Patent ID: 7306087
Filing Date: 2007-12-11
Classification: B65G

Abstract:
1. An apparatus for controlling units within a continuous flow, said apparatus comprising: an incoming feeder track, said incoming feeder track including a first transport device for controlling and feeding said units at a predetermined variable or constant speed; an outgoing feeder track; at least one shifting device for controlled shifting of said flow from said incoming feeder track into a plurality of selectable paths of said outgoing feeder track, said at least one shifting device being pivotally arranged about a pivoting axis and including a second transport device arranged for feeding and guiding said units towards said outgoing feeder track; and, a control device capable of controlling speeds of each said unit and of determining shifting of said shifting device, said control device being arranged for speed control of said shifting device so as to accelerate said units when said units enter the second transport device of said shifting device, thereby providing separation of said units with respect to one another in a longitudinal direction of flow while each unit is guided to a selected path of said outgoing feeder track, said separation allowing for said controlled shifting without arresting said continuous flow and for counting of said units passing through said shifting device.