The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
Dec. 24, 1996
Filed:
Nov. 13, 1995
Christopher J Hawkins, Burnham, GB;
BWI KartridgPak Co., Davenport, IA (US);
Abstract
A conveyor system includes a pair of endless chains each having a plurality of links and each constrained to drive around a common endless loop by a pair of spaced rotary sprocket assemblies. Each link of each chain carries an outwardly directed finger. Pairs of fingers one from each chain are arranged to engage a can to displace it along the forward run of the loop. Changing the spacings between the fingers to accommodate different sizes of cans on different runs is achieved by effecting longitudinal displacement between the chains which in turn is achieved by adjusting the angular spacing between the sprocket wheels on the sprocket assembly. The fingers of each pair open up as they pass around the sprocket assembly and close up on the can to hold the can captive for the length of the forward run.