Importance

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Abstract

A combination weighing apparatus and method are provided particularly adapted for utilization with difficult to handle product. A series of in-line transfer conveyors form product feed lanes with individual volumetric cups designed to receive and hold a product charge. A scale and weighing hopper is associated with each transfer conveyor. The transfer conveyors are each advanced in stepped fashion so as to deliver a product charge from one volumetric cup at any single time to the associated weighing hopper. A washer unit cleans residue and the product buildup from the cups after delivery of the product charge. Once the product charge is delivered to the weighing hopper, the weight of the charge is registered by a control unit. The control unit scans various combinations of scales, calculates the total weight of product in the combination and selects the first combination that falls within an acceptable range above the target weight. The product charges are then delivered in timed relation to a plate as it advances along a conveyor beneath the scale hoppers. In accordance with an important aspect of the present invention a feedback mechanism is provided for indicating the weight trend of product charges being delivered to the volumetric cups. As long as the charge weights fall within a preselected range, the quality of charges from which the control unit selects is maintained at a high level so as to allow maximum operating efficiency.

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First Claim