Patent ID: 7878391
Filing Date: 2011-02-01
Classification: A01K

Abstract:
1. An apparatus for counting objects such as eggs and the like, comprising: a plurality of first detectors, each having a locally defined first detection area, being adapted to detect electromagnetic radiation, in particular light in the visible or infrared range, from the first detection area, and being arranged next to one another in a first line; an evaluation unit coupled to the first detectors and configured to process the signals from the first detectors and, based on the signal of each of the first detectors, establish the presence of an object in the first detection area of the first detectors; a plurality of second detectors, each having a locally defined second detection area, being adapted to detect electromagnetic radiation, in particular light in the visible or infrared range, from the second detection area, and being arranged next to one another in a second line disposed adjacent to and parallel with the first line; and wherein the evaluation unit is coupled to the second detectors and is configured to process the signals of the second detectors and based on the signal of each of the second detectors to establish the presence of an object in the second detection area of the second detectors; the evaluation unit is configured to determine a direction of movement of the object relative to the first and second detectors on the one hand and whether a new article has entered one of the first and second detection areas on the other hand; and the evaluation unit comprises a counting apparatus with a counter and is configured to advance the counter by one when a new article has moved into one of the first and second detection areas of the first and second detectors in a direction of entry and has been identified, and wherein the counting apparatus is configured to set back the counter by one when an object, which has moved into one of the first and second detection areas of the first and second detectors and has been previously identified, has moved out of one of the first and second detection areas in a direction opposed to its direction of entry.