Patent ID: 7748523
Filing Date: 2010-07-06
Classification: B65G

Abstract:
1. An automated handling line guide rail assembly comprising a guide rail that defines the perimeter of a path of a container when conveyed along part of an automated handling line, the path and hence the perimeter being arcuate about a center and positioned at a radius from the center, wherein the guide rail is movable radially to define the perimeter at a plurality of different radii from substantially the same center; wherein the guide rail comprises at least three segments, a first segment being driveable in a substantially radial direction, a second segment being connected to the first segment by a link and a third segment being connected to the second segment by a link such that the second and third segments follow movement of the first segment; and the first and second segments and the second and third segments are arranged in superposition to overlap and are provided with a slideable link between overlapping portions to allow relative circumferential movement between the first and second segments and the second and third segments as the segments move radially inwardly and outwardly.