Patent Publication Number: US-2017349377-A1

Title: Tie Plate Separator and Method Thereof

Description:
CLAIM TO PRIORITY 
     This continuation application claims priority to and benefit of under 35 U.S.C. §120 to divisional application having U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/720,800 filed May 24, 2015, titled Tie Plate Separator and Method Thereof, which claims priority to and benefit under 35 U.S.C. §121 to continuation-in-part application having U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/657,645 filed Oct. 22, 2012, titled Tie Plate Separator and Method Thereof, which claims priority to and benefit of under 35 U.S.C. §120 to all of: U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/428,796 filed Mar. 23, 2012, titled Tie Plate Separator and Method Thereof, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/428,809 filed Mar. 23, 2012, titled Tie Plate Separator and Method Thereof, and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/428,828 filed Mar. 23, 2012, titled Tie Plate Separator and Method Thereof, all of which is incorporated by reference herein. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     1. Field of the Invention 
     An apparatus and method is taught for separating and sorting tie plates so that the tie plates may be sequentially fed to a tie plate distribution system. More specifically, an apparatus and method are taught for feeding a tie plate distribution system wherein the tie plates are separated and sorted mechanically rather than manually thereby improving efficiency of a tie plate distribution process. 
     2. Description of the Related Art 
     In current tie plate distribution systems, sorting and/or separating of tie plates, including orientation of the plates, is a highly manual endeavor. Workers stand along conveyors to lift, rotate and/or orient tie plates for proper feeding location. This typically requires two men on lower output machines and as many as six men on high output or high production machines. 
     Due to labor costs and a desire to eliminate job functions where lifting or other injuries might occur, it would be desirable to automate as many of these labor positions as possible. 
     Additionally, it would be desirable to increase the throughput of tie plates to increase efficiencies associated with distribution and therefore decrease the downtime of railroad tracks during maintenance periods when tie plate replacement is necessary. 
     SUMMARY 
     According to at least one embodiment, a tie plate sorter assembly comprises at least one generally cylindrical driving ring, at least one tie plate receiving side extending from adjacent the cylindrical driving ring, at least one magnet selectively operable and disposed adjacent the at least one tie plate receiving side, a tie plate input which provides tie plates to the tie plate receiving side when the tie plate receiving side is in one position, a tie plate output which receives sorted tie plates from the tie plate receiving side when the tie plate receiving side is in a second position. Optionally, the at least one generally cylindrical driving ring may have a first cylindrical drive ring and a second cylindrical drive ring. The first and second cylindrical drive rings may be disposed on tires wherein at least one of the tires is rotabably driven. The tie plate sorter assembly wherein the at least one of said tires may be driven by one of an electric or hydraulic motor. The tie plate sorter assembly wherein the one of an electric motor or a hydraulic motor is directly connected to the at least one of the tires. The tie plate sorter assembly wherein the one of an electric motor or a hydraulic motor is connected to the at least one of the tires by a transmission assembly. Optionally, the transmission assembly may be one of a chain drive, a belt drive, a gear drive, or a hydraulic transmission. The tie plate sorter assembly further comprises a chain drive having a drive sprocket extending about said tie plate sorter. The tie plate sorter assembly wherein the at least one tie plate receiving side forms a geometric shape and further wherein the geometric shape may be one of a circle, a polygon, a square, a rectangle, a quadrilateral, a trapezoid, a pentagon, a hexagon, and an octagon. The tie plate sorter assembly wherein each of the at least one tie plate receiving sides including at least one magnet. The tie plate sorter assembly wherein the at least one magnet is selectively powerable. The tie plate sorter assembly further comprises a power supply and a conductor which selectively powers the at least one magnet. The tie plate sorter assembly wherein the power supply is a metallic strip. The tie plate sorter assembly wherein the conductor engages the power supply dependent on a position of the receiver. 
     According to at least another embodiment, a tie plate sorter assembly for use on a tie plate distribution vehicle capable of operation on-road and on a railroad track, the vehicle having a bed and a crane, comprises a tie plate receiver having a first driving ring and a second driving ring, at least one tie plate receiving side extending between the first driving ring and the second driving ring, the at least one tie plate receiving side substantially forming one of a circle or a polygon, at least one driving assembly causing cyclical motion of said at least one tie plate receiving side, at least one magnet disposed adjacent the at least one tie plate receiving side, said at least one magnet being selectively operable, a tie plate input which delivers tie plates to the tie plate receiver, and, a tie plate output which receives the tie plates from the tie plate receiver. The tie plate sorter assembly wherein the cyclical motion is rotational. The tie plate sorter assembly wherein the cyclical motion is bi-directional. The tie plate sorter assembly wherein the tie plate input enters in a first direction. The tie plate sorter assembly wherein the tie plate output exits in a second direction. The tie plate sorter assembly wherein the first direction and the second direction are linearly aligned. The tie plate sorter assembly wherein the first and second direction are non-aligned. The tie plate sorter assembly further comprises an electrical contact operably engaging the at least one magnet. The tie plate sorter assembly wherein the tie plate input is optionally one of a roller conveyor, a belt conveyor, a chute or a feeder. 
     According to a further alternative embodiments, a tie plate sorter assembly comprises a drive assembly for cyclical motion of a tie plate receiver, the tie plate receiver having at least one tie plate receiving side, at least one magnet disposed on the tie plate receiver, the magnet disposed selectively operable based upon a position of said at least one magnet, a tie plate input providing tie plates to the tie plate receiver, a tie plate output receiving tie plates from the tie plate receiver. The tie plate sorter assembly wherein the magnet is an electromagnet. The tie plate sorter assembly wherein the magnet is a dual pole bar magnet. The tie plate sorter assembly wherein the at least one magnet has at least one on position and at least one off position during movement of said tie plate receiver. The tie plate sorter assembly further comprising guides located along the at least one tie plate receiving side. The tie plate sorter assembly further comprises a catch disposed on an inside of the tie plate receiver. The tie plate sorter assembly further comprises a power supply to power the at least one magnet. 
     According to an exemplary embodiment, a method of separating tie plates comprises driving a tie plate receiver in a cyclical manner, receiving tie plates in the tie plate receiver, moving the tie plates from a first position to a second position in the tie plate receiver, selectively releasing the tie plates onto a discharge conveyor, moving the tie plates along the discharge conveyor. The method of separating tie plates wherein the cyclical manner is rotational. The method of separating tie plates further comprises driving the tie plate receiver in at least two directions. The method of separating tie plates further comprises selectively retaining the tie plates. The method of separating tie plates further comprises driving the tie plate receiver with a hydraulic assembly. The method of separating tie plates further comprises driving the tie plate receiver with one of a pneumatic, hydraulic or electric motor. The method of separating tie plates further comprises rotating at least one tire with the at least one hydraulic or electric motor. The method of separating tie plate further comprises receiving the tie plates at a lower position of the tie plate receiver and electromagnetically releasing at least one of the tie plates at a higher position of said tie plate receiver. The method of separating tie plates further comprises actuating an electromagnet between an on condition and an off condition. The method of separating tie plates further comprises changing orientation of the tie plates on a discharge conveyor. 
     According to a further exemplary embodiment, a method of separating tie plates for feeding to a distribution conveyor comprises driving a tie plate receiver cyclically, feeding a plurality of tie plates to the tie plate receiver, moving the plurality of tie plates from a first position to a second position during the cyclical driving, and, releasing the plurality of tie plates on to an exit conveyor at the second position. The method wherein the feeding occurs with an entrance conveyor. The method further comprises operating the entrance conveyor and the exit conveyor in a single direction. The method wherein the releasing comprises powering off a magnet. The method wherein the moving comprises powering a magnet to carry the plurality of tie plates from the first position to the second position. The method wherein the driving occurs by at least one drive tire engaging a driven ring on the tie plate receiver. 
     According to an alternate embodiment, a tie plate sorter assembly comprises a first substantially cylindrical driving ring and a second cylindrical driving ring, at least one tie plate receiving surface extending between the first and second substantially cylindrical driving rings, the at least one tie plate receiving surface having at least one pass through aperture for allowing at least one tie plate to pass from an interior of the sorter to an exterior, a retaining mechanism engaging the at least one tie plate receiving surface for retaining the at least one tie plate until the tie plate is released. Optionally, the tie plate sorter assembly further comprises a pocket adjacent the at least one pass through aperture. The tie plate sorter assembly wherein the at least one retaining mechanism is magnetic. The tie plate sorter assembly wherein the at least one retaining mechanism is electromagnetic. The tie plate sorter assembly wherein the at least one retaining mechanism is actuated depending on the position of the tie plate sorter. The tie plate sorter assembly wherein the at least one retaining mechanism is actuated electrically. The tie plate sorter assembly wherein the at least one retaining mechanism is actuated mechanically. 
     According to a further embodiment, a tie plate sorter assembly, comprises a tie plate receiver having a first end and a second end, at least one location for receiving tie plates into said tie plate receiver, the tie plate receiver having at least one side wherein tie plates are deposited, the tie plate receiver having at least one aperture discharging tie plates. The tie plate sorter assembly further comprises a mechanical structure to engage or disengage a magnet. The magnet may retain the tie plates in the receiver until the magnet is disengaged. The tie plate sorter assembly further comprises an electromagnet. The tie plate sorter assembly further comprises a pocket wherein at least one of the plurality of tie plates is seated. The tie plate sorter assembly wherein a magnet is positioned adjacent the pocket. The tie plate sorter assembly wherein the aperture is formed in the pocket area. 
     According to still a further embodiment, a tie plate sorter assembly comprises a tie plate receiver having a first end and a second end, an input location for tie plates into the tie plate receiver, a plurality of circumferentially spaced pockets about the receiver, a retaining mechanism located at the pocket to retain at least one of the tie plates in the pocket, an aperture in the pocket to selectively release the at least one tie plate. The tie plate sorter assembly wherein the aperture discharges the at least one tie plate externally of the receiver. The tie plate sorter assembly further comprises a conveyor to receive the discharged at least one tie plate. The tie plate sorter assembly wherein the pockets extend in an axial direction. 
     According to some embodiments, a tie plate sorter comprises a generally circular receiver having a generally hollow interior, a drive assembly capable of rotating the receiver, the receiver having a surrounding wall and a plurality of apertures within the surrounding wall, at least one end wall extending radially inward from the surrounding wall, a path in communication with at least one of the plurality of apertures, the path having a retaining mechanism positioned therealong, the retaining mechanism selectively retaining and releasing tie plates from within the receiver to an outside of said receiver. The tie plate sorter wherein the retaining mechanism comprises a magnet. The tie plate sorter wherein the magnet is an electromagnet. The tie plate sorter wherein the magnet is a permanent magnet. The tie plate sorter wherein the circular body includes a plurality of switches on the at least one end wall. The tie plate sorter wherein the switches are electrically connected to a solenoid. The tie plate sorter wherein the solenoid is electrically connected to the retaining mechanism. The tie plate sorter wherein the retaining mechanism is an electromagnet. The tie plate sorter wherein the path includes a member spaced from each of the apertures in the surrounding wall. The tie plate sorter wherein the retaining mechanism is positioned on the member. The tie plate sorter wherein the path extends generally tangentially from the surrounding wall. 
     According to some embodiments, a tie plate sorter comprises a rotatable body formed of at least one outer surrounding wall having a plurality of apertures defining an outlet path, a radial wall having an inlet aperture, the radial wall extending toward the surrounding wall, a path member spaced from each of the plurality of apertures, a retaining mechanism disposed along the outlet path to either retain or release tie plates, a switch associated with the retaining member to actuate the retaining mechanism. The tie plate sorter wherein the retaining mechanism is disposed on the path member. The tie plate sorter further comprising a solenoid to power the retaining mechanism. The tie plate sorter further comprising a switch arm which either engages or disengages a switch lever. The tie plate sorter wherein the retaining mechanism is normally powered until a switch arm engages a switch lever. 
     According to still other embodiments, a tie plate sorter comprises a receiver having an input aperture and a plurality of output apertures, a drive assembly to rotate the receiver, wherein tie plates move from the input aperture to the plurality of output apertures, a path including the plurality of output apertures, a path member including a retaining mechanism disposed along the path, the retaining mechanism being operable to either retain or release the tie plates at a selected position of rotation of the receiver. The tie plate sorter wherein the receiver is generally circular in shape. The tie plate sorter wherein the path extends generally radially outward from the receiver. The tie plate sorter wherein the path extends in a first radial direction and a second substantially tangential direction. The tie plate sorter further comprising a stabilizer assembly. The tie plate sorter further comprising a thrust limiting roller. The tie plate sorter wherein the thrust limiting roller is adjustable in an axial direction of the receiver. The tie plate sorter further comprising a vertical lift limiting roller. The tie plate sorter wherein the vertical lift limiting roller being adjustable in a vertical direction. 
     According to some embodiments, a system for controlling a tie plate feed assembly, comprises a fluid reservoir, a pump in fluid communication with the reservoir, a regulator valve, a receiver motor and a mover motor, the valve being adjustable to a preselected pressure, wherein above the preselected pressure the mover motor is inhibited from operating, wherein below the preselected pressure, the mover motor drives a tie plate mover to move tie plates into a receiver for sorting. The system wherein the fluid reservoir is a hydraulic fluid reservoir. The system wherein the mover is a conveyor. The system further comprising a hopper. The system wherein the valve is an adjustable regulator valve. The system wherein the valve controls feeding of tie plates to a receiver. The system wherein pressure increases above the preselected pressure when the receiver is overloaded with the tie plates. The system wherein pressure decreases below the preselected pressure when the receiver has too few tie plates. 
     According to some embodiments, a system for controlling a tie plate feed assembly comprises a tie plate mover in feed communication with a tie plate receiver which sorts tie plates, a receiver motor for operating the tie plate receiver, the tie plate receiver driven by a drive assembly, a mover motor which operates the tie plate mover, wherein the mover motor is inoperable if a drive parameter of the receiver motor is beyond a preselected value. The system wherein the parameter is a pressure. The system wherein the parameter is current. The system further comprising a hopper in communication with a mover, the mover operably connected to the mover motor. The system wherein the mover is a conveyor. The system wherein the mover is a vibrating feeder. 
     According to a further embodiment, a tie plate sorter control system, comprises a first motor drivably engaged to a receiver, a second motor drivably engaged to a tie plate mover of a feed system, a pressure regulating valve wherein pressure increases with loading of tie plates into the receiver, the pressure regulating valve in fluid communication with the first motor and the second motor, wherein the pressure regulating valve inhibits flow to the second motor when the pressure increases beyond a preselected value. The system further comprising a fluid reservoir. The system wherein the fluid is hydraulic fluid. The system wherein the receiver is continuously driven by the first motor. The system wherein the first motor is hydraulic. The system wherein the second motor is hydraulic. The system wherein the second motor is electric. 
     According to still further embodiments a conveyor assembly comprises a frame, including a first side and a second parallel side extending in a longitudinal direction, a head end having a first sprocket and a tail end having a second sprocket, a chain extending between the first sprocket and the second sprocket, a plurality of cleats connected to the chain and spaced apart along the chain, the cleat moving with rotation of the sprockets and movement of the chain. The conveyor assembly further comprising two sprockets at a head end and two sprockets at a tail end of the conveyor. The conveyor assembly further comprising a first chain and a second chain. The conveyor assembly further comprises a metal plate disposed between the first chain and the second chain. The conveyor assembly further comprising a flap frame structure extending across the conveyor. The conveyor assembly further comprising a flap depending from the frame to the conveyor. The conveyor assembly further comprising a second smaller flap frame in the downstream direction of the conveyor from the flap frame structure. The conveyor assembly wherein the flap extends over the second smaller flap frame. The conveyor assembly wherein the second smaller flap frame limits movement of the flap in the direction of the conveyor movement. 
     According to some embodiments, a conveyor assembly for a tie plate distribution system, comprises at least one conveyor frame, a head end and a tail end of the frame, a conveyor belt extending between the head end and the tail end, a plurality of cleats integrally connected on the conveyor belt. The conveyor assembly further comprises a first flap frame extending across the conveyor. The conveyor assembly further comprises a flap depending from the first flap frame. The conveyor assembly further comprises a second frame flap, the flap extending to the second frame flap. The conveyor assembly wherein the second frame flap limits the flap from moving in a direction of the conveyor movement. The conveyor assembly wherein the flap engages tie plates and aligns the tie plates in a direction transverse to the conveyor movement. 
     According to some other embodiments, a conveyor assembly comprises a frame structure having a first head end and a second tail end, a first pair of sprockets at the head end and a second pair of sprockets at the tail end, a first chain extending between the sprockets at the head and tail ends, and a second chain spaced from the first chain and extending between the sprockets at the head end and the tail end, a plurality of cleats extending between the first chain and the second chain, the cleats spaced apart in a direction of movement of the first and second chains, providing spaces for positioning of tie plates. The conveyor assembly further comprising a flap frame extending across the conveyor assembly. The conveyor assembly further comprising a second flap frame extending across the conveyor assembly. The conveyor assembly wherein the flap depends from the first flap frame to the second flap frame. The conveyor assembly wherein the flap engages tie plates on the conveyor and aligns the tie plates. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       In order that the embodiments may be better understood, embodiments of the tie plate sorter in accordance with the present invention will now be described by way of examples. These embodiments are not to limit the scope of the present invention as other embodiments of the tie plate sorter of the present invention will become apparent to one having ordinary skill in the art upon reading the instant description. Examples of the present invention are shown in figures wherein: 
         FIG. 1  depicts a side view of a first embodiment of a tie plate separator or sorter assembly and distribution conveyor. 
         FIG. 2  depicts a top view of the embodiment of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 3  depicts a perspective view of the tie plate sorter assembly removed from a tie plate distribution vehicle. 
         FIG. 4  refers to an exploded perspective view of the embodiments shown in  FIG. 3 . 
         FIG. 5  depicts an end view of the tie plate receiver having a plurality of tie plates therein. 
         FIG. 6  depicts an end view of the tie plate receiver rotated through an arcuate distance from the position shown in  FIG. 5 . 
         FIG. 7  depicts an end view with the tie plate receiver rotated further from the position depicted in  FIG. 6 . 
         FIG. 8  depicts an end view of the tie plate sorter rotated even further from the position depicted in  FIG. 7  and a tie plate falling onto an exit conveyor. 
         FIG. 9  depicts a top view of an exit conveyor wherein the tie plate orientation is changed if necessary. 
         FIG. 10  and alternate vehicle for moving an exemplary tie plate sorter. 
         FIG. 11  depicts an alternate embodiment of a further cyclical operating tie plate receiver and sorter assembly. 
         FIG. 12  depicts a side view of the alternate tie plate sorter of  FIG. 11  in a first position. 
         FIG. 13  depicts a side view of the alternate tie plate sorter of  FIG. 11  in a second position. 
         FIG. 14  depicts an end view of an alternative receiver with at least one slide surface. 
         FIG. 15  depicts a perspective view of an embodiment wherein guides are located within the receiver. 
         FIG. 16  depicts an end view of a receiver wherein a catch is disposed in the receiver. 
         FIG. 17  depicts a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a receiver. 
         FIG. 18  depicts a perspective view of a further alternative output conveyor extending from a receiver. 
         FIG. 19  is an end section view of an alternate retaining mechanism disposed on a receiver. 
         FIG. 20  is a perspective view an alternate embodiment of a tie plate sorter. 
         FIG. 21  is a side view of an embodiment of the tie plate sorter of  FIG. 20 . 
         FIG. 22  is a perspective view of an embodiment of an opposite side of a tie plate sorter. 
         FIG. 23  is a side sectional view of an embodiment of the tie plate sorter of  FIG. 20 . 
         FIG. 24  is a side elevation view of a tie plate feeder assembly. 
         FIG. 25  is a schematic view of an exemplary control system. 
         FIG. 26  is a perspective view of one embodiment of a conveyor with an adjustable guide wall. 
         FIG. 27  is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of a conveyor with an adjustable guide wall. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     It is to be understood that the tie plate sorter assembly is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of “including,” “comprising,” or “having” and variations thereof herein is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items. Unless limited otherwise, the terms “connected,” “coupled,” and “mounted,” and variations thereof herein are used broadly and encompass direct and indirect connections, couplings, and mountings. In addition, the terms “connected” and “coupled” and variations thereof are not restricted to physical or mechanical connections or couplings. 
     Referring now in detail to the drawings, wherein like numeral indicate like elements throughout several views, there are shown in  FIGS. 1 through 27  various aspects of a tie plate separator or sorter assembly which receives a plurality of tie plates and positions the tie plates sequentially on an exit conveyor for subsequent feeding to a tie plate distribution system. A method is further shown herein for performing the function described with the various structures disclosed. 
     Referring initially to  FIG. 1 , a side view of a tie plate sorter assembly  10  positioned on a hi-rail truck  12  for separating a plurality of tie plates positioned on the truck by a crane or other loading structure  28  and feeding a tie plate distribution system  15 . 
     The tie plate separator or sorter assembly  10  is mounted on a truck or other vehicle  12  having capability of operating on a road or on a railroad track  13 , as shown. The railroad track  13  includes a pair of rails  14  disposed on tie plates  16 . The tie plates  16  are positioned on the railroad ties  18  which extend generally perpendicular below the rails  14 . The tie plates  16  connect the rails  14  to the railroad ties  18 . The railroad ties  18  are positioned in ballast  19  which may be formed of various substrates which typically include some amount of gravel or rock. 
     The truck  12  includes the front road tires  20  and at least one set of rear road tires  22 . An engine and transmission connected to the rear road tires  22  provide propulsion for both on road and railway travel, according to the instant embodiment. The vehicle  12  also includes rail wheels  26  which allow movement along rails  14  by way of propulsion from at least one of the front and rear tires  20  and  22 . The truck  12  includes an auxiliary drive system  24  which also allows the vehicle to operate on the railroad tracks through the use of additional rail wheels  26  shown. A crane  28  is located at the rear of the bed of the truck  12  for loading materials onto the truck  12  as well as clearing debris from railway worksites as needed. As shown in  FIG. 10 , an alternative vehicle  112  is depicted. The vehicle  112  is a flatbed cargo vehicle for train track  13  usage. The vehicle  112  is typically used for higher output tie plate production systems. In operation, vehicle  112  may follow behind vehicle  12 , or other pulling vehicle, engine or tractor, so as to receive tie plates from crane  28 . These vehicles should not be considered limiting as various types of vehicles may be utilized. 
     The tie plate separator assembly  10  includes a tie plate receiver  30  which operates in a cyclical manner to receive tie plates at one location and move the tie plates to a second location for depositing on a tie plate distribution system  15 . The separator assembly  10  further includes a drive assembly  50  ( FIG. 3 ) which causes cyclical motion of the receiver  30  to separate or sort the tie plates for positioning on an exit conveyor. The receiver  30 , according to the instant embodiment, rotates about an axis which is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the truck  12 , i.e. extending from the front tires  20  to the rear tires  22 . The tie plate receiver  30  receives tie plates from input  73  and moves the tie plates from the receiver  30  by output  70 . The input  73  may be formed of various roller, powered, vibrating, or gravity feed structures. The feed or input structure  73  may have a switch or other control structure for limiting the flow of tie plates  16  into the receiver  30 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 2 , a top view of the truck  12  with the tie plate separator  10  is depicted. At a forward end of the truck  12  is the operating cab  17  wherein a driver can operate the truck  12  while in use during on road travel, and in order to position the truck  12  on the railroad track  13 . Once the truck  12  is positioned on the track  13 , the operator may move to a rear or cab area where the engine speed, auxiliary drive  24  and crane  28  may be controlled in order to propel the truck along the rails  14  and move tie plates  16  for processing in the receiver  30 . 
     According to one embodiment of the tie plate separator assembly  10 , the tie plates  16  are received by the receiver  30  at the vehicle forward end of the receiver  30  and are directed towards the rear of the vehicle  12  after the tie plates  16  are oriented in the tie plate receiver  30 . The crane  28  feeds tie plates  16  to a plurality of feed devices such as a hopper, a vibrating feeder, a feed chute, a roller or belt conveyor or other structure which feeds the receiver  30 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 3 , the tie plate separator  10  is shown including the receiver  30  and a drive assembly  50  positioned on a frame  32 . Positioned on or adjacent to the frame  32  is a motor  34  which is powered by a power supply  36 . The motor  34  may be electric or alternatively may be hydraulic. The power supply  36  therefore may be electric or may be a fluid supply utilized to rotate the hydraulic motor. Various power supplies may be used and exemplary descriptions should not be considered limiting. 
     In addition to the motor  34 , the drive assembly  50  further comprises a transmission  38 . The transmission  38  is shown including sheaves  40 ,  42  and a belt  44 . The sheaves  40 ,  42  receive the belt  44  and together transfer torque from the motor  34  to at least one tire  52 . Alternative drives may be utilized, however. For example, gear drives, chain drives or other transmissions may be utilized. The chain drive sprockets may replace sheaves  40 ,  42 . Alternatively, a chain sprocket may extend about the receiver  30  and an adjacent sprocket may be positioned on a motor or transmission in order to turn the receiver  30  by way of a chain extending around both sprockets. 
     The drive assembly  50  further comprises tire assemblies  51 , each having first and second tires  52  spaced apart along the axle  54 . The tires  52  may be metallic, rubber, composite or other materials. The assemblies  51  are connected to the frame  32  by opposed bearings  56  between which the axle  54  extends. As shown in the exemplary embodiment, the device includes first and second tire assemblies  51  spaced apart to rotatably locate the receiver  30 . In order to operate, the motor  34  is powered for rotation, causing rotation through the transmission  38  and tires  52 . With rotation of the adjacent at least one drive ring, for example drive rings  60  and  62 , opposite tire assembly  51  is also driven which allows for guided rotation of the receiver  30 . While one tire assembly  51  is shown being driven by the motor  34 , alternate embodiments may be provided wherein both tire assemblies may be driven. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 4 , the receiver  30  is exploded from the frame  32  and the tire assemblies  51 . Extending between a first drive ring  60  and a second drive ring  62  is at least one side  64 . The at least one side  64  defines a geometric shape as best shown in  FIG. 5  when viewed from an end of the receiver  30 . The exemplary design utilizes an octagonal shaped hollowed area  63  of the receiver  30  which is formed by the eight sides  64 . The hollow area  63  receives tie plates  16  from a feed device and feeds out separated tie plates via an exit or output conveyor  70 . Alternatively, various shapes may be utilized which may be moved in cyclical fashion. For example, polygons, circles, curvilinear sides and other shapes may be used. 
     Referring still to  FIG. 4 , on or in each side  64  is at least one magnet  72 . According to the exemplary embodiment, the magnets  72  are positioned on the outer surface of side  64  and apertures are cut in the sides  64  so that the magnetic force can retain tie plates  16  on the inside of the receiver  30 . Other arrangements are contemplated however, dependent on the force attainable with the magnets. The exemplary magnets  72  are dual pole magnets however alternative magnets may also be utilized. Each of the magnets  72  retain at least one tie plate  16  against a side  64  during the rotation of the receiver  30  on the tire assemblies  51 . The magnets  72  move with rotation of the receiver  30  so that magnetically retained tie plates are moved from the lower side of the receiver  30  to the upper side during the rotation. This causes loose tie plates to separate from the magnetically retained tie plates  16  which are held tightly by the electromagnetic force. As the receiver  30  rotates, the magnets  72  retain and move at least one tie plate  16  toward a discharge position. At such discharge position, the tie plates  16  are released on to a tie plate output  70 , such as the exemplary conveyor. Other embodiments may be used. For example, although the magnets are shown inside receiver  30  with long side extending in a circumferential direction the receiver  30 , the magnets  72  may be rotated so that the long side extends in an axial direction. Additionally, although magnets  72  are shown on each surface of the receiver  30 , the magnets may be spaced to every other surface of the receiver or further depending on the desired throughput. Even further, the magnets  72  may be spaced in the axial direction of the receiver as well. Although three magnets  72  are shown in an axial direction, more magnets  72  may be used or fewer may be utilized. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 5 through 10 , the receiver  30  is shown in a sectional end view moving through multiple positions due to cyclical motion of the tire assemblies  51 . As previously described, the receiver  30  rotates in clockwise direction according to the exemplary views, so that the tie plates  16  deposited in the receiver  30  are moved toward the top of the receiver  30 . When located at the top of the receiver, the tie plates  16  are transferred to a tie plate output  70 . Since all of the lifting and positioning occurs in automated fashion, the structure and process provides for decrease in manual handling which results in decreased lifting injury. Also, the process results in increased efficiency, increased throughput of tie plates and ultimately decreased operating costs. In the  FIGS. 5-10 , the sides  64  are labeled  64   a - 64   h  for ease in distinguishing movement of the receiver  30 . 
     In  FIG. 5 , the tie plates  16  are deposited on a tie plate receiver side  64   a  at a first position. This first position is a lowermost position for the specific side  64   a  described herein. The tie plates  16  may be delivered in a multitude of manners including a conveyor, a vibrating feeder, a chute or any of a variety of means in order to deposit tie plates  16  on the side  64   a.  Moreover, the tie plates  16  need not be deposited at the lowermost surface but may be positioned at a multitude of positions within the receiver  30 . As shown in the Figure, the side  64   a  has a magnet  72  on an outer surface. Adjacent the magnet  72  is a conductor  74  which engages a power supply  76  extending about the receiver  30 . The power supply  76  is a copper or other conductive strip or band in the exemplary embodiment, however other structures may be utilized to provide power to the conductor  74 . The power supply  76  may be charged by a battery, an alternator which may be connected to a hydraulic motor, a generator or other means. The magnet  72  is powered by the conductor  74 , which is powered by the power supply  76 . The power supply  76  is shown in the axial center of the receiver  30 . However, as shown in other embodiments, the power supply  76  may be at axial ends of the receiver  30  or any position therebetween. The magnet  72  provides force sufficient to retain at least one tie plate  16 , as previously described. According to the exemplary embodiment, each side  64   a - 64   h  includes a magnet  72 . However, magnets  72  may be spaced on consecutive surfaces, alternating surfaces or as needed for desired output of tie plates  16 . As shown in  FIG. 3 , the power supply  76  is depicted generally centrally positioned relative to the axial direction of the receiver  30 . However, the structure  76  may be moved to axial ends of the receiver  30  or any position there between. Additionally, the power supply  76  may be located at ends as long as pathways are provided for feed and output structure  70 . 
     With reference now to  FIG. 6 , as the tire assemblies  51  rotate a counterclockwise direction this causes clockwise rotation of receiver  30 . The side  64   a  moves from a lowermost position ( FIG. 5 ) to a position upwardly from that, as shown in  FIG. 6 . The tie plates  16  which are located against the surface  64   a  are held in position by the magnets  72 . The conductor  74  continues to move with the rotation of the receiver  30 . During the rotation, the conductor  74  stays in contact with the power supply  76  so that the magnet  72  continues to retain at least one tie plate  16  on surface  64   a.  As the rotation occurs, at least one tie plate  16  which is not immediately adjacent the magnet  72  will typically fall downward due to gravity to a lower surface  64   h  of the receiver  30 . As tie plate  16  slides downward and engages at least one exposed magnet  72  on subsequent side  64   h,  the tie plate  16  will be retained as the receiver  30  continues rotation. 
     Referring to  FIG. 7 , the tie plate  16  continues moving in the clockwise direction with rotation of the receiver  30 . The conductor  74  maintains engagement with the power supply  76 . The side  64   a  is vertically oriented due to the rotation of the receiver  30 . On side  64   a,  a single tie plate  16  is held in position by the magnet  72 , while all loose tie plates  16  have fallen downward toward the lower adjacent side  64   h  of the receiver  30 . A majority of the tie plates  16  are disposed on side  64   h.  In the stack of tie plates  16  on surface  64   h,  the lowermost tie plate  16  adjacent the surface  64   h  will be held by the magnetic force while the remainder of plates may be loosely in position and will fall as rotation continues. At the lowermost side  64   g,  one tie plate  16  is disposed in the lowermost position of the receiver  30  having fallen from either or both of sides  64   a  and  64   h.  The tie plates  16  are held by electromagnetic force against the surface indicated while other tie plates slide toward the lower adjacent side  64   g  with continued rotation. The retaining force is available due to the engagement between the conductor  74  and the power supply  76 . However, other selectively operable retaining mechanisms or forces may be used. For example, pockets which catch and hold the loose tie plates  16  may be utilized to release the tie plates  16  at an appropriate location. Additionally, pockets, guides, catches, lips or the other structures, including but not limited to those shown in  FIGS. 11, 15 and 17  may also be utilized. 
     As shown in  FIG. 8 , the side  64   a  is disposed horizontally at the top of the cyclical rotation of the receiver  30 . The conductor  74  of side  64   a  is disengaged from the power supply  76 . With the magnets  72  of side  64   a  discharged, the tie plates  16  are released. Thus depending on the position of the receiver  30  or the magnets  72 , the tie plates  16  are released. Since the side  64   a  is above the output conveyor  70 , the tie plates  16  are released and begin to fall toward the output conveyor  70 . One tie plate  16  is shown moving downward and rotating during the fall from the top uppermost surface  64  to an output conveyor  70 . The tie plate output conveyor  70  moves the tie plates  16  out of the receiver and toward a tie plate distribution system  15  ( FIG. 1 ) utilized with the vehicle  12 . It may be also desirable to facilitate a complete discharge of the magnets  72  so as to release any dust or metallic debris which may delay or inhibit release of the tie plates  16 . One such structure may be a rectifier but such device should not be considered limiting as various discharge devices may be utilized. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 9 , a top view of the output conveyor for tie plate output  70  is shown. As depicted in the figure, a tie plate  16  is disposed at the left hand end of the segment of conveyor  70 . The tie plate  16  engages an orientation structure  80 . The exemplary embodiment utilizes a post  80  to cause rotation of the tie plate  16  about a vertical axis as the tie plate  16  moves with the output conveyor  70 . The rotation of the tie plate  16  is shown in broken line as the tie plate  16  engages the orientation structure  80  causing the rotation about a vertical axis. With further movement of the conveyor  70 , the orientation moves about 90 degrees from a longitudinal alignment with the conveyor to an orientation which is generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the conveyor  70 . Additionally, the orientation of the tie plates  16  may need to be rotated about a horizontal axis. In other words, it may be desirable to rotate the tie plate from the bottom surface as shown in  FIG. 9  to the top surface. One method of doing this is to drop the tie plates from one conveyor to a second conveyor allowing the tie plate to flip or rotate about the horizontal axis. As shown in  FIG. 10 , output conveyor  70  drops to a secondary output conveyor  71 . This causes rotation of the tie plate  16  from one surface to a second surface. The height differential of the space between conveyor  70  and  71  may be adjusted so as to allow for rotation to the appropriate side desired. Thus, with the tight spacing between the layers, a tie plate may not be allowed to rotate or with a wider spacing, the tie plate may be able to rotate 180 degrees so as to flip sides for feeding through the tie plate distribution system  15 . This will be partially dependent on tie plate dimensions as will be understood by one skilled in the art. 
     Additional embodiments are shown, with reference to  FIG. 14 , depicting that the magnets  72  may also be spaced apart at further distances than every surface  64  of the receiver  30 . For example, the magnets  72  maybe spaced at every other surface as shown, or at farther distances. According to a further embodiment shown, a sliding surface  164  may be positioned between, for example, surfaces  64   a  and  64   g.  The sliding surface more closely approximates a circular surface upon which the plates  16  may slide rather than fall to surface  64   g  where the at least one magnet  72  is positioned. This surface  164  allows for quieter movement of tie plates  16  and may be used between immediately adjacent surfaces or where magnets  72  are spaced apart at farther distances as shown. Other arrangements of slide surfaces may be utilized and should be considered within the scope of this disclosure. 
     As further depicted in  FIG. 15 , guides  134  may be utilized in the receiver  30 . The guides  134  may be positioned to locate tie plates  16  into a desired orientation and position. Additionally, the guides  134  may further limit the capture of more than one tie plate by any magnet  72 . The guides may be welded or fastened and may be oriented to provide a multitude of tie plate  16  orientations. Therefore the embodiment shown should not be considered limiting. 
     As shown in  FIG. 16 , an end view of the receiver  30  is depicted wherein the catches  136  are depicted. These catches  136  receive ends of the tie plates  16  and cause the tie plate  16  to flip when the tie plate  16  is released from the top of the receiver  30  revolution. The flip of the tie plate  16  may be desirable when a desired orientation is needed and the normal release of the tie plate  16  from the receiver magnet  72  does not result in such orientation. The catch  136  may be formed of various structures, such as for example angle iron, and may be attached in a variety of manners. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 11 , a secondary embodiment of the invention is shown. In this embodiment the receiver  130  does not rotate in a circular motion, but instead has a cyclical motion which is in two directions. As shown, the tie plate receiving structure  130  includes a plurality of pockets  132  defined by guides  134 . In these pockets  132 , tie plates are disposed and a magnet may be utilized on the backside of the receiver structure  130  to retain the tie plate  16  in a position indicated. From this position the magnet may be released and the tie plate falls onto the conveyor  170 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 12 and 13 , side views of the receiver  130  for sorting are depicted. The side view is rotated 90 degrees from that shown in  FIG. 11 . In  FIG. 12 , the receiver is shown having a first end which is elevated and a second end which deposits tie plates on the output conveyor  170 . In  FIG. 13 , the second end is elevated so that the loose tie plates are moved to the opposite end of the receiver  130  and the properly oriented plates are held in position by magnets adjacent the pocket area  132  of the receiver  130 . As shown in  FIGS. 12 and 13 , the motion is cyclical in that the ends of the receiver  130  move between first and second positions in a reciprocating fashion. This may be done through the use of a motor or an actuator, such as a pneumatic or fluid actuator. 
     In operation, the tie plates  16  are loaded on the cyclical receiver  130 . The flat platter  164  of receiver  130  pivots has an upper side or surface  165  along which the tie plates  16  slide. The surface  165  of receiver  130  pivots at joint  166 . The tie plates are moved away from the conveyor  170  by pivoting the end of receiver  130  opposite the conveyor  170  downward, as shown in  FIG. 13 . Next the receiver is rotated to the position in  FIG. 12  causing the tie plates to slide toward the conveyor  170 . The tie plates move into the pockets  132  formed by guides  134 , thus orienting the tie plates  16 . When the magnets are powered off, the tie plates in pockets  132  fall on the conveyor  170 . Next the receiver  130  moves toward the position in  FIG. 13 , and the process starts again. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 17 , a further alternative receiver  230  is shown and according to some embodiments has a first driving ring  260  and a second driving ring  262  spaced apart by at least one tie plate receiving surface  264 . According to at least one exemplary embodiment, the at least one receiving surface  264  defines a circular shaped interior extending between the driving rings  260 ,  262 . However, multiple shapes may utilize and such description should not be considered limiting. The tie plate receiving surface  264  includes a plurality of magnets  72  which retain tie plates against the tie plate receiving surfaces  264  at each magnet location. As previously described during operation, tie plates enter the receiver  230  at a first location and exit at a second location. However, at least some embodiments utilize at least one pocket  280 . The pocket  280  comprises multiple magnets  72  thereon so that the tie plates  16  are retained in the pocket area of the receiver  230 . The pocket  280  is defined by multiple walls however an opening or aperture  282  is defined along one area of the pocket  280  so that tie plates may be discharged. 
     Adjacent to receiver  230  is an external conveyor  270 . The conveyor  270  receives tie plates  16  as they are discharged from the receiver  230 . The conveyor  270  may take various forms including a roller conveyor, belt conveyor or other feeding or sliding mechanisms to move the tie plates  16 . Adjacent the conveyor  270  is an exemplary motor and belt drive which defines a drive assembly  274 . However the drive assembly may take various forms including gear drive or direct drive systems connected to a head or tail pulley. 
     In operation, the tie plates  16  are received through the opening defined by the first driving ring  260 . The tie plates  16  rotate and slide within the receiver  230  and are retained and positioned by the retaining structure  72 , such as for example a magnet. More specifically, the tie plates move into the pockets  280  and are held in position by the magnets  72  until the magnets are deactivated by ending communication with the power supply  76 . When the power supply no longer powers the magnet  72 , the aperture  282  is oriented generally downwardly so that the tie plate  16  are released through the receiver  230  toward the conveyor  270 . From this position, the tie plate  16  moves away from the receiver  230  along the external conveyor  270 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 18 , a perspective view of the tie plate sorter assembly is shown. In exemplary discharge or output conveyor  70  is depicted internally of the receiver  30 . According to one exemplary embodiment, the conveyor output  70  is generally positioned toward one side of the receiver  30 . The conveyor  70  includes a motor and gear box defining a drive assembly  350 . The conveyor  70  may be centered or may be moved toward one side of the receiver  30 . 
     During rotation of the receiver  30 , tie plates  16  are released as previously described from being retained from the retaining structures or mechanisms, for example, magnets. The magnets  72  may release tie plates  16  along sides or at the top of the rotation. When released at the side of the receiver  30 , the tie plates  16  engage a slide surface  79  which directs the plates  16  onto the conveyor  70 . Since the slide surface  79  temporarily positions tie plates on a lower edge of the tie plate  16  and leaning at an angle, the tie plate engages a flipping bar  75 . The bar  75  causes the tie plate  16  to move to the desired orientation which is bottom down for further movement along the conveyor  70  and discharge to other tie plate distribution structures. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 19 , the receiver  30  shown in end view. In this view the receiver  30  rotates in a counterclockwise direction. The exemplary embodiments depicted in  FIG. 19  show that the retaining structures  372  are permanent magnets and are engaged or mechanically disengaged from the receiver  30  depending on the position of the receiver during rotation. For example, magnets  372  are normally positioned against the surfaces  64  of the receiver  30 . As the magnet  372  moves towards a disengagement bar  374 , the magnets  372  include mechanical structure which engages the bar  374  causing the magnet to pivot or lift away from the surface  64  of the receiver  30 . 
     When the magnet moves away from the surface  64 , the tie plate  16  may be released to the output conveyor  70 . Once the receiver  30  continues rotation and magnets  370  clear the disengagement bar  374  near the bottom of the rotation cycle, the magnets  372  reengage the surfaces  64  and begin lifting tie plate  16  upwardly along the rotation cycle until reaching the disengagement bar  374 . Although a pivot structure is shown, the magnet  372  may be moved in a variety of ways. 
     It should be understood that the various retaining structures such as electromagnetic, magnetic or other structures which are used to retain the tie plates  16  against the inside surfaces of the receiver  30  may be utilized in combination with various embodiments of an internal conveyor  70  or external conveyor  170 . Additionally, the various forms of magnets may be utilized with any of the embodiments described herein. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 20 , a perspective view of a receiver  430  is depicted as an alternate embodiment as previously described. The receiver  430  has a generally circular shaped drum or body formed of a circular side wall or surrounding wall  432  and at least one radial or end wall  434 . Although the term end wall is used, the wall  434  need not be at the axial end most position of the wall  432 . Near axial ends of the wall  432  are lips  435  which provide an aid for limiting thrust movement of the sorter drum or receiver  430 , described further herein. As an optional alternative, and as shown in previous embodiments, the receiver  430  may be formed of multiple linear side segments forming a polygon with circular end rings to allow the polygonal structure to rotate. Any of these types of embodiments may be considered generally cylindrical having a generally circular cross-sectional shape. The side wall  432  defines an interior volume which is generally hollow wherein tie plates  16  are received for sorting. The cylindrical receiver  430  has a plurality of apertures  442  formed through the side  432  allowing passage from the inside of the receiver  430  to the outside. Beneath the receiver  430  is an exemplary output conveyor  70  upon which sorted tie plates  16  are deposited and moved away from the receiver  430  during operation. The conveyor  70  moves the tie plates from the receiver  430  in the direction C indicated longitudinally along the conveyor  70 . A support structure includes a drive assembly  450  is positioned below the receiver  430  and causes rotation of the receiver  430  in the direction shown by arrow R. As with previous embodiments, the drive assembly  450  may include a belt or chain drive or other transmission types and may drive one or both axle assemblies shown for example. The receiver  430  and drive assembly  450  may be located on, as described in previous embodiments, a powered vehicle bed such as truck or train, flatbed or box types. 
     According to the instant embodiment, the end wall  434  includes a plurality of switch arms  474  which engage a switch arm lever  476 . The lever  476  is formed of a flat bar stock in the exemplary embodiment and is curved along the circular path of the switch arms  474  so that the switch arms  474  engage or disengage the lever  474  based upon location of the switch arm  474  along the rotational path. The switch arm lever  476  is spaced a radial distance from center of rotation of the receiver  430  which corresponds to the location of switch arms  474 . Additionally, the lever  476  has an arcuate length corresponding to a rotational location, or range of locations, wherein the tie plates are either released or retained. According to one embodiment, the switch arms  474  cause electrification of magnets when engaging the lever arm  476 . In an alternate embodiment, the magnets are electrified continuously except when the lever arms  476  are engaged by the switch arms  474 . In this second embodiment, which is depicted, when the switch arms  474  engage the lever  476 , a retaining mechanism  472  is used to de-electrify or de-power the retaining mechanism  472 , for example magnets, causing release of a tie plate  16  within the angular position of the lever  476 . The switch arm lever  476  extends from a strut positioned on the drive assembly  450 . However the switch lever  476  may be mounted in a variety of manners and the exemplary embodiment should not be considered limiting. 
     Referring still to  FIG. 20 , the switch arms  474  are each connected to a switch  480  and a solenoid  482 . In general, the switch and solenoid define an actuator but various alternate types of actuators may be utilized. As the switch arms  474  rotate and engage the switch lever  476 , a switch  480  is de-activated. In turn, this causes de-activation of a solenoid  482  which is normally powered to power on the retaining mechanism  472 , for example electromagnets. Other structures may be utilized such as permanent magnets with mechanical means for separating the tie plates  16  and the like. Thus, when the switch arms  474  engage the switch lever  476 , the electromagnets  472  are powered off so that the electromagnets release the tie plates  16 . When the switch arms  474  disengage the lever  476 , the electromagnets are powered on so the electromagnets  472  retain the tie plates  16 . In other words, the tie plates  16  may be either retained or released by powering the electromagnets  472 . This powering on and off occurs due to location of the switch arm  474  relative to discharge position along the circular path of the receiver  430 . Otherwise stated, the switch lever  476  is positioned at a location where discharge is desired. 
     A stabilizing assembly  490  is also depicted in the instant Figure. The assembly  490  includes an adjustable frame  491  which allows adjustment in a vertical direction and an axial direction of the receiver  430 . The frame  491  has an adjustable vertical member  492  and an adjustable horizontal member  493 . Connected to the member  493  is a roller  494  which is disposed inside the lip  435  having a horizontal axis of rotation. The roller  494  inhibits vertical lifting of the receiver  430  during operation. Similarly, the vertical member  490  includes a roller  495  having a vertical axis of rotation which inhibits thrust movement in the axial direction of the receiver  430  during operation. The roller  495  engages the lip  435 . A second assembly  490  may be positioned on the opposite side of the receiver  430  to at least inhibit thrust in the opposite direction. 
     With reference now to  FIG. 21 , the electrical system includes switch arms  474  which engage the switch arm lever  476  as previously described. The switch arms  474  are mechanically connected to the switches  480  and the solenoids  482 , as previously described. The electrical system operates when the switch arm  474  engages the switch arm lever  476  causing a current of a pre-selected amount to move through the switch  480  and to the solenoids  482 . The solenoids  482  provide a larger current which is capable of powering the magnets  472 . Without such solenoids, the switches  480  could not provide the necessary current to drive the magnets  472 , according to the instant embodiment. Although a mechanical switch arm is described, the actuation may be an electrical one. 
     The receiver  430  includes a first bearing plate  485  located centrally within the end wall  434 . A bearing extends from the bearing plate  485  and an axle  483  passes through the bearing to an outboard second bearing plate  487 , including bearing, spaced from the end wall  434 . The inner bearing plate  485  may be used for one of a positive or negative connection for the electrical system and the second or outer bearing  487  may be used to provide an alternate positive or negative wiring connection for the electrical system. An insulator material (not shown) may be utilized between the inner bearing plate  485  and the end wall  434  in order to inhibit unintended charging of the receiver  430 . The receiver  430  may also be grounded using various wiring connections as will be understood by one skilled in the art. 
     Referring still to  FIG. 21  a tie plate alignment assembly  186  is depicted in the figure. The structure includes a vertical frame member  188  and a flap  190  depending downwardly therefrom. The flap  190  is weighted at a lower edge so that when the lower edge engages a tie plate  16 , the tie plate is pushed into an alignment with a lower edge of the flap  190 . Continued movement of the conveyor  70  eventually causes the tie plate to pass the flap  190  and frame  188 . The frame  188  may include a horizontal member extending from the vertical portion that is extending into the page as depicted. Additionally, a smaller frame member  192  may also include a horizontal member extending into the page which engages the flap  190  and inhibits the flap  190  from pushing too far along in the direction of movement of the conveyor  70  and the tie plates  16 . 
     The frame  188  extends across the output conveyor  70  and may include a first vertical member and a horizontal member. The exemplary embodiment also includes a second vertical member which defines the frame although such embodiment is not required. 
     Depending from the horizontal member (not shown) of the frame is a flap. At a lower edge of the flap  190 , a weighted member is fastened to the flap. The weighted member maybe formed of a steel structure or any such structure which will engage a tie plate  16  moving along the conveyor and cause the tie plate to engage a cleat  176  ( FIG. 23 ). As an alternative, if the tie plate is not forced against the cleats, the flap and weighted member will at least straighten the tie plate relative to the direction of movement of the conveyor before the tie plate is forced to pass beneath the flap. A smaller frame structure is spaced forward of the flap according to the instant embodiment. The small frame inhibits the flap and weighted member from being pushed by the conveyor and tie plate so that the flap is no longer effective as to straighten the tie plates along the conveyor. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 22 , an alternate view is depicted wherein the receiver  430  input side is shown in perspective view. Opposite the side shown in  FIG. 20 , the input side has an input wall  436  with an aperture  438 . A feed assembly  460  ( FIG. 24 ) including conveyor, vibrating feeder, chute, other feed device, mover or a combination thereof, is positioned adjacent the aperture  438 . This allows feeding or input of the tie plates  16  into the receiver  430 . 
     During rotation of the receiver  430  in the direction R, tie plates  16  are deposited within the receiver  430  through aperture  438  as the receiver  430  rotates. The tie plates  16  move into pathways or pockets  440  ( FIG. 23 ) through holes  442  formed in the inner surface of receiver wall  434 . The retaining mechanisms, for example electromagnets,  472  are positioned along the pathway or within pockets  440  so the electromagnets  472  may release the tie plates  16  on the conveyor  70 . 
     The path  440  of the tie plates  16  is best shown in reference to  FIG. 23 , where a section view of the receiver  430  is depicted. The path  440  according to the instant embodiment moves radially from inside to outside the receiver  430 . The path  440  then turns in a tangential manner to pass from between member  446  and the wall  432 . The receiver  430  includes a plurality of apertures  442  which are disposed in the side  432 . These apertures  442  define portions of a path  440  through which the tie plates  16  are captured and move from inside the receiver  430  to outside the receiver  430 . A frame  444  surrounds three sides of each aperture  442  and may be formed of one or more structures extending from or through said surrounding wall  432 . The frame  444  extends a distance radially away from the outer surface of wall  432 . At least one edge of the apertures  442  is unobstructed by the frame  444  so that the tie plates  16  may pass from inside the frame  444  to the conveyor  70  below. 
     Spaced from the aperture  442  in a radial direction and within the frame  444  is a member  446  to which the retaining mechanism  472  is attached. The frame allows the member to be spaced from aperture  442 . The member  446  extends between walls of the frame  444  and does not obstruct the open side of the frame  444 . In combination, the frame  444  including member  446  define a pocket recessed from the interior surface of the side  432 . During operation, the tie plates  16  move radially through the apertures  442  into the path  440 . The tie plates  16  are held in the position in the path  440  by the retaining mechanism  472  and against the member  446 . This is occurring as the receiver  430  is rotating. 
     When the electromagnet is not powered, by the switch arm  474  engaging the switch arm lever  476  ( FIG. 21 ), the tie plates  16  are released and move generally tangentially. The tie plates  16  encounter a member  446  wherein the retaining mechanism  472  is disposed. The frame  444  surrounds three of the sides of the member  446 . When the tie plate  16  engages the member  446 , the magnet  472  is powered on and retains the tie plate in position until the magnet is un-powered. At this time, the tie plates  16  fall from the member  446  and pass through the open side of the frame  444 . The tie plates  16  are thereby deposited on the conveyor  70 . As previously discussed, the present embodiment utilizes a continuously powered magnet which is unpowered when the tie plate  16  is moving close toward the conveyor  70 . Upon release and continued rotational movement the magnet  472  is again powered to retain another tie plate and the process continues. However, these embodiments are exemplary and other embodiments are well within the scope of the present invention. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 24 , a feed assembly  460  is shown in side view. The feed assembly includes a hopper  462  which feeds to a conveyor, vibratory feeder or other mover for example not shown. The mover includes a motor  464  moves the tie plates  16  to a chute  466 , in turn feeding the tie plates  16  into the aperture  438  of the receiver  430 . The feed assembly may take various forms although it may be desirable that at least a portion of the structure be gravity feed in order to reduce power consumption of the assembly  460 . 
     Additionally, the motor  464  may be electrical, hydraulic or other powered type in order to provide a method of controlling flow rate of tie plates  16  into the receiver  430 . The assembly motor  464  is shown and is controlled through a control system  500  ( FIG. 25 ) which is based upon the loading of tie plates  16  within the receiver and according to the instant embodiment, is hydraulic. If the loading within the receiver  430  is too high, the feed assembly  460  is stopped until the loading within the receiver is decreased. If the loading of the receiver  430  is too low, the motor  464  speed may be increased to increase loading of the receiver  430 . Ultimately, it is desirable to control the output speed of the receiver  430  and one non-limiting method of doing such is to control the rate of tie plates  16  being fed into the receiver  430 . 
     The feed assembly  460  receives a plurality of tie plates at a hopper  462 . The tie plates  16  maybe loaded into the hopper by a crane, boom or other such structure having a bucket, claw, magnet or other lifting structure which may also mounted on the vehicle. Alternatively, an alternate vehicle having such structure to load tie plates maybe utilized. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 25 , a schematic view of the exemplary hydraulic system for operation of receiver  430  is depicted. The system utilizes a pump  520  in fluid communication with a reservoir  522  which contains a hydraulic fluid  524 . The pump  520  directs fluid through a line  526  and reaches a T-joint  528  which directs fluid in two directions. First, the fluid is directed to a port  532  in a pressure regulating valve  530 . In a second direction, fluid is directed to a receiver motor  540  input in order to drive the motor with for example hydraulic power. The receiver motor  540  has an output or return line  542  which also T′s to direct fluid in two directions. In a first direction, the fluid is directed to the valve  530  port  534 . Within the regulator valve  530 , the valve may be set by rotation of an adjustment mechanism  536  to perform in two different manners. Above a pre-selected pressure, the hydraulic fluid will be directed out of the valve  530  through an outflow port  538  to the reservoir. A third valve port  539  is in fluid communication and extends with the line  534  from the receiver motor. In a second direction, the hydraulic line from the motor  540  feeds the conveyor motor  464  driving the tie plate feed system  460 , which feeds the tie plates  16  into the receiver  430 . The conveyer feed motor  464  includes an inlet  465  and a return  467  such that the return port feeds to the reservoir  522 . 
     In operation, as the pump  520  directs hydraulic fluid  524  to the receiver drum motor  540  inlet  544 , fluid is received at the first port  532  of the regulator valve  530 . By comparing pressure from the return port outlet side  542  of the receiver motor  540  feeding the second port  534  of the regulator valve  530  with the pressure feeding the first port  532  of the regulator valve  530 , a pressure reading is taken on a gauge and the adjustment mechanism may be adjusted to a pre-selected operating pressure or differential. If the operating pressure exceeds such pre-selected value, the valve  530  will direct fluid to the outlet port  538  and to the reservoir  524 . If the pressure is below the pre-selected value, the line at port  539  will sense the pressure forcing fluid at the return line  542  to move from the drum motor  540  to the conveyor feed motor  464 . This will drive the conveyer feed system  460 . 
     The pre-selected pressure is derived from testing and if the pressure exceeds the pre-selected value, the schematic figure depicts that the conveyor feed motor  464  will not operate. Typically, when the pressure at the regulator valve  530  is exceeded, the receiver  430  contains too many tie plates  16 . Thus by stopping the feed motor  464 , the tie plates  16  may be sorted and exit the receiver  430 . Once the number of tie plates decreases, the pressure at the regulator valve  530  decreases below the pre-selected value and the conveyor feed motor begins operating again. Although the components described herein are hydraulic in nature, other fluid systems may be used or electrical systems may also be utilized. For example, an electrical system may be utilized which compares current values on a drum motor to stop or start the conveyor feed motor. As a further alternative, a combination of fluid and electric systems may be utilized. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 26 , a perspective view of the output conveyor  70  is shown in part. The conveyor  70  has a head end  172  and a tail end (not shown) and may be driven electronically or hydraulically for example. A belt or chain structure extends between the head end and tail end of the conveyor  70 . In the case of a conveyor belt  174  may be formed of rubber or rubber-like material. The belt  174  further comprises a plurality of cleats  176  which extend across the belt  174  transverse to the longitudinal direction of the conveyor  70 . The cleats  176  align the tie plates  16  properly for movement on the conveyor  70  and for improved transfer to further belts in a distribution system. It is desirable that the tie plates  16  be oriented in a manner for correct alignment with any subsequent tie plate distribution conveyor. The tie plates  16  are engaged by cleats  176  and moved to the feed and or output end of the conveyor  70 . 
     Additionally, the tie plates  16  should be centered or positioned laterally in desired position with respect to the instant figure and conveyor  70 . Accordingly, at least one guide wall  180  is utilized to move the tie plates  16  to a desirable location laterally along the conveyor belt  174 . According to alternate embodiments, the conveyor  70  has guide walls  180 ,  182  wherein one of the guide walls is moveable between a first position and a second position relative to the longitudinal centerline of the conveyor  70 . According to the instant embodiment, the guide wall  182  is moveable between a first position shown in broken line and a second position shown in solid line. In one position, the tie plates are guided to the center of the conveyor belt  174 . However, in the instance where a tie plate is oversized, for example if a sixteen inch plate is accidentally included with a group of fourteen inch plates, a fixed sidewall would stop the tie plates  16  while they are continually driven forward on the belt  174 . The guide wall  182  will however move outwardly to a second position allowing the oversized tie plate to pass to a location where it can be removed either automatically or by a worker on the machine. 
     The instant embodiment utilizes a magnet  184  which engages a frame element. The frame element may be either of the column  187  or the adjacent base  189  or alternatively may be other magnetizable component of the conveyor frame for example. The magnet has sufficient force to maintain the guide wall at the first inward position. As the tie plates  16  pass, the guide wall forces the tie plates to the center of the belt  174  without the magnet yielding to forces from the correctly sized tie plate. The guide wall  182  thus stays in position. However, when the guide wall  182  engages the exemplary oversized plate, the guide wall  182  cannot stay in its inward position and the magnet  184  slides outward allowing the guide wall  182  to move and the oversized tie plate to pass. Thus the instant embodiment allows the oversized tie plates  16  to pass while still centering the desirable sized tie plates during a tie plate distribution process. This embodiment of the magnet is exemplary as a biased guide wall may also be utilized to maintain the guide wall in an inward position while giving way when an oversized plate moves through the conveyor  70 . Still other embodiments may be used to resist and only allow guided movement of the guide wall  182  between positions. 
     With reference now to  FIG. 27 , a perspective view of an alternative conveyor  270  is depicted. The conveyor comprises an alternate form to that of the previously described conveyor  70 . As opposed to the conveyor belt  174  of  FIG. 26 , the conveyor  270  may include a chain drive system comprising at least one first head sprocket  272  and at least one second tail sprocket  277 . At least one chain  276  may extend between the head and tail sprockets  272 ,  277 . According to the exemplary embodiment, two parallel chains  276 , 278  are utilized therefore requiring a first head sprocket  272  and second head sprocket  273  along with corresponding first tail sprocket  277  and second tail sprocket  275 . Chains  276 ,  278  are utilized to extend between each of the head and tail sprocket pairs. Further, cleats  176  extend between the parallel chains and are spaced apart in the direction of the movement of the conveyor  270  between head end and tail end. Thus as at least one chain is driven, the cleats  176  move forward causing the tie plates  16  deposited between the spaced apart cleats  176 . 
     While several inventive embodiments have been described and illustrated herein, those of ordinary skill in the art will readily envision a variety of other means and/or structures for performing the function and/or obtaining the results and/or one or more of the advantages described herein, and each of such variations and/or modifications is deemed to be within the scope of the invent of embodiments described herein. More generally, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that all parameters, dimensions, materials, and configurations described herein are meant to be exemplary and that the actual parameters, dimensions, materials, and/or configurations will depend upon the specific application or applications for which the inventive teachings is/are used. Those skilled in the art will recognize, or be able to ascertain using no more than routine experimentation, many equivalents to the specific inventive embodiments described herein. It is, therefore, to be understood that the foregoing embodiments are presented by way of example only and that, within the scope of the appended claims and equivalents thereto, inventive embodiments may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described and claimed. Inventive embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to each individual feature, system, article, material, kit, and/or method described herein. In addition, any combination of two or more such features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and/or methods, if such features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and/or methods are not mutually inconsistent, is included within the inventive scope of the present disclosure. 
     All definitions, as defined and used herein, should be understood to control over dictionary definitions, definitions in documents incorporated by reference, and/or ordinary meanings of the defined terms. The indefinite articles “a” and “an,” as used herein in the specification and in the claims, unless clearly indicated to the contrary, should be understood to mean “at least one.” The phrase “and/or,” as used herein in the specification and in the claims, should be understood to mean “either or both” of the elements so conjoined, i.e., elements that are conjunctively present in some cases and disjunctively present in other cases. 
     Multiple elements listed with “and/or” should be construed in the same fashion, i.e., “one or more” of the elements so conjoined. Other elements may optionally be present other than the elements specifically identified by the “and/or” clause, whether related or unrelated to those elements specifically identified. Thus, as a non-limiting example, a reference to “A and/or B”, when used in conjunction with open-ended language such as “comprising” can refer, in one embodiment, to A only (optionally including elements other than B); in another embodiment, to B only (optionally including elements other than A); in yet another embodiment, to both A and B (optionally including other elements); etc. 
     As used herein in the specification and in the claims, “or” should be understood to have the same meaning as “and/or” as defined above. For example, when separating items in a list, “or” or “and/or” shall be interpreted as being inclusive, i.e., the inclusion of at least one, but also including more than one, of a number or list of elements, and, optionally, additional unlisted items. Only terms clearly indicated to the contrary, such as “only one of” or “exactly one of,” or, when used in the claims, “consisting of,” will refer to the inclusion of exactly one element of a number or list of elements. In general, the term “or” as used herein shall only be interpreted as indicating exclusive alternatives (i.e. “one or the other but not both”) when preceded by terms of exclusivity, such as “either,” “one of,” “only one of,” or “exactly one of.” “Consisting essentially of,” when used in the claims, shall have its ordinary meaning as used in the field of patent law. 
     As used herein in the specification and in the claims, the phrase “at least one,” in reference to a list of one or more elements, should be understood to mean at least one element selected from any one or more of the elements in the list of elements, but not necessarily including at least one of each and every element specifically listed within the list of elements and not excluding any combinations of elements in the list of elements. This definition also allows that elements may optionally be present other than the elements specifically identified within the list of elements to which the phrase “at least one” refers, whether related or unrelated to those elements specifically identified. Thus, as a non-limiting example, “at least one of A and B” (or, equivalently, “at least one of A or B,” or, equivalently “at least one of A and/or B”) can refer, in one embodiment, to at least one, optionally including more than one, A, with no B present (and optionally including elements other than B); in another embodiment, to at least one, optionally including more than one, B, with no A present (and optionally including elements other than A); in yet another embodiment, to at least one, optionally including more than one, A, and at least one, optionally including more than one, B (and optionally including other elements); etc. 
     It should also be understood that, unless clearly indicated to the contrary, in any methods claimed herein that include more than one step or act, the order of the steps or acts of the method is not necessarily limited to the order in which the steps or acts of the method are recited. 
     In the claims, as well as in the specification above, all transitional phrases such as “comprising,” “including,” “carrying,” “having,” “containing,” “involving,” “holding,” “composed of,” and the like are to be understood to be open-ended, i.e., to mean including but not limited to. Only the transitional phrases “consisting of” and “consisting essentially of” shall be closed or semi-closed transitional phrases, respectively, as set forth in the United States Patent Office Manual of Patent Examining Procedures, Section 2111.03. 
     The foregoing description of several methods and an embodiment of the invention has been presented for purposes of illustration. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise steps and/or forms disclosed, and obviously many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teaching. It is intended that the scope of the invention and all equivalents be defined by the claims appended hereto.