Robert J Grimm

US Patent:

63118300, Nov 6, 2001

Filed:

Oct 7, 1999

Appl. No.:

9/414105

Inventors:

Robert W. Grimm - Carol Stream IL

Assignee:

Machine Tool Technology 21-Inc. - Schaumburg IL

International Classification:

B65G 2900

US Classification:

1984771

Abstract:

A conveyor system for transporting elongate articles along a conveying surface to a workstation. The conveying surface forms an endless path having an upper conveying path and a lower return path. The conveying surface has article holders fixedly connected on the conveying surface for holding the elongated articles on the conveying surface with longitudinally extending sides of the article essentially extending outwardly from the conveying surface. A gripping device is positioned adjacent the conveying surface and pivots about an axis for unloading and loading the article to and from the conveying surface in a single pivotal motion. A first article holder type includes a pair of arcuate portions positioned to form a discontinuous cylindrical configuration having open areas between each end of the arcuate portions and an upper lip for receiving a complementary groove in the elongate article. The open areas provide access for releasing the article from the article holder when the gripping device pivots away from the article holder. Another article holder type includes a pivoting holder that pivots at least a portion of the article holder and supported article toward the direction of the gripping device when the gripping device pivots away from the article holder.