Patent ID: 6205749
Filing Date: 2001-03-27
Classification: B65G

Abstract:
A method of collating loose articles from a relatively disordered state, comprising the steps of:providing a plurality of channels for slidably receiving said articles, said channels tapering in width from a receiving end to a discharge end, said channels having a substantially sawtooth configuration adjacent said receiving end and a parallel vertical wall configuration adjacent said discharge end, said receiving end being elevated relative to said discharge end, said channels being continuous and uninterrupted between said receiving end and said discharge end;introducing said articles at said receiving end at any orientation relative to said channels;sliding said articles, by gravity, down a respective channel;progressively changing the attitude of said articles from a generally horizontal attitude to a substantially vertical attitude at said discharge end;collating said articles at said discharge end; anddischarging said articles in an ordered collated array.