Stabilising device for a conveyor system

Abstract

The invention relates to a stabilising device for stabilising articles on a conveyor, the stabilising device comprising a rotating assembly configured to rotate around an axis. The rotating assembly may comprise a rim surface facing outwardly in a radial direction. The rotating assembly may be configured such that at least parts of the rim surface are resiliently deformable inwardly in the radial direction. The invention further relates to a conveyor system comprising a conveyor and such a stabilising device. In another form, the rotating assembly may comprise a plurality of spokes extending radially outwardly. The plurality of spokes may be configured such that the azimuthal spacing between radially outer ends of adjacent spokes is greater than a width of the articles.

Description

[0001] STABILISING DEVICE FOR A CONVEYOR SYSTEM

[0002] 1. FIELD OF THE TECHNOLOGY

[0003] The present invention relates to a device for use in a conveyor system for articles, for example for use within an article sorting system.

[0004] 2. BACKGROUND TO THE TECHNOLOGY

[0005] Articles are often processed using systems that include conveyors, and sometimes multiple conveyors. One use of such conveyor systems is to sort, or grade, the articles according to particular characteristics, e.g. size, shape, type. For this reason, such conveyor systems may be referred to as sorting or grading systems. Examples of articles that may be processed using conveyor systems include fruit, for example berries (e.g. blueberries, blackberries, etc), apples, etc. Other types of articles may also be processed using such systems.

[0006] While travelling through a conveyor system, the articles may transition onto a conveyor, off a conveyor or from one conveyor to another. The articles may be at particular risk of falling off, or otherwise leaving the conveyor system, at these transition points.

[0007] Conveyors may be driven or may convey articles under gravity. Driven conveyors may comprise an endless belt or chain. On one type of driven conveyor, articles may be carried directly on the belt. On another type of driven conveyor, a plurality of article carriers may be mounted to the belt or chain and the articles may be carried by the article carriers. For example, each article carrier may be configured to carry a single article. Articles may be at risk of falling off the conveyor system when transitioning onto, off or between two conveyors of any type. For some articles, there may be a particular risk when articles transition onto or off a conveyor on which they are carried by article carriers.

[0008] 3. OBJECT OF THE TECHNOLOGY

[0009] J&W ref: 326058PCTIt is an object of the technology to provide a device for stabilising articles on a conveyor. Alternatively, it is an object of the technology to provide an improved conveyor system. Alternatively, it is an object of the technology to at least provide the public with a useful choice.

[0010] 4. SUMMARY OF THE TECHNOLOGY

[0011] Aspects of the technology are directed to a stabilising device for stabilising articles on a conveyor. Other aspects of the technology are directed to a conveyor system. The conveyor system may comprise a conveyor for carrying a plurality of articles and a stabilising device for stabilising articles on the conveyor.

[0012] According to a first aspect of the technology there is provided a stabilising device for stabilising articles on a conveyor, the stabilising device comprising a rotating assembly configured to rotate around an axis. The rotating assembly may comprise a rim surface facing outwardly in a radial direction. The rotating assembly may be configured such that at least parts of the rim surface are resiliently deformable inwardly in the radial direction.

[0013] In certain forms, the rim surface may be continuous around the perimeter of the rotating assembly

[0014] In certain forms, the rim surface may be resiliently deformable inwardly in the radial direction around all of the perimeter of the rotating assembly.

[0015] In certain forms, the rotating assembly may be configured such that the rim surface is able to resiliently deform radially inwardly by at least a diameter of the articles on the conveyor.

[0016] In certain forms, the rim surface may have a substantially circular outer perimeter when viewed in a direction parallel to the axis when in an undistorted configuration.

[0017] In certain forms, the rotating assembly may comprise a hub configured to rotate around the axis, a rim comprising the rim surface, and a plurality of spokes mounting the rim to the hub.

[0018] In certain forms, the rim may comprise a band having a radial thickness that is significantly less than its width and length.

[0019] J&W ref: 326058PCTIn certain forms, the rim may be formed from a material having a relatively low elastic modulus.

[0020] In certain forms, a radially outer end of each spoke may be oriented at a non-zero angle to the radial direction. For example, the radially outer end of each spoke may be azimuthally rearward from a radially more inner portion of the respective spoke relative to a direction of rotation of the rotating assembly around the axis. In some forms, a radially outer end of each spoke may be curved when viewed in a direction parallel to the axis, wherein the angle of each radially outer end to the radial direction may increase with increasing distance from the axis.

[0021] In certain forms, each spoke may comprise a band having a thickness that is significantly less than its width and length.

[0022] In certain forms, each spoke may be formed from a material having a relatively low elastic modulus.

[0023] According to another aspect of the technology, there is provided a conveyor system. The conveyor system may comprise a conveyor for carrying a plurality of articles. The plurality of articles may be received onto the conveyor at a receiving region. The conveyor system may further comprise a stabilising device for stabilising articles on the conveyor according to the first aspect of the technology. The stabilising device may be positioned proximate the receiving region of the conveyor such that the rim surface of the stabilising device is resiliently deformed by articles carried by the conveyor at or downstream of the receiving region.

[0024] In certain forms, the stabilising device may be positioned with the axis oriented substantially perpendicular to a direction in which the articles are conveyed along the conveyer. Furthermore, the axis may be oriented substantially horizontally.

[0025] In certain forms, the rotating assembly of the stabilising device may be rotated such that the rotational speed of the rim is substantially equal to a speed of the conveyor.

[0026] In certain forms, the conveyor may comprise a plurality of article carriers, each of the article carriers being configured to carry one of the plurality of articles. For example, each article carrier may comprise a cup configured to receive one of the plurality of articles.

[0027] J&W ref: 326058PCTIn certain forms, the conveyor may be a first conveyor and the conveyor system may further comprise a second conveyor configured to feed articles onto the receiving region of the first conveyor.

[0028] In certain forms, the stabilising device may be positioned such that the rim surface is further resiliently deformed by articles on the second conveyor.

[0029] In certain forms, the first conveyor is driven at a greater speed than the second conveyor.

[0030] According to another aspect of the technology, there is provided a stabilising device for stabilising articles on a conveyor. The stabilising device may comprise a rotating assembly configured to rotate around an axis. The rotating assembly may comprise a plurality of spokes extending radially outwardly. The plurality of spokes may be configured such that the azimuthal spacing between radially outer ends of adjacent spokes is greater than a width of the articles.

[0031] According to another aspect of the technology, there is provided a conveyor system comprising a driven conveyor for carrying a plurality of articles. The conveyor may comprise a plurality of article carriers, each of the article carriers being configured to carry an article. The conveyor may further comprise a receiving region within which the articles are received onto the conveyor. The conveyor may further comprise a stabilising device for stabilising articles on the conveyor according to another aspect of the technology. The stabilising device may be positioned proximate the receiving region of the conveyor such that articles on the conveyor at or downstream of the receiving region are positioned between the radially outer ends of adjacent spokes.

[0032] In certain forms, the stabilising device may be positioned with the axis oriented substantially perpendicular to a direction in which the articles are conveyed along the conveyer.

[0033] In certain forms, the axis may be oriented substantially horizontally.

[0034] In certain forms, the rotating assembly of the stabilising device may be rotated such that the rotational speed of the radially outer ends of the spokes is substantially equal to a speed of the conveyor.

[0035] In certain forms, each article carrier may comprise a cup configured to receive one of the plurality of articles.

[0036] J&W ref: 326058PCTIn certain forms, the conveyor may be a first conveyor and the conveyor system may further comprise a second conveyor configured to feed articles onto the receiving region of the first conveyor.

[0037] In certain forms, the stabilising device may be positioned such that articles leaving the second conveyor, or transitioning from the second conveyor to the first conveyor, are positioned between the radially outer ends of adjacent spokes.

[0038] In certain forms, the first conveyor is driven at a greater speed than the second conveyor.

[0039] Further aspects of the technology, which should be considered in all its novel aspects, will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading of the following description which provides at least one example of a practical application of the technology.

[0040] 5. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0041] One or more embodiments of the technology will be described below by way of example only, and without intending to be limiting, with reference to the following drawings, in which:

[0042] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a conveyor system comprising a stabilising device according to one form of the technology.

[0043] Figure 2 is a side view of the conveyor system of Figure 1.

[0044] Figure 3 is a further side view (in cross-section) during use of the conveyor system of Figure 1. Figure 4 is a side view of a conveyor system comprising a stabilising device according to another form of the technology.

[0045] Figure 5 is a side view of a conveyor system comprising a stabilising device according to another form of the technology.

[0046] 6. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY FORMS OF THE TECHNOLOGY

[0047] Forms of the technology provide a conveyor system 100 and / or parts thereof. In exemplary forms, such as shown in Figures 1 to 5, the conveyor system 100 may comprise a first conveyor 110 and a stabilising

[0048] J&W ref: 326058PCTdevice 200. In use, the first conveyor 110 may carry a plurality of articles 130. The stabilising device 200 may be configured to stabilise the articles 130 on the first conveyor 110. In some forms of the technology, for example as shown in Figure 1 to 5, the conveyor system 100 may further comprise a second conveyor 120 configured to feed the articles 130 onto the first conveyor 110.

[0049] Unless specifically stated, forms of the technology are not limited to the nature of the articles 130 that are carried by the conveyor system 100. In certain forms, the conveyor system 100 may be configured to be suitable to carry approximately spherical objects, for example fruit such as berries, cherries, apples, etc. It will be appreciated that a conveyor system 100 may be configured to carry a certain type of article based on the physical characteristics of the conveyor system 100, for example the size and load-bearing capability of the conveyors.

[0050] 6.1. Conveyors

[0051] When used in this specification, the term "conveyor" may be interpreted broadly to mean a device having the function of conveying an item from one location to another. In some examples, a conveyor may be driven by an external mechanism to create movement. Alternatively, an item may move along the conveyor under the influence of gravity, for example in the case of a chute.

[0052] In certain forms of the technology, for example as shown in Figures 1 to 5, the first conveyor 110 may be an endless conveyor comprising a loop (of belt or chain for example) driven around and around. In some forms, for example in the case of the conveyor system 100 shown in Figures 1 to 5, the first conveyor 110 may be configured to carry articles 130 in a plurality of discrete positions. For example, the first conveyor 110 may comprise a plurality of article carriers 112, which may alternatively be referred to as pockets. Each of the article carriers 112 may be mounted on the loop such that the article carriers 112 are driven around and around. Each of the article carriers 112 may be configured to carry an article 113. In some forms, each article carrier 112 may comprise a cup configured to receive one of the articles 113, i.e. the article 113 may rest in the cup. The first conveyor 110 may comprise a plurality of article carrier assemblies, each forming an article carrier 112, for example each article carrier assembly may have a cup-shaped depression formed therein. In other forms, the article carriers 112 may be formed between adjacent article carrier assemblies, e.g. a cup-shaped depressions may be formed between adjacent article carrier assemblies.

[0053] J&W ref: 326058PCTIn other forms, the first conveyor may be configured to carry articles 130 in a continuous range of positions, for example the articles 130 may be carried on the upper surface of a belt and each article may be able to rest in any position on the belt's surface.

[0054] The first conveyor 110 may comprise a receiving region 114. The articles 130 may be received onto the first conveyor 110 at the receiving region 114. It should be appreciated that, during use, the first conveyor 110 may be driven around and around so specific parts of the conveyor 110, e.g. specific article carriers 112, will continuously move around the loop. The receiving region 114 may therefore be considered a region of the first conveyor 110 relative to its stationary surroundings and individual parts of the conveyor 110, e.g. the article carriers 112, may move through the receiving region 114 as the conveyor moves.

[0055] In some forms of the technology, the conveyor system 100 may receive articles 130 from another system at the receiving region 114 of the first conveyor 110. In other forms, the conveyor system 100 may comprise a feeding mechanism configured to feed the articles 130 onto the first conveyor 110 at the receiving region. For example, as shown in Figures 1 to 5, the conveyor system 100 may comprise a second conveyor 120 configured to feed the articles 130 onto the receiving region 114 of the first conveyor 110. In some forms, for example as shown in Figures 1 to 5, the second conveyor 120 may be positioned such that articles 130 may fall off the end of the second conveyor 120 and onto the receiving region 114 of the first conveyor 110. For example, the second conveyor 120 may be positioned slightly vertically higher than the first conveyor 110 with the end of the second conveyor 120 located substantially above, or above and offset from, the receiving region 114 of the first conveyor 110. The amount of offset of the end of the second conveyor 120 from the receiving region 114 may depend on factors affecting the amount of horizontal movement of the articles 130 after leaving the second conveyor 120 before they reach the receiving region 114 such as the speed of the second conveyor 120 and the height of the second conveyor 120 above the receiving region 114. The first conveyor 110 and the second conveyor 120 may be oriented such that they convey articles 130 in substantially the same direction. For example, as shown in Figures 1 to 5, the first conveyor 110 may be oriented parallel to the second conveyor 120. In other forms, there may be a non-zero angle between the directions in which the first conveyor 110 and the second conveyor 120 convey articles 130.

[0056] In some forms, for example as shown in Figures 1 to 5, the second conveyor 120 may be configured to carry articles 130 in a continuous range of positions, for example the articles 130 may be carried on the upper surface of a belt and each article may be able to rest in any position on the belt's surface. In other

[0057] J&W ref: 326058PCTforms, the second conveyor 120 may be configured to carry articles 130 in a plurality of discrete positions, for example, the first conveyor 110 may comprise a plurality of article carriers 112, each of the article carriers 112 being configured to carry an article 113.

[0058] In other forms, the system from which the articles 130 are received onto the first conveyor 110 may take a form other than another conveyor. For example, in some forms, the conveyor system 100 may comprise a chute that feeds the articles 130 to the receiving region 114 of the first conveyor 110.

[0059] 6.2. Stabilising Device

[0060] In certain forms of the technology, for example as shown in Figures 1 to 5, the conveyor system 100 may comprise a stabilising device 200. The stabilising device 200 may function, in use, to stabilise the articles 130 on the first conveyor 110.

[0061] The stabilising device 200 may comprise a rotating assembly 210 that is configured, in use, to rotate around an axis 220. For example, the rotating assembly 210 may comprise an axle or the rotating assembly 210 may be configured to rotate around an axle. Any suitable drive mechanism may be used to rotate the rotating assembly 210. The axis 220 may be located radially centrally to the rotating assembly 210.

[0062] In certain forms, for example as shown in Figures 1 to 5, the rotating assembly 210 may comprise a hub 240. The hub 240 may be configured, in use, to rotate around the axis 220. The hub 240 may be fixedly mounted to a rotatable axle or the hub 240 may be configured to rotate around a stationary axle. The axis 220 may be located radially centrally to the hub 240. In some forms, for example as shown in Figures 1 to 5, the hub 240 may be generally cylindrical in shape with the axis 220 through its axis of symmetry. In some forms, for example as shown in Figures 1 to 3, the hub 240 may comprise a ring region 242 at a radially outward region of the hub 240. In some forms the ring region 242 may be integrally formed with other regions of the hub 242 while in other forms the ring region 242 may be comprised as part of a separate ring member that is mounted to a central hub member to together form the hub 240.

[0063] 6.2.1. Rim

[0064] J&W ref: 326058PCTThe rotating assembly 210 may comprise a rim 230 around its radially outer edge. The rim 230 may comprise a rim surface 232 that faces radially outwardly.

[0065] In certain forms, for example as shown in Figures 1 to 3, the rim 230, and the rim surface 232, may be continuous around the perimeter of the rotating assembly 210, i.e. there are no gaps, or substantially no gaps (e.g. the size of any gaps is significantly smaller than the size of the articles 130) around the perimeter of the rim surface 232. In some forms, again as shown in Figures 1 to 3, the rim 230 and the rim surface 232 may have a substantially circular outer perimeter when viewed in a direction parallel to the axis 220 when in an undistorted configuration, i.e. when there are no articles pushing against the rim surface 232 to distort its shape. For example, the rim surface 232 may form a cylindrical-shaped surface. In other forms, the rim 230 and the rim surface 232 could be another shape when viewed in a direction parallel to the axis 220 when in an undistorted configuration. For example, it could be polygonal or having a plurality of arc-shaped bulges protruding outwardly.

[0066] In other forms, for example as shown in Figure 4, the rim 230, and the rim surface 232, may be discontinuous around the perimeter of the rotating assembly 210, i.e. the rim 230 may be comprised of a plurality of rim portions with gaps in between them. In certain forms, the rim portions may not necessarily be oriented circumferentially when the rotating assembly 210 is not rotating and there are no forces acting on the rim portions, but the rim portions may be configured to adopt a circumferential orientation, or close thereto, when the rotating assembly 210 is rotated at operating speeds. For example, the rim portions may adopt this orientation due to the centripetal force exerted on the rim portions caused by the rotational movement of the rotating assembly 210. The rim portions may be configured to adopt a configuration in which they form a substantially circular outer perimeter of the rim, despite the discontinuities between the rim portions, when viewed in a direction parallel to the axis and when undistorted by the articles 130. In some such forms, the rim portions may be very flexible (e.g. floppy) when at rest and able to move into the aforementioned orientations when rotating.

[0067] At least parts of the rim surface 232 may be resiliently deformable in the inward radial direction when a radially inward force is applied to the rim surface 232. In the case of some forms of the technology, for example the form of technology shown in Figures 1 to 3, the rim surface 232 may be resiliently deformable inwardly in the radial direction around substantially all, for example all, of the perimeter of the rotating assembly 210 (i.e. all of the circumference of the rim surface 232 in the case of a substantially circular rim 230). The resilient deformability of the rim surface 232 may be achieved by selection of the

[0068] J&W ref: 326058PCTshape and configuration of the rim 230 that forms the rim surface 232, the material(s) used to form the rim surface 232, the shape and configuration of other parts of the rotating assembly 210 (such as the spokes 250, if present), the material(s) used to form other parts of the rotating assembly 210, or a combination of these. In certain forms, the rim surface 232 may be highly deformable so that, when deformed by an article 130 coming into contact with the rim surface 232 (as explained below), a sufficiently low opposing reaction force is exerted on the article 130 that the article is not damaged. The level of deformability that is suitable will depend on the nature of the articles 130 being used. In the case of the articles 130 being some fruit, for example, the level of deformability may be selected such that the maximum force exerted on the fruit during use is no greater than approximately 0.2 N. In some forms, the stabilising device 200 may be configured such that the amount that the rim surface 232 is able to be deformed is at least the diameter or height of articles 130 that are carried by the first conveyor 110. In some forms, for example in the cases of the forms shown in Figures 1 to 4, the rotating assembly 210 is radially inwardly deformable in a manner that approximately obeys Hooke's law for a range of deformations, i.e. with force being approximately linear to deformation across that range. Due to centrifugal force, the spring constant may effectively increase when the rotating assembly 210 rotates. In some exemplary forms, the spring constant may be approximately 0.2 to 0.8 N / m when the rotating assembly 210 is stationary and approximately 1.2 to 1.8 N / m when rotating. In forms where the opposing reaction force on the article 130 increases with increased deformability (such as forms where Hooke's law is approximately obeyed), the stabilising device 200 may be configured such that, when the rim surface 232 is deformed by the diameter or height of articles 130 that are carried by the first conveyor 110 (which might be expected to be the largest deformation experienced by the rim surface 232 during normal use), and the rotating assembly 210 is rotating at a maximum operational speed, the opposing reaction force is not sufficiently great to damage the articles 130.

[0069] Consequently, in some forms, the radius of the rotating assembly 210 may be at least as the size of the articles 130 and may typically be larger, including considerably larger, than the size of the articles 130. A larger rotating assembly 210 has the advantage of having a longer duration of contact with each article 130 during the use explained further below, but it may be more difficult to position the stabilising device 200 so that the rotating assembly 210 contacts the articles 130 when they fall onto the first conveyor 110. The vertical space available above the conveyor may also influence the size of the rotating assembly 210 that may be used.

[0070] J&W ref: 326058PCTIn certain forms, for example as shown in Figure 1, the rim 230 of the rotating assembly 210 may comprise a band of material. The band may have a radial thickness that is significantly less than the width of the band (i.e. its extent in the longitudinal direction parallel to axis 220) and significantly less than the length of the band (i.e. the perimeter or circumference of the rim surface 232 or the band's extent in the azimuthal direction). This configuration may assist in allowing the rim surface 232 to deform inwardly in the radial direction. Additionally, or alternatively, the rim 230 may be formed from a material having a relatively low elastic modulus, i.e. a material that is relatively elastic or having a low stiffness. This may also assist in allowing the rim surface 232 to deform inwardly in the radial direction, and may also assist in allowing the rim surface 232 to return to its original shape when the radially inward deforming force is removed. The rim 230 being held in tension may also assist in allowing the rim surface 232 to return to its original shape when the radially inward deforming force is removed. In some forms, for example in the form shown in Figures 1 to 3, the rim 230 may be formed from a plastics material, for example a polyurethane such as thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU).

[0071] The width of the rim 230, for example the width of the band of material that comprises the rim 230, may be selected so as to extend across at least a substantial width of the articles 130. For example, the width of the rim 230 may be substantially equal to, or greater than, the width of the articles 130. This may help to distribute the opposing reaction force exerted by the rim 230 on the articles 130 across the width of the articles, reducing the pressure exerted by the rim 230 on the articles at any point compared to if the width of the rim 230 was narrower.

[0072] In some forms, the rim surface 232 may be substantially smooth so as not to mark or damage the articles 130 that it comes into contact with during use. If there are stickers on the articles 130 (as may be common with fruit, for example), a smooth rim surface 232 avoids removing the stickers if they come into contact with the rim surface 232. In addition, a smooth rim surface 232 may be easily cleaned.

[0073] 6.2.2. Spokes

[0074] In certain forms, the rotating assembly 210 may comprise a plurality of spokes 250, as shown in Figures 1 to 5. The spokes 250 may project radially outwardly from the hub 240 and, in forms in which the rotating assembly 210 comprises a rim 230, such as shown in Figures 1 to 4, the spokes 250 may be provided between the hub 240 and the rim 230 in order to mount the rim 230 to the hub 240. Different forms of the technology may comprise a different number of spokes 250 and the appropriate number for a given

[0075] J&W ref: 326058PCTapplication may be selected based on the particular requirements of the conveyor system 100, e.g. size, strength, spacing of the articles 130 on the first conveyor 110 etc.

[0076] Each of the spokes 250 may comprise a radially inner end 252 which is positioned radially inwardly relative to other parts of the spokes 250. The radially inner end 252 may be mounted to the hub 240. In some forms, the radially inner end 252 may be mounted to the ring region 242 of the hub 240. For example, as shown in Figures 1 to 3, the ring region 242 may comprise a plurality of slots and each slot may receive the radially inner end 252 of one of the spokes 250. The radially inner ends 252 may be fixed into the slots by any suitable means, for example friction fit, adhesion or fastening. In other forms, the radially inner ends 252 may be mounted to the ring region 242 in another manner, for example they may be adhered or fastened to the radially outer surface of the ring region 242, or the spokes 250 and the hub 240 may be integrally formed.

[0077] In certain forms, the spokes 250 may be configured to allow inward deflection of the rim 230. This may be achieved by the spokes 250 each being formed in a manner that permits a radially outer end of each spoke 250 to deform radially inwardly, allowing the part of the rim 230 connected to the outer end of the respective spoke 250 to deform radially inwardly. That is, the spokes 250 may act as springs or in a springlike manner.

[0078] For example, in certain forms, such as the form shown in Figures 1 to 4, a radially outer end of each of the spokes 250 may be oriented at a non-zero angle to the radial direction. With such an orientation the radially outer end of each spoke 250 may be able to deflect radially inwardly. As shown in Figures 1 to 4, for example, the direction of angle of the spokes may be such that a radially outer end of each spoke 250 is positioned azimuthally rearward from a radially inner portion of the respective spoke relative to a direction of rotation of the rotating assembly 210 around the axis 220. In other words, the spokes 250 may slope backwards when considering the direction of rotation of the rotating assembly 210.

[0079] Furthermore, in some forms, and as is the case of the form shown in Figures 1 to 4, the spokes 250 may be curved when viewed in a direction parallel to the axis 220. The curve in the radially outer end of each spoke 250 may be such that the angle of the spoke 250 to the radial direction increases with increasing radial distance from the axis 220. This curved shape to the spokes 250 may further assist in the previously described radially inwards deflection. In some forms the radially inner end of each spoke 250 may be substantially radial, i.e. form a substantially zero angle to the radial direction, and then curve away from

[0080] J&W ref: 326058PCTthe radial direction towards its outer end. In other forms, for example as shown in Figures 1 to 4, the spokes 250 may each comprise substantially C-shaped sections. In some forms, the angles of the spokes 250, or different parts thereof, to the radial direction, may be in the range of approximately 0° to 60°.

[0081] In other forms, the spokes 250 may be configured in another way so that they act in a spring-like manner. For example, in some forms, the spokes 250 comprise springs, e.g. helical coils of material such as wire or plastic. In some forms, the direction of action of each spoke 250 in response to a radial deformation may be substantially radial, although parts of each spoke 250 (for example each section of helical coil in that case) may be oriented non-radially.

[0082] In certain forms, for example as shown in Figures 1 to 5, each spoke 250 of the rotating assembly 210 may comprise a band of material. The band may have a thickness that is significantly less than its width and / or length. This configuration may assist in allowing the spoke 250 to bend inwardly in the radial direction. Additionally, or alternatively, the spokes 250 may be formed from a material having a relatively low elastic modulus, i.e. a material that is relatively elastic or having a low stiffness. This may also assist in allowing the spokes 250 to bend inwardly in the radial direction, and may also assist in allowing the rim surface 232 to return to its original shape when the radially inward deforming force is removed. In some forms, for example as shown in Figure 1, the spokes 250 may be formed from a plastics material, for example a polyurethane such as thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). In some forms, the spokes 250 may be integrally formed with the rim 230, for example the spokes and rim may be formed as a single moulded piece.

[0083] In forms in which the rotating assembly 210 comprises a rim 230, for example as shown in Figures 1 to 3, the spokes 250 may be attached to the rim 230 by any suitable attachment mechanism, for example adhesion or fastening, e.g. heat bonding or ultrasonic welding. In some forms, all the spokes 250 and the rim 230 may be integrally formed as a single component, for example through a plastic moulding process. In other forms, each spoke 250 and a portion of the rim 230 may be integrally formed, i.e. the radially outer end of each spoke 250 may form a portion of the rim 230. In some forms, those outer ends may be connected together so that there is a continuously connected rim 230 around the perimeter of the rotating assembly 210. In other forms, for example as shown in Figure 4, the outer ends may be unconnected so that the rim 230 is discontinuous, as described earlier.

[0084] In those forms of the technology where the rim 230 is discontinuous around the perimeter of the rotating assembly 210, for example the form shown in Figure 4, the plurality of spokes 250 may be azimuthally

[0085] J&W ref: 326058PCTspaced from each other by an angular distance suitable so that the plurality of rim portions formed at the outer end of each spoke 250 are circumferentially spaced apart by a distance substantially equal to the spacing of the articles 130 on the first conveyor 110. This may also be substantially equal to the spacing (or pitch) of the article carriers 112 on the first conveyor 110. It should be appreciated that the angular distance between spokes 250 suitable to achieve the desired circumferential spacing between the rim portions will depend on the radial length of the spokes 250. An explanation of the function and benefits of this arrangement is explained further below.

[0086] Figure 5 illustrates an alternative form of the technology in which the rotating assembly 210 of the stabilising device 200 lacks a rim. In such forms, the rotating assembly 210 comprises a plurality of spokes 250 which do not connect to, and do not have ends that form, a rim. The spokes 250 in the form illustrated in Figure 5 are substantially straight when viewed from a direction parallel to the rotation axis 220, i.e. the spokes 250 are substantially radial. In other forms, the spokes 250 may take other shapes and / or orientations, for example the spokes 250 may be at a non-zero angle to the radial direction or may be curved when viewed from a direction parallel to the rotation axis 220.

[0087] The spokes 250 of forms such as shown in Figure 5 may have a width in the longitudinal direction (relative to the rotation axis 220) that is significantly greater than their thickness in the azimuthal direction, e.g. the spokes 250 may be constructed in the manner of flat bars or paddles.

[0088] In certain forms where the stabilising device 200 lacks a rim, such as in Figure 5, the spokes 250 have at least some rigidity to them, e.g. they may be constructed to be rigid or semi-rigid. For example, they may be formed from a material having a relatively high elastic modulus, e.g. a rigid or semi-rigid plastic or a metal.

[0089] In certain forms where the stabilising device 200 lacks a rim, such as in Figure 5, the plurality of spokes 250 may be azimuthally spaced from each other by an angular distance suitable so that the azimuthal spacing between radially outer ends of adjacent spokes 250 is greater than a width of the articles 130 carried on the first conveyor 110. In some particular examples, the plurality of spokes 250 may be configured such that the azimuthal spacing between radially outer ends of adjacent spokes 250 is substantially equal to the spacing between the articles 130 when they are carried on the first conveyor 110. This spacing may be equal to the distance between the equivalent points on adjacent article carriers 112 on the first conveyor 110, i.e. the pitch of the article carriers. It should be appreciated that the angular

[0090] J&W ref: 326058PCTdistance between spokes 250 suitable to achieve the desired circumferential spacing between the rim portions will depend on the radial length of the spokes 250. An explanation of the function and benefits of this arrangement is explained further below.

[0091] 6.2.3. Alternatives to Spokes

[0092] In some alternative forms of the technology, the stabilising device 200 comprises a rotating assembly 210 that has constructions other than those described above. In some forms, the rotating assembly 210 may comprise a body portion mounted on, and configured to rotate about, the rotation axis 220. The body portion may extend radially between the hub 240 and the outer perimeter of the rotating assembly 210 and, in some forms, the hub 240 may be comprised as part of the body portion so that the body portion is mounted directly to the axle or also comprises the axle. The radially outer portion of the body portion may comprise the rim 230 and the outer surface of the body portion may form the rim surface 232. The body portion may occupy all, substantially all or a significant proportion of the space between the rim 230 and the hub 240, i.e. unlike forms in which the rotating assembly 210 comprises spokes, the body portion may be substantially solid in construction, or have significantly fewer gaps in it when compared to the volume of the gaps between the spokes in other forms.

[0093] The body portion may be constructed in a manner so as to be resiliently deformable such that the rim surface 232, or parts thereof, are resiliently deformable inwardly in the radial direction. For example, the body portion may be constructed from a material that has a relatively low elastic modulus, i.e. a material that is relatively elastic or having a low stiffness. Additionally, or alternatively, the form of the body portion may contribute to its ability to resiliently deform as explained.

[0094] In some forms, the body portion may be constructed of a foam material. In other forms, it may be constructed of a gel, soft plastic or textile. In some forms, the body portion may comprise a bladder which is filled with a filling material. The filling material may comprise a fluid, for example a gas such as air, foam, gel, soft plastic, textile, or particulate material. As an alternative to a bladder, the rotating assembly 210 may comprise a thin outer skin surrounding the body portion. In the case of some materials for forming the body portion that may have a non-smooth surface, for example foam, an outer skin may be useful to form a relatively smooth outer surface for ease of cleaning and improved hygiene. In further forms, the body portion may be constructed as a brush, i.e. with a plurality of closely spaced bristles

[0095] J&W ref: 326058PCTextending in the radial, or approximately radial, direction. In these examples the material may be selected so that the rim surface 232 is resiliently deformable to a degree such as described earlier.

[0096] 6.3. Function and Position of the Stabilising Device

[0097] It has been stated that the stabilising device 200 functions to stabilise articles 130 on the first conveyor 110. In certain forms, for example the forms shown in Figures 1 to 4, this may be achieved by positioning the stabilising device 200 such that articles 130 carried by the first conveyor 110 pass under the rotating assembly 210 and come into contact with the rim surface 232. The articles 130 apply a force on the rim surface 232, pushing it radially inwards relative to the stabilising device 200. Since the rim surface 232 may be resiliently deformable, the rim surface 232 applies an opposing reaction force on the articles 130, pushing them downwards onto the first conveyor 110 and helping to stabilise them, e.g. maintaining their position on, or helping them stay on the first conveyor 110. For example, the articles 130 may be pushed into the article carriers 112 of the first conveyor 110.

[0098] The stabilising device 200 may be positioned suitably relative to the first conveyor 110 to enable this function to be performed. For example, the stabilising device may be suspended above the first conveyor 110 such that the bottom of the rim surface 232, when undeformed, is positioned a short distance above the height of the first conveyor 110. This distance may be selected based on the nature of the articles 130 to be carried by the first conveyor 110, for example their size, shape and fragility. In certain forms, the gap between the first conveyor 110 and the undeformed rim surface 232 may be less than the typical diameter or height of articles 130 carried on the first conveyor 110 so that the articles 130 come into contact with the rim surface 232 when passing under the stabilising device 200, such as shown in Figure 3. In some alternative forms, the stabilising device 200 may be suspended above the first conveyor 110 such that some parts of the first conveyor 110, e.g. the article carriers 112, come into contact with the rim surface 232 and deform it.

[0099] In certain forms, for example as shown in Figures 1 to 5, the stabilising device 200 may be positioned with the axis 220 oriented substantially perpendicular to the direction in which the articles 130 are conveyed along the first conveyer 110, i.e. the rim 230 may be oriented parallel to the first conveyor 110.

[0100] Furthermore, the stabilising device 200 may be positioned such that the axis 220 is oriented substantially horizontally. This may help ensure that the opposing reaction force exerted by the rim surface 232 on the

[0101] J&W ref: 326058PCTarticles 130 is substantially vertically downwards, which helps maintain the articles 130 on the first conveyor 110.

[0102] In certain forms of the technology, the rotating assembly 210 of the stabilising device 200 may be rotated by a suitable drive mechanism such that the rotational speed of the rim 230 is substantially equal to the speed of the first conveyor 110, i.e. the speed at which the articles 130 are moved along by the first conveyor 110. This may help to accelerate the articles 130 to the appropriate speed for being conveyed by the first conveyor 110. Where the tangential rotation speed of the rim 230 is substantially equal to the speed of the first conveyor 110, the articles 130 are subject to minimal shear or twisting forces when carried by the first conveyor 110. In some forms such as that shown in Figures 1 to 3, the rotating assembly 210 may still operate as described if the rotational speed of the rim 230 is slightly greater than or slightly less than the speed of the first conveyor 110, for example the tangential speed of the rim 230 may be within 10% of the speed of the first conveyor 110.

[0103] In some forms, the rotational speed of the rotating assembly 210 may be variable with the speed of rotation being controlled by a suitable rotation control mechanism. The rotational speed of the rotating assembly 210 may be controllable based on the driven speed of the first conveyor 110 so that, if the first conveyor 110 operates and higher or lower speeds (which may be desired based on the situation, e.g. the type of object that its carrying), the rotational speed of the rotating assembly 210 may be adjusted accordingly. The variation of the rotation of the rotating assembly 210 may be manually controlled or automatically controlled, for example a sensor may detect the speed of movement of the first conveyor 110 and provide a suitable control signal to the rotation control mechanism. Alternatively, the conveyor system 100 may comprise a mechanical linkage between the drive mechanism for the first conveyor 110 and the drive mechanism for the rotating assembly 210 to control their speeds together.

[0104] In forms such as shown in Figure 4, where the rim 230 is discontinuous, the rotation of the rotating assembly 210 may be synchronised with the movement of the first conveyor 110 so that the rim portions of the rim 230 of the stabilising device 230 come into contact with the articles 130 on the conveyor 110. The speed of rotation of the rotating assembly 210 may be synchronised with the speed movement of the first conveyor 110 so that the rim portions consistently contact the articles 130 on the conveyor 110 throughout extended use. Consequently, each article 130 is contacted by a spoke 250 and consequently its position on the first conveyor 110 is stabilised and, optionally, it may be accelerated as it transfers onto the first conveyor.

[0105] J&W ref: 326058PCTSimilarly, in forms such as shown in Figure 5, where the stabilising device 230 lacks a rim, the rotation of the rotating assembly 210 may be synchronised with the movement of the first conveyor 110 so that the radially outer ends of the spokes 250 of the stabilising device 230 are positioned in the gaps between articles 130 on the first conveyor 110. The speed of rotation of the rotating assembly 210 may be synchronised with the speed movement of the first conveyor 110 so that the radially outer ends of the spokes 250 are consistently positioned in the gaps between the articles 130 on the conveyor 110 throughout extended use. Consequently, each article 130 is smothered or trapped in one of the segments formed between adjacent spokes 250 of the rotating assembly 210 and consequently its position on the first conveyor 110 is stabilised and, optionally, it may be accelerated as it transfers onto the first conveyor.

[0106] In some forms, the speed of movement of the articles 130 on the first conveyor 110 may be greater than the speed of movement on the articles 130 on the feeding mechanism that feeds the articles 130 onto the first conveyor 110. For example, in the case of the feeding mechanism comprising a second conveyor 120, the speed of the first conveyor 110 may be greater than the speed of the second conveyor 120.

[0107] Alternatively, the speed at which articles 130 slide (or roll) down a feeding chute may be less than the speed at which they move on the first conveyor 110. In such forms, the stabilising device 100 may assist in accelerating the articles 130 to the speed of the first conveyor 110, which may additionally help stabilise them on the first conveyor 110 and help to prevent articles falling of the first conveyor 110.

[0108] In a conveyor system in which articles are fed from one conveyor onto another conveyor, the conveyors may be configured so that the rate of flow of articles along a downstream conveyor is equal to or greater than the rate of flow of articles along an upstream conveyor since this avoids or at least reduces the possibility of overly populating the downstream conveyor with articles. This may be particularly relevant where the downstream conveyor is configured to carry articles in a plurality of discrete positions on article carriers. In such a conveyor system, the "pocketed speed" of an upstream conveyor is the speed at which the conveyor may be driven in order to deliver a maximum of one article per article carrier of the downstream conveyor. The pocketed speed is a factor of the speed of the downstream conveyor, the spacing of the article carriers (which may be referred to as "pitch") and the size of the articles. In a conveyor system it may be desirable to run upstream conveyors as close to the pocketed speed as possible without articles falling of the conveyors in order to seek to maximise the throughput of the conveyor system. A stabilising device 100 according to forms of the technology may help to achieve this.

[0109] J&W ref: 326058PCTArticles 130 may be particularly at risk of falling off the first conveyor 110, or at least not being positioned where intended, e.g. in an article carrier 112, when the articles 130 are first loaded onto the first conveyor 110. Consequently, in certain forms of the technology, for example as shown in Figures 1 to 5, the stabilising device 200 may be positioned proximate the receiving region 114 of the first conveyor 110 such that the rim surface 232 of the stabilising device 200 comes into contact with the articles 130 (and is resiliently deformed thereby) when the articles 130 are at the receiving region 114 or downstream of the receiving region 114, e.g. immediately downstream thereof. When an article 130 drops onto the first conveyor 110, it may bounce off the conveyor and, depending on the direction of bounce, this may cause it to fall off the conveyor or out of the intended article carrier 112. The stabilising device 200 may be positioned to dampen this bouncing and to push the articles 130 into the intended position on the first conveyor 110 just as, or soon after, they come into contact with the first conveyor 130. In some forms, the stabilising device 200 may be positioned such that articles 130 being loaded onto the first conveyor 110 contact the stabilising device 200 and the first conveyor 110 at substantially the same time.

[0110] In some forms, there may be a need to stabilise the articles 130 on the first conveyor 110 at another point on the first conveyor 110, i.e. at a point downstream of the receiving region 114. For example, there may be one or more points along the path of the first conveyor 110 where articles 130 are prone to falling off the conveyor or leaving their respective article carriers 112. This might occur because of a change in direction or a variation in contour of the first conveyor 110, or because of factors external to the conveyor 110 that create instability. Consequently, a stabilising device 200 may be positioned at any point along the first conveyor 110, including downstream of the receiving region 114. This may be in addition to, or as an alternative to, the positioning of a stabilising device 200 proximate the receiving region 114 of the first conveyor 110.

[0111] As has been explained, in certain forms of the technology, for example as shown in Figures 1 to 5, the conveyor system 100 may comprise a second conveyor 120 that feeds articles 130 onto the first conveyor 110. The stabilising device 200 may further be positioned such that the rim surface 232 comes into contact with, and may be resiliently deformed by, articles 130 carried by the second conveyor 120. In particular, the contact between the articles 130 carried by the second conveyor 120 and the rim surface 232 may occur when the articles 130 are at the end of the second conveyor 120 and as they are cast off the end of the second conveyor 120. This may cause the rim surface 232 to exert a downwards force on the articles 130 as they are cast off the second conveyor 120, helping divert them towards, and stabilise them onto the first conveyor 110. In some forms, the second conveyor 120 may move at a slower speed

[0112] J&W ref: 326058PCTthan the first conveyor 110 and, where the rotational speed of the rim 230 of the rotating assembly 210 is substantially equal to, or greater than, the speed of the first conveyor 110, this helps to accelerate the articles 130 to the speed of the first conveyor 110 as they move from the second conveyor 120 to the first conveyor 110.

[0113] In other forms, the conveyor system 100 may comprise a chute to feed articles 130 onto the receiving region 114 of the first conveyor 110. The stabilising device 200 may further be positioned such that the rim surface 232 comes into contact with, and may be resiliently deformed by, articles 130 carried by the chute. In particular, the contact between the articles 130 carried by the chute and the rim surface 232 may occur when the articles 130 are at the end of the chute and as they fall off the end of the chute. This may cause the rim surface 232 to exert a downwards force on the articles 130 as they fall off the chute, helping divert them towards, and stabilise them onto the first conveyor 110.

[0114] In some forms of the technology, the first conveyor 110 of the conveyor system 100 may comprise rollers that are actively driven and act to rotate the articles 130 when carried on the first conveyor 110. For example, each article carrier 112 may comprise one or more such rollers. In other forms, other mechanisms for rotating the articles 130 when carried on the first conveyor 110 may be used. It may be undesirable for any rotation of the articles 130 caused by rollers to act against the action of the rotating assembly 210 on the articles 130 since this could cause a shear force on the articles 130 which could damage them or force them off the conveyor. This risk may be addressed by one or more of the following considerations. Firstly, the rollers on the first conveyor 110 may be driven to rotate at positions along the length of the conveyor other than positions where the stabilising device 200 is in contact with articles 130. Secondly, the rollers may be driven to rotate to cause the articles 130 to rotate in the same direction to the direction in which the rotating assembly 210 causes the articles 130 to rotate, e.g. when viewed from one side the rollers may rotate clockwise and the rotating assembly 210 may rotate anti-clockwise.

[0115] Thirdly, the speed of rotation of the rollers may be substantially the same as the speed of rotation of the rotating assembly 210. More particularly, the tangential speed of the surface of the rollers that causes the articles 130 to rotate may be substantially the same as the tangential speed of rotation of the rim surface 232 of the rotating assembly 210.

[0116] 6.4. Other Remarks

[0117] J&W ref: 326058PCTUnless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the description and the claims, the words "comprise", "comprising", and the like, are to be construed in an inclusive sense as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense, that is to say, in the sense of "including, but not limited to".

[0118] The entire disclosures of all applications, patents and publications cited above and below, if any, are herein incorporated by reference.

[0119] Reference to any prior art in this specification is not, and should not be taken as, an acknowledgement or any form of suggestion that that prior art forms part of the common general knowledge in the field of endeavour in any country in the world.

[0120] The technology may also be said broadly to consist in the parts, elements and features referred to or indicated in the specification of the application, individually or collectively, in any or all combinations of two or more of said parts, elements or features.

[0121] Where in the foregoing description reference has been made to integers or components having known equivalents thereof, those integers are herein incorporated as if individually set forth.

[0122] It should be noted that various changes and modifications to the presently preferred embodiments described herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the technology and without diminishing its attendant advantages. It is therefore intended that such changes and modifications be included within the present technology.

[0123] J&W ref: 326058PCT

Claims

227. CLAIMS1. A stabilising device for stabilising articles on a conveyor, the stabilising device comprising a rotating assembly configured to rotate around an axis, wherein the rotating assembly comprises a rim surface facing outwardly in a radial direction, the rotating assembly being configured such that at least parts of the rim surface are resiliently deformable inwardly in the radial direction.

2. The stabilising device of claim 1 , wherein the rim surface is continuous around the perimeter of the rotating assembly.

3. The stabilising device of claim 2, wherein the rim surface is resiliently deformable inwardly in the radial direction around all of the perimeter of the rotating assembly.

4. The stabilising device of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the rotating assembly is configured such that the rim surface is able to resiliently deform radially inwardly by at least a diameter of the articles on the conveyor.

5. The stabilising device of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the rim surface has a substantially circular outer perimeter when viewed in a direction parallel to the axis when in an undistorted configuration.

6. The stabilising device of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the rotating assembly comprises a hub configured to rotate around the axis, a rim comprising the rim surface, and a plurality of spokes mounting the rim to the hub.

7. The stabilising device of claim 6, wherein the rim comprises a band having a radial thickness that is significantly less than its width and length.

8. The stabilising device of any one of claims 6 to 7, wherein the rim is formed from a material having a relatively low elastic modulus.

9. The stabilising device of any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein a radially outer end of each spoke is oriented at a non-zero angle to the radial direction.J&W ref: 326058PCT10. The stabilising device of claim 9, wherein the radially outer end of each spoke is azimuthally rearward from a radially more inner portion of the respective spoke relative to a direction of rotation of the rotating assembly around the axis.

11. The stabilising device of claim 10, wherein a radially outer end of each spoke is curved when viewed in a direction parallel to the axis, wherein the angle of each radially outer end to the radial direction increases with increasing distance from the axis.

12. The stabilising device of any one of claims 6 to 11, wherein each spoke comprises a band having a thickness that is significantly less than its width and length.

13. The stabilising device of any one of claims 6 to 12, wherein each spoke is formed from a material having a relatively low elastic modulus.

14. A conveyor system comprising:a conveyor for carrying a plurality of articles, the conveyor comprising a receiving region within which the articles are received onto the conveyor; anda stabilising device for stabilising articles on the conveyor as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 13,wherein the stabilising device is positioned proximate the receiving region of the conveyor such that the rim surface of the stabilising device is resiliently deformed by articles carried by the conveyor at or downstream of the receiving region.

15. The conveyor system of claim 14, wherein the stabilising device is positioned with the axis oriented substantially perpendicular to a direction in which the articles are conveyed along the conveyer.

16. The conveyor system of any one of claims 14 to 15, wherein the axis is oriented substantially horizontally.

17. The conveyor system of any one of claims 14 to 16, wherein the rotating assembly of the stabilising device is rotated such that the rotational speed of the rim is substantially equal to a speed of the conveyor.J&W ref: 326058PCT18. The conveyor system of any one of claims 14 to 17, wherein the conveyor comprises a plurality of article carriers, each of the article carriers being configured to carry one of the plurality of articles.

19. The conveyor system of claim 18, wherein each article carrier comprises a cup configured to receive one of the plurality of articles.

20. The conveyor system of any one of claims 14 to 19, wherein the conveyor is a first conveyor and the conveyor system further comprises a second conveyor configured to feed articles onto the receiving region of the first conveyor.

21. The conveyor system of claim 20, wherein the stabilising device is positioned such that the rim surface is further resiliently deformed by articles on the second conveyor.

22. The conveyor system of any one of claims 20 to 21, wherein the first conveyor is driven at a greater speed than the second conveyor.

23. A stabilising device for stabilising articles on a conveyor, the stabilising device comprising a rotating assembly configured to rotate around an axis, wherein the rotating assembly comprises a plurality of spokes extending radially outwardly, the plurality of spokes being configured such that the azimuthal spacing between radially outer ends of adjacent spokes is greater than a width of the articles.

24. A conveyor system comprising:a driven conveyor for carrying a plurality of articles, the conveyor comprising:a plurality of article carriers, each of the article carriers being configured to carry an article; anda receiving region within which the articles are received onto the conveyor; and a stabilising device for stabilising articles on the conveyor as claimed in claim 23, wherein the stabilising device is positioned proximate the receiving region of the conveyor such that articles on the conveyor at or downstream of the receiving region are positioned between the radially outer ends of adjacent spokes.J&W ref: 326058PCT2525. The conveyor system of claim 24, wherein the stabilising device is positioned with the axis oriented substantially perpendicular to a direction in which the articles are conveyed along the conveyer.

26. The conveyor system of any one of claims 24 to 25, wherein the axis is oriented substantially horizontally.

27. The conveyor system of any one of claims 24 to 26, wherein the rotating assembly of the stabilising device is rotated such that the rotational speed of the radially outer ends of the spokes is substantially equal to a speed of the conveyor.

28. The conveyor system of any one of claims 23 to 27, wherein each article carrier comprises a cup configured to receive one of the plurality of articles.

29. The conveyor system of any one of claims 24 to 28, wherein the conveyor is a first conveyor and the conveyor system further comprises a second conveyor configured to feed articles onto the receiving region of the first conveyor.

30. The conveyor system of any one of claims 23 to 29, wherein the stabilising device is positioned such that articles leaving the second conveyor, or transitioning from the second conveyor to the first conveyor, are positioned between the radially outer ends of adjacent spokes.

31. The conveyor system of any one of claims 29 to 30, wherein the first conveyor is driven at a greater speed than the second conveyor.J&W ref: 326058PCT

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