Patent ID: 7262868
Filing Date: 2007-08-28
Classification: G01B

Abstract:
1. Apparatus for ascertaining the transverse dimensions of at least one at least substantially rod-shaped article while the article is maintained in a predetermined position, comprising a plurality of measuring arrangements for simultaneously ascertaining the transverse dimensions of a plurality of rod-shaped articles each of which is maintained in a pre-determined position relative to the respective measuring arrangement, each measuring arrangement includes: at least one radiation source arranged to direct a variable-orientation beam of radiation against the at least one article occupying said predetermined position whereby the article intercepts a portion of the beam which is indicative of a transverse dimension of the article; a device for generating on the basis of the thus influenced beam of radiation signals denoting the transverse dimensions of the at least one article in plural orientations of the at least one article and the beam relative to each other; and means for selectively altering the orientation of the beam and the at least one article relative to each other wherein said measuring arrangements are adjacent each other and said altering means of each of said measuring arrangements include means for synchronously altering the orientation of beams generated by the radiation sources of said plurality of measuring arrangements.