Importance

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Abstract

A method and apparatus for collecting flat or semiflat materials while simultaneously retrieving bottles and cans includes a ground engageable rotating drum (52) with a plurality of fingers (60) extending radially from the drum. A plurality of toothed discs (210) is rotatably mounted on a shaft and driven in conjunction with the rotation of the drum in a direction opposite that of the drum. The toothed discs (210) are positioned adjacent to but above ground level during operation of the apparatus and assists in the engagement and movement of objects by the drum and fingers to a collection location (32). A plurality of belts (130) is engaged between pulleys (212) mounted intermediate of the toothed discs (210) and corresponding pulleys (126) on a shaft spaced from the toothed discs. The belts are positioned on the trailing side of the drum and above the toothed discs and assist in engagement and movement of objects by the drum and fingers to the collection station. Stripper bars (180) assist in dislodging objects from between the fingers of the drum. A second assembly of a plurality of toothed discs (220) is mounted on a shaft and driven in conjunction with the rotation of the drum in the same direction of the drum. This second disc assembly is positioned near the top side of the drum and adjacent the structure for dislodging objects from the drum fingers. Rotation of this second disc assembly assists in directing objects carried to the top side of the drum to the collection station.

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First Claim