STEP DOWN PRODUCT ACCUMULATION SYSTEM

摘要

A step down product conveying and accumulation system (50) employs one or more conveyors (52, 54) with a product path section, on which products are conveyed, and an accumulator section (66), for accumulation of products for recirculation and eventual delivery to a downstream destination. A length of the product path section is located within a first transverse plane. The accumulator section is located within a second transverse plane, in spaced apart relation with the product path section. A transfer surface (30) in the form of a slide plate, air slide plenum system, or other low resistance or frictionless surface is employed as the transfer medium. Rather than transporting products, which are not properly aligned or which are unstable, for immediate delivery downstream, or for accumulation such that they reach the turbulence point which may cause system disruption, such products are transferred for accumulation by traveling smoothly and efficiently from the product path section downwardly on the transfer surface, onto the accumulator section. From there, the products are recirculated and properly aligned for ultimate, unencumbered downstream delivery.