connected components when
used to separate or convey a particular article. |
| 502+, | for a control means responsive to a sensing means
when responsive to weight variations. |
| 507, | for a control means responsive to a sensing means
when part of structure to collect load from the ground. |
| 513, | particularly for a rotating screw or helix when part
of a structure to collect load from the ground. |
| 515, | particularly for an endlessly orbiting conveyor, either
as one belt or chain or as a plurality of connected components when
part of a structure to collect load from the ground. |
| 523+, | for power-driven conveyors combined with gravity
conveyors. |
| 524, | for a control means responsive to a sensing means
when part of a system having a nondriven conveyor. |
| 545, | particularly for an endlessly orbiting conveyor, either
as one belt or chain or as a plurality of connected components when
part of a system having a nonpower-driven conveyor; and particularly
for a rotating screw or helix when part of a system having a nonpower-driven
conveyor. |
| 547, | particularly for an endlessly orbiting conveyor, either
as one belt or chain or as a plurality of connected components when
part of a system having a nonpower-driven conveyor. |
| 548, | 550.6, 550.10, particularly for a rotating screw or
helix when part of a system having a nonpower-driven conveyor. |
| 571+, | for a control means responsive to a sensing means
when part of a conveyor system. |
| 597, | particularly for a reciprocating or oscillating conveyor
when part of a conveyor system; |
| 606+, | particularly for an endlessly orbiting conveyor, either
as one belt or chain or as a plurality of connected components when
part of a conveyor system. |
| 626+, | 725+, 793+, and 804+,
particularly for an endlessly orbiting conveyor, either as one belt
or chain or as a plurality of connected components when part of
a conveyor section. |
| 634, | 639, 718, 751, 794, and 810.1+, for a control means
responsive to a sensing means when part of a conveyor section each
noted subclass number is applicable to a different kind of conveyor section. |
| 657+, | particularly for a rotating screw or helix when part
of a conveyor section. |
| 750.1+, | particularly for a reciprocating or oscillating conveyor
when part of a conveyor section. |
| 855, | for a control means responsive to a sensing means
when part of a conveyor that is not specified as to the kind of
conveyor under consideration. |
SECTION IV - REFERENCES TO OTHER CLASSES
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
| 14, | Bridges,
subclass 70 , for endless-conveyor gangplanks. |
| 34, | Drying and Gas or Vapor Contact With Solids, for conveyors claimed in combination with added means to
promote a drying action or contact of gases or vapors with solids
conveyed, and see
subclass 203 , Notes (2), (3) and (4). |
| 37, | Excavating, for conveyors particularly adapted for digging in
the earth. If no actual digging element, as teeth, wheel, plow,
scoop, or the like, is claimed, and if the conveyor is not particularly
adapted to trench, it is classified in this class (198). If other
operations are included, as a melting snow, classification is in Class
37. If the presence of a wagon to be loaded is essential to the
intended operation of the device, classification is in Class 414,
Material or Article Handling. |
| 53, | Package Making, for conveyor or article handling mechanisms combined
with packaging machines. |
| 56, | Harvesters,
subclasses 158+ for conveyors limited to use on harvesters. For
excavating and loading machines of the type having a scoop or a
rake delivering to an endless or rotary carrier, see Class 56, subclasses
344+. The line between conveyors of this type and harvesters of
the raking or loading type is that where tines, prongs, or the like
are the raking means and the apparatus is particularly designed
for raking up loose material while moving across a field, or if
it can be so used without modification, classification is in harvesters.
If the conveyor alone and not the raking conveyor is claimed, classification
is in the conveyor class. |
| 72, | Metal Deforming,
subclasses 199+ , and in particular subclasses 227+ and
250+, for a rolling mill having a conveyor to carry work
to the rolls or to manipulate or guide the work for proper shaping. |
| 83, | Cutting, the line between Class 198 and Class 83, Cutting,
is in concert with the general line which distinguishes Class 198
from other classes having a greater combination. That is, the claimed
recitation of a power-driven conveyor (or a power-driven work-feeding
means) in combination with a cutting instrumentality, in name only
or in nominal terms, with respect to which the work feed means may
move work, will not of itself exclude original placement of the
patent in Class 198. (Also see Lines With Other Classes, above for
the line between Class 83, and this class - 198). |
| 193, | Conveyors, Chutes, Skids, Guides, and Ways, for gravity conveyors. Power-driven conveyors combined
with gravity conveyors are classified in this class (198). See Subclass
References to the Current Class. |
| 73, | Measuring and Testing,
subclasses 863+ for an apparatus for sampling material being conveyed. |
| 99, | Foods and Beverages: Apparatus,
subclasses 360 through 366for a conveyor designed to receive food, a food
article or a beverage containing receptacle, and having a heat generator, a
heat exchanger, other means physically effecting the food or beverage
during the conveying, or an enclosure or tank having more than enough
structure for the operation of the conveyor. |
| 100, | Presses,
subclass 167 , for plural stage roll-type presses, not elsewhere
provided for and having a conveyor between stages. |
| 104, | Railways, for tracks or road beds with endless traction means which
are detachably connected to or which push the carrier or car, and
subclass 25 , for endless railways and moving sidewalks combined
with an endless railway. |
| 105, | Railway Rolling Stock,
subclass 48.1 , for conveyors combined with railway locomotives
to convey solid fuels to their combustion chambers. |
| 114, | Ships,
subclasses 366 and 375 for apparatus in the form of chutes or
tracks for launching life craft from ships. |
| 118, | Coating Apparatus, appropriate subclasses, for coating apparatus having
means to convey the work. |
| 119, | Animal Husbandry,
subclasses 52.1+ , for the combinations of a source of supply, which
is disclosed as being feed for creatures of that class, a conveyor
for removing material therefrom, and a receiver in the form of a
receptacle (trough, bank, etc.) or surface in or upon which the
feed is placed for consumption. |
| 165, | Heat Exchange,
subclass 120 , for heat exchanger with an impeller or conveyor
for moving material therethrough. |
| 171, | Unearthing Plants or Buried Objects, for conveyors which (1) are used to dig, convey,
and separate from the earth desired objects; or (2) are combined
with digging or excavating means and function to separate from the
soil flowing from the digging or excavating means the desired plant
or buried object; or (3) are combined with an unearthing device
and function merely to feed material to or from such device. |
| 186, | Merchandising,
subclasses 38+ and 52+ for dining and store service conveyors,
respectively. |
| 202, | Distillation,
subclasses 23+ , 117+, 253, and 262+, for distillation
apparatus including conveying means. |
| 204, | Chemistry: Electrical and Wave Energy,
subclasses 198+ , for conveying means specialized for electrolytic
devices. |
| 209, | Classifying, Separating, and Assorting Solids, for a conveying system for separating conveyed articles
employing means to sense variations in size or other physical characteristics
of the article. |
| 210, | Liquid Purification or Separation,
subclasses 400+ , for belt-type filters and subclasses 523+, for
gravitational separators having a mechanical mover constituent. |
| 226, | Advancing Material of Indeterminate Length, provides the search for methods of and apparatus
for feeding material without utilizing the leading or trailing ends
thereof to effect movement of the material. |
| 266, | Metallurgical Apparatus, for apparatus for treating solid metal. Cooling
beds in which a bar of metal is conveyed while cooling are classified
in Class 198, even though the bar may be rotated while being conveyed
to keep it straight. |
| 270, | Sheet-Material Associating, for sheet-material associating conveying and feeding. |
| 271, | Sheet Feeding or Delivering, appropriate subclasses, for a machine having one or more
of the following functions: A. Separating a sheet from a stack of
such sheets and conveying the separated sheet, usually to a station
whereat an operation (e.g., printing, cutting, etc.) is to be performed,
B. Conveying a sheet, usually from a station whereat an operation
has been performed, to a receiver whereat the sheet is stacked together
with other such sheets, C. Conveying a sheet (e.g., from a stack
to an operation), and concurrently performing an operation-related
function (e.g., aligning the conveyed sheet relative to the operation
station, interrupting the feed in response to absence or excess
of sheets, intermittently moving a sheet relative to an operation
station, etc.). Also see
subclass 213 , (1) Note for a particular combination of conveyor
on which a plurality of sheets is stacked and subsequently moved
as a stack, and for a line note distinguishing structure proper
for Class 271 and this class (198). |
| 406, | Conveyors: Fluid Current, for the combination of conveying mechanisms, of
the type classified in Class 198, and pneumatic conveyors. |
| 414, | Material or Article Handling, for instruments and mechanical methods for placing
or displacing particular articles in a particular manner or with
reference to a particular support, for loading or unloading vehicles
with materials or objects in general, charging or discharging furnaces,
ovens, bins or other containers, stacking or piling articles or
materials, also combination of general types of carriers or forwarding mechanisms,
which types, per se, are separately classified elsewhere, and general
types of elevators, cranes or hoists when associated with special
means for handling the load to place it on the carrier or remove
it therefrom. |
| 415, | Rotary Kinetic Fluid Motors or Pumps,
subclasses 7+ , for impellers acting in an unconfined or undirected
fluid medium. |
| 483, | Tool Changing, generally for a process or apparatus including a
tool transfer means combined with either a tool support or storage means. |
| 221, | Article Dispensing,
subclasses 76+ for endless conveyors used in dispensing environments. |
| 312, | Supports: Cabinet Structure, for endless conveyors used in dispensing environments;
see
subclass 97 , if the conveyor moves the load to a door for manual
removal from within a cabinet. |
| 211, | Supports: Racks, for endless conveyors used in dispensing environments;
subclasses 121+ for an endless support rack not claiming cabinet structure
or dispensing (e.g., endless filing system, etc.). |
SECTION V - GLOSSARY
The following explanations represent an attempt
to clarify and limit the concepts of certain conveyor art terms, the
first two applying to the manner in which they are encountered in
Class 193, Conveyors, Chutes, Skids, Guides, and Ways, subclasses
44+.
CHUTE
A structure capable of guiding a gravity induced flow
of material therethrough or thereon. While a chute is more often
than not an inclined passageway in the form of a trough, it occasionally
takes the form of a conduit. Inasmuch as a chute with a gate, especially
a chute in the form of a conduit, presents structure closely related
to that of a hopper, such structures are distinguished on the basis
of whether a storage concept exists (hopper) or does not exist (chute).
A receptacle positioned in such manner as to impart the property
of gravity induced flow to material contained therein, and, therefore,
to be a source of supply to components "downstream" thereof.
While it is not essential that the contained material be "stored" for
a finite period of time, there should be a concept of supporting
it for an interval longer than that required for mere passage therethrough. A
hopper has an inlet and an outlet, although the inlet may be merely
an open side (of the receptacle). The outlet, however, will have
a provision whereby passage of the contents can be controlled (e.g.,
possibly a conveyor). The provision of chutelike structure integral with
the hopper, whereby material is guided into the inlet or out of
the outlet, should not be considered as constituting a separate
element. (This is in line with what appears to be a basic difference
between chutes and hoppers; namely, a chute guides whereas
a hopper stores and may
guide). "Gravity-induced" is not intended
to be construed to exclude those nondriven conveyors which utilize
mechanical means (e.g., a vibrator) to start to maintain flow (i.e.,
bridge breaking).
CONDITION RESPONSIVE
Apparatus having (1) means to sense a condition of the environment
surrounding the conveyor and means responsive to said sensing means
to cause a change in the operating condition of the conveyor, or
(2) means to sense a particular condition which may or may not exist
relative to the conveyor itself, such as speed, overload, motor
temperature, etc., and means responsive to said sensing means to
act to change the operating condition of the conveyor.
SUBCLASSES
![[List of Patents for class 198 subclass 300]](../ps.gif) 300 | CONVEYING APPARATUS ENTIRELY SUPPORTED BY MOBILE GROUND ENGAGING
MEANS: |
| | This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus wherein the load conveyor or conveyor system is
wholly supported upon a carrier having wheels, treads, skids, or
other means permitting its free movement on the ground or a floor.
| | (1)
Note. The words "wholly supported upon a carrier
having wheels, skids, . . ." in the definition of this
subclass excludes a conveyor or conveying system partially sustained
by such a carrier or a plurality of such carriers and partially sustained
by any other support except the ground or a floor. Thus the subclass includes
a conveyor support frame mounted on a carrier of the type described
so that one end of said frame can slide on the ground, but the subclass does
not include a conveyor partially supported on such a carrier and
partially supported by (1) fixed ground supports such as stanchions
or (2) a mobile carrier of a different type, such as a track traversing
vehicle. |
| | (2)
Note. Assignment of a patent in this subclass or its indents
does not require a claim that a conveyor is mounted on specific
ground vehicle type supports such as wheels, skids, or caterpillar
tracks, but may be based on any claim language indicating that a
conveyor is freely movable on the ground, e.g., by claim limitations
stating that a conveyor is mounted on a "carriage," "truck," "slidable
support" or "movable support means," where
such terms are clearly supported by the disclosure of a ground vehicle type
support for a conveyor. However, a conveyor defined only as being "portable" has
not been included here. |
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 618+, | for structure of conveyors not carried by a vehicle. |
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
| 37, | Excavating, appropriate subclasses, for conveyors mounted on
mobile excavation apparatus. |
|
| | |
| 302 | Retractable ground wheel: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 300. Apparatus including means for lifting a wheel of the carrier
from its supporting surface, e.g., to transfer the weight of the
apparatus to a fixed support leg while the conveyor is operated
at a selected site.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
| 172, | Earth Working,
subclasses 240+ , for earth working vehicle having ground support
engageable with ground for transport only. |
|
| | |
| 304 | Dirigible vehicle: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 300. Apparatus in which the carrier includes means for controlling
its direction of travel.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 303, | for a conveyor assembly carried by a dirigible train
of vehicles. |
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
| 172, | Earth Working,
subclasses 799 , 832 and 834, for steerable wheel on an earth working
vehicle. |
| 305, | Wheel Substitute for Land Vehicles,
subclass 44 , for steerable vehicle tracks or treads. |
|
| | |
| 305 | Pulling winch on vehicle: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 304. Apparatus including flexible means connected to a reel mounted
on the carrier, the free end of said flexible means being anchored
at a selected point and the reel then rotated to thereby pull the
carrier toward said point. |
| | |
| 306 | Ground wheel lockable in transverse or longitudinal position
on vehicle: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 300. Apparatus including at least one carrier support wheel securable
in two ground engaging positions disposed 90o a part relative to
the carrier frame, thus permitting selective travel of the carrier
in either one of two perpendicular directions merely by shifting
the position of said wheel.
| | (1)
Note. This subclass does not include a conveyor supported
on a vehicle equipped with a caster wheel that is not lockable in
two positions spaced 90° apart. |
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
| 172, | Earth Working,
subclass 507 , for ground support adjustably mounted on earth
working vehicle. |
| 239, | Fluid Sprinkling, Spraying, and Diffusing,
subclass 742 , for sprinkling apparatus carried on a train of
vehicles with adjustable wheels permitting travel of the train in
the direction of its length or in the direction normal to its length. |
|
| | |
| 307.1 | Bucket conveyor: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 300. Apparatus wherein the conveyor includes at least one holder
having a pocket formed thereon for retaining a load. |
| | |
| 308.1 | Shovel or tine pushable under load: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 300. Apparatus including lifting means, such as a scoop or a
row of closely spaced teeth, movable under a load by translation
of the carrier or by movement of said means itself, usually for the
purpose of transferring the load to another section of the conveyor
assembly.
| | (1)
Note. Included here is a vehicle equipped with a ground-engaging
ramp having mounted thereon a rotatable arm which gathers ore or
other loose material and moves it up said ramp. | |
| | |
| 309 | Support slidable on ground: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 300. Apparatus wherein the conveyor is supported by a skid or
other means readily slidable over a surface.
| | (1)
Note. Included here is a conveyor supported by both a wheel
or track equipped vehicle and an element that slides on the ground
or a floor. |
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 308.1, | for a vehicle carrying a shovel or tines that scoop
material from the ground and feed it to a conveyor mounted on the
same vehicle. |
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
| 172, | Earth Working,
subclasses 80 and 387+, for wheel substitute on an earth working
vehicle. |
|
| | |
| 310 | Conveyor driven by motion of ground-engaging element: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 300. Apparatus including conveyor drive means operated by motion
of a wheel or other support element of the carrier.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
| 40, | Card, Picture, or Sign Exhibiting,
subclass 43 , for an endless belt used as a display device and
actuated from the revolving axle or wheel of a vehicle, and subclass
48, for an endless belt of the same type that is actuated by mechanism
which contacts an obstacle located along the track of a vehicle
carrying the device. |
| 56, | Harvesters,
subclass 14.8 , for harvester drive train powered by ground engaging
wheels. |
| 172, | Earth Working,
subclasses 105+ , for earth working means driven from ground wheel. |
| 239, | Fluid Sprinkling, Spraying, and Diffusing,
subclass 685 , for a rotating scatterer driven from ground wheel. |
|
| | |
| 312 | Conveyor shiftably mounted on vehicle: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 300. Apparatus including means permitting movement of a conveyor
to different working positions or orientations relative to the carrier
on which it is mounted.
| | (1)
Note. Included here is a conveyor vertically adjustable relative
to ground engaging supports of the carrier vehicle. |
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
| 172, | Earth Working,
subclasses 395+ , for earth working tool mounted on a vehicle frame
that is vertically adjustable. |
|
| | |
| 316.1 | Fluid-actuated ram: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 315. Apparatus wherein the conveyor moving means includes a cylinder
and piston mechanism operated by fluid pressure.
| | (1)
Note. Included here is a ram operated by fluid pressure derived
from any means, including a manually worked pump. | |
| | |
| 318 | Vertically swingable conveyor: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 312. Apparatus including a conveyor inclinable at different angles
relative to the ground.
| | (1)
Note. Not included here as vertically swingable is a conveyor
support frame that pivots about the axle of a two-wheeled vehicle
in the same way that the drawbar and bed of a two-wheeled trailer pivot
about the trailer axle. The support frame of the conveyor must
be vertically swingable relative to a supporting frame of the vehicle. | |
| | |
| 320 | Winch-operated shifting mechanism: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 318. Apparatus including flexible means connected to a support
frame for the conveyor and to a reel mounted on the carrier, whereby
rotation of said reel changes the inclination of said conveyor. |
| | |
| 321 | CONVEYOR OR ACCESSORY THEREFOR SPECIALIZED TO CONVEY PEOPLE: |
| | This subclass is indented under the class definition. Devices wherein a conveying section is provided with structure
which particularizes the section to move people from one location
to another. Further included herein are the subcombinations peculiar
to such sections, e.g., handrails, guards, etc.
| | (1)
Note. Examples of structure particularizing a section for
conveying people are moving steps, conveyors having handrails, conveyors
having serrated foot engaging surfaces and entrance or exit comb
plates, passenger operated drive control means, etc. |
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
| 14, | Bridges,
subclass 70 , for gangways of the endless conveyor type. |
| 104, | Railways,
subclass 25 , for endless railways or moving sidewalks combined
with an endless railway. Some of the features indicative of an
endless railway are cabs or other passenger enclosures, releasable
drivers for the cars, seats, etc. |
| 182, | Fire Escape, Ladder, or Scaffold,
subclasses 42+ , for endless conveyor escapes. |
|
| | |
| 322 | With means to control the operation of the section: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 321. Device wherein the section is provided with means to regulate
the operation of the section, which means effects such regulation
in response to an operating instruction which is either originated
by a condition sensing means or is introduced into the system by
the operator.
| | (1)
Note. Examples of structure to be found herein include passenger
controlled conveyors, jam prevention safety circuits, section speed
controllers, etc. |
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 854+, | for means to drive, start or stop a conveying section,
especially subclass 856, for controls responsive to abnormal operating
conditions of a conveying section. |
|
| | |
| 326 | By stairway having steps forming an endless member: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 321. Device wherein the section includes a continuous train of
moving tread members which are either attached one to the other
so as to form a closed loop or are mounted to an interminable belt-like
member and which form a moving flight of stairs as they are moved
along an inclined surface. |
| | |
| 327 | Having hinged plates forming steps: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 326. Device wherein the endless member includes a plurality of
pivotally connected tread and riser members which alternate one
with the other and wherein the moving flight of stairs is formed
by flexing the endless member to displace the risers to a vertical
attitude and the treads to a substantially horizontal attitude. |
| | |
| 328 | Trained about vertical axis or axes: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 326. Device wherein the endless member includes a plurality of
articulated steps which are arranged to bend about an axis which
is generally normal to the horizontal.
| | (1)
Note. Moving stairways having side-by-side ascending and
descending flights formed from the same endless member will be found
herein. | |
| | |
| 332 | With paired track step levelers: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 326. Device wherein the section is provided with two guide rail
means which simultaneously coact with followers carried by each
step to maintain the tread portion of the step in a horizontal attitude
as it moves through that portion of its path which constitutes the
flight of stairs. |
| | |
| 333 | With specified step structure: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 326. Device wherein the section includes the specific structural
features of the passenger supporting platforms, i.e., the steps,
carried by the endless member. |
| | |
| 334 | By support means having a zone of varying speed: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 321. System wherein the means specialized to handle people includes
a) a conveying means or an accessory therefore which is adapted
to move at different rates at different points along its path of
travel, or b) a system of plural conveying sections which operate
at different speeds and which are arranged such that a passenger may
move from one section to another.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 792, | for a conveyor having a zone of varying speed. |
|
| | |
| 335 | Moving hand-support structure: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 321. Device wherein a structure is provided which has a moving
member adapted to be grasped by the hand of a passenger to steady
the passenger while entering, riding on or exiting from the conveying
section. |
| | |
| 338 | Handrail guard: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 335. Device preventing the entry of a passenger"s hand
into an entrance or exit hole formed in a balustrade for the moving
member. |
| | |
| 339.1 | WITH MEANS TO FACILITATE WORKING, TREATING, OR INSPECTING
CONVEYED LOAD AT A STATION: |
| | This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus including specialized structure, either part of
the conveyor or separate means associated therewith, specifically
provided for the purpose of aiding the working, treating, or inspecting
of the load by separate means at a station situated along the conveying path.
| | (1)
Note. Included herein is a conveyor having associated therewith
claimed means for working or treating a load, where the combination
of such means and the conveyor is not classifiable elsewhere on
the basis of the working or treating means. |
| | (2)
Note. A nominal recitation that a conveyor operates in a
machine for performing some work operation, that the load passes
through a treating station or that a conveyor is intermittently
driven in a working or treating apparatus does not warrant placement
of a patent here. Such patens should be classified in other subclasses
of this class on the basis of the claimed structure. |
| | (3)
Note. Combinations of a conveyor and a treating tank are
found in the appropriate treating class such as Class 118, 134 or 204. | |
| | |
| 340 | Having signalling or load identifying means: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 339.1. Apparatus including indicia or other identification means
associated with the conveyed load, or a signalling device associated
with either the conveyor or separate work means, which provides
an attendant or workman with information regarding operation of
the conveyor or handling of the load.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
| 340, | Communications: Electrical,
subclasses 500+ for electrical automatic condition responsive indicating
systems, especially subclass 676 relating to conveyor belts. |
|
| | |
| 341.01 | Condition responsive control of conveyor or station apparatus: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 339.1. Subject matter including means for sensing (1) a change
in the conveyed load or (2) a change in (a) the mode of operation
of the conveyor or (b) the load-working, treating, or inspecting apparatus
and in response to the change controlling the conveying of the load
or the operation of the conveying system, e.g., means for stopping
a conveyor if the load is not properly positioned at a station for
a work operation to be performed thereon.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 301, | for condition responsive control means for vehicle
or conveyor supported by mobile ground engaging means. |
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
| 53, | Package Making,
subclasses 52+ , for a package making apparatus having operation
control means responsive to a condition of a package or its contents. |
|
| | |
| 341.02 | Conveyor displacement controls station apparatus: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 341.01. Subject matter wherein the sensing means detects the advancement
of the conveyor along the conveying path and the sensing means in
response to the advancement actuates a device which controls the
apparatus for performing the work operation on the load.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 464.3, | for a control of a conveyor system responsive
to a position of the conveyor. |
|
| | |
| 341.03 | Station operation responsive to presence or absence of
item: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 341.01. Subject matter wherein the sensing means has a characteristic
which changes in response to a detection of a property of or the presence
or absence of the load being conveyed on the conveyor and in response
to the detection actuates a device which controls the apparatus
for performing the work operation on the load. |
| | |
| 341.04 | Item size: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 341.03. Subject matter wherein the characteristic being detected
is a particular dimension (e.g., length, width, height) of the load
on the conveyor.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 502.2, | for a means for measuring dimensions of the load
on the conveyor. |
|
| | |
| 341.07 | Item presence: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 341.03. Subject matter wherein the characteristic being detected
is the existence of the loads on the conveyor.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 464.2+, | for a control of a conveying system responsive to
the presence of the load. |
|
| | |
| 346.1 | Means to convey a palleted load back and forth between
an initial location and the work station: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 339.1. Apparatus wherein the load is supported by a carrier which
is separable from a conveyor which transports the load and the pallet
in both directions between an initial location (e.g., a main conveyor)
and the working, treating or inspection station.
| | (1)
Note. Included herein are reversibly driven conveyors and
loop path forming conveyors which convey both the load and the pallet
to and from a station and an initial location. |
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 465.1+, | 681, 795, and 803.01+, for patents showing
loads supported by separable carriers. |
|
| | |
| 347.1 | CONVEYOR SYSTEM HAVING AUXILIARY SECTION FOR STORING ITEMS MOVING
BETWEEN SOURCE AND DESTINATION: |
| | This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter including at least one primary path conveyor
for the purpose of conveying articles from a supply to a destination
and a laterally adjacent supplemental conveyor for the temporary
repository of articles which have been diverted from the primary
path conveyor and which will subsequently be reintroduced onto
the primary path conveyor. |
| | |
| 347.4 | Plural laterally spaced, same direction auxiliary paths: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 347.1. Subject matter wherein articles are diverted onto one of
several laterally separated auxiliary conveyors which are all driven
in the same direction to return articles to the primary path conveyor
at a point upstream or downstream from the point of initial diversion. |
| | |
| 348 | CONVEYOR ARRANGEMENT FOR SELECTING AMONG PLURAL SOURCES
OR DESTINATIONS: |
| | This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus having at least one driven conveyor section, said
apparatus further having either a plurality of supply points or
zones or a plurality of discharge points or zones arranged such
that a discrimination may be made as to which supply or discharge
point is to be used.
| | (1)
Note. An outlet which is in constant communication with a
conveying system and which can be pointed to direct the flow in
different directions is not considered to constitute a selective
or changeable destination and will not be found herein. |
| | (2)
Note. Recycling of the load back to a supply is not considered
to comprise plural destinations. |
| | (3)
Note. The word arrangement as used in this title and the
definitions indented hereinunder includes a single conveying section
which is provided with either means to alter the length of travel
of the load along the section so that different sources or destinations
may be communicated with the section or means which allows selective
supply or delivery of the conveying section from either side. |
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 536, | for a conveyor system having a gravity section and
wherein the last section of the system is adjustable, usually for
the purpose of changing the exit path of material leaving the system. |
| 537, | for a conveyor system having a gravity conveyor
section and having means to handle a portion of the load which becomes
separated from the main flow path and wherein the separated portion
may comprise a portion which is shunted to an auxiliary path for
return to the main supply and eventual recirculation. |
| 580, | for a conveyor system having plural power-driven
conveyor sections and wherein a portion of the load is recycled
in a closed path. |
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
| 209, | Classifying, Separating, and Assorting Solids, appropriate subclass, for conveying arrangements which
function to separate or sort conveyed articles based on either a
physical characteristic of the articles or a load carried code;
further, see
subclasses 703+ and 705 for power-driven sorting tables and carriers,
respectively. If a destination code is carried by a reusable load
carrier in lieu of a article itself, the patent will be placed as
an original in this class (198). Also, a conveyor to transfer material
(or an article) to a selected destination by use of computer memory
is to be found in this class (198). The combination of a Class
198 device with a Class 209 sorting means is to be found in Class
209. |
| 414, | Material or Article Handling,
subclass 133 , for conveying arrangements having some additional
means external to the conveyor structure which allows an operator
to control the destination of a conveyed load. Thus, Class 414
provides for patents claiming a conveying system having a central
control means and a synchronous memory means, e.g., coded memory
wheels, shift register system, etc. Examples of such arrangements are
devices wherein a code would be impressed by an operator at a central station
onto an analog system associated with a conveying section; that
is, the code would be placed in a device separate from, but which
operates in synchronism with the conveying structure. Operator
actuated keyboards used to effect destination selection will likewise
be found in Class 414. |
|
| | |
| 349 | With selection responsive to means containing or introducing
changeable operating instructions: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 348. Apparatus wherein the arrangement is provided with an operations
control means which is arranged with respect to the systems" load transferring
means such that it controls the manner of communication of the transferring means
with a selected source or destination in response to changeable
operating instructions introduced into the conveyor arrangement
by the operator, said instructions being either introduced into
the system at a point remote from the control means by means of
an information carrying element moved in association with said transferring
means or being contained in information storage means associated
with the control means. |
| | |
| 349.1 | By synchronously moving signal carrier distinct from conveyor: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 349. Apparatus including a driven conveyor section for movement
in a particular manner and including a memory member for movement
in direct relationship thereto, such that movement of the conveyor
is accompanied by corresponding movement of the memory member.
| | (1)
Note. The "memory member" of this subclass
stores the "changeable operating instructions" as
set forth in the definition of parent subclass 349. "Memory" allows
utilization of information at a time later than input time later than
input time. |
| | (2)
Note. A memory member riding on a conveyor
is not considered to be a "synchronous" for placement
herein. |
| | (3)
Note. The synchronous signal carrier of this subclass may
be called a "timer", but ever "timer" is
not a synchronous signal carrier. | |
| | |
| 349.4 | Magnetic means on rotary carrier stores codes: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 349.3. Apparatus (a) wherein the turning memory member includes
a sensor responsive to prescribed magnetic characteristics of the
surrounding structure or, (b) including a fixed sensor responsive
to prescribed magnetic characteristic of the turning memory member. |
| | |
| 349.5 | Using central memory to store code until article is discharged: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 349. Apparatus including a memory member to allow selection in
advance of the particular supply/discharge point/zone
of the material on the conveyor and to store such selection until disposition
of such material.
| | (1)
Note. The "memory member" of this subclass
stores the "changeable operating instructions" as
set forth in the definition of parent subclass 349. "Memory" allows
utilization of information at a time later than input time. |
| | (2)
Note. The following terms are common among the patents of
this subclass: "central memory", "computer", "timer",
etc. | |
| | |
| 349.7 | Inventory also in memory: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 349.6. Apparatus also including provision to determine placement
of material in the conveyor arrangement and to store that information
substantially permanently for later retrieval or replacement of
the material. |
| | |
| 349.8 | Material detector indexes codes: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 349.6. Apparatus having a material sensor positioned along the
conveying path to cause the changeable operating instructions to
be revised as the material travels through the conveyor arrangement. |
| | |
| 350 | By magnetic means: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 349. Apparatus wherein means are provided which contain or store
the operating instructions as the lines of force emanating from
a magnetic element within said means. |
| | |
| 351 | By selectively positioned abutment means: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 349. Apparatus wherein the arrangement is provided with relatively
moveable members, one of which carries means containing or introducing changeable
operating instructions. Said means containing or introducing the
changeable instructions comprises a contact element, the position
of which may be varied. Another of said members is provided with
structure which is contacted by and coacts with said contact element,
when said element is aligned therewith, to effect communication
between a particular source or destination and the transferring
means. |
| | |
| 352 | Having plural abutments arranged in a specific pattern: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 351. Apparatus wherein said means containing or introducing the
operating instructions is provided with a plurality of contact elements which
are capable of being arranged in different arrays. The structure
contacted by said elements is constructed so that it will only coact with
single specific array of said elements. |
| | |
| 353 | Having support means slidably mounting abutment means: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 351. Apparatus wherein the member carrying the means containing
or introducing the operating instructions includes a support upon
which said contact element is mounted for sliding movement, said
contact element being moveable along said support to a plurality
of positions at each of which said element is aligned with the coacting
structure of a different other member. |
| | |
| 355 | By repositionable contact or switch actuator: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 349. Apparatus wherein the means containing the operating instructions
includes a movable member which coacts with an electric circuit
to energize the circuit for effecting delivery of the conveyed load
to a selected destination.
| | (1)
Note. The term switch as used herein includes any circuit
completing device, some of which need not be physically contacted
by the switch actuator, as for example, a photocell and repositionable reflector.
Also the switch actuator is generally an element mounted on or
carried by some part of the conveying structure and is movable or
repositionable relative to the part carrying it and is not merely
the load units themselves. Thus, a counter which merely responds
to the passage of a predetermined number of load units will not
be found herein. | |
| | |
| 361 | By repositionable idler roll or rollway: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 360. Apparatus wherein a gravity conveyor section includes either
a cylindrical member which is mounted to freely rotate about its
longitudinal axis or a frame carrying a plurality of such cylindrical
members, the attitude of either of which may be altered so as to
direct the load to or from the arrangement at a selected source
or destination. |
| | |
| 364 | By moving a load directing means along the length of the
section: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 348. Apparatus wherein the coacting means is adapted for travel
along the length of the conveying path so that said means can be
shifted to different supply or discharge positions.
| | (1)
Note. Means for distributing bales of hay along either side
of a bale conveyor will be found herein. |
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 812, | for conveyors of the endless type having means to
vary the length of the conveying path. |
|
| | |
| 368 | By a selectively movable stop means: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 348. Apparatus wherein one or more of the conveying paths is
provided with an abutment member which is capable of being shifted
into the path of movement of the conveyed load to arrest load movement
along that path. |
| | |
| 369.1 | One of a plurality of main line conveyors selectively moves
to connect with a spaced path: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 348. Subject matter wherein an adjacent source or destination
route is physically separated from a principal carrying route having
two or more carriers and including a particular means for effecting
a relative movement of one of the carriers in the principal carrying
route between the separated source or destination and the remainder
of the principal carrying route to close the gap when it is desired
to carry a load to or from the adjacent source or destination route.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 359+, | for a system using a gravity conveyor which connects
the system with a normally spaced source or destination. |
| 370.07, | through 370.09 and 370.1, for an adjacent conveyor
movable instead of the main conveyor to close a gap between the
main path and the adjacent path. |
| 435, | for a system for distributing articles of succession
which are moved by one conveyor and are apportioned among plurality
of second conveyors arranged to be one above the other and further
convey or retain the apportioned articles. |
|
| | |
| 369.4 | Roller pivots about a vertical axis: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 369.1. Subject matter wherein the main conveying path includes
at least one revolving cylinder or similar element which supports
the load and selectively swivels around an upward or downward straight
line to convey the load to or from a selected source or destination. |
| | |
| 369.7 | Conveyor slides to provide an opening in main path: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 369.1. Subject matter wherein the carrier moves selectively on
a smooth continuous surface along or laterally of the carrier route
to create an opening in the carrier route to selectively receive
or discharge the load.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 359+, | for a system using a gravity conveyor to connect
the system with a normally spaced source or destination. |
|
| | |
| 370.01 | By loading or unloading section at a selected one of a
plurality of pre-established locations along the length thereof: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 348. Subject matter wherein (a) a main line conveyor has two
or more supply or discharge points at intervals along the conveyor"s
path and (b) a means to select which of these points is to be used
to receive a load to the carrier or to discharge the load from the
carrier.
| | (1)
Note. The selected locations along the length may be merely
the ends of the conveyor and do not necessarily include the selective
locations in between. |
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 359+, | for a system using a gravity conveyor which connects
the system with a normally spaced source or destination. |
| 369.1+, | for a main line conveyor which selectively moves
relative to adjacent conveyors to feed or receive from the spaced
source or destination. |
| 371.1+, | for a reversibly driving main line section. |
| 890+, | for selective delivery from or to plural laterally
spaced paths which are upstream or downstream of the conveyor. |
|
| | |
| 370.02 | Conveyor has independent lateral pushers: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 370.01. Subject matter wherein the carrier includes more than two
force or pressure exerting elements which selectively move the loads
sideway of the carrier for discharge or receipt at the selected
location along the conveyor"s path.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 370.03+, | for an independently movable load supporting portion. |
|
| | |
| 370.03 | Conveyor has independently movable load supporting portions: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 370.01. Subject matter wherein the carrier includes more than two
load holding members which are moved along the carrying path and each
member is capable of partaking of a motion separate from other members
of the carrier to affect the discharge or receipt of the load at
a selected location along the carrier. |
| | |
| 370.08 | By separate endless or rotary pusher: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 370.01. Subject matter wherein the conveyor is serviced by an independent
fixed location with a continuous or circular motion force exerting
means to impel the load to or from the conveyor along the conveyor"s
length. |
| | |
| 370.09 | By separate supporting rollers: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 370.01. Subject matter wherein the conveyor is provided with an
independent fixed location revolving cylinders or similar means
which hold and impel the load to or from the conveyor along the
conveyor"s length.
| | (1)
Note. Rollers are not directly used to convey the load along
the main conveying path. | |
| | |
| 370.11 | By separate fluid jet: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 370.01. Subject matter wherein an independent fixed location forceful
rush of liquid, gas, or vapor through a narrow or restricted opening impels
the load to or from the conveyor along the conveyor"s length. |
| | |
| 371.2 | Endless belt or chain: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 371.1. Subject matter includes a continuous band of flexible material
(e.g., leather, rubber, fabric) or a continuous band constructed
of links of metal, plastic or similar material. |
| | |
| 371.3 | Rollers: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 371.1. Subject matter wherein the reversible section of the conveyor
includes a revolving cylinder or similar element. |
| | |
| 373 | CONVEYOR FOR CHANGING ATTITUDE OF ITEM RELATIVE TO CONVEYED
DIRECTION: |
| | This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus wherein a conveyor section or a conveyor system
moves an article along a predetermined path, and wherein said article
is turned to have its posture*, or its heading, or its leaning* intentionally
or significantly varied with relation to said path. (*These
terms are discussed in (2) Note below.)
| | (1)
Note. In this and indented subclasses the disclosed intent
of the claimed apparatus is important. Therefore, although the structure
of two devices may be similar, a patent disclosing such structure
will be placed into this portion of the schedule only if its claimed
disclosure is clearly for accomplishing one of the functions set
forth in the definition by asterisk (*) and further discussed
in (2) Note that follows. The similar structure that is disclosed
in terms of its structure and not disclosing such a function will
be found elsewhere in accordance with its claimed function or its
claimed structure that is provided for in other subclasses of this schedule. |
| | (2)
Note. For the purpose of helping to visualize the terms to
be discussed herein, assume a three-dimensional-line figure consisting
of three axes (i.e., an "X-axis", a "Y-axis" and
a "Z-axis") that intersect at a mutual point,
each axis being perpendicular to the plane in which both of the
other two axes lie. Assume further that said mutual point lies
within the article to be conveyed and that a) the conveyor moves
the article in the direction of the "X-axis",
b) the conveyor has a major article-support surface that extends
transversely (i.e., athwart) of said direction along the "Z-axis",
and c) the remaining axis that extends perpendicularly of the plane
formed by both of the previously-mentioned axes is the "Y-axis".
With these assumptions in mind, variation in "posture" will
refer only to a turning of an article about a "Z-axis",
variation in "heading" will refer only to a turning
of an article about a "Y-axis", and variation
in "leaning" will refer only to a turning of an
article about an "X-axis". It is understood that
any or all of these turnings may occur sequentially or simultaneously,
and if there is a major dimension of the article being conveyed,
such major dimension may coincide with any or none of the axis mentioned. |
| | (3)
Note. This note is in amplification of preceding notes regarding
intent of disclosure and attitude of article relative to its conveyed
direction. The predetermined path of an article may be straight, or
arcuate, or crooked, but whatever the path, if the conveyed article
is at a first point on the path with a particular dimension in a
particular relationship to the path (e.g., its length is parallel
to the path), and is thereafter at a second point with the same
dimension in a different relationship to the path (e.g., its length
is perpendicular to the path), its attitude relative to the path
has been changed. For proper placement of a patent into this, or
an indented subclass, the claim thereof must recite the change in
attitude of the article in significant terms; that is, the recitation
must be clear, and the change must be intentional. A patent that
discloses a change in attitude that is incidental to the movement
of an article on a conveyor system (e.g., an article on a nonrectilinear
system could change its attitude relative to a particular compass direction,
but not necessarily change relative to conveyed direction) will
not be placed herein, but will be placed on the basis of the claimed
function or structure of the conveyor. | |
| | |
| 374 | By optionally facing successive items according to a predetermined
recurring cycle: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 373. Apparatus wherein the articles move sequentially past a
station at which the articles are either turned or not turned in
a preset pattern, which pattern occurs repeatedly, whereby groups
of articles are formed, each group appearing like other similar
groups.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 418+, | for a conveyor system forming groups of articles
wherein the facing of individual articles therein is not significant. |
|
| | |
| 375 | By actuating item-holder relative to holder-carrying conveyor: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 373. Apparatus wherein a) a member retains an article with respect
to itself, b) the member is mounted on a conveyor section that thereby moves
the member and the article concurrently in the conveyed direction,
and c) the member is moved with respect to the conveyor section, whereby
the member and its retained article are both turned with respect
to the conveyed direction.
| | (1)
Note. The limitation that the member retains the article
does not preclude the movement of the article into or out of the member
as long as the article is held in the member during the conveyance thereof. | |
| | |
| 376 | With holder-actuating means responsive to item-sensing
means: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 375. Apparatus provided with means for detecting the presence
or attitude of an article, and provided with means for regulating
or changing the operation of said apparatus, wherein said regulating
means is caused to operate as a result of the detection of the article
by the detecting means. |
| | |
| 377.01 | Holder carried by orbiting conveyor: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 375. Subject matter wherein the conveyor section comprises a
plurality of components that are connected together and moved in
a closed-loop path such that each component is followed by and preceded
by another component and a part of the closed-loop path coincides
with a part of the path of a movement of the article holder. |
| | |
| 377.03 | Holder having load gripping element: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 377.02. Subject matter wherein the holder includes either (1) a
device which holds or attracts the article by friction or by use
of a force field, or by fluid current or (2) a device which attracts
the article by the force field or fluid pressure difference on the
conveyor.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 470.1+, | for a conveyor system including a rotating or endless
carrier having a load gripping element. |
| 803.3, | for grippers mounted on a single rotary or endless
conveyor. |
|
| | |
| 377.04 | Holder having vacuum or air blast element: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 377.03. Subject matter wherein the holder includes a gaseous fluid
medium under subatmospheric or atmospheric pressure to hold the article
during conveyance.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 471.1, | for a conveyor system including a rotating or endless
carrier having a suction type load gripping element. |
| 689.1, | for a conveyor section using suction to enhance
friction between the load and the conveyor. |
| 803.5, | for a conveyor section having suction holders. |
|
| | |
| 377.05 | Holder having magnetic or electrostatic element: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 377.03. Subject matter wherein the holder includes the force field
from either the attraction or repulsion of (1) magnetic charges
(i.e., magnetism), or (2) electric charges at rest (i.e., static
electricity) to hold the article during conveyance.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 472.1, | for a conveyor system including a rotating or endless
carrier having a magnetic or electrostatic gripping element. |
| 690.1, | and 691, for conveyor section using magnetic or
electrostatic forces to enhance frictional contact between the load
and the conveyor. |
| 803.6, | for a conveyor section with magnetic or electrostatic
holders. |
|
| | |
| 377.07 | Holder having load gripping element: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 377.01. Subject matter wherein the holder includes either (1) a
device which holds or attracts the article by friction or by use
of a force field, or by fluid current, or (2) a device which attracts
the article by the force field or fluid pressure difference on the
conveyor.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 377.03+, | for a load gripping means for a holder which rotates
the load about an axis which lies outside a load boundary. |
| 470.1+, | for a conveyor system including a rotating or endless
carrier having a load gripping element. |
| 803.3, | for grippers mounted on a single rotary or endless
conveyor. |
|
| | |
| 377.08 | Holder having vacuum or air blast element: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 377.07. Subject matter wherein the holder includes a gaseous fluid
medium under subatmospheric or atmospheric pressure to hold the article.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 377.04, | for a load gripping means having a vacuum means
for a holder which rotates the load about an axis lies outside a
load boundary. |
| 471.1, | for a conveyor system including a rotating or endless
carrier having a suction type load gripping element. |
| 689.1, | for a conveyor section using suction to enhance
friction between the load and the conveyor. |
| 803.5, | for a conveyor section having suction holders. |
|
| | |
| 377.09 | Holder having magnetic or electrostatic element: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 377.07. Subject matter wherein the holder includes the forced field
from either attraction or repulsion of (1) magnetic charges (i.e.,
magnetism) or (2) electric charges at rest (i.e., static electricity).
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 377.05, | for a load gripper having a magnetic or electrostatic
means for a holder which rotates the load about the axis which
lies outside the load boundary. |
| 472.1, | for a conveyor system including a rotating or endless
carrier having a magnetic or electrostatic gripping element. |
| 690.1, | and 691, for conveyor section using magnetic or
electrostatic forces to enhance frictional contact between the load
and the conveyor. |
| 803.6, | for a conveyor section with magnetic or electrostatic
holders. |
|
| | |
| 378 | Holder or conveyor moves intermittently (e.g., for "indexing"
load): |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 377.01. Apparatus wherein said member moves relative to the conveyor
in a step-by-step manner, or the conveyor section moves in a step-by-step
manner relative to the path of the article being conveyed.
| | (1)
Note. The described movement permits the article to be "indexed" in
a stop-and-go fashion in order to permit an operation to be performed
on the conveyed article during periods of stopping, and then convey
the article to its next operation, or convey another article to
an operation station. | |
| | |
| 379 | By gripping item and turning item about fixed axis: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 373. Apparatus wherein an article moving on a conveyor is momentarily
stopped in its movement, the stoppage occurring by reason of the
article being securely held, and wherein the article so held is
rotated about a stationary axis of rotation before the article is
released for further conveyance by the same, or a different conveyor.
| | (1)
Note. The holding can be performed by a suction member, or
a magnetic member, or a gripper couple comprising two surfaces engaging
the article frictionally on opposing sides thereof. | |
| | |
| 380 | With pressurized fluid causing change in attitude: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 373. Apparatus wherein a gas or a liquid pressure impinges against
the article being conveyed by a conveyor section to effect a turning
of the article.
| | (1)
Note. The pressurized fluid that effects the turning is in
addition to whatever mechanism that effects the conveyance of the
article. |
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 493+, | for a conveyor wherein impinging fluid is a conveyor
means. |
|
| | |
| 381 | With magnetism causing change in attitude: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 373. Apparatus wherein a device that generates lines of magnetic
flux acts upon the article being conveyed by a conveyor section
to effect a turning of the article.
| | (1)
Note. The magnetism that effects the turning is in addition
to whatever mechanism that effects the conveyance of the article. |
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 619, | for a conveyor wherein magnetic forces effect movement. |
| 690.1, | for a conveyor wherein magnetic forces enhance the
friction of a conveyor. |
|
| | |
| 382 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 373. Apparatus wherein the initial attitude of any article is
unpredictable and wherein as the article is conveyed on or by a
conveyor its attitude relative to its path of conveyance is caused
to be predictable.
| | (1)
Note. Included in this and indented subclasses are devices
wherein articles are supplied in a hopper or on a conveyor in a
haphazard array, or faced in a direction relative to the conveyor
in a manner which cannot be predicted to occur. If, by change,
a particular article is properly faced on the conveyor, no change
in its attitude will occur. However, if an article is improperly
faced, either its attitude or its facing will be corrected, or it
will be returned to supply for reconveyance and proper refacing;
in either event, the attitude must be changed or corrected to be
moved through the conveyor. |
| | (2)
Note. In this and indented subclasses, the meaning of the
word "uniform" will vary with the intent of the
disclosure. For example, if in one disclosure the article at its
source is in a haphazard (i.e., random) array, and at its destination
the article is in an attitude which is acceptable as disclosed (e.g.,
one of two attitudes, either of which is acceptable), then the occurrence
of that attitude is predictable and, therefore, is "uniform" in
accordance with the disclosed intent. However, if in another disclosure
the article at its source is in one of the two attitudes, the occurrence
of which attitude is not predictable (i.e., random), and at its
destination the article must be faced in only one particular attitude
to be acceptable as disclosed, then only the proper attitude is
predictable and, therefore, is "uniform" in accordance
with the other disclosed intent. | |
| | |
| 383 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 382. Apparatus wherein the article to be conveyed has a particular
configuration, and wherein the conveyor, or an adjunct thereto,
has a particular configuration, and wherein the two configurations
conform one to the other, whereby only an article whose configuration
conforms to the conveyor configuration will be conveyed.
| | (1)
Note. To be properly placed into this or an indented subclass,
a patent must include a claim to a conveyor portion that is clearly
shaped so as to match or fit or be inserted into an article, and
the claim should be clear that cooperation between the conveyor
portion and the conveyed article occurs, such that articles that
fit the conveyor pass and articles that do not fit the conveyor
do not pass. | |
| | |
| 384 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 383. Apparatus wherein the conveyor comprises a plurality of
components that are connected together and moved in a closed-loop
path such that each component is followed by and preceded by another
component and a part of said closed-loop path coincides with a part
of the path an article to be conveyed, one or more components forming
a receptacle for an article during its conveyance and each receptacle
having means associated therewith for moving the article relative
to the receptacle as it is conveyed therein, whereby each article
is turned to a uniform facing in each receptacle. |
| | |
| 385 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 384. Apparatus wherein the means for moving the article relative
to the component comprises a rotating wheel having a periphery that
contacts the surface of the article is received within the receptacle,
and wherein the article is a spheroidal object having a relatively
small portion of its surface depressed within the outline of the major
portion of its surface to an extent that when the wheel or an auxiliary
finger fits the small, depressed surface the wheel periphery will
not contact the depressed portion, at which time the wheel will
cease moving the article within the component.
| | (1)
Note. In most of the devices of this subclass, the roller
serves the dual purpose of turning the object until the roller periphery "finds" the
depression in the object; in some of the devices the roller periphery
turns the object and an auxiliary finger, or "finder",
senses the depression and causes the wheel to stop its rotation
or move out of contact with the object; in either event, the object
will stop turning when it is properly faced within the receptacle
or pocket. |
| | (2)
Note. The objects being conveyed and faced in this and the
indented subclasses are usually peaches, apricots, or other "drupe" fruits
having a line of cleavage along which line a pit is aligned, or
are other food objects such as apples, olives, whole pears, that
are characterized by having a surface depression or indentation
with respect to which depression the fruit is to be faced for further
processing. | |
| | |
| 386 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 385. Apparatus wherein the rotating wheel turns about an internal
axis of turning, and can be further turned about a different axis
of turning.
| | (1)
Note. Usually the roller is mounted between the branches
of a bifurcated stem, the length of which is perpendicular to the
axis of the roller. Thus, the roller rotates in a vertical plane
on its own horizontal axis, whereas the stem rotates on its longitudinal
axis, thereby changing the vertical plane in which the roller rotates. | |
| | |
| 387 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 384. Apparatus wherein the components comprise rotatable shafts
extending laterally across the direction of movement of the conveyor
and moving perpendicular to their extent in said direction, each
shaft having one or more peripheral depressions in the circumference thereof,
adjacent shafts having their peripheral depressions aligned along
the direction of movement, whereby the peripheral depressions of
two adjacent shafts form a receptacle for the conveyed article.
| | (1)
Note. The device of this subclass conveys an ovid object,
such as a egg, supported between adjacent rollers in the grooves
of the rollers. By rotating the objects on the roller, the longitudinal axis
of the ovid is caused to extend parallel to the axes of the rollers
and perpendicular to the direction of movement thereof. | |
| | |
| 388 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 383. Apparatus wherein the configuration on the conveyor is a
part, on or adjacent the conveyor, that juts out or protrudes into
the path of articles being conveyed, wherein the configuration of
the article includes a bifurcation or a cavity therein, and wherein
the conveyor configuration is inserted into the article configuration, whereby
those articles that match configurations pass along the conveyor
and those that do not match configurations do not pass along the conveyor,
or are turned so that the configurations do match.
| | (1)
Note. Usually, those articles that do not match and pass
are returned to a supply of articles for recirculation and refacing. | |
| | |
| 389 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 383. Apparatus wherein the article to be conveyed is so proportioned
that with respect to a major dimension thereof a first portion extending
perpendicular to the dimension at one end thereof is larger than
a second portion extending perpendicular to the dimension at the
other end, and wherein the conveyor is provided with supports that
are so spaced that the article will move along the conveyor with
the first portion above the supports and the second portion hung from
and below the supports. |
| | |
| 390 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 383. Apparatus wherein the configuration of the conveyor is in
the form of an opening through which an article passes, and wherein
the article to be conveyed is configured to have its bounding line
conforming to the bounding line of the opening, whereby articles
so faced as to have their bounding lines matched with the opening pass
therethrough. |
| | |
| 391 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 383. Apparatus comprising a bowl-shaped means having a passageway
which conforms to the article to be conveyed, and wherein the attitude of
the article relative to its path of conveyance is caused to be predictable
by vibrating said bowl. |
| | |
| 392 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 383. Apparatus comprising means having a passageway or exit which
conforms to the article to be conveyed whereby the attitude of the
article relative to its path of conveyance is caused to be predictable
by rotating said means. |
| | |
| 393 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 383. Apparatus wherein the conveyor comprises a plurality of
components that are connected together and moved in a closed-loop
path such that each component is followed by and preceded by another
component and a part of said closed-loop path coincides with the
path of an article to be conveyed, each component forming a receptacle
that is configured to the configuration of the article to be conveyed,
and wherein another part of said closed-loop path coincides with
a hopper or bin in which the articles are temporarily stored in
haphazard array, whereby as a receptacle moves within the hopper
an article will be received thereinto if its configuration conforms
to the receptacle configuration and the so-received article will be
conveyed.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 397, | for similar structure wherein an item-receiving
pocket does not fit the item. |
|
| | |
| 394 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 382. Apparatus wherein the article to be conveyed is formed with
a particular point or zone thereon which is identifiable to the
apparatus as that point which should face in a predetermined direction
relative to the conveyor, and wherein the article, while it is being
conveyed, is caused to turn on its own axis and is caused to stop turning
when said point or zone is faced in said predetermined direction.
| | (1)
Note. The article is usually a bottle or a can having a visible
projection or seam that is to be faced relative to a station (e.g.,
a label-applying station). However, the position characteristic
can be a visible mark or an invisible indicium that is sensed by
the apparatus. For other means actuated in response to an improperly-faced
article, see subclass 395. |
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 395, | and see (1) Note above. |
|
| | |
| 395 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 382. Apparatus provided with means for detecting the attitude
of an article and further provided with means for regulating the
operation of said apparatus such that the article attitude will
be corrected, or the article is rejected if it is presented incorrectly,
and the attitude will remain unchanged if the article is presented
correctly.
| | (1)
Note. Usually those articles that are rejected are returned
to a supply of articles for recirculation and refacing. | |
| | |
| 396 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 382. Apparatus wherein the conveyor moves in a path, a part of
which path coincides with a bin in which the articles to be conveyed
are temporarily stored in a haphazard array, and wherein the article
is taken from said bin and its attitude changed during the movement
of the conveyor. |
| | |
| 397.01 | By orbiting progression of item-receiving pockets passing
through supply: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 396. Subject matter wherein the conveyor comprises a plurality
of components that are connected together and moved in a closed-loop
path such that each component is followed by and preceded by another
component, a part of said closed-loop path coincides with the path
of an article to be conveyed, and other part of said path coincides
with the bin, and wherein each component forms a receptacle for
the article to be conveyed.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 393, | for similar structure wherein an item-receiving
pocket fits the shape of the item. |
|
| | |
| 397.02 | Rotary pocketed conveyor: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 397.01. Subject matter wherein the item-receiving pockets in the
conveyor turns symmetrically about an assumed straight line during
the conveyance of the article. |
| | |
| 397.06 | Item oriented while on endless conveyor: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 397.01. Subject matter wherein the conveyor includes a continuous
bend of flexible material or a continuous band constructed of links
of metal, plastic or similar material having a device which places
the article in position relative to a referenced direction during
the conveyance of the article. |
| | |
| 398 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 382. Apparatus wherein the article being conveyed is presented
in one of only two opposite attitudes (the occurrence of any particular
attitude being random or unpredictable), and wherein the conveyor,
or an adjunct thereto, differentiates between the opposite attitudes
and causes all the articles to have the same attitude.
| | (1)
Note. This subclass provides for a device wherein articles
facing one way will be separated from those articles facing the
opposite way so that both articles will face the same way, but will
travel in different directions, or the improperly-faced articles
will be returned to the supply of articles for recirculation and
refacing. | |
| | |
| 399 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 398. Apparatus wherein those articles having the correct attitude
will remain in that attitude, and those articles having an incorrect
attitude will have their attitudes changed to be correct. |
| | |
| 400 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 398. Apparatus wherein each article has its attitude changed
so that they all have the same attitude and all are moving along
the same path of movement. |
| | |
| 401 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 373. Apparatus provided with means for detecting the presence
or absence of an article and further provided with means for regulating
or changing the operation of the conveyor that causes an article
to be turned, wherein said regulating means is actuated as a result
of a detection by said detecting means. |
| | |
| 402 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 373. Apparatus wherein each article that is conveyed in a sequence
of articles is turned upside down (i.e., from an attitude wherein
a particular face that is up is changed to an attitude wherein that
particular face is down).
| | (1)
Note. In this subclass the mechanism for inverting is a passive
means acting in conjunction with a powered conveyor to invert successive
articles. | |
| | |
| 403 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 402. Apparatus provided with mechanism that is powered to effect
the turning of each article upside down.
| | (1)
Note. In this subclass the mechanism for inverting is separate
from the apparatus for conveying. | |
| | |
| 404 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 403. Apparatus wherein the conveyor for articles includes one
or more components moving in a closed-loop path and a part of said
closed-loop path coincides with a part of the path of the articles
to be conveyed, and wherein the conveyor effects the turning of
each article upside down. |
| | |
| 405 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 404. Apparatus wherein the conveyor comprises an endlessly-orbiting
surface that travels in the direction of the "X" axis
and extends transversely of said direction along a "Z" axis,
and wherein as a particular "Z" axis line moves along
the "X" axis, the "Z" axis turns
about the "X" axis, thereby turning the article
supported and carried by the surface.
| | (1)
Note. The terms "X" axis and "Z" axis are
defined and further discussed in (2) Note of subclass 373. |
| | (2)
Note. Usually the conveyor comprises two belts cooperating
together to frictionally maintain a conveyed article between them
and both belts twist together. | |
| | |
| 406 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 373. Apparatus wherein each article that is conveyed in a sequence
of articles is a) lifted or lowered relative to an original direction
of conveyance, and is also b) turned about its "Z" axis,
during its conveyance.
| | (1)
Note. See (2) Note to subclass 373 for a definition and further
discussion of "Z" axis. |
| | (2)
Note. A device wherein an article is simply lifted and lowered
(or vice versa) to its original elevation is not in this subclass,
but may be found in such subclasses as 411 or 414. | |
| | |
| 407 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 406. Apparatus wherein each article is conveyed through a conveyor
system in which first one conveyor moves an article and then a second conveyor
moves said article. |
| | |
| 408 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 406. Apparatus wherein the conveyor for articles includes one
or more components moving in a closed-loop path and a part of said
closed-loop path coincides with a part of the path of the articles
to be conveyed, whereby the conveyor changes both the elevation
and the attitude of each article. |
| | |
| 409 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 406. Apparatus wherein the conveyor for articles includes a component
that is connected to an actuator that imparts to-and-fro motion
in a path, at least part of which path coincides with a part of
the path of the article to be conveyed, the component having the
function of contacting an article to change both the elevation and the
attitude of each article at least while the paths coincide. |
| | |
| 410 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 373. Apparatus wherein each article that is conveyed in a sequence
of articles has its attitude changed at least twice in different
actions that are separated in time or distance from one another.
| | (1)
Note. Included in this subclass is an apparatus wherein an
article is faced in a particular direction to have an operation performed
thereon, and that article is refaced in its original direction after
the operation has been performed. | |
| | |
| 411 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 373. Apparatus wherein each article that is conveyed in a sequence
of articles is moved by a conveyor and is turned by a mechanism
that is powered to effect the turning of each article. |
| | |
| 412 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 411. Apparatus wherein each article is moved by a plurality of
conveyors in the form of separate conveyor sections forming a conveyor
system, or in the form of separate conveyor components forming a
conveyor section, but in either event, the conveyors are spaced
apart along the direction of movement of the articles, and wherein
the turning mechanism transfers each of the sequence of articles
from a preceding conveyor to a succeeding conveyor, and during such
transfer turns the article. |
| | |
| 413 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 412. Apparatus wherein the turning mechanism comprises one or
more members that pass through the space(s) between the conveyors
to contact and turn the articles successively. |
| | |
| 414 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 413. Apparatus wherein the turning mechanism contracts each successive
article and is caused to raise the article out of contact with the
conveyor, rotate the article partially with respect to the conveyor,
and descend with the article to replace it on the same or a succeeding
conveyor section.
| | (1)
Note. In this subclass, it is not significant whether an
article moves from one conveyor section to another conveyor section,
or moves from one conveyor component to another conveyor component.
It is significant that between the parts of a conveyor a turntable
mechanism effects turning of the article. | |
| | |
| 415 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 411. Apparatus wherein each article is moved by plurality of
components forming a conveyor section, all of which components engage
the same item at the same time to move that item, but one of which
components has a greater rate of movement than another of said components, whereby
the components cooperate with each other and the article to effect
turning of the article as it moves in the conveyed direction. |
| | |
| 416 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 373. Apparatus wherein each article that is conveyed in a sequence
of articles is moved by a conveyor and is turned by an appurtenance
that is located next to the conveyor and in the path of movement
of the articles, whereby during the movement of each article, it
engages the appurtenance and the reaction between the moving article
and the appurtenance causes the article to turn.
| | (1)
Note. In most mechanisms of this subclass the member (i.e.,
appurtenance) is a stationary and fixed object, but it also may
be member that, in use, is fixed in the path of the articles, but
may be moved at will out of such path, or may be a member that is
in the path of the article, but as the member is engaged by the
moving article, the member moves to permit the now-turned article
to pass. | |
| | |
| 417 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 416. Apparatus wherein the appurtenance comprises a channel through
which the successive articles pass, which channel substantially
encloses the outline of the article as seen in the "X" axis, and
wherein sections through the channel taken in the plane of the "Y" axis
and "Z" axis in successive stations along the "X" axis
show the channel displaced angularly about the "X" axis.
| | (1)
Note. For definitions and further discussion of the axes
referred to, see (2) Note of subclass 373. | |
| | |
| 418 | |
| | This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus including at least two conveyor sections cooperating
for the purpose of conveying plural articles in such manner that
a particular plurality of articles will be arranged or formed into
a particular array or cluster comprising a specific number of such
articles, and for subsequently conveying said array or cluster as
a separate collection.
| | (1)
Note. This note is intended to express in short form the
differences in the concepts among patents placed in this subclass
(418) and those of the two following coordinate subclasses 434 and 463.1.
In all three major subclasses and their indented subclasses, the
function of the disclosed structure is the movement of one or more
items via two or more conveyors. In this subclass (418) the items
are arranged as an identifiable and significant group consisting
of a predetermined plurality of items moved as
a group through that structure being claimed by the patent.
In subclass 434, the items are arranged as a succession of items
consisting of an indeterminate number of items moved consecutively via
the conveyors being claimed by the patent, and at least the last
downstream claimed conveyor does not provide structure for individualization
or separation between the successive conveyed items. In subclass
463.1 the items are individual and separate one from the other,
each being an identifiable and significant item being moved separately
via the conveyors being claimed by the patent, and at least the
last downstream claimed conveyor does provide structure for individualization
or separation between one item and a preceding or succeeding item. |
| | (2)
Note. For a patent to be placed in this or an indented subclass
it is not necessary for a group to retain its identity separate from
other such groups. For example, in a subclass such as 418.1 a formed
group of items could be packed into a container (not claimed) into
which other groups have been or will be packed. Nor is it necessary
for all of the claimed structure to move the group as a group. For
example, in a subclass such as 431 a group of items is formed by
depositing successive items one by one into group formation, after
which the group is moved as a group. The term "array" is
inclusive of, but not limited to, a plurality of items arranged
in a straight line; the term "cluster" is inclusive
of, but not limited to, a plurality of items arranged in an irregular
formation or a formation such as a circle. For purposes of convenience, the
term "group" will be used in the definitions of
subclasses indented hereunder unless one of the other terms is specifically
applicable. |
| | (3)
Note. See the search note below for the line between Class
198 and the Material or Article Handling, class relative to apparatus
for placing articles into or removing them from an intersupporting group. |
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
| 271, | Sheet Feeding or Delivering,
subclasses 213+ , for a conveyor on which sheets are delivered in
succession to form a stack, on which conveyor the stack is moved
as a stack without the aid of structure other than the conveyor. |
| 414, | Material or Article Handling, the line between Class 198 Conveyors: Power-Driven,
and Class 414, Material or Article Handling, relative to apparatus
for placing articles into or removing them from an intersupporting
group is as follows: (a) Class 198 takes such apparatus when (1)
it consists of a power driven or gravity conveyor, (2) the site
on which the group is supported is a horizontally extended conveyor
surface, and (3) the group is formed on the surface of the conveyor while
the conveyor both moves and transports the article in a horizontal direction;
and (b) Class 414 takes such apparatus, even if it consists of a conveyor(s)
proper for Class 198, when either (1) the site on which the group
is supported is other than a conveyor proper for Class 198 (e.g.,
an elevator, a shelf) or (2) the site on which the group is supported
is a conveyor surface which has been fully stopped while each article
is added to the group. |
|
| | |
| 418.1 | Having items discharged from plural distinct outlets into
group: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 418. Apparatus in which either (1) a single conveyor section
having two or more separate exits or (2) plural conveyor sections
each having a separate exit deliver articles to another conveyor
section on which the articles are arranged or formed into a common
group.
| | (1)
Note. The definition does not limit the taking of only one
article from each of the exits. Rather, it permits the taking of one
or more articles from any two or more exits even if one or more
possible exits are skipped. The articles can be supplied from a
random mass, a regular stack, or succession of articles. | |
| | |
| 418.2 | With outlets longitudinally spaced along path of progressively
formed group: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 418.1. Apparatus wherein at least two of the conveyor exits which
deliver articles to the group supporting conveyor section are positioned
at different points along its length and add articles to the group
thereon when it is moved past each of the exit points.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
| 270, | Sheet-Material Associating or Folding,
subclasses 58.01+ , for a mechanism to associate sheets from different supply
stacks into new stacks containing different sheets in each new stack. |
|
| | |
| 418.3 | Superposes items within group: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 418.2. Apparatus wherein at least a portion of one of the articles
is placed by a delivery conveyor section on top of or below a portion
of another one of the articles of the group which was previously
delivered thereto either by this or another delivery conveyor. |
| | |
| 418.5 | Having plural successive groups discharged by single conveyor
into larger group: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 418. Apparatus in which a single conveyor section having one
exit consecutively delivers several small groups to another conveyor
section on which the articles of the groups are arranged or formed
into a bigger common group.
| | (1)
Note. It is not necessary for the number of articles in each
group to be the same as the number of articles in a previous or succeeding
group, but the variances should recur regularly. For example, in forming
a staggered layer of bottles to be packaged, a row of seven bottles
is formed, a row of six bottles is then formed, followed by another
row of seven bottles. | |
| | |
| 418.7 | Subdivides continuous item stream into longitudinally spaced
groups: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 418. Apparatus wherein the articles to be grouped are already
in a succession of articles moving along a particular line of motion,
and wherein the group is formed by separating the last article of
a preceding group from the first article of a succeeding group while
continuing the movement of the preceding group along substantially
the same line of motion followed by its articles prior to becoming
a group.
| | (1)
Note. The separation can be caused by increasing the speed
of the preceding group after the last item of the group has passed
a particular point, or by intermittently stopping or decreasing
speed of the first item of a succeeding group after the last item
of the preceding group has passed a particular point. | |
| | |
| 418.8 | By offsetting first or last article: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 418.7. Apparatus which separates the preceding group from the succeeding
group by abruptly shifting out of alignment with its adjacent articles,
an article located at either (1) the end of the preceding group
or (2) the beginning of the succeeding group. |
| | |
| 418.9 | And imbricates items within group: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 418.7. Apparatus wherein the articles are delivered to the group
in such a manner that the leading edge of each article in the group
both (1) overlaps or underlies the trailing edge of the adjacent
previously delivered article and (2) travels ahead of the leading
edge of all articles subsequently placed within the group. |
| | |
| 419.1 | By item engaging stop means: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 418.7. Apparatus wherein the preceding group is separated from
the succeeding group by means which contacts the first article of
the succeeding group and prevents its movement for a period of time. |
| | |
| 419.2 | By different speed conveyors: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 418.7. Apparatus wherein the last conveyor section supporting the
succession of articles to be formed into groups moves the articles
at a different velocity for at least a portion of the time it transports
them than the succeeding conveyor section which supports the formed groups. |
| | |
| 419.3 | With spaced dividers on conveyor limiting group size: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 419.2. Apparatus wherein either (1) the last conveyor section supporting
the succession of articles or (2) the succeeding conveyor section
supporting the groups is provided with structural means located
along its article transporting surface which restricts the number
of articles possible in each group by dividing the surface into
two or more distinct sections. |
| | |
| 426 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 418. Apparatus wherein the articles to be grouped comprise a
succession of such articles moving on a first conveyor along a particular
line of motion, and wherein a particular plurality of said articles
is engaged by means for transferring all of said particular plurality
of articles at the same time from said first conveyor to a second
conveyor, which transfer means moves in a direction different from
said particular lines of motion.
| | (1)
Note. For discussion of the term "stream",
see (1) Note of subclass 434 below. | |
| | |
| 427 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 426. Apparatus wherein the second conveyor is divided into a
plurality of conveyor sections substantially corresponding in number
to the number of articles in the transferred group, whereby the
articles transferred as a group are subsequently divided so that
each article is one of a subsequent succession of articles on the second
conveyor, and the number of such successions corresponds to the
number of articles in the transferred group.
| | (1)
Note. In the subclass (427), the items from one stream are
arrayed in a group before being distributed into plural streams.
For a mechanism wherein items from a stream are distributed into plural
streams without the intermediate transfer as a group, see subclasses
436+. |
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 436, | and see (1) Note above. |
|
| | |
| 428 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 426. Apparatus wherein the transfer means includes a gaseous
fluid medium under subatmospheric or above-atmospheric pressure.
| | (1)
Note. The pneumatic conveyor usually is (though it is not
limited to) a series of suction members that engage and carry the
groups of items. |
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 438, | and 493+, for other conveyors having transfer
means using air blast or suction. |
|
| | |
| 429 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 426. Apparatus, wherein the transfer means moves to-and-fro and
during one of its movements engages the particular plurality of
articles to transfer the articles simultaneously from the first
conveyor to the second conveyor. |
| | |
| 430 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 429. Apparatus wherein either a) the to-and-fro movement of the
transfer means is in a direction that is angularly related to the
line of motion imparted to the articles by the first conveyor, or
b) the to-and-fro movement of the transfer means is included in
a movement that follows an endless closed-loop path, at least a part
of the to-and-fro movement intercepting the line of motion imparted
to the articles by the first conveyor. |
| | |
| 431 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 418. Apparatus wherein the articles to be grouped are conveyed
one followed by another aligned along a particular line of motion
on a first conveyor, and wherein the articles are engaged by a transfer
means and placed one at a time in an aligned group on a second conveyor,
which transfer means changes the line of motion of the articles
on the second conveyor relative to the line of motion of the articles
on the first conveyor, or changes the alignment of articles on the
second conveyor relative to the alignment of articles on the first
conveyor. |
| | |
| 432 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 418. Apparatus wherein the articles to be grouped are conveyed
as an array followed by another array, each array consisting of
a particular number of articles aligned along a particular array
line, which array line is substantially transverse to a line of
motion of a first conveyor, and wherein each arrayed group of articles
is engaged by a transfer means and placed as an arrayed group on
a second conveyor, which second conveyor carries each successive conveyed
group in an array whose alignment is transverse to the line of motion
of the second conveyor.
| | (1)
Note. Patents are placed in this subclass wherein the conveyed
group is formed either on the first conveyor, by means associated
with the first conveyor, or prior to placement as a group on the
first conveyor. | |
| | |
| 433 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 418. Apparatus wherein the articles to be grouped are conveyed
as an array followed by another array, each array consisting of
a particular number of articles aligned along a particular array
line, which line is substantially transverse to a line of motion
of a first conveyor, and wherein each arrayed group of articles
is engaged by a transfer means and placed as an arrayed group on
a second conveyor, and the second conveyor carries the array so
that its array line is in alignment with the line of motion of the
second conveyor.
| | (1)
Note. Patents are placed in this subclass wherein the conveyed
group is formed either on the first conveyor, by means associated
with the first conveyor, or prior to placement on the first conveyor. | |
| | |
| 434 | |
| | This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus including at least two conveyor sections cooperating
for the purpose of moving a succession of articles from one conveyor
to another, and during such movement changing the relationship between,
or the direction of movement of, or the path of, successive articles.
| | (1)
Note. A conveyor system of this or an indented subclass functions
to form a stream of items from a random mass or quantity of such
items, or functions to redirect or respace the items of such a stream
relative to each other, or functions to change the number of streams passing
through the system. The term "stream of items" refers
to a plurality of articles moving in accordance with two criteria.
The first criterion is that the articles move in succession, one
article followed by another which is followed by a third, etc.,
the number of articles so moved being indeterminate or indefinite.
The second criterion is that the succession of articles moves along
a predetermined line or path. It is not necessary that the line
be straight, but if it is other than straight, it must be a line
along which each article of the succession moves in its turn. It
is not necessary that the line be the only line (i.e., there may be
plural lines or streams), but if there are plural streams (e.g.,
one stream alongside another stream) the claimed disclosure must
clearly describe the presence of such plural streams or describe
means to channelize or guide each such streams separately from the other(s).
Thus, a disclosure of a belt carrying a plurality of articles extending along
the direction of movement of the belt and articles extending across
said direction would not be considered as a disclosure of plural
streams unless the specification clearly described the articles
as being arranged in plural successions of articles or the structure
indicated channels to form plural successions. In the absence of
such "stream" disclosure the belt would be considered
as a quantity source of articles or as a destination for articles. |
| | (2)
Note. A distinction should be made as to the structural and
functional difference between a conveyor system for conveying plural
articles arranged as a stream of items and a conveyor system for
conveying plural articles, each article being a specific load as
a separate unit. In the stream conveyor (found in this subclass (434)
and indented subclasses) there is no means for dividing and maintaining separately
one article from the preceding or succeeding article. The emphasis
in the claimed disclosure of a patent to such a system is in the
manner of forming the stream, or reforming the stream into other
streams. In the unit conveyor (found in subclass 463.1, and indented subclasses)
there is a means for dividing one article from the preceding or
succeeding article and conveying it separately even though a plurality
of articles may be conveyed simultaneously. The emphasis in the
claimed disclosure of the patent in subclasses 463.1+ is
in the individuality of each of the plural articles, rather than
in the plurality of the articles. A particular conveyor section
proper as part of a system for subclass 463.1 could be used as a
means for combining or dividing streams and thus be proper as part
of a system for subclass 434. |
| | (3)
Note. If the structure of a patent comprises a conveyor moving
its load against a member that serves to deflect, or guide, or restrain,
or regulate the movement of the load, and if the claimed disclosure
of the patent significantly describes the load as comprising a plurality
of articles, and further significantly describes the function of
the structure as for forming a stream (defined in (1) Note above)
from a source of such articles, or for changing the arrangement
of streams a) from a particular number of streams upstream of the
member to a different number of streams downstream of the member,
or b) from a particular path of stream upstream of the member to
a different path of stream downstream of the member or c) from a
particular space between successive articles upstream of the member
to a different space between successive articles downstream of the member,
in such a disclosure the upstream conveyor will be considered as one
conveyor section and the downstream conveyor will be considered
as a different conveyor section despite the apparent use of one
conveyor element. | |
| | |
| 435 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 434. Apparatus wherein the articles of the succession that are
moved by one conveyor are apportioned among a plurality of second
conveyors, which second conveyors are arranged to be one above another,
and further convey, or temporarily retain and then convey, the apportioned articles.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
| 209, | Classifying, Separating, and Assorting Solids,
subclasses 509+ , for a machine wherein sheets are assorted into
plural receivers in accordance with characteristics of the respective sheets. |
| 270, | Sheet-Material Associating, and see Search Class note below to Class 271. |
| 271, | Sheet Feeding or Delivering,
subclasses 306+ , wherein the sheets to be delivered comprise a
sequence of two or more sheets that are being conveyed one after
the other(s) toward two more receivers, the device being provided
with means for diverting a first of said sheets into a first receiver a
second of said sheets into a second receiver, the sequence continuing until
a sheet is diverted into the last receiver, whereupon the next sheet
of the sequence is diverted into said first receiver and the operation
is repeated. A machine for Class 271, subclasses 306+,
differs from a machine for Class 270, subclasses 58.01+,
in that Class 271, subclasses 306+, provides for the stacking
into plural receivers of sheets from a single or an undetermined
source, whereas Class 270, subclasses 58.01+, provides
for the stacking into plural receivers of sheets from a plurality
of source stacks, the sheets of which are to be collated into a
plurality of finished stacks. See the Search Class notes in the
class definition of Class 271 for further discussion. In this subclass
will also be found a machine which is programmed so that one or
more of the receivers is "skipped" to form special stacks. |
|
| | |
| 436 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 434. Apparatus wherein the purpose of the system is to change
the path of successive articles from a single succession of articles
to at least two successions of articles. |
| | |
| 437 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 436. Apparatus provided with means for detecting a condition
of a conveyor system, or of the load carried by said system, or
of the environment in which the system operates, and provided with
means for regulating or changing the operation of said system, wherein
said regulating means is actuated as a result of the detection of
the condition by said detecting means.
| | (1)
Note. The regulating may be for the purpose of maintaining
the intended operating conditions, as by slight changes on either
side of usual operation. The changing may be for the purpose of altering
or correcting the operating conditions, such as would result from
feedback of undesired operating conditions or discovery of the need
for new or different operating conditions. | |
| | |
| 438 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 436. Apparatus provided with means using a gaseous medium under
sub-atmospheric or above-atmospheric pressure to change the path
of successive articles. |
| | |
| 439 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 436. Apparatus provided with means using lines of magnetic flux
to change the path of successive articles. |
| | |
| 440 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 436. Apparatus provided with a plurality of components that are
connected together and moved in a closed-loop path such that each
component is followed by and preceded by another component and a
part of said closed-loop path coinciding with a part of the path
of one of the successions of articles referred to in the definition
of subclass 436, each component having the function of contacting
one article of a succession thereof, whereby said article will be caused
to partake of movement that is imparted to said component at least
while said paths coincide. |
| | |
| 441 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 440. Apparatus wherein the closed-loop path is a circle, and
the components follow the circular path. |
| | |
| 442 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 436. Apparatus provided with a member that may be positioned
to intersect the line of movement of said single succession of articles
in such manner as to either a) intersect said line or not intersect
said line after passage of successive articles, or b) intersect
said line in a particular relationship to said line, or intersect
said line in a different relationship to said line after passage
of successive articles, whereby to cause at least two successions
of articles to be formed from the single succession of articles. |
| | |
| 443 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 434. Apparatus wherein the purpose of the system is to change
a supply of articles into at least one succession of articles.
| | (1)
Note. The term "quantity source of items" has
been used to refer to a supply consisting of many articles. Thus
it includes a mass of articles having a haphazard or random arrangement,
as well as a supply of plural streams of items as in subclass 448
below. The term does not refer to a single stream from which only
one article can be taken at a time; for disclosure of such a function,
see subclasses 463.1+ below. |
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 463.1+, | and see (1) Note above. |
|
| | |
| 444 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 443. Apparatus provided with means for detecting a condition
of a conveyor system, or of the load carried by said system, or
of the environment in which the system operates, and provided with
means for regulating or changing the operation of said system, wherein
said regulating means is actuated as a result of the detection of
the condition by said detecting means.
| | (1)
Note. The regulating may be for the purpose of maintaining
the intended operating conditions, as by slight changes on either
side of usual operation. The changing may be for the purpose of altering
or correcting the operating conditions, such as would result from
feedback of undesired operating conditions, or discovery of the
need for new or different operating conditions. | |
| | |
| 445 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 443. Apparatus wherein the purpose of the system is to change
a supply of articles into two or more successions of articles. |
| | |
| 446 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 445. Apparatus provided with means to agitate, vibrate, or jog
the successive articles so as to urge the articles into separate
successions of articles, which means is either part of or in addition
to one of the conveyor sections referred to in the definition of
subclass 434. |
| | |
| 447 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 445. Apparatus wherein said articles from said two or more successions
of articles are interspersed to form only one succession of articles.
| | (1)
Note. In this subclass the original source of articles is
usually a random mass of articles. The articles are first arranged into
plural streams, which streams are then rearranged into one stream.
Compare this subclass with subclass 448 wherein the original source
is a plurality of streams. |
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 448, | and see (1) Note above. |
|
| | |
| 448 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 443. Apparatus wherein said supply of articles comprises two
or more successions of articles, and wherein said articles from
said successions are interspersed to form only one succession of articles.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 447, | and see (1) Note therein. |
|
| | |
| 449 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 448. Apparatus provided with a plurality of components that are
connected together and moved in a closed-loop path such that each
component is followed by and preceded by another component, and
a part of said closed-loop path coinciding with a path of one of
the successions of articles referred to in the definition of subclass 443,
each component having the function of contacting one article of
a succession thereof, whereby said article will be caused to partake of
movement that is imparted to said component at least while said
paths coincide. |
| | |
| 450 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 449. Apparatus wherein the closed-loop path is a circle, and
the components follow the circular path. |
| | |
| 451 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 448. Apparatus provided with barrier means that may be inserted
into or removed from the course of movement of each of the successions of
articles, thereby to regulate the passage of articles past the barrier
means of each succession and permit the orderly interspersion of articles
from each of the successions of articles into one said succession
of articles. |
| | |
| 452 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 448. Apparatus provided with a member that may be positioned
to intersect the course of movement of each of the succession of
articles, or not intersect such course of movement, which member
diverts an article from one of such successions when it is caused
to intersect such course of movement. |
| | |
| 453 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 443. Apparatus wherein the supply of articles is a random or
haphazard arrangement, and the apparatus is provided with a passageway between
the supply and the succession of articles to be formed, which passageway
permits the passage of only one article at a time, and the apparatus
includes means for moving articles successively through the passageway.
| | (1)
Note. The article-moving means may be one of the conveyor
sections needed to form a conveyor system, or may be a conveyor
section additional thereto. | |
| | |
| 454 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 453. Apparatus provided with structure additional to said article-moving
means, which additional structure includes a face or area that contacts the
articles passing thereby, and which additional structure is moved
relative to the movement of the article-moving means.
| | (1)
Note. The additional movement may be at right angles to or
in the direction of movement of the stream, but the purpose is to
facilitate passage of single articles in succession. For additional
movement counter to the direction of stream movement (either unidirectional
or vibratory) see subclass 455 indented hereunder. | |
| | |
| 455 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 454. Apparatus wherein the movement of the additional structure
is in a direction opposite to the direction of movement of the succession
of articles.
| | (1)
Note. See (1) Note to subclass 454 for exemplary movements
for this subclass. | |
| | |
| 456 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 434. Apparatus wherein a succession of articles moves along a
path in a particular direction of movement, and wherein the articles
are successively shunted in a direction transverse to, or raised
or lowered with respect to, said particular direction to change
either the path or the direction of movement of the succession of articles.
| | (1)
Note. The movement of the succession of articles after the
transverse shunting can be either a) along a new path that is substantially
parallel to the original particular direction, or b) along a new
path that is transverse to, or inclined relative to, the the original
particular direction, or c) along a new path that is vertical or vertically
inclined. | |
| | |
| 457.01 | To change direction of longitudinally moving stream: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 456. Subject matter wherein the direction of movement of the
succession of articles after they have been successively shunted
is along a new path that is transverse to, or inclined relative
to, the original particular direction of movement.
| | (1)
Note. Included in this subclass is apparatus wherein each
of the articles is successively shunted in a transverse direction, and
each is successively shunted into a new path that is parallel to
the old path, laterally displaced from the old path, and in a direction
reverse to the old path. In brief, each article follows a "U-shaped" path. |
| | (2)
Note. Structure for this subclass includes a first conveyor
for moving articles in a first direction and delivering the articles to
a second conveyor that moves the articles in a different direction.
In such structure the claimed disclosure of the patent is important
to the proper placement of the patent for original and cross-reference
purposes. If the attitude of the successive articles relative to
the conveyors is not significant (i.e., not claimed or particularly
disclosed), the patent disclosing such conveyor structure is properly
placed in this subclass as an original. If the attitude of the successive
articles is significant (e.g., a claim recites a turning of the
conveyor article), the effect of such turning should be considered
for placement. If the turning of the article relative to the conveyors
is such that on the first conveyor a particular face is headed in
the conveyed direction and during turning, and when on the second
conveyor said particular face is still headed in the conveyed direction, then
its attitude relative to its conveyed direction has not been changed;
a patent claiming such "turning" is proper for original
placement in this subclass. If the turning of the article is such
that on the first conveyor a particular face is headed in the conveyed
direction, and if during turning or when on the second conveyor a
different face is headed in the conveyed direction then its attitude
relative to its conveyed direction has been changed; a patent claiming
such turning is proper for original placement in subclasses 373+. | |
| | |
| 457.03 | Item supporting endless belt causes direction change: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 457.01. subject matter wherein the conveyor includes a continuous
band of flexible material (e.g., leather, rubber, fabric) or a continuous band
constructed of links of metal, plastic or similar material and the
band supports the article and causes a change in a direction of
movement of the article. |
| | |
| 457.04 | Item supporting screw causes direction change: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 457.01. Subject matter wherein the conveyor includes a conveying
section comprising a helical surface formation which is rotated
about its longitudinal axis and the surface supports the article
and causes a change in a direction of movement of the article. |
| | |
| 457.06 | Nonsupporting endless belt causes direction change: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 457.01. subject matter wherein the conveyor includes a continuous
band of flexible material or a continuous band constructed of links
of metal, plastic or similar material and the article is supported
independently of the band and the conveyor causes a change in a
direction of movement of the article. |
| | |
| 458 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 456. Apparatus wherein at least two successions of articles move
along a corresponding number of substantially parallel paths in
a particular direction of movement, and wherein the articles of at
least one of said successions are successively shunted in a direction
transverse to said particular direction, whereby the distance between the
successions of articles after the shunting is different from the
distance between the successions before the shunting. |
| | |
| 459.2 | Rotating star wheel: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 459.1. Subject matter wherein a change in the load position is
effected by the engagement of the load with a revolving member having
an alternate arm and recess or having a plurality of radially disposed
fingers. |
| | |
| 459.3 | Rotating screw: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 459.1. Subject matter wherein the change in the article spacing
is effected by a revolving member which turns about its axis and
includes a body of cylindrical form having a plurality of helical or
spiral ribs or threads. |
| | |
| 459.4 | Varying pitch: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 459.3. Subject matter wherein a distance between a point on one
of the threads of the rotating screw and a corresponding point on
an adjacent thread is different. |
| | |
| 459.6 | Movable gate: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 459.1. Subject matter wherein a barrier changes its position into
the conveying path to retard or stop the load and the barrier is
retractable to resume the load position to provide predetermined
longitudinal spacing between the adjacent loads.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 463.4, | for a similar gate. |
|
| | |
| 459.7 | Plural: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 459.6. Subject matter including two or more barriers.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 463.6, | for a similar gate. |
|
| | |
| 459.8 | Endless or rotary conveyor having zone of varying speed: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 459.1. Subject matter wherein a continuous or revolving carrier
includes a load carrying roller or similar element contacting the
loads and changing the relative spacings of the articles by temporarily
increasing or decreasing the rate of motion of the contacted articles. |
| | |
| 460.1 | With space-control means responsive to article sensing
means: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 459.1. Subject matter including means for detecting the presence
or absence, or other condition, of the loads of the succession,
and including means for regulating or changing the operation of
the conveyor to change the distance between the successive loads
as a result of the condition detected by the detecting means. |
| | |
| 460.2 | Variable conveying length conveyor: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 460.1. Subject matter wherein the detecting means automatically
changes the effective carrying distance along the path of travel
to delay or speed up the time of discharge or receipt of the loads. |
| | |
| 460.3 | To crowd or imbricate: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 460.1. Subject matter including means for automatically controlling
the conveyor system for (a) decreasing the spacing between the loads
or (b) overlapping one load partly over the adjacent load in a predetermined
spacing arrangement.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 462.1+, | for crowding or imbricating without a sensor. |
|
| | |
| 461.1 | By successive conveyors having dissimilar speeds: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 459.1. Subject matter wherein a change in the spacing between the
loads is effected during a passage of the loads from one portion
of the carrier to the adjacent portion of the carrier, and the change
is caused by a difference in the rate of movement of the carrier
portions relative to each other. |
| | |
| 461.3 | Belt or chain conveyors only: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 461.2. Subject matter wherein the carriers consist only of continuous
bands of flexible material or continuous bands constructed of links
of metal or plastic or similar material. |
| | |
| 462.1 | To crowd or imbricate articles: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 461.1. Subject matter wherein at least one of the conveyors is
driven at a speed to (a) cause a decreased spacing between the loads
or (b) cause one load to partly overlap the adjacent load in a predetermined
spacing arrangement.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 460.3, | for an article sensing means controlling a crowding
or imbricating. |
|
| | |
| 462.2 | Articles imbricated: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 462.1. Subject matter wherein at least one of the conveyors is
driven at a speed to cause one load to overlap the adjacent load
in a predetermined spacing arrangement. |
| | |
| 463.1 | CONVEYOR SYSTEM FOR MOVING A SPECIFIC LOAD AS A SEPARATE
UNIT: |
| | This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus including at least two conveyor sections cooperating
for the purpose of conveying one portion of material, one article or
one group of articles as a unit separate from other portions or
articles.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 418+, | for plural conveyor sections cooperating to form
a group of items into a unit from a mass or a plurality of sources
of items. |
| 434+, | for plural conveyor sections cooperating to move
articles in a particular continuous arrangement such as a stream
of articles instead of as a separate unit. |
|
| | |
| 463.4 | System includes gate means: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 463.1. Apparatus wherein the system includes a barrier which may
be inserted into or removed from the course of movement of the load
moving along the system to regulate the movement of the load from
one conveyor to another in the system.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 425, | for gates used to form a unit from a stream of articles. |
| 451, | for gates used to merge plural streams into one
stream. |
| 459.1+, | for gates used to space articles in a stream. |
|
| | |
| 464.1 | System includes control means responsive to sensing means: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 463.1. Apparatus wherein the system includes means for detecting
a condition of a conveyor system or of the load carried thereon,
or of the environment in which the system operates and includes
means for regulating or changing the operation of said system in
response to the detecting means. |
| | |
| 466.1 | System includes a T-shaped or headed load suspended between
parallel conveyors directly: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 463.1. Apparatus wherein a load which is so proportioned that with
respect to a major dimension thereof a first portion extending perpendicular to
the dimension at one end thereof is larger then a second portion
extending perpendicular to the dimension at the other end, and wherein the
conveyor section is provided with at least two horizontally spaced
rails or conveyors that the load will move along the conveyor sections with
the first portion above the rails or conveyors and the second portion
hung from the below the rails or conveyors.
| | (1)
Note. Changing the attitude of a load by horizontal spaced
rails or conveyors if found is subclass 389 of this class. | |
| | |
| 467.1 | System includes a rotating screw: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 463.1. Apparatus wherein one of the conveyor sections includes
a member which turns about its axis and has a helical surface which
is shaped to extend radially of and simultaneously advance longitudinally
of said axis whereby the turning member engages the load and advance
it parallel to the axis. |
| | |
| 468.01 | System includes an oscillating or reciprocating load engaging
element: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 463.1. Apparatus wherein one of the conveyor sections comprises
a component which is connected to an actuator that imparts to-and-fro motion
in a path, at least a part of which path coincides with a part of
the path load being conveyed, the component having the function of
contacting the load whereby said load will partake of movement imparted
to said component at lest while said paths coincide. |
| | |
| 468.2 | Comprising load gripping elements: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 468.01. Apparatus wherein the load engaging component positively
holds or attracts the load by friction, or by use of a force field,
or by fluid current.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 750.11, | for reciprocating conveyor section having a reciprocating
gripper. |
|
| | |
| 468.4 | Suction gripping elements: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 468.2. Apparatus wherein the load gripping member comprises a gaseous
medium under subatmospheric pressure to hold the load during conveyance.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 750.12, | for reciprocating conveyor section having a reciprocating
suction gripper. |
|
| | |
| 468.5 | Magnetic or electrostatic gripping elements: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 468.2. Apparatus wherein the load gripping member uses lines of
magnetic flux or an electric force field to hold the load during
conveyance.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 750.13, | for reciprocating conveyor section having a reciprocating
magnetic or electrostatic gripper. |
|
| | |
| 468.6 | Engaging element moves load vertically and horizontally: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 468.01. Apparatus wherein the load compact moves the load simultaneously
in both a raised or lowered position in a plane generally parallel
with the ground.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 750.14, | for reciprocating conveyor section having a reciprocating
surface which carries a load horizontally and vertically for one
cycle only. |
|
| | |
| 468.7 | Element pushes load over nonlinear support: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 468.6. Apparatus wherein the load is supported during conveying
by a separate support with a horizontally and vertically extending
supporting surfaces and the engaging component propels the load
over said supporting surface. |
| | |
| 470.1 | Comprising a load gripping element: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 469.1. Apparatus wherein the load engaging components are mounted
on a rotating or endless drive which holds or attracts the load
by friction or by use of a force field, or by fluid current or wherein
at least one component is used to attract the load by a force field
or fluid pressure difference on a rotating endless conveyor.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 803.3, | for grippers mounted on a single rotary or endless
conveyor. |
|
| | |
| 471.1 | Suction gripping element: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 470.1. Apparatus wherein the load engaging component or attracting
means comprises a gaseous medium under subatmospheric pressure to
hold the load during conveyance.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 689.1, | for conveyor section using suction to enhance friction
between the load and the conveyor. |
| 803.5, | for a conveyor section having suction holders. |
|
| | |
| 472.1 | Magnetic or electrostatic gripping element: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 470.1. Apparatus wherein the load engaging or attracting element
uses lines of magnetic flux or an electric force field to hold the
load during conveyance.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 690.1, | and 691, for conveyor section using magnetic or
electrostatic forces to enhance frictional contact between the load
and the conveyor. |
| 803.6, | for a conveyor section with magnetic or electrostatic
holders. |
|
| | |
| 480.1 | With a load retaining guard means: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 479.1. Apparatus wherein the load is additionally contacted or
guided by a guide or fence which is spaced from the rotating load
drive at a distance sufficient to permit a load to be conveyed by
said drive member as it is pushed over the separate support without
permitting the load to escape therefrom. |
| | |
| 481.1 | With load retaining guard means: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 478.1. Apparatus provided with a guide or fence which is spaced
from the rotating load drive member at a distance sufficient to
permit a load to be conveyed by said driven members without unintended
escape therefrom. |
| | |
| 493 | |
| | This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus wherein a conveying section has means associated
therewith which will a) shift a load on, supply a load to, or remove
a load from the conveying section by contacting the load with a
stream of moving fluid, b) remove detritus or other unwanted material from
the section or some part thereof, c) maintain the cleanliness of
the section, d) place the section or a portion thereof in an aseptic
condition, or e) provide grease, oil, or other lubricant thereto
to facilitate the operation of the section.
| | (1)
Note. Conveyors having cabinets with or without ventilating
means to prevent contamination of the conveyor or its load will
be found herein. |
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
| 15, | Brushing, Scrubbing, and General Cleaning, appropriate subclass, for cleaning implements of
general utility and for cleaning implements specialized for use
on conveyors, but which are not adapted to be mounted on an operating
conveyor. |
| 184, | Lubrication, appropriate subclass, especially
subclasses 15.1+ , for lubricating systems and devices, per se, or combined
with a nominal conveyor. |
| 384, | Bearings,
subclasses 418+ for a bearing and support means for roller elements
which may be used with power conveyors. |
| 406, | Conveyors: Fluid Current,
subclasses 51+ for apparatus by which the load is moved by contact
from a power-driven surface and by a fluid current, either simultaneously
or alternately. |
|
| | |
| 494 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 493. Apparatus wherein the section is provided with means which
is positioned so that it can directly act on the section, or some
part thereof, to remove soil or other unwanted or undesirable material
therefrom.
| | (1)
Note. The cleaning means is structure, in addition to that
which is normally used to discharge the load. This additional structure
may discharge the unwanted material to the same area that the load
is delivered to if the unwanted material is of the same material
as the load. For example, belt conveyors are often provided with
a cleaning implement located immediately downstream of the load
discharge point, which implement strikes off load adhering to the
belt beyond the discharge zone. This adhering load must be removed
as it could have a deleterious effect on the conveyor; however,
such material obviously could be carried along with the discharged
load without contaminating the same. In fact, if the adhering load
was not rejoined with the discharged load, material would be wasted.
In such arrangements, the adhering load is, in fact, rejoined with
the discharged load. | |
| | |
| 495 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 494. Apparatus wherein the means for removing the unwanted material
includes means for contacting the section with a fluid.
| | (1)
Note. Examples of structures to be found herein are a) fluid
spraying nozzles which impinge the section with a stream liquid
or gas to remove undesired material therefrom, as opposed to impinging
means for discharging the load from the conveying section, b) vacuum
applying means relying on the sweeping action of a stream of atmospheric
gas, e.g., air, or c) tanks into which the section dips, or which
carry liquid transferring means which, in turn, contact the section. |
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
| 134, | Cleaning and Liquid Contact With Solids, appropriate subclass, for processes of cleaning,
and for apparatus which clean a work piece by contacting said work
piece with a liquid. |
|
| | |
| 496 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 494. Apparatus wherein the means for removing the undesired material
includes a bristle carrying means which contacts the section, or
a portion thereof, to sweep such material therefrom. |
| | |
| 497 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 494. Apparatus wherein the means for removing the unwanted material
includes a blade-like member which engages some portion of the section, and
which is effective to dislodge such unwanted material therefrom. |
| | |
| 498 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 497. Apparatus wherein means are provided which mount the blade-like
member for movement relative to the section, or section portion,
to effect or facilitate removal of unwanted material therefrom.
| | (1)
Note. Movable conveyor flight cleaners for barn-cleaning
conveyors will be found herein. | |
| | |
| 499 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 497. Apparatus wherein the means for removing the unwanted material
includes means which urge the blade-like member into contact with
the surface to be cleaned. |
| | |
| 500 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 493. Apparatus wherein the section, or some part thereof, has
means providing grease, oil, or some other lubricant thereto, to
promote efficiency in the operation of the section.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 721, | for a pusher-type conveyor having means to facilitate
movement of the load across its supporting surface. |
| 811, | for endless belt-type conveyors provided with means
for forming an air cushion between the belt and its supporting structure
to facilitate movement of the belt. |
|
| | |
| 501 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 500. Apparatus wherein the section is of the troughed belt type
having support structure employing a plurality of drum-like members which
are arranged to contact and deflect the belt into an open channel
shape, and wherein the lubricant providing means communicates with
bearings carried by the drum-like members to insure free turning
of said members.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 824+, | for belt-type conveyors having roller assemblies
for troughing the belt thereof. |
|
| | |
| 502.1 | WITH ALARM OR INDICATOR: |
| | This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter including means for (1), warning an attendant
of an undesirable conveyor operating condition (2), indicating the operating
mode of conveyor (3), indicating dimensions of load or (4), indicating
the position of a moving or recently moved load along a conveying
path.
| | (1)
Note. Specific Conveying functions (orienting articles, grouping
articles, etc.) which are in combination with nominal weighing means
should be classified in the appropriate conveying function subclass
in Class 198. |
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 464.1, | through 464.3, and 571-577, for controls for article
movement on conveyor systems. |
| 464.4, | for conveying systems having indicators for undesirable
conditions. |
| 810.01+, | for the combination of an endless belt and a sensor
for articles, belt damage, belt tracking, or belt tension. |
| 958, | for conveyors in combination with a load unit counter. |
| 959, | for conveyors in combination with weighing. |
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
| 177, | Weighing Scales, and Class 222, Dispensing, for specific weighers
in combination with conveying means. |
| 235, | Registers,
subclasses 98+ or Class 377, subclasses 6+ for conveyors
and article counting means. |
|
| | |
| 506 | |
| | This subclass is indented under the class definition. Device wherein a conveying section is provided with means
which particularizes the section either to gather material scattered
on a stationary-supported surface, e.g., the ground, or to remove
material from a mound or pile of such material located on such a
surface.
| | (1)
Note. The term static support, as used herein, means a surface
that is stationary, or generally stationary, at the time material
is removed therefrom. Thus, a stopped railway car or a moored ship
is considered a static support for purposes of classification in
this subclass. |
| | (2)
Note. Water in a well is not considered to be material scattered
on a stationary support surface, nor is it considered to be a mound
or pile of material. |
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 700, | 702 and 715, for a driven conveyor of the bucket
type which is particularly adapted to convey liquid, and wherein the
source of liquid frequently is an entrapped, stationary body of
water (e.g., a well, etc.). |
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
| 15, | Brushing, Scrubbing, and General Cleaning,
subclasses 78+ , for street cleaners which are loading devices, including
brushes or flexible members to aid in the loading. If the conveyor and
its support only are claimed, or its support only is claimed, and
if it otherwise meets the definition of this class (198), the patent
should be placed in this Class. |
| 37, | Excavating, appropriate subclass, for conveyors particularly
adapted for in situ digging, where the surface of the earth is penetrated.
If no actual digging element, as teeth, wheel, plow, scoop, or
the like, is claimed, and if the conveyor is not particularly adapted
to trench, the patent should be placed in this class (198). If
other provided for operation, e.g., melting snow, are included,
the patent should be placed in Class 37. If the conveyor is useful
to handle loose material, the patent should be placed in this class (198).
If the presence of a wagon to be loaded is essential to the intended operation
of the device, the patent should be placed in either Class 37 or Class
414, Material or Article Handling. |
| 56, | Harvesters, appropriate subclasses, especially 16.4+, 71+,
153+, and 345+, for conveyors combined with other
harvester structure, or for conveyors limited to use on harvesters.
The line between conveyors of the type provided for in
subclass 506 and those provided for in Class 56, which are of
the raking and loading type, is that where tines, prongs, or the
like, are the raking means and the apparatus is particularly designed
for continuous raking up of loose crop material while moving over
a field, or if it can be so used without modification, the patent
is placed in Class 56. |
| 171, | Unearthing Plants or Buried Objects, appropriate subclasses, especially 31+,
63+, 89, 110, 111+, and 138, for excavating and
loading machines of the type having a scoop or rake delivering to
a power-driven conveyor. Class 171 further provides for conveyors
which (1) are used to dig, convey, and separate from the earth desired
objects, (2) are combined with digging or excavating means and function
to separate from the soil flowing from the digging or excavating
means from the desired plant or buried object, or (3) are combined with
an unearthing device and function merely to feed material to or
from such devices. |
| 299, | Mining or In Situ Disintegration of Hard Material,
subclasses 64+ , for hard material disintegrating machines having
material-handling means. |
|
| | |
| 507 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 506. Device wherein the conveying section is provided with means
to regulate the operation of the section, or of some part thereof,
which means includes means to sense a) an undesirable operating
characteristic of the section, or b) a property or characteristic
of the conveyed load.
| | (1)
Note. Undesirable operating characteristics of a conveying
section includes conditions which are potentially dangerous to machine
operators or to those in the vicinity of the machine, or conditions which
might cause damage to the conveying section, or some part thereof. | |
| | |
| 508 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 506. Apparatus wherein the section is provided with means which
enables the section to form a mound of material on a stationary
supporting surface. |
| | |
| 509 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 506. Device wherein the particularizing means for the conveying
section comprises an orbiting progression of load confining receptacles,
each of which intermittently engages material on the static support,
and each of which removes a volumetrically confined discrete load
unit of the material from the support.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 701+, | for bucket conveyors in general, subclass 700, for
bucket members carried by a freely hanging, endless member, and
subclass 715, for flexible pocket conveying members. |
|
| | |
| 510.1 | Power-driven feed means: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 506. Device wherein the particularizing means includes a driven-load
transferring device which is located at the entrance to a conveying section,
and which acts on the material on the static support to compel the
material onto the section.
| | (1)
Note. A feeding means is an apparatus which is structurally
similar to a conveying section, but which assumes an ancillary role
due to its position with respect to the section served. It is present merely
to enhance or improve the operation of the section served. | |
| | |
| 511 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 510.1. Apparatus wherein the power-driven feeding means is mounted
to move in a plane normal to the horizon to any one of a plurality
of desired positions, such that the feeding means will be maintained
in contact with a receding pile of material.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 519, | for a conveyor having means mounting the conveyor
for pile surface attack. |
| 589, | and 592+, for plural power-driven conveyors
with means mounting a section to swing about a generally horizontal
axis. |
| 861.1+, | for a conveyor frame which may be adjustable or
mounted for swinging. |
|
| | |
| 512 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 510.1. Device wherein the particularizing means includes a set
of two load transferring devices which are adapted to be positioned
on opposite sides of the entrance to a conveying section, and which
devices coact with each other to move the material therebetween
and onto the section. |
| | |
| 513 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 512. Device wherein the set of transfer devices includes two
rotating members, each of which has a helical wound load engaging
flight extending around and along its axis of rotation, each flight
being configured to move material in a direction opposite to the
direction of material movement in the other flight so that the material
is fed by both members towards a central delivery point at which
a conveying section is adapted to be located. |
| | |
| 514 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 512. Apparatus wherein each of the load transferring devices
has a material contacting member which is swept across a load support
surface common to both devices to cause the movement of the material
therebetween. |
| | |
| 515 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 514. Apparatus wherein each transfer device includes a plurality
of material contacting members which are moved in a closed path. |
| | |
| 516 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 515. Apparatus wherein the plurality of material contacting members
are secured to, and moved by, a flexible band-like member. |
| | |
| 517 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 510.1. Apparatus wherein the particularizing means includes a plate-like
member which sweeps across the material supporting surface to draw material
towards the conveying section. |
| | |
| 518 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 510.1. Apparatus wherein the particularizing means includes a load
transferring device which turns about an axis of rotation and which
engages and compels the material to move into the entrance of a
conveying section by following a path which is coincident with or
tangent to the path described by the periphery of the rotating device. |
| | |
| 519 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 506. Device wherein the conveying section is provided with means
which enable the section"s conveying member to engage and
to remain in contact with the surface of a mound of loose material
so that the section can continue to remove material from the mound
as its surface recedes. |
| | |
| 520 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 506. Apparatus including a conveying section having a material
contacting member which sweeps across a load-supporting surface,
said section being configured such that it is capable of either
collecting loose bulk material scattered on a supporting surface,
e.g., the ground, or separating the bulk material from a mass of loose
material, e.g., a pile of coal. |
| | |
| 521 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 506. Apparatus wherein the conveying section is a generally channel-shaped
element which is adapted to be rapidly reciprocated to and fro, and
which has a material inlet designed to facilitate removal of the
load from the ground. |
| | |
| 522 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 506. Apparatus wherein the section is provided with means forming
an entrance for the section, which means acts to guide material
from the static support to the section. |
| | |
| 523 | |
| | This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus comprising a conveyor system consisting of at
least one gravity conveyor section and at least one power-driven
conveyor section in any sequence. Devices (e.g., gates, etc.) appurtenant
to either section, or otherwise forming a part of the system, are
included.
| | (1)
Note. "Gravity conveyor section" is a term
embracing structures which support, or guide, or otherwise define
a flow path for material which is moving from one elevation to another
under the influence of gravity. Art terms such as "hopper", "chute",
etc., frequently are indicative of a gravity aspect, but their usage
is sufficiently inconsistent as to be nondefinitive thereof. |
| | (2)
Note. Gravity conveyor sections are of two principal kinds:
(1) gravity discharge material holders (the art term "hopper" occasionally
corresponds), and (2) gravity flow paths (the art term "chute" frequently
corresponds). |
| |
A gravity discharge material holder is primarily a storage
device having a vertically (or predominantly so) downward discharge
path. No specific "bottom" structure need be
claimed as long as it is apparent that material may be supported therein
for an interval somewhat longer than that required for mere passage therethrough,
i.e., that the device is something more than a funnel. If the device
is a holder by these criteria, the claiming of flow-inducing internal
structure (e.g., "downwardly and inwardly sloping sidewalls",
etc.) is irrelevant. |
| |
A gravity flow path is an inclined structure which supports
and/or guides material moving therealong or therethrough under
the influence of gravity. The inclination may vary from just above
the horizontal to vertical, and the structure, often of a trough-like
nature, may be anything from a surface (supporting, but not guiding
the material) to a conduit (which, if vertical, guides, but does
not support). (While the term "gravity flow path" is
not specifically set forth in a subclass title until subclass 560,
structure of this nature appears throughout this and the indented
subclasses.) |
| | (3)
Note. When a gravity discharge material holder serves as
a source of supply for the claimed system, it is more precisely identified
in this and the indented subclasses as a "source of supply
discharging by gravity" (or, more briefly, as a "gravity
source"). This particular usage of a gravity discharge
material holder is provided for in subclasses 540+ below. |
| | (4)
Note. Some material-containing receptacles (usually designated
as a "hopper" or a "bin") found
in this and the indented subclasses are not capable of discharging by
gravity and, therefore, do not constitute gravity conveyor sections
in the sense that gravity discharge material holders do. A power-driven
conveyor section is provided within, or otherwise associated with,
each such receptacle for removing (upwardly or laterally) the material
therefrom. Where such a receptacle and conveyor, identified herein
as a "bin with a power-driven conveyor section for discharging
it", constitutes a source of supply for the claimed system, subclasses
550.01+ provides for the system; however, if it appears
elsewhere in the system, it has only the status of its power-driven
section. |
| |
One other usage of a receptacle appears occasionally in this
and the indented subclasses, namely, as an element for receiving
the material transported by the system. Having neither a capability
for gravity discharge nor a power-driven section for moving the
material therefrom, it is treated as a mere receiver, for which
no classification is provided. As a matter of fact, a receiver
for this and the indented subclasses is not limited to a receptacle,
but can be merely a surface. |
| | (5)
Note. Inasmuch as conveyor systems and sections for the conveying
of articles usually are more adequately and specifically provided
for in certain subclasses above, most of the art in this and the indented
subclasses involves the conveying of bulk-type material (e.g., coal, sand,
etc.). | |
| | |
| 524 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 523. Apparatus wherein the system includes means to sense a condition
(or a change therein) which affects the operation of the system,
and to cause a response thereto by one or more elements of the system. |
| | |
| 525 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 523. Apparatus wherein the system includes means which has an
effect (e.g., starting, maintaining, slowing, stopping, reshaping
(e.g., leveling of bulk material), redirecting, regulating, etc.) upon
the flow of the principal body of material entering, moving through,
or leaving the system.
| | (1)
Note. Usually the means is in the form of an element, member,
device, etc., which is in addition to the conveyor sections; however,
it may comprise a conveyor section, gravity or power-driven which
has a mounting means of the kind whereby the section is adjustable,
provided that the purpose of so mounting the section is to enable
it to affect the flow of material. |
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 537, | for a conveyor system under this heading which may
include means to affect the flow of material which has become separated,
whether purposely or otherwise, from the principal body of material. |
| 633+, | for a conveyor section provided with a passive means,
which means, upon contact of the load therewith, changes the movement
of the load with respect to the section. |
|
| | |
| 526 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 525. Apparatus wherein the flow-affecting means comprises an
element (or series of elements) which moves (e.g., orbitally, rotatably,
etc.) through or within the path of flow from a gravity section
to a power-driven section in timed relation with the movement of
the power-driven section for the purpose of momentarily interfering
with flow along that path at such times no one of the successive
conveying elements (e.g., a bucket) of the power-driven section
is properly positioned to receive the flow.
| | (1)
Note. The means of this subclass (526) frequently is a series
of traveling deflectors, each of which temporarily diverts or interrupts
the flow, and which are more commonly referred to as "gap
closers". While such deflectors may, per se, constitute
a gravity conveyor section (i.e., a gravity flow path), classification herein
does not take into account either the presence or the absence of
such a conveying function. |
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 708, | for a conveyor section of the bucket type wherein
a bucket is provided with structure to close a gap between it and
the next successive bucket. |
|
| | |
| 527 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 526. Apparatus wherein the moving means comprises a power-driven
conveyor section.
| | (1)
Note. The coordinated movement of the power-driven sections
is sometimes utilized to control the duration of flow (e.g., gating),
or to accomplish delivery from one to the other in a particular
manner (e.g., with reduced shock, with less friction-developing
speed differential, etc.). |
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 531, | for a reciprocating, load-supporting element which,
while sometimes identified as a "carrier", and
which may be spaced below the gravity sections, function more in
the nature of a gate than a power-driven conveyor section. |
|
| | |
| 528 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 525. Apparatus wherein the flow-affecting means comprises an
adjustable (e.g., repositionable) gravity section (e.g., a pivotably-mounted gravity
flow path) which is moved (raised) from an inclined, discharging
attitude to a less inclined (e.g., horizontal), nondischarging attitude
and back (lowered), by a power- driven conveyor which passes beneath
the gravity section in a discharge-receiving relationship. The shifting
is caused by the engagement of a conveying element (e.g., a bucket)
or other component of the power-driven section with the nonpower-driven
section or an attachment thereto, and the result is an interruption
of the flow of material whenever no one of the conveying elements
is in a proper position to receive same.
| | (1)
Note. The structures of this subclass frequently include
additional means to affect the volume of flow, usually by controlling
its duration. |
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 533, | for a flow-affecting means under this heading wherein
a power- driven section may intermittently contact a gravity section,
but wherein the purpose is to encourage flow on or in that section rather
than to cause the flow to begin or cease as in this subclass. |
|
| | |
| 529 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 525. Apparatus wherein the flow-affecting means comprises structure
whereby an element of a power-driven section is so engaged and/or moved
(e.g., opened, tilted, etc.) as to initiate removal of the section"s
load.
| | (1)
Note. In the case of a power-driven section of the bucket
type, which type of section appears frequently in this subclass,
the structure usually is of one or the other of two kinds; (1)
the bucket is movably mounted with respect to its carrier and a
member is provided to cause movement of the bucket (or a guiding/restraining
member is terminated to permit movement of the bucket by gravity), relative
to the carrier, into a dumping attitude, or (2) one or more portions
of the bucket are movable with respect to the remainder thereof
to throw open the load-confining region of the bucket. On the other
hand, the mere passage of a bucket around a sprocket into an inverted,
load-discharging attitude is not sufficient for this subclass. |
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 525, | for flow-affecting means under this heading which
may involve a means to effect the removal of a load from a conveying
element of a power-driven section, but which removal-affecting means
does not manipulate the conveying element. |
|
| | |
| 530 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 525. Apparatus wherein the flow-affecting means comprises an
adjustably-mounted element which can be moved into or out of position
in which it blocks the flow path of a conveyor section.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 534, | for a flow-affecting means under this heading comprising
structure which interferes with, or otherwise restricts, but does
not close off the flow path. |
| 535, | for a flow-affecting means under this heading involving
a gravity conveyor section which has means to reposition it, and
wherein the flow of material over or through the section may be slowed
or stopped by such repositioning. |
|
| | |
| 531 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 530. Apparatus wherein the element is associated with a gravity
conveyor section and is shifted from one position to the other as
the result of the movement of a conveying element of a power-driven
section into a position to receive the flow which results from the
shifting of the element. The element may be shifted by direct contact
with the conveying element or some other portion of the power-driven
section, or the shifting of the element and the movement of the
conveying element may be coordinated otherwise (e.g., geared drive,
etc.).
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 526, | for a conveyor system under this heading having
a moving flow-control means which is coordinated with a power-driven
section, and which means may be in the nature of a traveling gate
(e.g., an apertured endless apron, an apertured rotary disc, etc.). |
| 703+, | for a conveyor section of the bucket type wherein
means is provided to facilitate the loading or the unloading of
a bucket. |
|
| | |
| 532 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 530. Apparatus wherein the element is located adjacent the discharge
opening of a gravity discharge material holder. While such an opening often
is located in a horizontal plane, and therefore has a vertical discharge
path, the opening can be any one from which the discharge path is
at least as nearly vertical as it is horizontal.
| | (1)
Note. The element may be located in a spout (i.e., a gravity
flow path) which is attached to the holder and depends from the
discharge opening thereof. |
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 531, | for a gate under this heading which may be of the
type found in this subclass (532), but wherein its operation is
coordinated with that of a power-driven section. |
|
| | |
| 533 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 525. Apparatus wherein the flow-affecting means comprises a device,
mechanism, element, etc., to impart additional energy to the load
for the purpose of assisting its movement through the system.
| | (1)
Note. The device, etc., may be located within a section and
in direct contact with the load therein (e.g., to prevent "bridging"),
or it may act upon a section exteriorly thereof. |
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 537, | for a conveyor system under this heading which includes
means to handle a portion of the load which becomes separated from
the main flow path, which means may involve an auxiliary flow path
having a device, etc., for agitating, etc. |
| 752+, | for a power-driven conveyor section which moves
in a vibrator manner, but wherein that movement constitutes the
principal conveying force upon the load. |
|
| | |
| 534 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 525. Apparatus wherein the flow-affecting means comprises structure
which is clearly intended to interfere with, or otherwise restrict,
but not to close off the movement of a load, or a portion thereof,
along or within a flow path.
| | (1)
Note. In the instance of an article-type load, yieldable
(elastic, pivotable, etc.) elements frequently are utilized to slow or
to even the flow, whereas, in the case of bulk material, the restricting
structure often is of a kind which levels, or otherwise configures
the cross-section of a moving load. |
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 525, | for related structure, but wherein the effect thereof
upon the movement of a load is not expressly related to retarding
its velocity or reducing its volume. |
| 530+, | for related structure, but which has the capability
of, and is intended to be used at some time for, closing off the flow
path. |
|
| | |
| 535 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 525. Apparatus wherein the flow-affecting means comprises the
adjustable (e.g., movable, repositionable, etc.) mounting of one
or more of the conveyor sections for the purpose of altering the
flow of material in such respects as direction, velocity (e.g.,
varying the inclination of a gravity flow path), etc.
| | (1)
Note. This subclass includes a gravity system wherein the
first section of the system is adjustable for the purpose of receiving,
at alternative locations, material from a source outside of the
claimed system. |
| | (2)
Note. The adjustability requirement of this subclass is satisfied
by a section which is adjustable only in part. |
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 360+, | for a conveyor arrangement for selecting among plural
sources or plural destinations and wherein the selecting means comprises
a movable mounted gravity section. |
| 526, | for a flow-affecting means under this heading which
frequently includes traveling deflector elements which may, in themselves,
perform in the nature of momentary gravity flow paths, but wherein
no attempt is made, for purposes of classification, to account for
the presence of such a function. |
| 528, | for a flow-affecting means under this heading which
includes an adjustable gravity section. |
| 533, | for a flow-affecting means under this heading which
comprises an agitator, etc., and wherein a conveyor section may
be adjustable to the extent necessary to cooperate with the agitator. |
| 538, | for a conveyor system under this heading wherein
one or more of the conveyor sections is repositionable for a nonoperative
purpose (e.g., storage, transport, etc.). |
| 586+, | for a conveyor system which comprises plural power-drive
conveyor sections and wherein the sections are relatively adjustable. |
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
| 222, | Dispensing,
subclass 166 , for a dispenser having a supply container which
is tiltable for the purpose of dispensing by gravity. |
|
| | |
| 536 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 535. Apparatus wherein the adjustable section, or at least one
of them, if plural, is the last section of the system.
| | (1)
Note. The purpose of the adjustment ordinarily is to change
the locus of the point at which work is discharged from the system,
and the adjustment frequently comprises pivotablity in one or more
planes. | |
| | |
| 537 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 523. Apparatus wherein the system includes means pertaining to
the handling of a portion or component of the load which becomes
separated from the flow path of the principal portion of the load.
| | (1)
Note. The portion which becomes separated may be, for example,
bulk material which inadvertently escapes from the principal flow
path by overflow, spillage, etc., or it may be foreign material
on articles (e.g., the husk on an ear of corn) which is encouraged
to leave the main flow path. In the first instance, the means usually
involves structure whereby the separated portion is returned to
the flow path of the principal portion, whereas in the second case,
the means may take the form of an exit path from the system. |
| | (2)
Note. The separated portion also may comprise a portion which
is shunted to an auxiliary path for return to the main supply and
eventual recirculation. |
| | (3)
Note. While the means of this subclass may itself comprise
an additional conveyor system or an element thereof, it is not intended
that a patent of this subclass be additionally classified elsewhere
on the basis of that system or element thereof. |
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 494+, | for a conveyor section having a means to clean it.
In some instances, a separate flow path is provided for the material
removed by the cleaning means, which material may be residue from
the conveyed load. |
| 580, | for a conveyor system involving plural power-driven
conveyor sections, and wherein a portion of the load is recycled
in a closed path. |
|
| | |
| 538 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 523. Apparatus wherein the system includes means whereby one
or more of the conveyor sections are adjustable (e.g., repositionable)
relative to one another for a reason having to do with a nonoperative
mode of the system (e.g., for placing the system in a condition
for being stored or being moved to another location, for moving
a component to a nontraffic-obstructing position, etc.); in general,
this subclass involves structure whereby the system may be made
more compact.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 528, | and 535+, for other conveyor systems under
this heading having sections which are adjustable, but wherein the adjusting
is for the purpose of affecting the flow of material in the system. |
| 586+, | for a conveyor system which comprises plural power-drive
sections and wherein the sections are relatively adjustable. |
| 632, | for a conveyor section which is foldable to facilitate
storage or transportation. |
| 861.1+, | for a conveyor section having a frame which is adjustable. |
|
| | |
| 539 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 523. Apparatus wherein the system includes a member which serves
to support the load as it moves, under the influence of a previously-acquired
momentum, from one conveyor section to another.
| | (1)
Note. The member may take the form of a horizontal planar
surface; however, a platform which serves only as depository for
the load after it has departed from the system is not subject matter
for this subclass. |
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 600, | for a conveyor system having plural power-driven
conveyor sections and involving load-supporting structure which
functions in a similar manner. |
|
| | |
| 540 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 523. Apparatus wherein the system comprises a gravity discharge
material holder, which serves as a source of supply for the system,
and a power-driven section downstream thereof. Additional conveyor
sections, either gravity or power-driven, may be present downstream
of the holder, either in one of the sequences specifically provided
for in the subclasses indented hereunder, or in some other sequence.
| | (1)
Note. Some systems which have a source of supply present
a close case as to whether the source constitutes a "gravity
discharge material holder" for this and the indented subclasses,
or a "bin with a power-driven conveyor for discharging
it" for subclasses 550.01+ below (see the explanatory
material which appears in subclass 523).
| |
If the material leaves the source in a vertically (or predominantly
so) downward path solely by gravity, these subclasses (540+)
are involved. If the material is moved from the source only by
the operation of the power-driven section, subclasses 550.01+ are
proper. |
| |
If the source is claimed as "overlying the conveyor",
or the conveyor is claimed as being "below the source" -
despite the absence of a showing of such a separation - gravity
flow is presumed to exist. |
| |
The disclosure may be helpful in resolving borderline situations;
for instance, a statement to the effect that "the material drops
onto the power-driven section" is presumptive of the existence
of gravity flow. If the situation remains doubtful, then the doubt
should be resolved in favor of the existence of gravity flow for this
and the indented subclasses. | | |
| | |
| 541 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 540. Apparatus wherein the system includes at least one more
gravity section between the gravity discharge material holder and
the discharge-receiving, power-driven section. |
| | |
| 542 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 541. Apparatus wherein the system includes at least one additional
power-driven section immediately following the discharge-receiving,
power-driven section. |
| | |
| 543 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 540. Apparatus wherein the system includes at least one more
power-driven section immediately following the discharge-receiving,
power-driven section. |
| | |
| 544 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 543. Apparatus wherein the successive power-driven section is
a conveyor of the apron type. |
| | |
| 545 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 543. Apparatus wherein the successive power-driven section is
a conveyor of the screw type. |
| | |
| 546 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 540. Apparatus wherein the system includes at least one gravity
section immediately following the discharge-receiving, power-driven
section. |
| | |
| 547 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 540. Apparatus wherein the discharge-receiving, power-driven
section is a conveyor of the apron type. |
| | |
| 548 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 540. Apparatus wherein the discharge-receiving, power-driven
section is a conveyor of the screw type. |
| | |
| 549 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 540. Apparatus wherein the discharge-receiving, power-driven
section is a conveyor of the endless belt type. |
| | |
| 550.01 | Bin having a power-driven conveyor section for discharging
or feeding discharge to a gravity or power-driven section: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 523. Apparatus wherein the system comprises a receptacle (e.g.,
bin, tank, etc.) with a power-driven conveyor section for discharging
it, which receptacle serves as a source of supply for the system,
or the power-driven discharge feeds the discharge to additional
conveyor section either of the power-driven or gravity type.
| | (1)
Note. This and the indented subclasses provide for a specific
use of the type of conveyor section designated as "a bin with
a power-driven conveyor section for discharging it", as
discussed more fully in subclasses 523 and 540 above. These subclasses
(550.01+) are the only areas within this heading wherein
a receptacle and conveyor arrangement of this nature is accorded,
for purposes of classification, any status other than that of its
power-driven section, per se. |
| | (2)
Note. An elevating conveyor, having at its lower end structure,
forming a "boot" from which the conveyor picks
up material, usually is an example of a bin with a power-driven
conveyor for discharging it. However, such is not the case in the event
that structure of the boot is claimed in such a manner (e.g., "a
forwardly and downwardly sloping rear wall leading to the path of
the buckets", etc.) that its function as a gravity flow path
cannot be ignored; in this situation, the two devices present a
system comprised of a nonpower-driven conveyor section (gravity
flow path) feeding to a power- driven section. |
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 453, | for a conveying system for queueing items from a
quantity source onto another conveyor of the system through a throat
for restricting the flow of massed items. |
|
| | |
| 550.2 | Having adjustable bin or discharge means: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 550.01. Apparatus the receptacle is movable relative to power-driven
discharge means or the power-driven discharge means is movable relative
to the receptacle for the purpose of changing the position of one
relative to the other.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 861.1, | for an adjustable conveyor frame or casing. |
|
| | |
| 550.6 | Of the screw type: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 550.5. Apparatus wherein the power-driven section, which immediately
receives the discharge provided by the power-driven receptacle discharge means
consists of a rotating section having a load engaging portion which
is in the form of a helical surface. |
| | |
| 550.7 | Of the bucket type: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 550.5. Apparatus wherein the power-driven section, which immediately
receives the discharge provided by the power-driven receptacle discharge means
is a holder having a pocket formed thereon for retaining the discharge. |
| | |
| 550.8 | Of the scraper type: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 550.5. Apparatus wherein the power-driven section, which immediately
receives the discharge means, is a conveyor having a blade-like
member mounted thereon to facilitate movement of the discharge. |
| | |
| 550.9 | Of the apron type: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 550.5. Apparatus wherein the power-driven section, which immediately
receives the discharge provided by the power-driven discharge means
is an endless belt. |
| | |
| 560 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 523. Apparatus wherein the system comprises three or more conveyor
sections, the first three sections of which are, in sequence, power-driven, gravity
and power-driven.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 554, | for a conveyor system under this heading having
the same sequence of power-driven and gravity sections, but wherein
the first power-driven section is a means for discharging a bin, which
bin and power-driven section constitute a source of supply for the system. |
| 561, | for a conveyor system under this heading having
a gravity section located between two runs of plural-run, power-driven
section. |
| 563, | for a conveyor system under this heading having
gravity and power-driven sections in a sequence which is the reverse
of that of this subclass (560). |
|
| | |
| 561 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 560. Apparatus wherein the system comprises a gravity section
which is fed by one run of a plural-run, power- driven section,
and which then feeds to another run of that section. |
| | |
| 562 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 523. Apparatus wherein the system comprises a gravity section
of the gravity flow path type feeding to a power-driven section.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 540, | for a conveyor system under this heading having
the same sequence of gravity and power-driven sections, but wherein
the gravity section is a gravity discharge material holder which
is the source of supply for the system. |
|
| | |
| 563 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 562. Apparatus wherein the system includes another gravity section,
which can be either a gravity discharge material holder or a gravity
flow path, immediately following the power-driven section.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 546, | for a conveyor system under this heading having
the same sequence of gravity and power-driven sections, but wherein
the first gravity section is a gravity discharge material holder which
is the source of supply for the system. |
|
| | |
| 564 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 562. Apparatus wherein the power-driven section is a conveyor
of the thrower type. |
| | |
| 565 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 562. Apparatus wherein there are two or more gravity sections
upstream of the power-driven section, at least the first of which
gravity sections is a gravity flow path.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 541, | for a conveyor system under this heading having
the same sequence of gravity and power-driven sections, but where
the first section is a gravity discharge material holder which is
the source of supply for the system. |
|
| | |
| 566 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 562. Apparatus wherein there are two or more power-driven sections
downstream of the gravity flow path. |
| | |
| 567 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 566. Apparatus wherein the power-driven sections are arranged
serially with respect to one another.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 543, | for a conveyor system under this heading having
the same sequence of gravity and power-driven sections, but wherein
the gravity section is a gravity discharge material holder which
is the source of supply for the system. |
|
| | |
| 568 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 523. Apparatus wherein there are two or more power-driven sections
upstream of the gravity section.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 550.01, | for a conveyor system under this heading having
the same sequence of gravity and power-driven sections, but wherein
the first power-driven section is a means for discharging a bin, which
bin and power-driven section constitute a source of supply for the system. |
|
| | |
| 569 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 523. Apparatus wherein there are two or more gravity sections
downstream of the power-driven section.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 553, | for a conveyor system under this heading having
the same sequence of gravity and power-driven sections, but wherein
the power-driven section is a means for discharging a bin, which bin
and power-driven section constitute a source of supply for the system. |
|
| | |
| 570 | |
| | This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus including either (a) conveyors on separate conveying
paths, or (b) conveyors which transfer a load from one to another.
| | (1)
Note. The following arrangements are not considered systems
with plural conveyors: (a) sets of reciprocating members tandemly
disposed along the load conveying path, members of adjacent sets
being interdigitated, and the load being supported on, and advance
by, the sets successively, (b) two or more members which are fixedly
secured to a single reciprocating means, such as a pressure actuated
ram, and which push articles or bulk material supported on the same
surface or on different surfaces, and (c) plural reciprocating means,
such as rakes, which positioned in side by side relation, are not
rigidly connected together, and are arranged to cooperate in pushing
a mass of articles or bulk material supported on a surface without separating
means between the articles or bulk material. |
| | (2)
Note. Includes here as a system of plural conveyors is an
arrangement wherein reciprocating members are driven by a single
powered means (e.g., a crankshaft), and are not fixedly connected together
if said members push articles or bulk material supported in separated relation
on the same surface or on different surfaces (e.g., cans in spaced-apart-troughs,
or rows of cans supported on the same surface, but separated by
a partition). |
| | (3)
Note. Not included here as a system of plural conveyors is
a first conveyor which is located above a second conveyor and which
engages a portion of the load carried by said second conveyor and
moves it backward (e.g., a doffing roller situated above an endless
belt and rotating in a direction opposite to movement of the latter). |
| | (4)
Note. Included in this subclass are systems of conveyors
such as endless belts placed side by side, with one belt carrying
cans, and another belt carrying can covers, to workers at a can
assembly area. |
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 497, | for conveyors having cleaning scrapers which are
provided with auxiliary conveyors for transporting removed detritus
away from the main conveyor. |
| 620+, | for plural conveyors which coact by gripping a load
therebetween, and which do not transfer the load from one to another. |
| 793+, | for pallets, carriages, or the like, which move
around an endless path to convey loads supported thereon, plural
drive means being spaced along said path for moving said load-conveying
means. |
| 817, | for plural endless belts disposed side by side and
jointly supporting the same load. |
|
| | |
| 571 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 570. Apparatus including means for influencing the operation
of a conveyor in response to (a) a change in operation of the conveying
system, (b) presence or absence of the load at a point on its normal
path of travel, or (c) a characteristic of the load. |
| | |
| 572 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 571. Apparatus wherein the operation influencing means responds
to things recited in either section (b) or section (c) of said subclass.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 505, | for a system of plural conveyors in which the operation
of a conveyor is controlled by means responsive to the weight of
the load. |
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
| 53, | Package Making,
subclasses 52+ , for package making apparatus having operation
control means responsive to a condition of a package or its contents. |
|
| | |
| 573 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 572. Apparatus wherein the operation influencing means responds
to an undesirable accumulation of load at a point on its travel
path. |
| | |
| 574 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 570. Apparatus wherein a first conveyor is mounted on and moves
with a second conveyor that engages the same or a different load.
| | (1)
Note. Conveying sections merely supported on movable or repositionable mounts
will not be found herein, unless such a mount is an identifiable
conveying section which engages a load. | |
| | |
| 575 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 570. Apparatus including means for influencing the operating
mode of one conveyor with respect to the operating mode(s) of one
or more additional conveyors for the purpose of establishing or
modifying a particular relationship between the operating modes
of the several conveying sections. |
| | |
| 576 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 570. Apparatus wherein conveyors that sequentially carry the
same load are synchronized in operation.
| | (1)
Note. Examples of plural conveyors included here are endless
belts having load-supporting platforms spaced therealong and revolving
in timed relation so that a platform on one belt is positioned to
receive a load dropped from a platform on the other belt as the
latter passes around an end support roller, or an endless belt that
is mechanically linked with the drive of a reciprocating conveyor
so that the belt moves only when the reciprocating conveyor is moving
in the direction that advances load to said belt. | |
| | |
| 577 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 570. Apparatus including means for changing the speed of, stopping,
or reversing the movement of a conveyor. |
| | |
| 578 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 570. Apparatus including means for cyclically swinging a pivotally
mounted conveyor of the conveying system.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 631.1+, | for a single conveyor that repetitively swings back
and forth. |
|
| | |
| 579 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 570. Apparatus wherein one of the conveyors moves the load faster
than another. |
| | |
| 580 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 570. Apparatus wherein at least a portion of the load is conveyed
in a loop-like path.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 560, | for a conveyor system involving a gravity conveyor
section having means to handle a portion of the load which becomes
separated from the main flow path, and wherein the separated portion
may comprise a portion which is shunted to an auxiliary path for
return to the main supply and eventual recirculation. |
|
| | |
| 581 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 570. Apparatus including a conveyor, the support frame of which
comprises hinged sections that can be swung together to provide
a compact configuration of said conveyor for storage or transport.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 632+, | for a single conveyor section having means whereby
it may be folded intermediate its ends. |
|
| | |
| 582 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 570. Apparatus provided with a receptacle for storing load to
be conveyed by the system.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 550.01+, | for conveying systems having a bin feeding a power-driven
section. |
|
| | |
| 583 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 570. Apparatus having means which facilitates adding a conveyor
to, or removing a conveyor from, the system. |
| | |
| 584 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 583. Apparatus wherein a conveyor can be added to the system
so that it is movable relative to another conveyor of said system. |
| | |
| 585 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 570. Apparatus including an endless belt, the upper conveying
reach of which has its travel direction twice reversed to form an
S-shaped path therein, and a conveyor receiving a load dropped from
said belt when the latter reverses its travel direction at the uppermost
loop of said S-shaped path.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 812, | for a tripper movable along and endless belt conveyor
to vary the conveying length of the latter. |
|
| | |
| 586 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 570. Apparatus wherein one conveyor of the system is repositionable
relative to another by moving either the entire conveyor or only
a portion thereof.
| | (1)
Note. Included here is a system having means for moving the
support frame of a first conveyor so that said first conveyor lifts
a load from a second conveyor, said first conveyor then being operated
to convey said load. A specific example is a swingable frame that
carries an endless belt, said frame being moved upward relative
to power-driven rollers so that the endless belt lifts a load from
said rollers, and said endless belt then moving said load by its
orbital motion. |
| | (2)
Note. If coacting conveyors which grip a load therebetween
are classifiable as plural conveyors (either because a load is transferred
between the coacting conveyors, or because a load is transferred between
such conveyors and another conveyor not coacting therewith), a claimed
arrangement for moving one of the coacting conveyors relative to another
is classifiable in this subclass or an indent thereof. | |
| | |
| 587 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 586. Apparatus wherein a conveyor is mounted for pivotal movement
about an axis generally perpendicular to the ground.
| | (1)
Note. Included here is a vibratory conveyor including two
platforms which swing relative to each other and which are connected
by moving drive links or gears for transmitting the motion of one platform
to the other. The subclass also includes a vibratory conveyor having
(a) two platforms which are connected together for relative swinging
motion by a pin fixed on one platform and extending into an aperture
on the other platform, and (b) a third platform which is mounted
on one of the swingably connected platforms so that it can be extended
or retracted relative thereto while the conveyor is operating.
The subclass does not include a vibratory conveyor meeting only
the requirement of section (a) of the preceding sentence. | |
| | |
| 588 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 587. Apparatus including means for changing the length of the
path over which the load is conveyed.
| | (1)
Note. Included here are (a) conveyors movable relative to
each other so that one conveyor can discharge the load at different
points along the available path of load travel on the other conveyor,
and (b) plural conveyors, at least one of which includes means for
varying its conveying length (e.g., and endless belt conveyor having
a belt storage loop that can be shortened while the length of the belt
conveying reach is increased during operation of the conveyor, or
an endless belt conveyor provided with means for facilitating the
addition or removal of links or panel sections of its loop when the
conveyor is not operating). |
| | (2)
Note. A vibratory conveyor is included here if it includes
two platforms which successively carry the load, and which can be
shifted relative to each other, while the conveyor is operating,
to thereby change the length of the conveying path. This subclass
does not include a vibratory conveyor having two platforms which
successively carry the load, and which can only be shifted relative
to each other while the conveyor is not operating (e.g., a vibratory
trough consisting of two sections that can be fixedly connected
together by means of bolts, or the like, with different overlapping
of adjacent end portions of said sections). See subclasses 752.1+. |
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 812, | for an endless belt conveyor having means for varying
its conveying length. |
|
| | |
| 589 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 587. Apparatus wherein a conveyor is mounted for pivotal movement
about an axis generally parallel with the ground. |
| | |
| 590 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 587. Apparatus including side-walls respectively disposed on
opposite sides of the conveying path and arranged to move or flex
when a conveyor is laterally pivoted relative to an adjacent conveyor. |
| | |
| 591 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 587. Apparatus wherein the swingable conveyor is supported or
guided in its movement by an arcuate, static means, such as curved
track or curved guide slot cooperating with means mounted on the
free end of the support frame of said conveyor. |
| | |
| 592 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 586. Apparatus wherein a conveyor is mounted for pivotal movement
about an axis generally parallel with the ground. |
| | |
| 593 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 592. Apparatus wherein the system is provided with a cable, chain,
or other flexible means having one end secured to the swingable
conveyor, and its other end secured to a winding reel. |
| | |
| 594 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 586. Apparatus including means for changing the length of the
path over which the load is conveyed.
| | (1)
Note. Included here are the types of conveying systems described
in (1) Note and (2) Note of subclass 588 as includible in that subclass
(if laterally swingable). |
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 812, | for an endless belt conveyor having means for varying
its conveying length. |
|
| | |
| 595 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 594. Apparatus including a plurality of platforms, each having
a concave shape transversely of the conveying path so that opposite
side portions of said platforms rise above their central section,
said platforms being fitted one within another and being movable
relative to each other longitudinally of said conveying path to thereby
vary the length thereof. |
| | |
| 596 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 595. Apparatus including gripping blocks mounted in pairs on
one of said platforms for releasably engaging opposed friction surfaces
on another of said platforms to permit (a) movement of the two platforms
as a unit when said gripping blocks engage said friction surfaces,
and (b) movement of the two platforms relative to each other when
said gripping blocks are disengaged from said friction surfaces. |
| | |
| 597 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 570. Apparatus including a first conveyor for moving a load in
a first direction, and a second conveyor for moving said load, while
it rests on said first conveyor, in a direction transverse to said
first direction.
| | (1)
Note. Included here is the combination of a conveyor and
means for shifting a load laterally of said conveyor by magnetic
force exerted against said load. |
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 370.07, | through 370.09, 370.1, 370.11 through 370.13, for
a conveyor arrangement for selecting among plural sources or destinations
and involving a power-driven means for moving a load from or to
a conveyor section |
| 717+, | for conveying means of the pusher type. |
|
| | |
| 598 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 597. Apparatus wherein said second conveyor has orbital motion,
or turns about an axis.
| | (1)
Note. Included here are belts, rollers, swingable arms, or
other like means which move a load transversely of a conveyor supporting
the same. | |
| | |
| 599 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 570. Apparatus wherein a load is moved relative to a conveyor
by a nonpowered means, such as a fixed guide rail or a freely revolving
endless belt moved only by contact with the load. |
| | |
| 600 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 570. Apparatus including passive support means on which the load
moves or sits when it is not on a conveyor (e.g., freely rotating
rollers or a side platform positioned between the ends of two driven
belts for supporting a load as it moves between the belts).
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 539, | for a conveyor system having a gravity conveyor
section and involving load-supporting structure which functions
in a similar manner. |
|
| | |
| 601 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 570. Apparatus wherein the load is fed from one conveying path
to plural conveying paths, or vice versa. |
| | |
| 602 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 570. Apparatus including only one travel path for the load. |
| | |
| 603 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 602. Apparatus including a plurality of conveyors disposed one
above another and alternately carrying a load in opposite directions
as it is elevated or lowered. |
| | |
| 604 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 602. Apparatus including at least two conveyors which cooperate
to grip the load therebetween and thereby move it.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 606+, | for plural endless belts, at least one of which
is disposed adjacent idler rollers or other passive means, the load engaging
both the belt conveyor and said passive means as it travels therebetween. |
| 620+, | for a plurality of conveyors which move a load by
engaging it therebetween. |
|
| | |
| 605 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 604. Apparatus wherein the load is carried on a first conveyor
before the latter enters a zone of coaction with a second conveyor,
and wherein the load is transferred to said second conveyor and
carried thereby after it leaves said zone. |
| | |
| 606 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 602. Apparatus including at least two conveyors, each consisting
of, or including as part of its structure, an endless loop.
| | (1)
Note. Examples of plural conveyors included here are (a)
endless belts that directly support a load on their upper surfaces,
and (b) endless belts, each carrying other elements, such as buckets
or platforms, which support the load. | |
| | |
| 607 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 606. Apparatus wherein the elevation of the load is changed as
it is moved by one of said conveyors. |
| | |
| 608 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 602. Apparatus including at least two conveyors, each comprising
a body that spins about an axis passing therethrough.
| | (1)
Note. Included here are (a) rotating wheels, each having
a plurality of buckets or platforms mounted on its periphery, (b)
rotating disks which carry the load on their upwardly facing planar
surfaces, or (c) screws rotating about their longitudinal axes. |
| | (2)
Note. Included here as a system with plural conveyors are
screws which successively convey a load and which are driven by
a single power source, a first screw being connected to said power source,
and a second screw being coupled to said first screw only by gears which
transmit driving force therebetween. |
| | (3)
Note. This subclass includes power-driven rollers arranged
in separate groups clearly recognizable as forming separate portions
of a load conveying path (e.g., one line of rollers disposed perpendicular
to another line of rollers, or two lines of rollers having another type
of conveyor therebetween). But the subclass does not include power-driven rollers
arranged in a single line, even where the rollers are rotated by
separate drive means. See subclasses 780+. |
| | (4)
Note. Included here is a rotatable shaft carrying (a) a helical
surface or screw, and (b) one or more radially projecting vanes
that impel a load radially away from said shaft after the load has
been moved to said vane, or vanes, by said helical surface. |
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 662+, | for screw conveyors having plural helical surfaces,
particularly subclasses 625+, for coating helical surfaces
on parallel axes, and subclass 666, for helical surfaces coupled
end to end. |
| 780+, | for power-driven rolls arranged in an uninterrupted
sequence to form a single unbranched conveying path. |
|
| | |
| 609 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 602. Apparatus including at least two conveyors, each of which
moves to-and-fro with high frequency and low amplitude of motion.
| | (1)
Note. Included here is a vibratory conveying means formed
of plural platforms which successively carry the load and which
are connected by moving drive links or gears for transmitting to-and-fro motion
of one platform to the next. The subclass does not include a vibratory conveying
means formed of plural platforms fixedly connected together. | |
| | |
| 610 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 602. Apparatus including different kinds of conveyors (e.g.,
an endless belt and a star wheel). |
| | |
| 611 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 610. Apparatus including a conveyor comprising a body that spins
about an axis passing therethrough.
| | (1)
Note. Included here are (a) a rotating wheel having a plurality
of buckets or platforms mounted on its periphery, (b) a rotating
disk carrying the load on its upwardly facing planar surface, and
(c) a screw rotating about its longitudinal axis. |
| | (2)
Note. Included in this subclass is a conveyor comprising
an endless belt and a roller that supports said belt at a point where
it reverses travel direction, the belt or means connected thereto,
such as buckets, discharging the load onto the roller while passing
around the latter. | |
| | |
| 612 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 611. Apparatus wherein said spinning body has mounted on its
periphery a distinct means, such as a blade, bucket, spike, or pocket,
which positively engages the load to ensure its movement along the
conveying path.
| | (1)
Note. Included here is a conveying system comprising (a)
a rotating member, such as a disk, having buckets spaced about its
periphery, and (b) an endless belt also having buckets spaced apart thereon. | |
| | |
| 613 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 612. Apparatus wherein the peripherally mounted means move relative
to said spinning body to thereby disengage from the load.
| | (1)
Note. The structures to be found herein include, for example,
a conveyor having a screw and retracting fingers mounted for rotation
on the same cylindrical body. | |
| | |
| 614 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 611. Apparatus including a conveyor that moves to-and-fro with
low frequency and high amplitude of motion.
| | (1)
Note. Included here as a reciprocating conveyor is a load-carrying
strip, each end of which is attached to a winding reel, said strip
being moved in opposite directions between the reels by alternately
changing their direction of rotation. | |
| | |
| 615 | |
| | This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus (A) adapted to be rearranged to perform different
functions, or (B) adapted to be altered so as to operate in a different
way or change its function in some way by (1) the steps of disassembling
the apparatus in some major portion and then reassembling the apparatus
with the same or different portion, (2) the step of disassembling
some major portion from the apparatus, or (3) the step of assembling some
major portion to the apparatus.
| | (1)
Note. Conversion features are common in this art. A mere
preamble in a claim to the effect that a device is convertible or
is a conversion attachment is generally not enough for classification
under this definition. The conversion feature should be spelled
out as by (a) specifically claiming one embodiment of an apparatus
having a first function and claiming with second conversion functions,
or (b) repeated functional statements in the claim. Where no other suitable
classification exists, a broad mention of conversion may be enough for
classification under this definition. |
| | (2)
Note. The change in the apparatus must be more than merely
placing a part in one of a series of adjacent holes, or, in general,
making a change which amounts to only an adjustment or minor alteration
in the overall functioning of the device. |
| | (3)
Note. The change must be more than to change a part between
an operative and an inoperative position. |
| | (4)
Note. When the conversion consists of the assembly of a part,
the claim must recite some element of the combination which has
little or no utility when the part is in the combination, but is
useful when the part is absent from the combination. |
| | (5)
Note. A part which is disassembled and reversed to present
a new wearing surface is included under this definition. | |
| | |
| 617 | |
| | This subclass is indented under the class definition. Method, , of conveying a load or load portion from one place
to another.
| | (1)
Note. Only those patents which contain method claims which
are susceptible to being practiced by a plurality of different devices,
or which are drawn to functions not provided for above, should be
placed herein, either on an original or cross-reference basis. Those
patents containing method claims which are limited to the operation
of a single above-provided-for apparatus will be found in the appropriate
apparatus subclass. |
| | (2)
Note. See any appropriate subclass above for a process patent
having apparatus or other limitations sufficient to warrant placement
therein. | |
| | |
| 618 | |
| | This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus wherein an element or an assemblage of elements
acts in a unitary fashion to support and cause movement of a load
of material along a predetermined path from a source to a destination
which lie with a distance between one and the other.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 860.1, | for conveyor frame or casing structure claiming
only that means which supports or encloses only a "conveyor", "conveyor
means", "elevator conveyor", etc. |
|
| | |
| 619 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 618. Apparatus wherein the load is moved, at least in part, as
a result of its reaction with a moving electron, ion, or magnetic
field and not necessarily to any extent by a power-driven surface means
which may act as a support for said load. |
| | |
| 620 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 618. Apparatus having at least two power-driven conveyor sections
which cooperate to engage the load between said sections and thereby cause
the load to be moved in a given direction.
| | (1)
Note. A conveyor section is considered to be power-driven
if it is motivated by any power means including another power-driven
conveyor section if the first section has parts which directly contact
the second section from which motion is obtained. The load cannot constitute
a power transmission means. |
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 570+, | for conveyor systems having plural conveyor sections
which may cooperate to grip and move a load, but which, in addition
thereto, as a conveyor system, begin the movement of the load by
one of the sections, and complete the movement of the load by another
of the sections. |
| 604, | for a system of conveying sections having coacting
conveying elements defining a load path therebetween. |
| 625+, | for coacting parallel screw conveyors. |
| 635, | for plural conveyor sections which engage the load
simultaneously, but wherein one of said sections acts to skim off
and reverse the direction of the skimmed off portion to that direction
which a cooperating conveyor section causes said load to move. |
| 721, | for pusher conveyors having a movable surface upon
which the load is supported. |
| 817, | for plural endless belt conveyors which cooperate
to support a load set across them. |
| 819, | for trough-shaped carrier belts having edges which
may be brought together to enclose a load. |
|
| | |
| 621.1 | Reciprocating member: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 620. Subject matter wherein one of the power-driven conveyor
sections engages the load with a back and forth motion as it cooperates
with another power-driven conveyor section. |
| | |
| 621.3 | Load support member lifted by supporting eccentric cam
or rotating crank drive: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 621.1. Subject matter wherein an element directly holding the load
is raised from a lower to a higher position by a revolving or oscillating mechanical
device having its axis of rotation displaced from its center or
by a revolving link having an axis of rotation at one end and a
pivotal connection to the material holding means adjacent to its
opposite end.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 774.3, | for a similar lifting means used in an alternately-acting
load support member. |
|
| | |
| 622 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 620. Apparatus wherein two or more of said power-driven conveyors
sections, which simultaneously cooperate to move the load, form
a couple to move the load, but wherein each member of the couple,
if acting independently, would tend to move the load in opposite
directions.
| | (1)
Note. The driven conveyor member which moves opposite to
the direction of motion of the conveyed load contacts a portion
of the load being conveyed and strips off or throws back the stripped portion
of the load. |
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 635, | for static means which scrape or smooth out the
surface of the load being conveyed. |
| 688.1, | for means which engage a free surface of the load
to bias the load to the conveying means for greater friction engagement
therewith. |
| 836, | for endless conveyors having broadly means independent
of the carrier designed to prevent accidental removal of the load
from the carrier. |
|
| | |
| 623 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 620. Apparatus wherein two or more of said power-driven conveyor
sections, which simultaneously cooperate to move the load, form
a couple whose members move relatively in terms of velocity.
| | (1)
Note. A conveyor couple whose members converge to gradually
grip the load between them are not considered to have relative motion
in terms of direction. See other appropriate subclasses, such as subclasses
620+. | |
| | |
| 624 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 620. Apparatus wherein two or more of said power-driven conveyor
sections, which simultaneously cooperate to move the load, form
a couple, wherein at least two of the sections forming the couple
are adapted to rotate continuously about their own axes, and wherein
the load, when being conveyed, is in such a position that it is
traversed by a line which extends between the axes of the rotating
conveyor section. |
| | |
| 625 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 624. Apparatus wherein the rotating sections each have a load-engaging
portion which is in the form of a helical surface.
| | (1)
Note. The sections, more often than not are parallel, and
the helical surfaces usually are spaced apart, although intermeshing
of the surfaces sometimes is found where the load consists of bulk material. |
| | (2)
Note. The helical surfaces may, or may not, be identical
insofar as concerns characteristics such as pitch, diameter, hand,
or speed or direction of rotation. |
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 663, | for plural helical surfaces which act together in
forming an underlying support for an article-type load, but wherein
no portion of that load extends downwardly into intersecting relationship
with a line drawn between the axes of two adjacent helical surfaces. |
|
| | |
| 626.1 | Opposed endless belts: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 620. Subject matter wherein the load is engaged on opposite sides
by oppositely facing endless belts which apply forces normal to
the belt faces to the intermediate load.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 793+, | for plural endless conveyors with individual load
supports supporting the same load. |
| 817, | for plural endless belts supporting a load on their
upper surfaces. |
|
| | |
| 629 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 618. Apparatus comprising (1) a single driven conveyor means
which acts through successive stages to move the load in a plurality
of recognized different conveying actions, or (2) a plurality of
unlike driven conveying sections which cooperate to act simultaneously
to move the load.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 570+, | for plural conveyor sections which act consecutively
to move the load. |
| 620+, | for plural conveyors which simultaneously engage
the load between them. |
| 817, | for plural endless belt conveyors which cooperate
to support a load set across them. |
|
| | |
| 630 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 618. Apparatus comprising flexible sheet or tubular material
which is fixed against lateral movement and upon which the load
to be conveyed is placed, and having means to cause a ripple, wave
or raised portion to be developed on the surface of said material,
and to move across said surface so that as said ripple contacts
said load the load is caused to move across said surface. |
| | |
| 632 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 618. Apparatus wherein the conveyor section is adapted to be
folded or to be angulated between its extremities to facilitate
transportation or storage thereof, at which time it has no load
conveying capacity. |
| | |
| 633 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 618. Apparatus wherein the conveyor section has either (a) a
means associated therewith which in its operative position presents
a nonload-supporting means which may be engaged by, or engages,
the load as it is moved by said section to stop, slow or cause the
load to be manipulated or deflected from the path of movement imparted
only by said conveyor section; or (b) a means movable to a position
where it will cause the load moved only by the conveyor section
to be removed and supported from the influence of said section for
the purpose of stopping the motion of the load, and which then may
subsequently return the load to the conveyor section for continued
conveyance thereby.
| | (1)
Note. This subclass includes those patents claiming a single
conveyor section and having a load deflector means which is movable
from and to operative position, or is adjustable to various operative positions.
When it is clear from the claimed disclosure that the function
of the deflector is to increase or decrease the number of streams
or to ultimately select the load destination, etc., see subclasses
above., e.g., 348+, 418+, 434+. See
(3) Note for subclass 434. |
| | (2)
Note. This subclass also includes patents having means which
may be placed in the path of the conveyed load to check the load
against movement counter to its intended direction. |
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 456+, | for a conveyor system having means to laterally
shift the load on one or more of the conveying elements of the system. |
| 530+, | for gravity conveyors combined with power-driven
conveyors and having gate means to stop the movement of the load
thereon. |
| 534, | for flow-restricting structure in a system comprising
a gravity conveyor and a power-driven conveyor, which structure
may be a means to change the movement of the load for this or an
indented subclass. |
| 599, | for a system of plural conveyors combined with a
passive member that deflects a load from the travel direction imparted
thereto by one of said conveyors. |
| 836, | for endless conveyor sections having passive load
retainer means associated therewith which simply holds the load against
falling from the belt or moving relative to the belt. |
|
| | |
| 634 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 633. Apparatus wherein the nonconveying means is moved into its
operative position to engage the load, independent of movement of
the load conveying means, by a means activated either responsive
to a sensed condition which may or may not exist, or to an independent
or conveyor-controlled timing means. |
| | |
| 635 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 633. Apparatus wherein the nonconveying means engages a portion
of the conveyed load to remove said engaged portion from the conveyor;
to hold the engaged portion against movement by the conveyor; or
to deflect the engaged portion of the load in a direction other than
that imparted by the conveyor.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 534, | for means which engages and retards the movement
of a load conveyed by a conveyor system which includes a gravity
conveyor section. |
| 637, | for passive means which causes the entire load carried
by the conveyor to discharge therefrom upon contact with said passive
means. |
| 836, | for guard means separate from an endless belt conveyor
designed to prevent the load from falling off the belt. |
| 953, | and in particular subclass 622, for conveyors having
associated power-driven means which may contact part of the load
conveyed to move that portion of the load conveyed relative to the
load not contacted by the driven means. |
|
| | |
| 636 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 633. Apparatus having a passive means associated with the conveyor
and which may be located relative to the conveyor which, when engaged by
the conveyed load, or a portion thereof, will cause such load to
be moved transversely of the moving conveyor surface.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 367, | for a conveyor system having a member adapted to
be placed athwart the path of movement of a conveyed load to select
the source or destination of said load. |
| 836, | for endless conveyor means having a load retainer
or guide separate from said means designed to maintain the conveyed
load on the conveyor means. |
|
| | |
| 637 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 636. Apparatus wherein said associated means causes said load,
or a portion thereof, to move away from the influence of the conveyor
section. |
| | |
| 638 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 618. Apparatus which projects material to be conveyed by, first
exerting a force on said material to move the same, and then causing
said force to be released from said material, whereby said material
will be projected and continue to move unsupported, in a trajectory,
over a horizontal distance.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 564, | for a conveyor system having a gravity section and
a power-driven section, and wherein the latter section is of the
thrower type. |
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
| 34, | Drying and Gas or Vapor Contact With Solids,
subclass 58 , for devices subjecting material to centrifugal force
when the function disclosed is that of treating the material. |
| 209, | Classifying, Separating, and Assorting Solids,
subclass 642 , for methods and means for projecting material through
space associated with means for separately collecting the articles
or components of the material which takes different paths. |
| 222, | Dispensing,
subclasses 251+ , for device combined with containers or specifically
adapted for use with containers, and comprising means acting in
addition to, or against, gravity for either removing material from
a container, or which move or tend to cause material to move, to
or through a container outlet. |
| 239, | Fluid Sprinkling, Spraying, and Diffusing,
subclasses 214+ , for a fluid distributor comprising a slinger, splasher
or deflector rotated relative to the affluent fluid, and subclasses 650+,
for devices having means for holding a supply of material other than
a fluid or slurry, and means for strewing such material over an extended
area on a surface. |
| 241, | Solid Material Comminution or Disintegration,
subclass 5 , subclasses 39+ and subclass 275, for
comminutors including means to throw the material. |
| 406, | Conveyors: Fluid Current,
subclass 71 for a rotary thrower combined with a fluid current
conveyor. |
| 414, | Material or Article Handling,
subclasses 174+ and 193+ for a heating chamber combined
with a charging device of the thrower type. |
|
| | |
| 639 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 638. Apparatus having (1) means to sense a condition surrounding
the thrower and means responsive to said sensing means to cause
a change in the operating condition of the conveyor, or (2) means
to sense a particular condition which may, or may not, exist relative
to the conveyor itself, such as speed, overload, motor temperature,
etc., and means responsive to said sensing means to act to change
the operating condition of the conveyor. |
| | |
| 640 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 638. Apparatus having means positionable in the path of the impelled
material to control its path after leaving the influence of the
throwing mechanism. |
| | |
| 641 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 638. Apparatus having means actuatable to control the speed or
the horizontal or vertical angle of the conveying mechanism so that
the horizontal distance or angle of discharge of the conveyed material
may be varied.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 523+, | for conveyors having means to throw a material to
be conveyed in combination with gravity conveyor means which support
said material before and/or after it has been thrown. |
|
| | |
| 642 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 638. Apparatus having means which revolves about an axis, and
in doing so, projects material to be conveyed so that it will assume
a trajectory as a result of it having contacted said revolving means.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
| 222, | Dispensing,
subclasses 410+ , for dispensers having a rotary discharge assistant. |
| 414, | Material or Article Handling,
subclass 195 for a heating chamber combined with a charging
device of the rotary thrower type. |
|
| | |
| 643 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 618. Apparatus comprising an endless member (i.e., chainlike,
smooth or braided cored-like strand or belt) which is driven over
sheaves or pulleys so that at least a portion of said endless member
dips into the fluid to be lifted and lifts said fluid by mere cohesion
of said liquid to said member, and means whereby the fluid may be removed
from said member at the desired elevation.
| | (1)
Note. These devices are sometimes called "pumps",
perhaps on the basis that they move a viscous fluid from one elevation
to another. However, any development of kinetic energy is not a
factor. The function of these devices is merely to move a viscous
fluid from one place to another. |
| | (2)
Note. The fluid may be removed from the member by passing
said member around a pulley. |
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
| 415, | Rotary Kinetic Fluid Motors or Pumps,
subclass 90 , for rotary pumps or motors having a bladeless
surface wherein transfer of energy between the runner and the fluid
which it contacts is the result of friction in the area of contact
of said runner and said fluid. |
| 416, | Fluid Reaction Surfaces (i.e., Impellers),
subclass 4 , for rotatable skin friction type fluid engaging
impellers or rotors. |
| 417, | Pumps, for expansible chamber type pumps. |
|
| | |
| 644 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 618. Apparatus which is particularly adapted to convey signatures
of printers or bookbinders, usually on an inverted V support.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 717+, | for pusher conveyors which comprise a load-supporting
surface over which the load is moved by a power-driven means which
engages and moves the load, but does not support the load. |
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
| 112, | Sewing,
subclasses 21+ , for book sewing machines having feeding devices
for signatures. |
| 227, | Elongated-Member-Driving Apparatus,
subclasses 99+ , for a device for feeding signatures and applying
a member, e.g., staple, thereto. |
| 270, | Sheet-Material Associating, particularly
subclasses 52.01+ , for conveyors combined with means to associate
or disassociate signatures. |
|
| | |
| 657 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 618. Apparatus wherein the conveyor section comprises a helical
surface formation which is rotated about its longitudinal axis.
| | (1)
Note. Screw conveyors which move articles frequently do so
by providing a moving "floor" across which an
article is propelled by virtue of resting thereupon (i.e., as in
subclass 663), whereas a screw conveyor which moves bulk material
functions in the nature of a pusher-type conveyor section. |
| | (2)
Note. A screw conveyor which moves bulk material usually
is provided with a housing (conduit, trough, etc.) which forms a
load support surface; however, the housing is sometimes dispensed
with (e.g., a screw conveyor immersed in a bin of material may rely
upon the material which surrounds its flow path for the confinement
otherwise achieved by the use of a housing). |
| | (3)
Note. Usually the helical surface formation includes a core,
within which lies the longitudinal axis of the formation, and which
core is utilized to transmit a driving force to the conveyor section; however,
the so-called "coreless" type of helical surface
formation (examples of which appear in subclass 676) is characterized
by the absence of a central structure. |
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 625, | for plural screw type conveyor sections which coact
to engage and move a load therebetween. |
| 642, | for a thrower type conveyor section of the rotary
kind wherein the impelling surfaces may be comprised of helical surfaces
or segments thereof. |
| 666+, | for connections between housings of successive helical
surfaces when those connections correspond with connections between
the helical surfaces. |
| 717+, | for another kind of conveyor section wherein a load
is pushed over a load-supporting surface, but wherein the pushing
means is other than a helical surface rotating about its axis. |
| 778, | for a spiral type conveyor section wherein the load-supporting
surface spiralling defines a path for the load. |
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
| 105, | Railway Rolling Stock,
subclass 48.1 , for a railway locomotive having a combustion chamber
and a screw conveyor, which conveyor feeds solid fuel to the chamber. |
| 366, | Agitating,
subclasses 156.1+ for a mixing chamber with a feed means therefor,
and wherein a screw conveyor is provided in a feeder or supply reservoir
for agitating material therein; and subclasses 318+ for
a stationary mixing chamber having a rotatable stirrer of the screw
type, and see particularly the subclasses indented thereunder for
specific kinds of screw structure. |
| 406, | Conveyors: Fluid Current,
subclasses 53+ for a screw conveyor combined with a fluid current
conveyor. |
| 416, | Fluid Reaction Surfaces (i.e., Impellers),
subclasses 176+ , for a fluid impeller having a working surface
in the form of a spiral. |
|
| | |
| 658 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 657. Apparatus wherein the helical surface formation extends
from or is integral with the inner surface of a rotatable tubular
member.
| | (1)
Note. Included herein is, for example, a device wherein (a)
the helical configuration extends across the diameter of the tubular
member, (b) the helical configuration is formed from a plurality
of members extending radially inward toward the axis of rotation,
and (c) the helical configuration is formed by the inner surface
of the hollow tubular member. | |
| | |
| 659 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 657. Apparatus wherein the conveyor section structure includes
a component, the shape of which is subject to change during the
operation of the conveyor, or may be changed to establish a shape
whereby said component can be accommodated as an operative part
of a conveyor. |
| | |
| 660 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 657. Apparatus wherein the conveyor section comprises one or
more helical surface formations, at least one of which can be moved
in a direction parallel to its axis of rotation.
| | (1)
Note. Typical of the movement found here is the repositioning
of a helical surface with respect to its housing, or of one helical
surface with respect to another. |
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 629, | for a conveyor section which moves a load by a plurality
of different conveying actions (e.g., a helical surface which is
rotated and, in addition, reciprocated). |
| 659, | for a flexible helical surface which has one portion
which is movable relative to another portion (e.g., a helical surface
which may be lengthened by stretching it). |
|
| | |
| 661 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 657. Apparatus wherein the conveyor section comprises one or
more helical surface formations and which, by virtue of a changing
pitch, diameter (overall or core), number of threads, etc., has
a capacity which varies along its length. |
| | |
| 662 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 657. Apparatus wherein there are a plurality of helical surface
formations. |
| | |
| 663 | |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 662. Apparatus wherein the helical surface formations comprise
laterally spaced members which form an underlying support for an
article-type load, the load continuously contacting at least two
of the members.
| | (1)
Note. Movement of the load may be in a direction parallel
to the longitudinal axes of the members, or may be diagonally thereof.
In the absence of an axial component of movement, however, consideration
should be given as to whether the members do not more nearly comprise one
of the types of rolls provided for in subclasses 780+. |
| | (2)
Note. Confinement of the movement of the load to the axial
direction usually is accomplished by either (a) the provision of
an external guide as an abutment for some portion of the load, or
(b) the use, in more or less equal number, of oppositely rotating,
opposite-handed, helical surfaces. |
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 625, | for plural helical surfaces which act together upon
a load, and wherein at least a portion of the load is so located as
to be intersected by a line drawn between the axes of two of the
helical surfaces. |
|
| | |
| 664 | Transversing less than 360 degrees |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 662. Apparatus wherein the plural helical surface formations
comprise a plurality of coaxial elements, each of which has formed
thereon a working surface which extends for less than 360o about
the common axis.
| | (1)
Note. The working surface of an individual element may itself
be a segment of a helical surface, or it may be planar in nature;
in the latter instance, however, the elements are arranged along
the axis in such a manner as to form a helical path. |
| | (2)
Note. In the instance of those elements which have a working
surface which is a segment of a helical surface, the elements may
abut one another in such a manner that the individual surfaces form a
continuous helical surface. |
| | (3)
Note. The structures of this subclass commonly provide means
to attach the elements to a member (e.g., a shaft) which extends
along the common axis. |
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
| 141, | Fluent Material Handling, With Receiver or Receiver
Coacting Means,
subclass 73 , for a collection of packing augers wherein blade-like members
on a shaft are utilized to move and/or pack fluent material
into a receiver. |
|
| | |
| 665 | And reversible |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 664. Apparatus wherein means is provided to join the elements
to the shaft in such a manner that the angular relationship of the
elements to the longitudinal axis of the shaft can be reversed for
the purpose of changing the direction of thrust of the surfaces. |
| | |
| 666 | Coupled end-to-end |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 662. Apparatus wherein the plural helical surface formations
are coupled one to another in an end to end relationship.
| | (1)
Note. The coupling usually is of a disconnectable or otherwise
separable nature, but may comprise a permanent union. |
| | (2)
Note. If each surface is formed upon a shaft, it is sufficient
that the shafts be coupled end to end, in which event there may
be--especially in the instance of an intermediate bearing or an
intermediate drive--a brief discontinuity. In turn, it is frequently
the practice to utilize one or more short helical surface portions
to fill in a discontinuity of this nature. |
| | (3)
Note. This and the indented subclasses usually involve also
the corresponding connection between any housing members which may
be present. |
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 602+, | for a conveyor system having plural, power-driven
sections arranged in a single flow path. |
|
| | |
| 667 | With intermediate drive |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 666. Apparatus wherein the coupled formations are driven by way
of a member (gear, pulley, sprocket wheel, etc.) which is located
between the formations at, or in the vicinity of, the coupling.
| | (1)
Note. When the surfaces are provided with housing members,
a means to seal the spaced, confronting ends of the latter usually
is involved. | |
| | |
| 668 | Pivotably |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 666. Apparatus wherein the coupled formations are pivotably related
one to another (e.g., the coupling is a universal joint). |
| | |
| 669 | Of opposite hand |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 662. Apparatus wherein the plural helical surface formations
comprise at least one formation of a right-handed thread and at
least one formation of a left-handed thread, which formations generate
flow paths which either approach, or recede from, each other. |
| | |
| 674 | Including drive means |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 657. Apparatus provided with means to rotate the helical surface
formation.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 667, | for drive means located between coupled helical
surfaces. |
|
| | |
| 676 | Helical surface formation structure |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 657. Apparatus involving structural aspects of a helical surface
formation.
| | (1)
Note. This subclass is concerned primarily with those aspects
which show most readily in a sectional view taken at 90° to the
working portion of the helical surface (e.g., the configuration
of the surface, its angular relationship with its axis of rotation,
its internal structure, etc.). | |
| | |
| 677 | With means for securing helical surface formation to driving member |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 657. Apparatus wherein means is provided for attaching a helical
surface formation to a driving member, which member usually is in
the form of a shaft located in the axis of rotation of the formation.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 664+, | for plural helical surface formations in the nature
of a plurality of coaxial elements, which structures commonly provide
means for securing the elements thereof to a driving shaft. |
|
| | |
| 678.1 | Endless conveyor having means for suspending load: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 618. Subject matter wherein the conveying means comprises a hanger
from which the load is suspended, said hanger being supported above
the location where the load engages the hanger by a support means
which is either (1) a track or guide means along which said hanger
is caused to move by an endless drive means, or (2) an endless means
which both supports and moves said hanger.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 463.1+, | for conveying systems having at least one article
suspending conveyor. |
| 793+, | for load holding designs for a unit load conveyor
having an endless or rotating path of travel where the load may
be suspended also. |
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
| 104, | Railways, for suspending conveyors having rail supported,
power and free, suspending trolleys. |
| 452, | Butchering,
subclasses 177+ and 187+ for endless hooks limited for
use in the butchering art. |
|
| | |
| 679 | Magnetic means |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 678.1. Apparatus wherein the conveyed load, or the hanger means
supporting the load, is maintained in engagement with the drive
means by magnetic means.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 690, | for conveyors having magnetic means used to enhance
the frictional engagement between the conveyor and its load. |
|
| | |
| 680 | Means engagable with hanger to change hanger position relative to drive means or to release load |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 678. Apparatus having a hanger means which comprises relatively
movable parts or is movable relative to the support means, in addition
to its conveying motion, and having means to engage and cause movement
of said part of said hanger means relative to said support means
to cause the suspended load to change position relative to the support
means as it is being conveyed, or to cause the load to be disengaged
from said hanger or released from the grip of the hanger so that
said load may be removed from said hanger. |
| | |
| 681 | Load directly suspended from means spanning between parallel drive means |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 678. Apparatus having a plurality of substantially parallel guide
or track support means along each of which an articulated drive
means is adapted to move in parallel fashion with respect to the
other, and means supported by and spanning the space between said
drive means from which a load may be suspended.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 817, | for endless strip-like belts arranged to move parallel
to and spaced from one another, and having load engaging and supporting
elements extending transversely of and spanning the gap between
the belts. |
|
| | |
| 687.1 | Separable conveyor portion: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 678.1. Subject matter wherein the load is supported upon a reusable
carrier which engages a load at a point below the location of engagement
of the load carrier by its drive means from which it is disengageable.
| | (1)
Note. The drive means may drive the load carrier by either
frictional or positive drive means. | |
| | |
| 689.1 | Suction: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 688.1. Apparatus having means to reduce below ambient the air pressure
between the load and the power-driven conveying surface means and thereby
enhance the frictional engagement between the load and the conveying
means.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 471.1, | for conveyor systems using suction to enhance the
frictional contact between the load and the conveyor. |
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
| 271, | Sheet Feeding or Delivering and 414, Material
or Article Handling, appropriate subclass for suction conveyors used
to stack or unstack articles. |
|
| | |
| 690.1 | Magnetic: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 688.1. Apparatus having lines of magnetic flux which cause the
load to adhere to the power-driven conveyor.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 472.1, | for conveyors systems using magnetic forces to enhance
frictional contact between the load and the conveyor. |
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
| 271, | Sheet Feeding or Delivering and 414, Material
or Article Handling, appropriate subclass for magnetic conveyors used
to stack or unstack articles. |
|
| | |
| 691 | Electrostatic |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 688.1. Apparatus wherein the natural slippage between the load
and the conveyor means is reduced because of the effect of electrical polarization
of the load and the conveying means. |
| | |
| 692 | Impaling |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 688.1. Apparatus wherein the means which causes the conveyed load
to adhere to the conveying means is a sharp spike-like member carried
by the conveying means on which the load may be stuck or which pierces
into the load to convey the load.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 620+, | for means wherein a load is conveyed between separately
moving surfaces, which surfaces may be provided with means to impale
the load. |
| 638+, | for conveying means which throw a load into a free
flight trajectory and which means may impale the load prior to throwing
it. |
| 717+, | for conveyors comprising a load-supporting surface
and a pusher where-in the pushing member may impale the load being
pushed thereby. |
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
| 19, | Textiles: Fiber Preparation,
subclasses 67+ , for such devices to carry fibrous material to
a textile machine. |
| 118, | Coating Apparatus,
subclass 31 , for confection holders, per se, and subclass 502,
for impaling-type work holders for use in a coating operation. |
| 221, | Article Dispensing,
subclasses 213+ , for article dispensers not elsewhere provided
for using impaling means to engage and carry articles from a source
of supply to a point of discharge. |
| 406, | Conveyors: Fluid Current,
subclass 81 for a fluid current conveyor fed by an endless
belt conveyor having load impalers. |
|
| | |
| 697 | Load-engaging belt having separate load-impelling, projecting member swingably mounted thereon |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 688.1. Apparatus comprising an endless belt, the outer face of
which contacts the load, and a separately formed means hinged to
the belt and protruding therefrom in at least one position thereof
for the purpose of exerting a positive propelling force on the load
(e.g., a belt having mounted thereon a slat or lug swingable between
a load-propelling position extending outwardly from the belt face
and a retracted position lying flat against the belt face). |
| | |
| 698 | Load-engaging belt having load-impelling, projecting cross members (e.g., slat, etc.) joined thereto by mechanical fastening means |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 688.1. Apparatus comprising an endless belt, the outer face of
which contacts the load, and a separately formed means secured to
and protruding from the belt for the purpose of exerting a positive-propelling
force on the load, said means extending substantially across the
belt face and a separate screw, pin, rivet, tongue and groove connection,
or other mechanical fastening means securing it to said face. |
| | |
| 699 | Belt formed of a continuous member of flexible sheet-type material (e.g., canvas, etc.) |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 698. Apparatus wherein the belt is formed of a flexible, continuous
strip of monofilament, composition or laminated sheet material.
| | (1)
Note. Included here is a longitudinally slitted tubular slat
that is attached to a conveyor belt by means of (1) a looped portion
of said belt which extends through the slit in said slat, and (2)
a rod or tube that is positioned within said belt loop to press
it firmly against the inner surface of said slat. | |
| | |
| 700 | Single suspended loop |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 618. Apparatus comprising an endless carrier means in the form
of a freely suspended loop whereby a carrier-supported load may
be raised or lowered.
| | (1)
Note. The loop may or may not be weighted. | |
| | |
| 701 | Bucket |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 618. Apparatus wherein the load-engaging and conveying part comprises
structure in the form of a bucket which either (1) completely enclosed and
moves the load as a unit or in noncommunicating segments, or (2)
is substantially cup or trough shaped, or is a variation thereof,
and has means to vertically support the load with cooperating sidewall
surface means surrounding the load to hold the load against movement
in any lateral direction while being conveyed; said part either
forms a part of, or is connected to, endless means whereby said
load conveying part is moved over an endless path.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 509, | for bucket conveyors having means specialized to
gather a load from a pile of material (e.g., by means whereby the
conveyor support may be moved relative to a pile of material so that
the bucket may dig into and remove material from the pile, etc.). |
| 715, | for conveyors having flexible pocket means in which
a load may be placed for conveyance, but which pocket means does
not have wall means completely surrounding the load. |
| 793+, | for conveyors having surface means to provide vertical
support for a unit load. These surfaces may be provided with guard
means or other means movable therewith to prevent lateral movement
of the load from said surface, but will not have wall means completely
surrounding said surface as in subclasses 701+. |
| 819, | for trough-shaped endless conveyors which can be
made to completely enclose the load, and, in so doing, form a continuous
tubular conveyor having no means to compartmentalize the load along
the longitudinal axis of the conveyor. |
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
| 406, | Conveyors: Fluid Current,
subclass 81 for a fluid current conveyor fed by an endless
conveyor having buckets. |
|
| | |
| 702 | To convey liquid |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 701. Apparatus wherein it is particularly intended that the bucket
means convey a load in the liquid state. |
| | |
| 703 | Having means to facilitate loading or discharging load from bucket |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 701. Apparatus having particular means whereby the bucket may
be loaded or unloaded more readily, including: means adapted to
coact with the load in the bucket to assist in the loading or unloading
operation; means to give the bucket a particular direction, motion,
or path; by particularly designing or constructing the bucket for
that purpose; or means controlling the flow of fluid to or from
the bucket.
| | (1)
Note. Patents having a mere end sheave over which the bucket
passes to thereby invert the same so the load is caused to drop
from the bucket are not included herein. However, patents providing sheave
means in addition to the end sheave means to cause the bucket to travel
a particular path which will facilitate a more complete or particularly directed
load discharging or loading operation will be found in this and indented
subclasses. |
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 526+, | for a conveyor system having a gravity conveyor
section and including a moving (e.g., traveling) flow control means
which is coordinated with a power-driven section (often of the bucket
type) for the purpose of interrupting the flow of material when
no one of the conveying elements of the latter section is in a proper
position to receive the flow. |
| 702, | for bucket conveyors for conveying liquid and having
means whereby the liquid may be removed therefrom. |
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
| 414, | Material or Article Handling,
subclasses 334+ for a moving, wheeled, load-transporting type vehicle
(e.g., a bucket having track-engaging wheels for supporting it,
and attached to an endless element for traction purposes) and a
portable loading or unloading device therefor, the device being
supported at least in part independently of the vehicle and traveling
with the vehicle during the transfer of a load between the two;
see especially subclass 336 thereunder for a suspendedly supported
device, which is frequently the situation when the vehicle being
loaded or unloaded is a car of an aerial tramway. |
|
| | |
| 707 | Interconnected buckets form chain |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 701. Apparatus wherein a plurality of bucket means are pivotally
interconnected, one to the other, in endless fashion, so that power
employed to move one or more of the interconnected bucket means
will cause movement in all the other buckets interconnected therewith.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 710, | for noninterconnected bucket means which are adapted
to abut and push one another around an endless track. |
|
| | |
| 708 | Having means to close gap between buckets |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 701. Apparatus having a plurality of bucket means and a means,
either incorporated with or separate from the bucket means, moving
with the bucket means and providing a covering for the space between
the bucket means, as they are spaced for movement, so that material
or load will not tend to be lost from the conveyor should it be
released to the conveyor in the area between the buckets.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 526+, | for a conveyor system having a gravity conveyor
section and including a moving (e.g., traveling) flow control means
which is coordinated with a power-driven section (often of the bucket
type) and which means may be in the nature of a "gap closer". |
| 707, | for a plurality of buckets which are pivotally interconnected
to form a chain and which may include means covering the space between
buckets to prevent the fall of material between the buckets. |
|
| | |
| 710 | Slide and guide or wheel and track means to movably support bucket |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 701. Apparatus having slide and guide or wheel and track means
to support the bucket means while it is being driven by the endless
drive means.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 706, | for a slide and guide or wheel and track which is
involved in the pivoting of a bucket to facilitate the loading of the
bucket or the discharging of a load therefrom. |
| 854+, | for other slide and guide or wheel and track means
to support other types of movable load-carrying means driven by
an endless means. |
|
| | |
| 713 | Bucket structure |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 701. Apparatus wherein the structure or construction of the conveying
part of bucket means is particularly defined. |
| | |
| 714 | Composite |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 713. Apparatus wherein the conveying part comprises a plurality
of interconnected, joined, attached, or separate parts. |
| | |
| 715 | Flexible pocket |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 618. Apparatus having a flexible load-support means which, when
a load is placed thereon, forms a cradle or sling which supports
and restrains the load against movement in one or more, but not
all, lateral directions. |
| | |
| 716 | Flight means in conduit for lifting flowable solid material |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 618. Apparatus comprising a vertically extending conduit means
which, at least through said extension, completely surrounds a conveying means
comprising an elongated power transmission means and flight means
attached thereto and driven thereby, whereby a flowable solid material
may be elevated.
| | (1)
Note. Included in this subclass are those patents wherein
the conduit is formed by relatively movable members and including
conduits formed in part by the elongated power transmission means. | |
| | |
| 717 | Pusher conveyor and separate load support surface |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 618. Apparatus wherein the conveyor section includes surface
means which is the sole support for a load or loads against gravity
and which does not move to convey the load, said conveyors also
including load-propelling means which moves substantially parallel
to said surface means and exerts only a force against the load or
a portion thereof to move said load said surface means.
| | (1)
Note. Patents solely disclosing pusher-type conveyors, but
claiming only flight structure, flight and transmission connection
means, flight or flight transmission guide means, or any subcombination
of a pusher-type conveyor, not classified elsewhere, which is directly
in contact with the load, or deals with load movement, will be found
in this or indented subclasses. |
| | (2)
Note. See the Notes to subclass 570 for the distinction between
plural and single pusher conveyors. |
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 597, | for conveying systems having a plurality of conveying
sections and a pusher-type shifter associated with one of the sections. |
| 644, | for conveyors for moving structures, some of which
are the pusher-type. |
| 657+, | for screw conveyors wherein a helix pushes a load
over a load-supporting surface. |
| 660, | for screw conveyors wherein the helix may be shifted
axially. |
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
| 15, | Brushing, Scrubbing, and General Cleaning,
subclasses 93 and 236.01, for scraping machines and scraping implements. |
| 56, | Harvesters, the subclasses including "endless" in
their titles, for pushers in that art. |
| 99, | Foods and Beverages: Apparatus,
subclasses 360 through 366for a conveyor designed to receive food, a food
article or a beverage containing receptacle, and having a heat generator,
a heat exchanger, other means physically effecting the food or beverage
during the conveying, or an enclosure or tank having more than enough structure
for the operation of the conveyor. |
| 144, | Woodworking,
subclasses 242.1+ for a work feed mechanism on a woodworking machine. |
| 210, | Liquid Purification or Separation,
subclasses 154+ , for flume stream-type strainers which may include
like devices for cleaning the strainers. |
| 415, | Rotary Kinetic Fluid Motors or Pumps,
subclass 5 , for like structures utilized in a pump or turbine. |
| 416, | Fluid Reaction Surfaces (i.e., Impellers),
subclasses 7+ , for like structure reacting with an unconfined
or undirected medium fluid. |
| 452, | Butchering,
subclasses 177+ for pushers to push hooks along a track in the butchering
art. |
|
| | |
| 718 | Condition responsive control |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 717. Apparatus having means, separate from the load pushing and
support means, which senses or is responsive to the occurrence of
a condition or a change in a condition and thus acts to cause a
change in the operation of any means whereby the load is caused
to move or to not move, or acts to relocate the load-conveying means
or its support means. |
| | |
| 719 | Having means to prevent damage to conveyor |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 717. Apparatus having means or particular construction designed
to prevent damage of the conveyor because of (1) a worn, misaligned,
bent, or otherwise abnormal part or parts of the conveyor, or
because (2) the load being conveyed has become unmanageable by the
conveyor. |
| | |
| 720 | Having means to recycle conveyed load |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 717. Apparatus having means whereby the load which has been caused
to move between given points by flight means of a given conveyor
may be further moved by said flight means so that it will again
be moved between the same said points by said flight means or other
flight means of said conveyor. |
| | |
| 721 | With antifriction or movable supporting surface |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 717. Apparatus wherein the load-supporting surface is specially
designed or is provided with means whereby the coefficient of friction
of said surface is indicated as being low.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 629, | for plural conveying sections which cooperate to
simultaneously move a given load, one of said sections being a pusher. |
|
| | |
| 722 | Rotating pusher |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 717. Apparatus wherein the said member extends from and turns
about an axis of rotation in a continuous circular path. |
| | |
| 725 | Endless-orbiting pusher or its load support |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 717. Apparatus wherein said member is a flexible closed-loop
force-transmitting assemblage that is driven in an endless path,
a portion of said path being parallel to said load-supporting surface
along which the member moves a portion of said load.
| | (1)
Note. The assemblage included herein is, for example, a chain,
or a belt, or a rope, or a cable. |
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
| 406, | Conveyors: Fluid Current,
subclass 81 for a fluid current conveyor fed by an endless
conveyor having load pushers. |
|
| | |
| 726 | Coacting plural pushers in plural orbits |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 725. Apparatus provided with at least two said assemblages, each
moving in its own path, but a portion of each path being concurrently
parallel to said load-supporting surface, whereby, when said paths
are parallel to said surface, the members carried by said assemblages
cooperate together to move a portion of said load. |
| | |
| 727 | Pusher edge configured to load-support surface |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 725. Apparatus wherein the load-supporting surface is a trough
having a particular cross-sectional shape and the periphery of the
load-engaging surface of the load-engaging means conforms in shape
to the cross-sectional shape of the trough. |
| | |
| 729 | With carrier drive or guide means configured to pusher |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 728. Apparatus provided with means that are shaped to fit a dimension
or shape of any part or all of the pusher member, which means is
adapted to move or maintain said pusher in its intended path of
movement.
| | (1)
Note. Included herein is, for example, an idler wheel, or
a sprocket wheel, or a rail, or a track way, having a particular shape
to accommodate the pusher, for the purpose of holding the assemblage
in its intended path. | |
| | |
| 730 | Integral element forming pusher, connection and carried link |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 728. Apparatus wherein the closed-loop assemblage comprises a
plurality of connected segments, each segment including: a) a portion
thereof that serves as a means for engaging and moving a load, and
b) a portion thereof that serves to hold the means in load-moving
position, and c) a portion thereof that serves to connect each segment
with its preceding and its succeeding segment, and each segment
being formed as a single unit.
| | (1)
Note. Each segment may be formed by shaping a single blank,
or by permanently assembling a number of pieces into a single unitary
assemblage (as by welding, bolting, rewetting, etc.), provided that
each segment can be connected to its preceding and its succeeding
segment without the use of additional interconnecting elements. | |
| | |
| 731 | By detachable or adjustable connection |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 728. Apparatus provided with means for facilitating the attachment
of said load-engaging means to said closed-loop assemblage in the
detachment of said load-engaging means from said assemblage; provided
with means for facilitating the repositioning said member relative
to said assemblage.
| | (1)
Note. The integral element found in the patents of subclass
730 is inherently capable of being readily attached and detached
from other such segments. Search for the connection of this subclass
(731) should include a search through subclass 730, where applicable. | |
| | |
| 732 | By pivot between pusher and carrier |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 728. Apparatus wherein the attachment of said load-engaging means
of said assemblage is by way of means permitting arcuate oscillation
of the load-engaging means relative to the assemblage. |
| | |
| 733 | By connection to single carrier |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 728. Apparatus wherein there is only one closed-loop assemblage
which is driven in an endless path, and wherein said load-engaging
means is rigidly attached to the said assemblage. |
| | |
| 735.1 | Load support, casing, shield, or auxiliary attachment: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 725. Subject matter, wherein the significance is attributed to
the load support design, partial or total load enclosing casing
design, shield attached to the load support or casing or an auxiliary
attachments on the load support or casing of an endless pusher system.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 860.1+, | for similar concepts in combination with other conveyor
systems. |
|
| | |
| 735.4 | Casing or load supporting floor with door: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 735.3. Subject matter wherein the enclosing casing or the load
supporting floor has movable or removable closure to permit access
to at least one run of the endless pusher.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 860.4, | for access doors in other conveyors. |
|
| | |
| 735.5 | Removable cover overlying the conveyor: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 735.3. Subject matter wherein a housing portion which overlies
the conveyor and load is capable of being moved therefrom to provide
access to said housing portion.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 860.5, | for removable overlying covers on other conveyors. |
|
| | |
| 736 | Reciprocating pusher |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 717. Apparatus wherein the member is moved alternately to and
fro and wherein said member engages said load to exert a force on
and move the load on one of its movements and returns without moving
the load to a load-engaging position on the other of its movements.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
| 406, | Conveyors: Fluid Current,
subclass 76 for a fluid current conveyor combined with reciprocating
pusher-type conveyor. |
|
| | |
| 737 | Plural laterally spaced alternately acting |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 736. Apparatus provided with at least two members arranged transversely
of each other and extending along the path of travel of the load,
each member moves alternately in a load-moving direction and in
a nonload-moving direction, and wherein (1) the load-moving direction
is the same for all members, and (2) the entire load-moving motion
of two of the members does not extend during the same time interval. |
| | |
| 738 | Mounted on a carrier |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 736. Apparatus wherein the force-exerting member is held by a
movable carriage, which carriage moves the member alternately to
and fro. |
| | |
| 741 | Plural pushers |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 738. Apparatus wherein there are two or more force exerting members
held by the movable carriage. |
| | |
| 743 | Axis or axes transverse to path of travel |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 742. Apparatus wherein the members are held by the movable carriage
for arcuate oscillation, each member oscillating about its own axis
and each axis extending laterally of the path of load travel. |
| | |
| 747 | Pusher having linear path of movement |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 736. Apparatus wherein the member is moved along a straight line
from a starting point during its load-engaging movement and is moved
along the same straight line, but in the opposite direction, when
returned to its starting point. |
| | |
| 748 | Moved by endless actuator |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 747. Apparatus wherein the member is moved by a closed-loop device.
| | (1)
Note. Examples of a device for this subclass include (a)
endless chain, or (b) endless cable, or (c) endless rope. | |
| | |
| 750.1 | Reciprocating conveying surface: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 618. Subject matter wherein a member which is directly supporting
the load of material is moving to and fro.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 752.1+, | for a reciprocating conveyor where the conveyed
material moves out of contact with the reciprocating surface during
one of the directions of reciprocating movement. |
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
| 406, | Conveyors: Fluid Current,
subclasses 73+ for a fluid current conveyor combined with a reciprocating
conveyor. |
|
| | |
| 750.11 | Reciprocating gripper: |
| | This subclass is indented under 750.1. Subject matter in which an item holding, seizing, grasping,
clamping, or clutching means moves forward and backward alternately
during a cycle to pick up, convey, and release the item, then repeat
the cycle.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 468.2, | for reciprocating conveyor moving a specific load
as a separate unit with load gripper. |
|
| | |
| 750.12 | Suction gripper: |
| | This subclass is indented under 750.11. Subject matter in which the holding, seizing, grasping,
clamping, or clutching means is a device that reduces the atmospheric
pressure at the item contact point.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 468.4, | for reciprocating conveyor moving a specific load
as a separate unit with load gripper using suction. |
|
| | |
| 750.13 | Magnetic or electrostatic gripper: |
| | This subclass is indented under 750.11. Subject matter in which the holding, seizing, grasping,
clamping, or clutching means is a device that utilizes (a) the attractive-repulsive
nature of certain materials or (b) the phenomenon due to attraction
or repulsion of electric charges but not dependent upon their motion.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 468.5, | for reciprocating conveyor moving a specific load
as a separate unit with load gripper using magnetic or electrostatic
force. |
|
| | |
| 750.14 | Reciprocating surface carries load horizontally and vertically
for one cycle only: |
| | This subclass is indented under 750.1. Subject matter in which an article or item alternately forwardly
and backwardly moving supporting member transports the article or item
in two perpendicular planes during one operation pass.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 468.6, | for a reciprocating conveyor moving a specific load
as a separate unit with a load gripper that moves the load vertically
and horizontally. |
|
| | |
| 750.3 | Seals: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 750.2. Subject matter comprising a gap closing means in or over
the joints between the holding members or between the holding members
and an adjacent member of the conveying system to prevent undesired
entry of debris or fluid into the gap. |
| | |
| 750.4 | With specified bearing: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 750.2. Subject matter wherein a significance is attributed to a
material, pattern, or shape of a member supporting the plural elongated
sections of the load conveying surface. |
| | |
| 750.5 | Piston drive: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 750.2. Subject matter wherein the horizontal movement of the plural
parallel elongated sections is provided by a linearly expandable
device moving back and forth under fluid pressure. |
| | |
| 750.6 | Detachable drive: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 750.5. Subject matter wherein the piston drive is releasably engaged
between a support framework and the elongated load supporting members
so that the load supporting members as a unit are separable from
a power transferring mechanism. |
| | |
| 750.7 | Piston drive: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 750.1. Subject matter wherein the reciprocating movement of a single
conveyor member is provided by a linearly expandable device moving back
and forth under fluid pressure. |
| | |
| 750.8 | Eccentric cam or rotating crank drive: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 750.1. Subject matter wherein the reciprocating movement of the
conveying surface of the conveyor is provided by a revolving or
oscillating mechanical device having its axis of rotation displaced
from its center or by a revolving link having an axis of rotation
at one end and a pivotal connection to the load conveyor member adjacent
to its opposite end. |
| | |
| 751 | With control means responsive to sensor means |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 750.1. Apparatus wherein the conveyor is provided with a detector
that generates a signal upon the occurrence of a predetermined condition
of the load or the conveyor, which signal causes actuation of a
means to regulate the conveyor or movement of the load. |
| | |
| 752.1 | Vibratory conveying member: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 750.1. Subject matter wherein the load carrying surface moves alternately
to and fro with a high frequency and a low amplitude so that the material
moves out of contact of the carrying surface during a portion of
the to and fro movement.
| | (1)
Note. In use, the load is carried on the conveying member
during its forward or a portion of its forward movement, and the
load continues its forward movement by reason of its inertia and
out of contact with the conveying element while the conveyor element
reverses its direction to return to its original position for a repeat
of the conveyor element movement. | |
| | |
| 754 | With flexible-belt extension |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 752.1. Apparatus wherein the conveyor member includes a bendable
or pliant strip or band to increase or decrease the load-conveying
path of the conveyor member.
| | (1)
Note. In use, one end of the flexible belt is fastened to
an adjacent end of the vibrating conveyor and the other end of the
flexible belt is wound into a reel. Thus, by increasing or decreasing
the distance between the conveyor and the reel, the effective length
of the conveyor may be varied. | |
| | |
| 756 | Having helical path |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 752.1. Apparatus wherein the conveyor member includes a surface
that extends around an axis, as well as along said axis. |
| | |
| 757 | Confined within a bowl |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 756. Apparatus wherein the conveyor member surface is secured
to the inside wall of a container, said wall being radially spaced
from said axis and extending generally parallel to said axis.
| | (1)
Note. The container generally has a bowl shape and is vibrated
with an oscillatory motion about the axis so as to effect conveying
of the load along the helical path formed by the conveyor member
surface. | |
| | |
| 758 | Coupled parts from single vibratory trough |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 752.1. Device wherein the conveyor is composed of a plurality of
channel-shaped conveying parts which are rapidly reciprocated to
effect load movement, which parts are provided with means allowing
the members to be readily joined or separated. |
| | |
| 759 | Conveying member having support or drive |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 752.1. Apparatus wherein the conveyor member is a load-supporting
surface provided with sustaining means to allow controlled vibratory
movement of said surface, or provided with means to cause such movement. |
| | |
| 760 | With damper for conveying member or support |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 759. Apparatus wherein the conveyor member is provided with a
counter mass or energy-absorbing means to balance or retard destructive
or excessive conveyor member motions.
| | (1)
Note. Example of a device of this subclass include (a) another
conveyor, or (b) a dash pot, or (c) a shock absorber, or (d) a coil
spring. |
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 330, | for a damper applied to a vibratory drive means. |
|
| | |
| 762 | By control of motor speed |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 761. Apparatus wherein the rate of movement of the load is regulated
by varying the frequency of the to-and-fro movements as caused by
the drive means. |
| | |
| 763 | Support for conveying member |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 759. Apparatus wherein the conveyor member is a load-supporting
surface provided with sustaining means to allow controlled vibratory
movement of said surface.
| | (1)
Note. Included herein, for example, is (a) a coiled spring,
or (b) a leaf spring, or (c) rubber or synthetic rubber blocks,
or (d) a spring formed of glass fiber, steel or elastomer. | |
| | |
| 764 | Pivotal link support |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 763. Apparatus wherein said sustaining means includes a plurality
of spaced-apart connecting rods, each rod being hingedly connected
at its one end to said load support and being hingedly connected
at its other end to a foundation or base. |
| | |
| 765 | Rolling contact support |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 763. Apparatus wherein said sustaining means is at least one
rotatable antifriction element located between and touching both
of said conveying member and a foundation or base.
| | (1)
Note. Included herein, for example, is (a) a roller, or (b)
a ball, or (c) a cylinder, or (d) a wheel, or (e) an endless belt,
any of which allows the conveyor member may roll to and fro. | |
| | |
| 767 | With damper for drive |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 766. Apparatus wherein a balance of energy-absorbing means is
operatively connected to the vibratory means.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 760, | for a damper applied to the conveyor surface or
its support. |
|
| | |
| 768 | By fluid means |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 766. Apparatus wherein said vibrating means is powered by a gaseous
or liquid medium under pressure. |
| | |
| 770 | By unbalanced weights |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 766. Apparatus wherein the vibrating means includes a rotating
mass having a center of rotation and a center of gravity that is
not on the center of rotation, said mass being connected to the
load-supporting surface. |
| | |
| 772 | With retrograde movement preventer |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 750.1. Apparatus provided with means in addition to, and separate
from, the conveyor member, which means prevents backward movement
of the load during the backward movement of the conveyor member.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 755, | for a retrograde movement preventer associated with
a vibrator conveyor. |
|
| | |
| 773 | Including set of alternately-acting load-support members |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 750.1. Apparatus wherein the conveyor includes at least two groups
of load-carrying bars, each group comprising plural bars connected
and acting together, a bar of one group being adjacent to one or
more bars of another group, at least one group being movable and
another group being either movable or stationary, and the groups
coacting in cyclic alternation to lift at least a portion of the
load from either group and to advance said load by either of the
groups in a wave-like manner. |
| | |
| 774.2 | Load support member lifted by inclined supporting fluid actuators |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 774.1. Load support members lifted by inclined supporting fluid
actuators: Subject matter wherein vertical movement of the load
support members is effected by fluid actuating means which directly
support the members.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 774.1, | for fluid actuators which actuate oscillating arms. |
| 774.4, | for fluid actuators which move the members along
inclined support surfaces. |
|
| | |
| 775 | Each set movable |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 774.1. Apparatus wherein each group of load-carrying bars has an
active motion.
| | (1)
Note. In this subclass one group is movable to lift the load
from supporting relationship with another group, and another group
is movable to advance the load relative to the one group. | |
| | |
| 776 | Sets move through a closed-loop path |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 775. Apparatus wherein each group of load-carrying bars moves
in an orbited endless path, but in opposite phase, one group to
the other, whereby alternate groups alternately carry and alternately
support the load. |
| | |
| 777 | Including transverse pivoted sets of alternately acting load-support members |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 773. Apparatus wherein the conveyor includes at least two groups
of load-carrying components, each group comprising plural components
connected and acting together, each component oscillatable about
an axis that is perpendicular to the direction of load advance,
and a component of one group being adjacent to a component of another
group; and wherein the groups coact to transfer at least a portion
of the load from one group to an adjacent component of another group,
and from said adjacent component of said other group to a component
of said one group. |
| | |
| 778 | Spiral |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 618. Apparatus having a load-supporting surface which traverses
a spiraling path over which the load will be conveyed.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 657, | for screw conveyors in which a rotatable helical
surface moves the conveyed load. |
| 724, | for rotating pusher means which may move the conveyed
load over a spiral path. |
| 813+, | for an endless conveyor belt having means to maintain
or to adjust the tension on said belt. |
|
| | |
| 779 | Load-supporting rolls moved about endless path |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 618. Apparatus wherein the conveying element comprises a series
of load-contacting rolls attached to an endless driven member.
The rolls may be rotated themselves, by power or other means, or
braked to prevent rotation.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 780, | for rolls mounted to be rotated about their own
axis to thereby convey a load supported thereby. |
| 804+, | for endless conveyors which may be made of rotatable
elements which are moved about an endless path. |
|
| | |
| 780 | Live roll |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 618. Apparatus wherein the conveyor comprises one or more parts
or roller means which will rotate about an axis when influenced
to do so by a source of power, and thereby cause movement of a load
directly supported by and in contact with said rotated part.
| | (1)
Note. Conveyors in this and indented subclasses may include
an idler roller which may aid the power-driven roller in supporting
the load conveyed. However, see subclasses 523+ for power-driven rollers
and nonpower-driven rollers which act independently wherein one
is active as a conveyor for the load, while the other is disengaged
from the load. |
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 624, | for conveyor means wherein the load is moved by
being gripped between a plurality of driven rollers. |
| 779, | for rolls moved about an endless path and having
means to axially rotate a roll or rolls as they move about the endless
path. |
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
| 19, | Textiles: Fiber Preparation,
subclass 24 , and indented subclasses, for a series of rollers
to crush fibers. |
| 72, | Metal Deforming,
subclasses 199+ , for sets of rolls used for metal deforming. |
| 83, | Cutting, subclasses having reference in their title to work or product
moving, and particularly
subclasses 156 , 235, 259+, 268+, and 436.3. |
| 193, | Conveyors, Chutes, Skids, Guides, and Ways,
subclasses 35+ , for gravity-actuated rollers. |
| 226, | Advancing Material of Indeterminate Length, appropriate subclasses, for methods of and apparatus
for feeding material without utilizing the leading or trailing ends
to effect movement of the material. |
| 384, | Bearings, for bearings of general use. |
| 406, | Conveyors: Fluid Current,
subclass 70 for a fluid current conveyor combined with a line
roller conveyor. |
| 492, | Roll or Roller, for a roll, per se, not elsewhere provided for,
and see the notes thereunder. |
|
| | |
| 781.01 | Live roll drive engages, disengages, or slips responsive
to load position or blockage: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 780. Subject matter having a means to bring a cylindrical motion
transmitting device and the load conveying device in contact with
each other or out of contact with each other or to permit abnormal
movement to take place between the cylindrical motion transmitting
device and the load conveying device in response to (a) a sensor
detecting the presence or absence of the load at a predetermined
position on the conveyor or (b) a device responsive to excessive load
on the conveyor. |
| | |
| 781.02 | Friction drive slips or disengages: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 781.01. Subject matter wherein the cylindrical motion transmitting
device releases a motion transmitting force to the load conveying
rollers via a coupling (e.g., friction clutch) breaking the motion
transmitting force relative to one another in response to the overload
caused by a desired load stoppage or weight. |
| | |
| 781.03 | Belt drive: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 781.02. Subject matter wherein the frictional motion transmitting
device includes a continuous flexible band. |
| | |
| 781.04 | Friction wheel drive: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 781.02. Subject matter wherein the frictional motion transmitting
device includes a mechanical device consisting of a circular member
having a smooth surface of contact. |
| | |
| 781.08 | Friction wheel drive: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 781.05. Subject matter wherein the motion is transmitted by a mechanical
device consisting of a circular member having a smooth surface in
direct contact with the roller. |
| | |
| 781.09 | Flat belt drive: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 781.05. Subject matter wherein the motion is transmitted by a continuous
band of flexible material having substantially a rectangular cross
section. |
| | |
| 781.1 | O-Ring drive: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 781.05. Subject matter wherein the motion is transmitted by a continuous
band of flexible material having a round cross section. |
| | |
| 781.11 | Chain drive: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 781.05. Subject matter wherein the motion is transmitted by a continuous
band constructed of metal or plastic links. |
| | |
| 783 | Having intermittent, periodic, timed or programmed drive for rolls |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 780. Apparatus in which the power means or power transmission
means which rotates the roller means is timed, programmed, or is
otherwise provided with means whereby said roller means is caused
to rotate intermittently or periodically to move the load.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 854+, | for drive means for conveyors in general, which
means are intermittent, indexed, condition responsive controlled,
etc. |
|
| | |
| 784 | Arranged or having means to change load speed |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 780. Apparatus having means (1) whereby the rotatable speed of
a single roller or of a plurality of rollers may be varied, or (2)
whereby one roller rotates at a different speed from another roller, or
otherwise changes load speed as it moves from one roll to another,
and wherein said rollers cooperate to simultaneously support the load
being conveyed.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 570+, | for plural roller conveyors which do not support
the load simultaneously and wherein each conveyor may be independently
driven or driven at different speeds. |
|
| | |
| 785 | Roll (s) center load on conveyor |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 780. Apparatus wherein the load being conveyed on the roller
means is persuaded to travel along a predetermined longitudinal
path on the conveyor because of either the shape of the roller means
or the angular relationship of one roller means with another. |
| | |
| 786 | Load moves axially of roll |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 780. Apparatus wherein the roller means is shaped or arranged
to move the load in a direction having at least a component thereof
in the direction which is axially of the roller means. |
| | |
| 789 | Roll drive means |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 780. Apparatus having specific means whereby power is transmitted
to the roller means so that when activated the rollers will be caused
to rotate. |
| | |
| 790 | Belt drive |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 789. Apparatus wherein said transmission means is an endless
belt or chain which engages the roller means or sprocket means attached
to said roller means. |
| | |
| 791 | Gear drive |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 789. Apparatus wherein the transmission means comprises gears
which engage the roller means. |
| | |
| 792 | Conveyor having a zone of varying speed |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 618. Apparatus having a load-conveying means which is driven
continuously over a closed path, and having means whereby the velocity of
said means, or of a portion of said means, may be caused to change
each time it moves through a particular portion, or particular portions,
of said path.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 334, | for a conveyor or accessory, which is specialized
to convey people, having a zone of varying speed. |
| 854+, | for conveyors having drive means which, when controlled,
may stop or start the conveyor on change the speed thereof, but
having no significant conveyor structure. |
|
| | |
| 793 | Unit load conveying surface means moved about an endless or rotating path |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 618. Apparatus comprising a conveyor having load-supporting surface
means moved about an endless or rotating path and comprising a unit load-supporting
tray or platform or other surface means which may support a load
thereon and power transmission means, said load-supporting surface
means being supported by either said flexible means, a track means
or other stationary or movable means.
| | (1)
Note. A tray or other load-supporting surface is considered
to be the load if in its course of travel it is caused to be disengaged
from its propelling means. |
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 597+, | for unit load-conveying means moved by endless means
arranged in tandem along the path of the conveyor. |
| 678+, | for conveyor means from which a load may be suspended
wherein said means is supported by a track or guide and is moved
by an articulated transmission means. |
| 701+, | for bucket conveyors having a surface to vertically
support a load and vertical wall means completely surrounding said
surface to prevent lateral movement of said load in all directions. |
| 803.16, | for conveyors comprising rotating disc members which
may be compartmentalized to receive a unit load. |
| 804+, | for conveyor means having load-supporting tray means,
a plurality of which cooperate to support a single load or a load
comprising a "stream" of granular or the like
material. |
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
| 414, | Material or Article Handling,
subclasses 248 and 251 for apparatus particularly adapted for
charging or discharging a facility for the parking or wheeled vehicles,
and wherein there is at least one vehicle transporting device of
the kind which comprises an endless carrier having vehicle supporting
members attached thereto, which carrier may orbit in a vertical plane. |
|
| | |
| 797 | Unit load conveying means maintained in uniform orientation while transiting from one direction to another |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 793. Apparatus having means to maintain the plane of the conveying
surface means horizontal for load-carrying purposes during at least
that portion of its endless path where it is both deviating form
straight-line travel and going through a change in altitude.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
| 414, | Material or Article Handling,
subclasses 227+ , for movable storage carriers for wheeled vehicles,
and see section IV-8 in the main class definition to this class
for other conveyors used in a dispensing environment. |
|
| | |
| 798 | By coacting with guide only while transiting from one direction to another |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 797. Apparatus wherein the load-supporting means is provided
with means which is brought into engagement with a movable or stationary
guide or stabilizing means located at the point where the load-supporting
means is caused to deviate from straight-line motion to constantly
maintain the plane of the load- supporting surface means in a constant
relationship to the horizontal while in engagement with said guide
or stabilizing means. |
| | |
| 800 | By constant engagement with guide means throughout conveying course of travel |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 797. Apparatus wherein the load-support means is provided with
means which is in constant engagement with a nonload-supporting,
nonpower-transmitting endless flexible means, or with a fixed guide,
or track, or rack means to constantly maintain the plane of the
load-supporting surface in a constant relationship to the horizontal
throughout its course of travel. |
| | |
| 803.11 | Nongripping holder is adjustable for different sized loads: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 793. Apparatus wherein the load-supporting component is attached
to the rotating or endless drives and do not grip the load and are
adaptable or replaceable to accommodate different sized loads.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 473.1, | for conveyor systems with adjustable or replaceable
holders for different sized loads. |
|
| | |
| 803.12 | Holder for hollow load contacts interiorly: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 793. Apparatus wherein the load-supporting means holds an article
having a cavity within itself and the load-supporting means engages
the surface of the cavity.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 487.1, | for laterally projecting pins which engage the interior
of a hollow load in a conveyor system. |
|
| | |
| 803.14 | Holder means forms recess to receive or seat load: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 793. Apparatus wherein the load-supporting means includes a portion
thereof which at least partly surrounds an area or contiguous areas
of a load to an extent which prevents unintended movement other
than such movement imparted by the load-supporting means. |
| | |
| 803.15 | Holder means forms an aperture for receiving load: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 793. Apparatus wherein the load-supporting means comprised a
plate or support having holes therein which could have a smaller
circumferential dimension than that of the load to be conveyed,
into which the load is insert, but does not fall through the holes
because of the difference between said dimensions. |
| | |
| 803.3 | Holder grips load: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 793. Apparatus wherein the load-supporting components are mounted
on a rotating or endless drive means which positively hold or attract
the load by friction or by use of a force field, or by a fluid current.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 470.1+, | for conveyor systems using load grippers. |
|
| | |
| 803.4 | Relatively adjustable grippers space portion of load: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 803.3. Apparatus wherein the load-supporting components comprise
a plurality of load holding means which are movable relative to
one another to space at least one portion of the load from another
portion thereof.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 468.3, | for separable grippers on a reciprocating or oscillating
conveyor. |
|
| | |
| 803.5 | Suction gripper: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 803.3. Apparatus wherein the load-supporting component element
means comprises a gaseous medium under subatmospheric pressure to
hold the load during conveyance.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 471.1, | for endless or rotary conveyors in a system using
suction grippers. |
|
| | |
| 803.7 | Gripper portion biased to load engaging portion: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 803.3. Apparatus wherein the load-supporting component comprised
at least two relatively movable portions, one of which is continually
urged to the load contacting position by a separate resilient means.
| | (1)
Note. The resilient means could be a fluid. | |
| | |
| 804 | Endless conveyor |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 618. Apparatus in which the load-supporting and moving, or carrier,
means of the conveyor is a belt movable continuously along the path defined
by its longitudinal axis, at least part of said path being that
over which a load is to be moved, and the belt having an endless
surface or including longitudinally spaced elements which cooperate
to form, in effect, an endless surface for supporting the load.
| | (1)
Note. Included here is an endless belt formed for a continuous
material, or formed of a series of bars, plates, or other transversely
disposed member which either abut one another or are spaced apart
longitudinally of the belt and cooperate to support a conveyed load
spanning a gap or gaps therebetween. |
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 404, | and 405, for an endless conveyor included in load-inverting
conveying apparatus. |
| 544, | 547, 550.9, and 550.13, for gravity conveyor systems
which involve a driven conveyor of the apron type. |
| 606, | and 607, for plural endless conveyors forming a
conveying system. |
| 610, | for an endless conveyor combined in a conveying
system with a different type of power-driven conveyor. |
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
| 14, | Bridges,
subclass 70 , for an endless conveyor used as a gangway. |
| 29, | Metal Working,
subclass 2.17 , for an endless belt moving work to a cutter. |
| 34, | Drying and Gas or Vapor Contact With Solids,
subclasses 658+ , for belts for conveying webs or strands being
treated by a gas or vapor. |
| 38, | Textiles: Ironing or Smoothing,
subclasses 8+ , for a conveyor belt for moving an article in smoothing
apparatus. |
| 40, | Card, Picture, or Sign Exhibiting,
subclasses 78.09 and 96+, for a belt used in an exhibiting
device. |
| 53, | Package Making,
subclass 282 , for an endless conveyor moving preformed receptacles. |
| 62, | Refrigeration,
subclass 380 , for a continuous belt conveyor in refrigeration apparatus. |
| 65, | Glass Manufacturing,
subclass 197 , for an endless conveyor carrying a glass sheet. |
| 68, | Textiles: Fluid Treating Apparatus,
subclasses 39+ , 44+, and 204, for endless belt carriers
in textile treating apparatus. |
| 69, | Leather Manufactures,
subclass 41 , for an endless belt used to support work in leather
machines. |
| 83, | Cutting,
subclasses 155+ , for an endless belt or chain for conveying product
in a cutting machine. |
| 96, | Gas Separation: Apparatus,
subclass 42 for an endless belt carrying an electrical precipitator
electrode. |
| 100, | Presses,
subclasses 118 and 151+, for an endless conveyor in a
press. |
| 110, | Furnaces,
subclass 40 , for endless grates. |
| 118, | Coating Apparatus,
subclasses 239 , 322, and 324, for a belt conveyor in a coating
apparatus. |
| 134, | Cleaning and Liquid Contact With Solids,
subclasses 48 , 67, 70+, and 124+, for a belt
conveyor in a cleaning and liquid contact apparatus. |
| 144, | Woodworking,
subclasses 245.2+ for an endless conveyor in a woodworking machine. |
| 171, | Unearthing Plants or Buried Objects,
subclass 130 , for an endless belt in a machine for removing
or separating earth from an object. |
| 182, | Fire Escape, Ladder, or Scaffold,
subclass 42 , for an endless conveyor fire escape apparatus. |
| 185, | Motors: Spring, Weight, or Animal Powered,
subclass 16 , for animal-powered motors employing belts. |
| 204, | Chemistry: Electrical and Wave Energy,
subclasses 202+ , for an endless conveyor in an electrolytic apparatus. |
| 209, | Classifying, Separating, and Assorting Solids,
subclasses 218 , 272, 307, 428+, 470, 620, 622+,
661, 663, 665, 685, and 705, for belts for assorters and ore separators. |
| 210, | Liquid Purification or Separation,
subclasses 400+ and 526, for endless belts in liquid purifiers
or separators. |
| 211, | Supports: Racks,
subclasses 121+ , for article-supporting elements mounted on an
endless carrier. |
| 221, | Article Dispensing,
subclasses 84 , 119, 218, and 253, for an endless belt in an article
dispenser. |
| 222, | Dispensing,
subclasses 371 and 415, for an endless belt in a fluent material dispenser. |
| 226, | Advancing Material of Indeterminate Length,
subclasses 170+ , for an endless belt conveyor for a strand or the like. |
| 227, | Elongated-Member-Driving Apparatus,
subclasses 44+ , for an endless conveyor in apparatus within the class. |
| 245, | Wire Fabrics and Structure, appropriate subclasses, for wire fabric for use in
endless belts. |
| 271, | Sheet Feeding or Delivering,
subclasses 12 , 16, 34, 45+, 66-69, 75+, and
150, for endless conveyor in a sheet handling apparatus. |
| 305, | Wheel Substitutes for Land Vehicles,
subclasses 157+ , for nonmetallic endless tracks for land vehicles,
and subclasses 185+, for flexible land vehicle tracks formed
of interconnected treads. |
| 312, | Supports: Cabinet Structure,
subclasses 91 , 97, 134, and 268, for an endless carrier in a
cabinet. |
| 406, | Conveyor: Fluid Current,
subclasses 77+ for endless conveyors combined with fluid current
conveyors. |
| 409, | Gear Cutting, Milling, or Planing,
subclass 263 for an endless carrier for work in a broaching
machine. |
| 413, | Sheet Metal Container Making,
subclasses 56+ , for an endless chain for carrying can bodies. |
| 425, | Plastic Article or Earthenware Shaping or Treating:
Apparatus, appropriate subclasses, for an endless belt used
to shape plastic material. |
| 451, | Abrading,
subclasses 331+ for an endless conveyor for feeding work to an
abrading device. |
| 460, | Crop Threshing or Separating,
subclass 86 , for threshing machine belts. |
| 474, | Endless Belt Power Transmission Systems or Components, particularly
subclasses 202+ for a positive drive belt; and subclasses 237+ for
a friction drive belt. |
|
| | |
| 806 | Revolvable means engaging carrier belt face automatically skews to correct belt training deviation |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 804. Apparatus in which deviation of the belt from the centered
position on its travel path is corrected by an automatically occurring
change in the angular orientation, relative to said path, of revolvable
means engaged with a face of said belt.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 810.1+, | for means which senses a deviation of a carrier
belt from its travel path and acts to correct such deviation. |
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
| 26, | Textiles: Cloth Finishing,
subclasses 66 and 67, for cloth stretched by rollers which change
position to regulate movement of said cloth thereon. |
| 226, | Advancing Material of Indeterminate Length,
subclasses 21+ , for a roller which automatically skews to correct training
deviations of a web supported thereon. |
| 474, | Endless Belt Power Transmission Systems or Components, particularly
subclasses 102+ for a control for correcting belt training deviation
in a transmission belt. |
|
| | |
| 809 | Vertically shiftable belt situated between auxiliary load supports |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 804. Apparatus wherein an independent load support is positioned
on each side of a belt, the belt, or a position thereof, being movable upwardly
or downwardly relative to the supports (e.g., to selectively bring
the belt into driving engagement with the load, or to vary the driving
force exerted by the belt on the load). |
| | |
| 810.01 | Condition responsive: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 804. Subject matter having means, separate from the belt, which
detects an occurrence of a condition and in response thereto acts
to start, stop, or correct the movement of the belt in response to
(a) the presence or absence of the load or (b) belt damage or (c)
misalignment of the belt or its support means or (d) tension in
the belt or in a strand supporting the belt.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 502.1+, | for indicators for measuring dimensions of the article
on a conveyor or indicating the current position of the article
along the conveyor or the abnormal speed of the conveyor. |
|
| | |
| 810.02 | Belt damage sensor: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 810.01. Subject matter wherein the detecting means detects a break
or wear in the continuous band beyond the pre-established limit.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
|
| | |
| 810.03 | Belt tracking sensor: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 810.01. Subject matter wherein the detecting means is adapted to
monitor an alignment of the continuous flexible band and actuate
an alarm, alignment correction device or stop the continuous band
when the continuous band is out of alignment beyond the pre-established limit.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 806+, | for a belt tracking device. |
|
| | |
| 810.04 | Belt tension sensor: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 810.01. Subject matter wherein the detecting means is adapted for
measuring a force in the continuous band which tends to stretch
the continuous band or to measure the amount of slack in the continuous
band and having a device which either indicates via an alarm the
force in excess of the pre-established limit in the continuous band
or control a stretching means to correct the stretch in the continuous
band.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 813+, | for a tensioning device. |
|
| | |
| 812 | Having variable conveying length |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 804. Apparatus wherein the length of the conveying reach of the
belt can be varied.
| | (1)
Note. Included here inter alia are: (1) a conveyor having
structure that facilitates addition or removal of its segments to change
conveying length, and (2) a conveyor combined with separate means
for holding extra segments until they are required to change conveying
length (e.g., a reel mounted on a conveyor frame and holding belt
segments). |
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 313, | for a contractible conveyor mounted on a vehicle. |
| 364, | for conveying systems having sections employing
load discharging or feeding means which are movable along the length
of the section to effect communication between the section and a
selected source or destination. |
| 370.01+, | for means for loading or unloading a conveyor section
at selected locations along the length thereof. |
|
| | |
| 813 | Device for tensioning belt |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 804. Apparatus including means for stressing (1) the carrier
belt, (2) a drive belt for the carrier belt, (3) a support belt
for the carrier belt, or (4) a strand which extends along one side
of the carrier belt and which supports, in cooperation with another
strand on the opposite side of said carrier belt, a roller or roller
assembly supporting said carrier belt.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
| 19, | Textiles: Fiber Preparation,
subclasses 250+ , for means for tensioning an endless belt used
in a machine for attenuating textile fiber. |
| 24, | Buckles, Buttons, Clasps, etc.,
subclass 32 , for combined fastening and tightening means for
a belt. |
| 26, | Textiles: Cloth Finishing,
subclasses 54+ , for devices for applying tension to cloth. |
| 34, | Drying and Gas or Vapor Contact With Solids,
subclass 118 , for a tightener for a belt associated with a material
treating drum. |
| 56, | Harvesters,
subclass 224 , for a drive belt tensioner, and subclass 292,
for tensioner for endless cutter. |
| 57, | Textiles: Spinning, Twisting, and Twining,
subclass 105 , for means for automatically tensioning driving bands. |
| 83, | Cutting,
subclasses 814+ , for means for tensioning an endless cutting band or
chain. |
| 101, | Printing, Digest 21, for means for tensioning webs. |
| 104, | Railways,
subclass 117 , for tension regulators for railway cables. |
| 105, | Railway Rolling Stock,
subclasses 105+ , for belt tighteners for wheel or axle drives. |
| 114, | Ships,
subclasses 213+ , for devices for relieving tension in a cable. |
| 180, | Motor Vehicles,
subclasses 351 and 357, for rear axles of motor vehicles which
are movable to adjust a drive chain. |
| 187, | Elevator, Industrial Lift Truck, or Stationary
Lift for Vehicle,
subclass 264 for an elevator car shifted by a rope drive and
separate biasing means for maintaining tension in a rope drive. |
| 192, | Clutches and Power-Stop Control,
subclasses 224+ , for belt tighteners which act as clutches combined
with brakes. |
| 211, | Supports: Racks,
subclass 119.09 , for clothesline loop tighteners. |
| 242, | Winding, Tensioning, or Guiding,
subclasses 419+ and 147+ for means to apply or regulate
stress in a running material. |
| 254, | Implements or Apparatus for Applying Pushing or
Pulling Force,
subclasses 199+ for portable implements or apparatus for tensioning
flexible material or for extracting stumps or poles. |
| 305, | Wheel Substitutes for Land Vehicles,
subclasses 120+ , 125, 145+, 152, and 153+, for
tensioner for vehicle track. |
| 384, | Bearings,
subclasses 252+ for adjustable support for a bearings. |
| 451, | Abrading,
subclass 311 for means for maintaining in traveling abrading bands. |
| 474, | Endless Belt Power Transmission Systems or Components, particularly
subclasses 101+ for a tension adjuster for a power transmission
belt. |
|
| | |
| 815 | With counterweight |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 813. Apparatus wherein a weight is arranged to exert force on
the belt or strand to maintain tension therein. |
| | |
| 816 | With screw adjusting means |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 813. Apparatus including a threaded means that is turnable to
vary tension in the belt or strand.
| | (1)
Note. Included here is a screw moved axially by turning a
nut on the screw, thereby moving a belt support connected to the
screw. | |
| | |
| 817 | Separate, parallel conveying reaches supporting same load |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 804. Apparatus including plural belt reaches arranged in side-by-side
relation to jointly support a load.
| | (1)
Note. Included herein inter alia are separate belts which
are disposed in side-by-side relation and which are (1) inclined relative
to a vertical plane situated between their edges so that the belts together
form a trough, or (2) supported at different elevations along their
conveying reaches so that one edge of a plate-like load rests on
the upper surface of the lower belt and the opposite edge of said
load rests against a side surface of the upper belt. | |
| | |
| 818 | Having upwardly facing trough configuration in transverse direction on conveying reach |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 804. Apparatus wherein the load-supporting reach of the belt
has a concave cross-sectional shape so that the side portions of
said carrier belt rise above its central section.
| | (1)
Note. Included herein inter alia is a carrier belt which
sags between supports connected to its edges, or is connected to and
shaped by transverse frames spaced apart longitudinally thereof,
or is flexed into a trough when a separate element mounted thereon
engages a cam surface extending along its travel path. |
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 806, | for a trough-shaped carrier belt supported on a
roller or roller assembly which automatically skews to correct training
deviations of said belt. |
|
| | |
| 819 | Edges movable together to enclose load |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 818. Apparatus in which the belt edges are juxtaposed, in the
conveying reach of the belt, to thereby completely or substantially
enclose the load.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 701+, | for elongated tubular-type conveyors having means
to compartmentalize the tubular load-conveying portion into noncommunicating
compartments. |
| 821, | for a belt which has raised edges formed thereon,
or is otherwise preshaped to sustain a trough configuration in cross
section. |
|
| | |
| 820 | Having preformed trough shape |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 818. Apparatus in which the belt in intrinsically shaped in the
form of a trough.
| | (1)
Note. Included herein is a carrier belt formed of wires or
rods. | |
| | |
| 822 | Formed or including transverse plates tandemly disposed lengthwise of carrier belt |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 820. Apparatus in which the belt is formed of or includes a plurality
of plates extending crosswise of said belt and successively disposed lengthwise
thereof.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 850+, | for similar belt structure in which the carrier
belt is not trough-shaped in cross section. |
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
| 59, | Chain, Staple, and Horseshoe Making,
subclass 91 , for chains formed of sheet metal links. |
|
| | |
| 824 | Roller or roller assembly |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 823. Apparatus in which the belt support means comprises at least
one roller.
| | (1)
Note. Included herein inter alia is a carrier belt shaped
into a trough by a flexible roller sagging between ends supports,
or by coaxial rollers having different diameters, or by rollers
tilted relative to one another and connected so that they rotate
together. |
| | (2)
Note. If a roller is claimed for shaping a carrier belt into
a trough, the invention is classified herein or in indented subclasses.
If a roller is claimed generally, the invention is classified in
Class 384, Bearings. |
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 501, | for lubricating means for rollers that form a belt
into a trough. |
|
| | |
| 825 | Independently rotatable rollers canted relative to each other |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 824. Apparatus wherein the belt support means comprises a plurality
of rollers which are independently rotatable, generally disposed
in end to end relation crosswise of the carrier belt, and tilted
relative to one another.
| | (1)
Note. Included herein inter alia is a carrier belt supported
on rollers strung on a flexible strand or rod which sags between
a pair of supports. | |
| | |
| 829 | Individually cantilevered roller |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 825. Apparatus wherein at least one of the rollers is supported
at only one of its ends.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 826, | for a belt-troughing roller assembly including a
roller that is supported from one end only. |
|
| | |
| 832 | Carrier belt drive means |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 804. Apparatus including claimed means for moving the carrier
belt around its orbital path.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 805, | for a carrier belt driven by magnetic means. |
| 810.1+, | for a carrier belt, the movement of which is controlled
by condition responsive means. |
| 818+, | for drive means associated with trough-shaped carrier
belt. |
| 854+, | for drive means for conveyors in general. |
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
| 40, | Card, Picture, or Sign Exhibiting,
subclass 32 , for an electric motor drive for an endless belt
used as a display device. |
| 474, | Endless Belt Power Transmission Systems or Components,
subclasses 8+ for drive belts. |
|
| | |
| 834 | Wheel with radial teeth-engaging carrier belt or means connected therewith |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 832. Apparatus including a drive wheel having radially projecting
teeth that engage counterparts on the carrier belt or on a belt
attached to the latter.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 849, | for similar devices where sprocket is not included
in claim. |
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
| 474, | Endless Belt Power Transmission Systems or Components, particularly
subclasses 152+ for a positive drive pulley. |
|
| | |
| 835 | Roller, wheel, or drum-engaging belt |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 832. Apparatus including a member rotatable about an axis by
drive means and engaged with the carrier belt to impart motion thereto.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
| 474, | Endless Belt Power Transmission Systems or Components, particularly
subclasses 166+ for a friction drive pulley. |
|
| | |
| 836.1 | Having load retainer or guide separate from carrier belt: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 804. Subject matter wherein the load is restrained, directed
or contained on the carrier belt by laterally positioned longitudinally
extending surfaces or by surfaces positioned in opposition to the
carrying surface of the carrier belt.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 626.1+, | for coacting endless belts. |
|
| | |
| 837 | Support, guide, or hold-down means for carrier belt |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 804. Apparatus including specific means for sustaining the belt,
holding it on a selected path, or pressing it against an object.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 810.1+, | for means which senses a shifting of a carrier belt
from its centered position on a support and acts to correct such deviation. |
| 813, | for a carrier belt supported on a roller or roller
assembly which automatically skews to correct training deviations
of said belt. |
| 823, | for a carrier belt flexed into a trough by a stationary
support over which it slides. |
| 845, | for a carrier belt supported or guided by rotatable
means attached to the belt. |
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
| 19, | Textiles: Fiber Preparation,
subclass 249 , for an auxiliary support for an endless belt used
for attenuating textile fiber, and subclasses 252+, for means
for guiding an endless belt used for attenuating textile fiber. |
| 34, | Drying and Gas or Vapor Contact With Solids,
subclasses 640+ , for means for guiding or floating a running web
or strand by means of a fluid current, and subclasses 647+,
for means for guiding such running material in a zigzag path. |
| 84, | Music,
subclass 161 , for guides for sheet music. |
| 451, | Abrading,
subclass 297 for belt tracking means in an abrading machine. |
| 474, | Endless Belt Power Transmission Systems or Components, appropriate subclasses for a guide or tensioning drive
for an endless power transmission belt. |
|
| | |
| 841 | Means slidably supporting belt |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 837. Apparatus wherein the belt slips on an underlying support
(e.g., a smooth plate).
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 836, | for a belt support in the form of a slide plate
having side walls that retain the conveyed load on the belt. |
|
| | |
| 842 | Rotatable support or hold-down engaging non-load-carrying face of belt |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 837. Apparatus including a rotatable body abutting the lower
face of the belt on the conveying belt reach, or engaging either
the upper face or the lower face of the belt on the nonconveying
belt reach.
| | (1)
Note. If a roller is claimed for supporting carrier belt,
the invention is classified herein or in the indented subclass.
If a roller is claimed generally, the invention is classified in
Class 384, Bearings. |
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 806, | for a roller or roller assembly which automatically
skews to correct training deviations of a carrier belt. |
| 824+, | for a roller or roller assembly engaged with the
lower face of a carrier belt to flex said belt into a trough. |
| 835, | for a roller which drives a carrier belt. |
| 836, | for a roller which retains a load on a carrier belt. |
|
| | |
| 843 | Resilient |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 842. Apparatus wherein the rotatable means yieldably supports
the belt (e.g., a roller formed of rubber or resiliently mounted,
etc.). |
| | |
| 844.2 | Connection means joins ends of sheet-like belt: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 844.1. Subject matter wherein two ends of a flexible belt segment
or two adjacent ends of two flexible segments are joined by some
means to form an endless flexible belt.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
| 24, | Buckles, Buttons, Clasps, etc.,
subclasses 31+ ,for means for connecting end of a belt. |
| 474, | Endless Belt Power Transmission Systems or Components,
subclasses 218 and 253+, for means for connecting opposite
ends to form a loop. |
|
| | |
| 846 | Formed of or including a continuous member of sheet-like material (e.g., canvas, etc.) |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 844.1. Apparatus wherein the belt consists of, or includes as part
of its structure, a loop of sheet-like material.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 692+, | for conveyor belt means having load-impaling means
projecting from its surface. |
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
| 428, | Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles, for a single layer stock material in the form of a web
or sheet, especially
subclasses 116+ , for such material having varying thickness. |
| 474, | Endless Belt Power Transmission Systems or Components, particularly
subclasses 237+ for a friction drive belt. |
|
| | |
| 847 | Including separate reinforcing elements or plural sheet-formed plies |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 846. Apparatus including (1) strengthening elements embedded
in the material forming the belt, or (2) a belt formed of plural
plies of material joined together.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
| 305, | Wheel Substitutes for Land Vehicles,
subclasses 167+ and 183, for metal reinforced nonmetallic endless
flexible tracks for land vehicles. |
| 428, | Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles,
subclasses 55+ , for a laminate with filamentary elements (e.g., strands)
in one layer disposed at an angle to such elements in a second layer,
and subclass 60, for a laminate having a parallel relationship between filamentary
elements of adjacent layers. |
| 474, | Endless Belt Power Transmission Systems or Components, particularly
subclasses 237+ for a friction drive belt. |
|
| | |
| 848 | Formed of or including wire mesh, or rods hooked together at belt edges |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 844.1. Apparatus in which the belt is formed of or includes (1)
a wire lattice, or (2) rods having center portions thereof extending
transversely of said belt in spaced, parallel relation, the ends of
each of said rods extending longitudinally of said belt and turning
around an adjacent rod to form a pivotal connection therewith.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 820, | for a trough-shaped carrier belt including wires
or rods. |
| 851+, | for a conveyor belt formed of separate tandemly
disposed strips having a zigzag shape transversely of the belt and joined
together by rods passing through holes in interdigitated crown portions
thereof. |
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
| 59, | Chain, Staple, and Horseshoe Making,
subclass 83 , for chains formed of wire links. |
| 245, | Wire Fabrics and Structure,
subclasses 2+ , for wire fabrics, per se. |
| 256, | Fences,
subclass 45 , for wire fabric used in fences. |
| 474, | Endless Belt Power Transmission Systems or Components, particularly
subclasses 202+ for a positive drive belt; and subclasses 237+ for
a friction drive belt. |
|
| | |
| 850 | Formed of or including pivotally interconnected rigid links |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 844.1. Apparatus in which the belt is formed of or includes rigid
link members pivotally connected one to another in tandem relation lengthwise
of the belt.
| | (1)
Note. Included herein inter alia is a carrier belt formed
of links joined by hooks, ball and socket-type connections, or lacing
rings or coils extending through apertures in said links. |
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 820+, | for a trough-shaped carrier belt including links. |
| 832+, | for a device which drives a carrier belt including
links. |
| 845+, | for a carrier belt including links and rollers. |
| 846+, | for a carrier belt including links and a looped
strip of flexible material. |
| 849, | for a carrier belt including links and wire or rod
elements. |
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
| 59, | Chain, Staple, and Horseshoe Making,
subclasses 82 and 84+, for chains formed of links. |
| 474, | Endless Belt Power Transmission Systems or Components, particularly
subclasses 202+ for a positive drive belt; and subclasses 237+ for
a friction drive belt. |
|
| | |
| 853 | Links having interfitted ends |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 851. Apparatus including identical link members, each formed
at one end with transversely spaced knuckles, or bifurcated to provide
at one end transversely spaced arms, with the opposite end of each
link member extending between the knuckles or arms of the longitudinally
adjacent link member.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 503+, | for conveyors which are controlled in response to
a unit load count. |
|
| | |
| 860.1 | CONVEYOR FRAME OR CASING: |
| | This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus directed to means for supporting or encasing the
load carrying means of a conveyor, or to the surface, per se, upon
which the load rests as it is conveyed. |
| | |
| 860.2 | Modules connectable end-to-end with no relative movement: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 860.1. Apparatus wherein the conveyor support or casing comprises
components or modules which interconnected in end-to-end relationship
along the longitudinal axis of the conveyor without relative movement
between the modules or components.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 735, | for endless scraper troughs which are interconnected
modules. |
| 861.2, | for modules interconnected for relative movement. |
|
| | |
| 860.3 | Casing, cover, shield or load supporting surface: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 860.1. Apparatus wherein significance is attributed to the structure
which either encases, partially or completely, the load as it is
being conveyed, or is the supporting surface for the load as it
is being conveyed.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 657+, | 701+, 716+, 836, for particular
casings, covers, shields or load supporting surface. |
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
| 52, | Static Structures (e.g., Buildings),
subclass 31 for a housing combined with a conveyor. |
| 299, | Mining or In Situ Disintegration of Hard Material
and 405, Hydraulic and Earth Engineering, appropriate subclass for mine roof supports. |
|
| | |
| 860.4 | Casing with door: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 860.3. Apparatus wherein the casing is provided with a portal or
opening to permit access to the conveyor inside the casing for repairs,
corrections of article or material feed, cleaning, etc., of the conveyor. |
| | |
| 860.5 | Removable cover overlying the conveyor: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 860.3. Apparatus wherein the conveying run of the conveyor has
an adjustable or removable covering overlying said conveying run
to permit crossing by man or machine, prevent contamination, dust
control, or to permit access to conveyor. |
| | |
| 861.1 | Adjustable conveyor frame or casing: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 860.1. Apparatus wherein the conveyor support structure has parts
which may be moved relatively.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 312+, | for a conveyor shiftable mounted on a vehicle. |
| 463.2, | 463.3 and 631, for adjustably mounted conveyor which
moves for extra conveying function. |
| 535+, | for a gravity conveyor system having an adjustably
mounted conveyor. |
| 586+, | for plural power-driven conveying sections at least
one of which is adjustably mounted. |
|
| | |
| 867.02 | Holder grips load: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 867.01. Subject matter wherein the load-supporting surface positively
holds or attracts the load by friction or by use of a force field,
or by a fluid current.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 377.02+, | for a load holder comprising a gripping element. |
| 470.1+, | for conveyor systems using load grippers. |
| 803.3+, | for a conveyor section having a load holder
with a gripping element. |
|
| | |
| 867.03 | Suction gripper: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 867.02. Subject matter wherein the load-supporting surface comprises
a gaseous medium under subatmospheric pressure to hold the load during
conveyance.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 377.03+, | for a load holder having a suction type gripping
element. |
| 471.1, | for a rotary or endless conveyors using suction
grippers. |
| 803.5, | for a conveyor section having a load holder with
a suction type gripping element. |
|
| | |
| 867.04 | Magnetic or electrostatic gripper: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 867.02. Subject matter wherein the force field results from either
the attraction or the repulsion of (1) magnetic charges (i.e., magnetism) or
(2) electric charges at rest (i.e., static electricity).
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 377.04, | for a load holder having a magnetic or an electrostatic
type gripping element. |
| 472.1, | for a rotary or endless conveyor using magnetic
or electrostatic grippers. |
| 803.6, | for a conveyor section having a load holder with
a magnetic or electrostatic gripping element. |
|
| | |
| 867.05 | Gripper portion biased to load engaging portion: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 867.02. Subject matter wherein a portion of the load supporting
surface comprises at least two relatively movable portions, one
of which is continually urged to the load contacting position by
a separate resilient means.
| | (1)
Note. The resilient means could be a fluid. |
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 803.7, | for a conveyor section having a gripper portion
biased to load engaging portion. |
|
| | |
| 867.08 | Holder is adjustable for different sized loads: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 867.01. Subject matter wherein the load-supporting surface is attached
to the drive means and is adaptable or replaceable to accommodate
different sized loads.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 473.1, | for a conveyor system with adjustable or replaceable
holders for different sized loads. |
| 803.11, | for a conveyor section having a nongripping load
holder adjustable for ifferent sized loads. |
|
| | |
| 867.09 | Holder for hollow load contacts interiorly: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 867.01. Subject matter wherein the load- supporting surface holds
a cavity containing article and the load-supporting surface engages
the surface of the cavity.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 487.1, | for laterally projecting pins which engage the interior
of a hollow load in a conveyor system. |
| 803.12, | for a conveyor section having a holder for hollow
load contacting interiorly. |
|
| | |
| 867.11 | Holder means forms recess to receive or seat load: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 867.01. Subject matter wherein the load-supporting surface having
a hollow therein which at least partly surrounds an area of a load
to an extent which prevents unintended movement other than such
movement imparted by the load-supporting surface.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 803.14, | for a conveyor section having a load holder which
forms a recess to receive or seat the load. |
|
| | |
| 867.12 | Holder means forms an aperture for receiving load: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 867.01. Subject matter wherein the load-supporting surface comprises
an opening and the article is at least partially situated within
the opening during the conveying of the article.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 803.15, | for a conveyor section having a load holder which
forms aperture for receiving the load. |
|
| | |
| 867.13 | Holder has frictional engagement with drive: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 867.01. Subject matter wherein the load supporting surface is in
frictional contact with the drive.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 688.1+, | for a conveyor section having a means to enhance
the friction or adherence between the conveyor and the load at random
locations on the conveyor. |
|
| | |
| 867.14 | Holder has positive engagement with drive: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 867.01. Subject matter wherein the load supporting surface is secured
to the drive by a slippage inhibiting device such as a mechanical fastener
or formation (e.g., screw, pin, rivet, tongue and groove, hook)
and the slippage inhibitting device exerts a propelling force on the
load supporting surface.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 698+, | for a conveyor section having mechanical fasteners
attached to the load-engaging belt for enhancing friction or adherence
between the load and the conveyor. |
|
| | |
| 890 | Plural laterally spaced locations fed to or received from
a conveyor having laterally movable article supports or pushers: |
| | This subclass is indented under subclass 348. Subject matter wherein a load carrier consisting of two
or more load holding members or force exerting means moving along
a delivering or transferring path receives loads from two or more
sources physically separated from the load carrier and positioned
sideways relative to the load carrier and delivers or transfers
the loads to two or more destinations physically separated from
the load carrier and positioned sideways relative to the load carrier.
| | (1)
Note. Each load holding member or force exerting means is
capable of partaking of a motion independent from the other holding
members or force exerting means to effect a delivery of the load
at a selected destination. |
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
| 370.02, | through 370.06, for a conveyor having movable transfer
elements for discharging at selected locations along the conveyor
length. |
|
| | |
CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS
| 950 | CONVEYOR TRANSVERSES WALL APERTURE |
| | Art collection of conveyors and structure whereby they may
convey a load through an opening in a wall. |
| | |
| 951 | TURNING CIGARETTES END-FOR-END |
| | Art collection of conveyors having specific means for turning
cigarettes end for end. |
| | |
| 952 | HEATING OR COOLING |
| | Art collection of conveyors having heating or cooling means. |
| | |
| 953 | COIL SPRING UNTANGLING APPARATUS |
| | Art collection of conveyors having means to convey and untangle
springs. |
| | |
| 954 | OVERFLOW |
| | Art collection of conveyors having means to handle an overflow
load. |
| | |
| 955 | AIR MANIFOLD |
| | Art collection of conveyors having fluid actuated, expansible
chamber means to move or shift some portions of the conveyor or
conveyor system. |
| | |
| 956 | IMPACT PLATES |
| | Art collection of conveyors having flat surface positional
adjacent the end of the conveyor or conveyor system which is forcibly
contacted by the load and which acts to redirect the load. |
| | |
| 957 | CONVEYOR MATERIAL |
| | Art collection of conveyors, wherein significance is attributed
to the specific material used to make the conveyor or some part
thereof. |
| | |
| 958 | LOAD UNITS COUNTER: |
| | Subject matter having means to count separate articles or
batch loads on a conveying means. |
| | |
| 959 | WEIGHING: |
| | Subject matter having means to determine the weight of a
load carried upon a conveying means. |
| | |
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CLASS 198,