U.S. PATENT AND TRADEMARK OFFICE
Information Products Division |
U.S. Patent Classification System - Classification Definitions
as of June 30, 2000
Patents classified in a subclass may be accessed by either clicking on
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Classification Index
Explanation of Data web page.
(definitions have been obtained from the
Patents ASSIST CD-ROM which
is produced by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
Electronic Products Branch)
Class 406
CONVEYORS: FLUID CURRENT
Class Definition:
Apparatus and methods for conveying solid material or
articles which are guided or supported to travel along a path
by means of or with the assistance of a fluid current.
REFERENCES TO OTHER CLASSES
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
15, Brushing, Scrubbing, and General Cleaning, subclass 3.5
for means to pass a solid cleaning agent and a fluid carrier
through tubular work; and subclasses 300.1+ for means to
remove foreign material by air blast or suction. Class 406
takes devices which are specifically adapted to transport
material from a pile or stack on a surface or in a receptacle
to another location.
19, Textiles: Fiber Preparation, subclass 97.5, 105, and 205
for fiber preparation apparatus combined with a fluid current
conveyor for feeding the fiber.
34, Drying and Gas or Vapor Contact With Solids, appropriate
subclasses for subject matter relating to the removal of
liquids from solids by drying and for contacting of solids
with gases or vapors for purposes other than or in addition
to conveying. See particularly subclass 359 and 576+ for
fluid current conveyors for conveying the treated solids.
37, Excavating, subclass 202, 209+, 242+, and 244+ for snow
blowers; and subclasses 307+ for dredgers.
43, Fishing, Trapping, and Vermin Destroying, subclass 6.5
for a fish gathering or catching apparatus combined with a
fluid current conveyor to the boat.
56, Harvesters, subclass 12.8 and 30+ for harvesters having
pneumatic conveyors. Claims reciting only the conveying
structure with no additional treatment are properly
classified in Class 406.
75, Specialized Metallurgical Processes, Compositions for Use
Therein, Consolidated Metal Powder Compositions, and Loose
Metal Particulate Mixtures, appropriate subclasses for
processes of treating ores wherein the ore undergoing
treatment is conveyed by or suspended in a gaseous medium.
83, Cutting, subclass 402 for cutting apparatus having fluid
current means to convey work relative to the cutting
station.
89, Ordnance, subclass 46 for an ordnance loader including a
fluid lift.
95, Gas Separation: Processes, for processes of gas
separation involving steps resulting in separation of a gas
and solid particles entrained therein. Fluid current
conveyor methods which include a step for separating the
solids from the fluid at the point of delivery are classified
in Class 406.
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, for apparatus used in
separation of a gas and solid particles entrained therein.
Fluid current conveyors which include a device for separating
the solids from the fluid at the point of delivery are
classified in Class 406.
99, Food and Beverages: Apparatus, subclass 406 for
apparatus which convey food by a current of cooling liquid.
104, Railways, subclass 138.1 for tubular conduits having
tracks adapted to be engaged by wheels on a carrier; and
subclasses 154 and 155+ for hydraulic and pneumatic car
propulsion systems, respectively, which comprise structure
located along the trackway.
105, Railway Rolling Stock, appropriate subclasses for
carriers having wheels with grooves or similar structure
adapted to cooperate with track to guide the carrier.
110, Furnaces, subclasses 104+ for furnace structure
combined with means for feeding solid fuel to a furnace using
an entraining fluid current. Class 406 provides for the
feeding device, per se, or the feeding device and a nominally
recited furnace (no structure recited).
114, Ships, subclasses 183+ for a device for expelling ash
or other refuse from a ship by entraining the ash or refuse
in a fluid current.
118, Coating Apparatus, subclasses 308+ for coating
apparatus which propel a solid particulate material by fluid
current to apply the material to a base.
119, Animal Husbandry, subclass 844 for fluid current
conveyors specifically adapted to convey livestock.
123, Internal-Combustion Engines, subclass 23 and 24 for
engines having means for feeding solid fuel by means of a
fluid current.
124, Mechanical Guns and Projectors, subclasses 56+ for
projectile throwing or propelling apparatus which utilize a
working fluid to transmit force to the projectile.
131, Tobacco, subclass 110 for a cigar or cigarette machine
provided with a suction device to assist the feeding
operation.
134, Cleaning and Liquid Contact With Solids, appropriate
subclasses for subject matter relating to the contact of
solids with liquids for various purposes other than conveying
(e.g., cleaning).
137, Fluid Handling, appropriate subclasses for apparatus and
processes relating to fluid handling (Class 137 is residual).
See especially subclass 268 for fluid handling devices which
include a member for holding and bringing a fluid and a
material to be dissolved or entrained into contact (no
conveying involved).
138, Pipes and Tubular Conduits, appropriate subclasses for
conduits in general and conveyor conduits having no claimed
structure peculiar to fluid current conveying of solids.
141, Fluent Material Handling, With Receiver or Receiver
Coacting Means, subclasses 67+ for a fluid current conveyor
claimed in combination with a separable receiver or structure
associated with a separable receiver (e.g., means to feed
bags past the conveyor outlet).
144, Woodworking, subclass 252 for a woodworking machine
having a dust conveyor.
164, Metal Founding, subclasses 200+ for apparatus having a
fluid current conveyor for projecting mold forming material
against a shaping surface.
175, Boring or Penetrating the Earth, appropriate subclasses
for a method or apparatus for forming or enlarging an
elongated hole in the earth and including a step or means for
conveying material from the hole by a fluid current.
198, Conveyors: Power-Driven, subclass 380 for power-driven
conveyors having pressurized fluid means for changing the
attitude of the load articles; subclass 434 for air blast or
suction diverters for arranging or rearranging streams of
load articles on a conveyor; and subclass 493 for conveyors
utilizing impinging fluid to feed, shift, or discharge the
load, or to clean, sterilize, or lubricate the conveyor.
Class 406 takes all other combinations of a fluid current
conveyor and a power-driven conveyor.
208, Mineral Oils: Processes and Products, subclasses 46+,
146+, and 400+ for a method or apparatus for recovering or
treating naturally occurring mineral oil wherein a solid
material is elevated by a gaseous fluid current. Patents
claiming such solids elevating structure and only nominally
reciting the chemical process or apparatus (e.g., "a
catalytic converter comprising...") have been classified in
Class 406.
209, Classifying, Separating, and Assorting Solids,
appropriate subclasses for a method or apparatus for
separating solid materials and assorting or segregating them
in grades or classes according to physical characteristics.
Class 406 takes subject matter relating to the control of the
destination of the load in a fluid current conveyor having a
plurality of paths, where the controlling code or
characteristic is placed or formed on the load specifically
for the purpose of controlling the destination thereof.
210, Liquid Purification or Separation, appropriate
subclasses for processes and apparatus for separating a solid
from a solid-liquid mixture. Fluid current conveyors which
include means for separating the solids from a liquid carrier
at the point of delivery are classified in Class 406.
221, Article Dispensing, subclass 278 for an apparatus which
separates a discrete article from a source of supply of such
articles and utilizes a fluid under pressure to separate or
to move each article from the supply source toward a point of
egress.
222, Dispensing, subclasses 61+ for automatically
controlled dispensers with fluid pressure discharge
assistance; subclass 617 for ambulant dispensers utilizing a
fluid flow to discharge a material; subclass 630+ for other
dispensers utilizing a fluid flow to discharge a material
from a supply; and subclass 195 for dispensers having means
to agitate the contents by gas. Class 222 takes the
following: separating and dispensing a predetermined quantity
or charge of material from a supply on demand (e.g., those
devices wherein flow of discharging fluid is created by a
reciprocating hand pump, squeezable bulb, etc.); pressurized
aerosol containers having a discharge-controlling valve;
discharging material from a receptacle by pressurized fluid
acting on the top of the material to force the same through a
discharge outlet (with no fluid current conveying claimed
after the outlet); discharging material from a receptacle by
a stream of fluid which entrains the material and carries the
same through a discharge outlet (no conduit or other guiding
or supporting structure subsequent to the outlet being
disclosed); gas agitation of material in a receptacle to
allow the material to flow through a discharge outlet (Class
406 will take a well-defined fluid current conveyor inside of
a receptacle, and which may move material through a discharge
outlet, e.g., an inclined permeable member at the bottom of a
receptacle); dispensing of a nonsolid substance.
226, Advancing Material of Indeterminate Length, subclass 7
for a method of or subclasses 97.1+ for an apparatus to
advance material of indeterminate length by means of a fluid
current.
239, Fluid Sprinkling, Spraying, and Diffusing, subclasses
77+ for orchard-type mobile distributors which discharge
material by means of a gaseous fluid current; and subclasses
654+ for apparatus for scattering solid material which
include means generating a gaseous mixing current. Patents
claiming specific nozzle structure or orientation whereby the
material is sprayed or scattered in the air or over an
extended surface area are properly classified in Class 239,
except when discharge is to a localized pile or a receptacle.
See the class definition for Class 239 for further
distinctions between that class and Class 406.
241, Solid Material Comminution or Disintegration, subclasses
15+ and 38+ for method or apparatus including a step or
means for comminuting solid material combined with fluid
current conveying of the material. See the Class 241 main
definition, Lines With Other Classes and Within This Class,
for statement of the line between Classes 241 and 406.
242, Winding, Tensioning, or Guiding, for more than a nominal
supply or take-up coil structure (e.g., a support for such a
coil, a cooperative relationship between a tension or exhaust
detector and reel driving or reel stopping means, etc.);
subclass 615.11 a residual locus for a material fluid
suspension guide or guard.
251, Valves and Valve Actuation, appropriate subclasses for a
valve in general. Class 406 provides for valves when claimed
structure is recited which is specific to fluid current
conveying of solids.
254, Implements or Apparatus for Applying Pushing or Pulling
Force, subclass 134.4 for a device for placing a wire or
strand in a conduit by connecting a vane or similar fixture
to the wire or strand and moving it through the conduit by a
fluid current therein.
264, Plastic and Nonmetallic Article Shaping or Treating:
Processes, subclass 121 for conveying and projecting
particulate material by means of a fluid current onto a
collecting surface to form an article.
266, Metallurgical Apparatus, subclass 182 for apparatus
which employ a fluid current to move solid material through a
heating zone.
271, Sheet Feeding or Delivering, subclasses 194+ for a
pneumatic conveyor for individual flexible sheets.
291, Track Sanders, subclasses 3+ for fluid current
conveying of sand or like material to vehicle wheel treads or
vehicle tracks.
299, Mining or In Situ Disintegration of Hard Material,
subclass 18 and 64+ for fluid current conveying of mined
material.
366, Agitating, subclasses 3+, 10+, and 101+ for agitation of
material in a receptacle by the introduction of a gas under
pressure, with no discharge outlet being claimed. See also
the search note to Class 222, Dispensing, for the distinction
between agitating of that class and this class (406).
405, Hydraulic and Earth Engineering, subclasses 80+ for a
method or structure for modifying or directing the flow of a
river, stream, etc., to transport articles or vessels
thereon. See specifically subclasses 119+ for flumes without
specific structure which recognizes the conveying of solids.
414, Material or Article Handling, subclass 795.5 for
removing articles from a stack by fluid blast; subclass 221
for apparatus for moving material between zones of different
pressure separated by an air lock; subclasses 288+ for a
static receptacle and means for charging or discharging or
facilitating the charging or discharging of the receptacle;
and subclass 676 for supporting an article by air or moving
the article by mechanical or manual means. Class 406 takes
ambulant fluid current conveyors which would otherwise be
classifiable in Class 414.
415, Rotary Kinetic Fluid Motors or Pumps, appropriate
subclasses for rotary kinetic fluid pumps in general. Class
406 provides for similar pumps which include structure which
recognizes a solid material entrained in the fluid (e.g., an
attached solids receptacle or a separate opening in the
casing for entry of the solid material)
416, Fluid Reaction Surfaces (i.e., Impellers), appropriate
subclasses for specific impeller structure for a fluid pump.
417, Pumps, appropriate subclasses for general subject matter
relating to the pumping of fluids. Class 417 provides for
subject matter relating to the pumping of slurries, fluent
solids, and the like if handled in a manner not inconsistent
with the handling of fluids. Patents claiming specific
structure or steps indicating conveying of solids in a fluid
current (e.g., "means for controlling the input of solids
into a fluid stream in response to pump speed...") should be
considered for Class 406.
418, Rotary Expansible Chamber Devices, appropriate
subclasses for rotary expansible chamber pumps in general.
425, Plastic Article or Earthenware Shaping or Treating:
Apparatus, subclass 80.1 for apparatus including means for
depositing particles on a shaping surface from a gaseous
suspension.
432, Heating, subclasses 14+ and 58+ for a method or
apparatus, respectively, which includes a step or means for
conveying or agitating solid material with a heating gas.
451, Abrading, subclasses 38+ and 75+ for a sandblasting
process or machine. Mere conveying of sand by fluid current
with an incidental disclosure of sandblasting is properly
classified in this class (406).
604, Surgery, subclass 58 for powder dispensers.
GLOSSARY:
CARRIER
An auxiliary device for use in a fluid current conveyor
comprising a container for carrying material or articles
while being conveyed through the fluid current conveyor.
FLUID CURRENT CONVEYOR
Structure which guides or supports the load from the fluid
conveyor inlet* to the fluid conveyor outlet* and wherein the
fluid current acts upon the load from the inlet* to the
outlet*.
FLUID CONVEYOR INLET
The point at which the load is first guided or supported and
is acted upon by the fluid current. The inlet must also be
subsequent to any structure (e.g., terminal, receptacle) for
statically supporting the load at the entrance to the
conveyor.
FLUID CONVEYOR OUTLET
The point at which the load is either no longer guided or
supported, or is no longer acted upon by the fluid current.
The outlet must also be prior to any structure (e.g.,
terminal, receptacle) for statically supporting the load at
the exit from the conveyor.
RECEPTACLE
A hopper or similar container for holding a quantity of load
material or articles and having a discharge or intake opening
therein.
TERMINAL
Structure at or adjacent the outlet or inlet of a fluid
current conveyor for either (a) effecting intake or discharge
or load articles individually into or from the conveyor, or
(b) for accepting load articles as they are discharged
individually from the conveyor.
SUBCLASSES
Subclass:
1
SELECTIVE DELIVERY:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter wherein either (a) a load path is optionally
communicable via a flow diverter to any one of a plurality of
specified conveyor outlets*, or (b) a flow diverter is
controlled in response to destination information carried by
the load.
(1) Note. A switching means or load diverter, per se, is
excluded.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 155+ for a conveyor having plural outlets.
subclasses 181+ for a load flow diverter, divider, or
combiner, per se.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
104, Railways, subclass 88.01 for selective delivery of a
railway rolling stock.
Subclass:
2
Destination controlled by operator at remote site:
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Subject matter
wherein means are provided to enable a person at a location
removed from the flow diverter to select the particular
outlet*.
Subclass:
3
Destination controlled by sensed condition:
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Subject matter
wherein the flow diverter is operated in response to the
occurrence of a predetermined event, or a change in a state
or property in any of the following: the fluid conveyor* or
an associated device, the conveying fluid, load, or the
immediate environment of the conveyor affecting the operation
thereof.
Subclass:
4
Controlled by coded load:
This subclass is indented under subclass 3. Subject matter
wherein the flow diverter is actuated in response to
information carried by the load.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
37 for a coded carrier, per se.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
209, Classifying, Separating, and Assorting Solids,
appropriate subclasses for separation of loads having
different inherent physical characteristics.
Subclass:
5
Magnetic material on load:
This subclass is indented under subclass 4. Subject matter
wherein the flow diverter is actuated in response to a
magnetic inscription carried by the load.
Subclass:
6
Electrical contact on load:
This subclass is indented under subclass 4. Subject matter
wherein the destination information carried by the load is in
the form of electrically conductive material adapted to
complete a circuit which operates the flow diverter.
Subclass:
7
Adjustable or changeable code on load:
This subclass is indented under subclass 4. Subject matter
wherein the destination information carried by the load may
be readily changed whereby the load may be sent to any one of
a plurality of destinations.
Subclass:
8
Presence or size of recess or protrusion on front of load:
This subclass is indented under subclass 4. Subject matter
wherein the destination information carried by the load is in
the form of either a concave or convex leading surface, or an
indentation or protrusion on the foremost surface of the load
that is perpendicular to its direction of travel.
Subclass:
9
Protrusion:
This subclass is indented under subclass 8. Subject matter
where the destination information is in the form of a convex
leading surface, or a protrusion formed on the foremost
surface of the load that is perpendicular to its direction of
travel.
Subclass:
10
WITH MEANS TO CONTROL CONVEYING FLUID OR MOVEMENT OF LOAD IN
RESPONSE TO SENSED CONDITION:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter wherein a step or means is provided for: (a) detecting
any of the following characteristics: a state or property or
change therein, or the random occurrence of a predetermined
event in any of the following: the fluid conveyor* or a
device associated therewith, the conveying fluid, load, or
the immediate environment of the conveyor* affecting the
operation thereof; and (b) regulating a (a result of such
detection) the movement of the load or conveying fluid.
(1) Note. This definition requires a patent to claim at
least 3 discrete instrumentalities for original placement
herein. One of these must be a fluid conveyor*. The other 2
are: (a) a sensor (e.g., thermocouple, photocell system,
etc.) to detect a condition as stated in (a) of the
definition, and (b) a controller (e.g., pump motor, valve,
solenoid, etc.) to regulate movement of the load or conveying
fluid.
(2) Note. "Regulating" as used above includes initiating or
terminating.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
34 for devices having a sensor which initiates a signal, but
no claimed controller.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
222, Dispensing, subclasses 61+ for automatically
controlled dispensers having fluid pressure discharge
assistance.
Subclass:
11
Responsive to obstacle in system:
This subclass is indented under subclass 10. Subject matter
wherein the sensor detects the presence of an article or
quantity of material which is lodged in the conveyor*.
Subclass:
12
Control of conveying fluid:
This subclass is indented under subclass 10. Subject matter
wherein the controller regulates the conveying fluid current
or pressure.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 177+ for a gate which opens in response to the
arrival of a load article, but does not alter the movement of
the load or conveying fluid.
Subclass:
13
Reversing of fluid current in single tube system:
This subclass is indented under subclass 12. Subject matter
wherein the controller causes the conveying fluid current to
reverse its direction of flow through the conveyor*.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
111 and 112, for other reversible single tube conveyors.
Subclass:
14
Responsive to velocity or pressure change of conveying
fluid:
This subclass is indented under subclass 12. Subject matter
wherein the controller is regulated by a sensor which either
detects changes in the speed of the conveying fluid current
or detects variations in conveying fluid pressure.
(1) Note. Sensors which detect the presence or absence of
the load by detecting changes in conveying fluid velocity or
pressure are included in this subclass.
Subclass:
15
To initiate or terminate fluid current:
This subclass is indented under subclass 14. Subject matter
wherein the fluid current conveyor* assumes a dormant
condition in which the fluid current is stopped or is
substantially reduced, and wherein the controller either
starts the conveying current or stops the conveying current
and returns the conveyor* to its dormant state.
Subclass:
16
In response to introduction or discharge of load:
This subclass is indented under subclass 15. Subject matter
wherein the sensor detects a change in pressure or velocity
of a fluid current as the load is introduced into or
discharged from the conveyor* to start or stop the conveying
current.
Subclass:
17
Discharge and introduction:
This subclass is indented under subclass 16. Subject matter
wherein the sensor detects a change in pressure or velocity
of the conveying fluid current as the load is introduced into
and when it is discharged from the conveyor* to start and
stop the fluid current, respectively.
Subclass:
18
With timer to terminate fluid current:
This subclass is indented under subclass 16. Subject matter
wherein the sensor detects a change in pressure or velocity
of the fluid current as the load is introduced into the
conveyor* and activates a controller to start the conveying
current, and wherein a timing mechanism is also activated to
stop the conveying current after a predetermined time
interval.
Subclass:
19
Responsive to presence or absence or quantity of load:
This subclass is indented under subclass 12. Subject matter
wherein the controller which regulates the flow or pressure
of the conveying fluid is regulated by a sensor which detects
either the amount of the load or whether or not the load is
at a particular location.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 14+ for devices wherein the presence or absence
of the load is determined by a pressure sensor.
Subclass:
20
With stepped reset for each load article introduced at
intake:
This subclass is indented under subclass 19. Subject matter
including load article sensors at the inlet* and outlet* of
the fluid current conveyor*, wherein the conveying fluid
controller is activated or deactivated by a mechanism which
is incrementally advanced toward a conveyor deactivating
position each time a load article is detected at the outlet*,
and is incrementally retracted from the deactivating position
each time a load article is detected at the inlet*.
Subclass:
21
With load detector at outlet to terminate fluid current:
This subclass is indented under subclass 19. Subject matter
wherein a sensor is provided at the conveyor outlet* to
detect the discharge of the load and activate or deactivate a
controller which stops the conveying fluid current.
Subclass:
22
With timer to terminate current:
This subclass is indented under subclass 19. Subject matter
wherein a sensor which detects the presence or absence of the
load activates a timing mechanism which in turn causes a
controller to stop the conveying fluid current after a
predetermined time interval.
Subclass:
23
Level or weight of load in receptacle:
This subclass is indented under subclass 19. Subject matter
wherein a sensor detects the height or the amount of the load
in a hopper or other container associated with the fluid
current conveyor*.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
177, Weighing Scales, appropriate subclass for patents
claiming details of the weighing scale, or a weigher combined
with a conveyor for moving material only as much material as
in necessary to the weighing operation.
Subclass:
24
At intake:
This subclass is indented under subclass 23. Subject matter
wherein the load container discharges directly into the
inlet* of the fluid current conveyor*.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
222, Dispensing, subclass 58 for a dispenser controlled
automatically by the weight of the material in a supply
container.
Subclass:
25
And control of load input to receptacle:
This subclass is indented under subclass 24. Subject matter
wherein an additional controller which regulates the load
supply to the container is operated in response to the height
or the amount of the load in the container.
Subclass:
26
Responsive to movement of gate to initiate or terminate fluid
current:
This subclass is indented under subclass 12. Subject matter
wherein a closure is provided at the inlet* or outlet* of the
fluid current conveyor past which the load is introduced into
or discharged from the conveyor*, and wherein the sensor
detects movement of the gate to activate or deactivate the
fluid current controller.
Subclass:
27
To closure of intake gate to initiate fluid current:
This subclass is indented under subclass 26. Subject matter
wherein the sensor detects movement of a gate at the inlet*
to its closed position and activates the controller to start
the conveying fluid current.
Subclass:
28
Control of load input or output:
This subclass is indented under subclass 10. Subject matter
wherein the controller either regulates the introduction of
the load through the inlet* of the fluid current conveyor*,
or regulates the discharge of the load from the outlet*.
(1) Note. The term "regulates" as used herein includes
preventing or permitting the introduction or discharge of the
load (e.g., control of a gate locking device at the intake is
proper for this subclass).
Subclass:
29
Input:
This subclass is indented under subclass 28. Subject matter
wherein the controller regulates the introduction of the load
through the inlet* of the fluid current conveyor*.
Subclass:
30
Responsive to pressure or velocity change of conveying
fluid:
This subclass is indented under subclass 29. Subject matter
wherein the load input controller is regulated by a sensor
which either detects changes in the speed of the conveying
fluid current or detects variation in conveying fluid
pressure.
Subclass:
31
Responsive to presence, absence, or quantity of load:
This subclass is indented under subclass 29. Subject matter
wherein the load input controller is regulated by a sensor
which detects either the amount of the load or whether or not
the load is at a particular location.
Subclass:
32
Level or weight of load in receptacle:
This subclass is indented under subclass 31. Subject matter
wherein the sensor detects the height or the quantity of the
load in a hopper or other container associated with the fluid
current conveyor*.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
177, Weighing Scales, appropriate subclass for patents
claiming details of the weighing scale, or a weigher combined
with a conveyor which merely perfects the weighing
operation.
222, Dispensing, subclass 58 for a dispenser controlled
automatically by the weight of the material in a supply
container.
Subclass:
33
In receptacle at discharge:
This subclass is indented under subclass 32. Subject matter
wherein the hopper or container receives the load directly
from the outlet* of the fluid current conveyor*.
Subclass:
34
WITH SIGNAL, INDICATOR, OR INSPECTION MEANS:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter including means to produce or to observe a perceptible
manifestation of or transmit intelligence regarding the load,
the conveyor* or device associated therewith, or of a
characteristic of any of the above.
Subclass:
35
Audible:
This subclass is indented under subclass 34. Subject matter
wherein a signal is transmitted in the form of sound waves.
Subclass:
36
With load motion observing means:
This subclass is indented under subclass 34. Subject matter
wherein means are provided by which a person may view the
load over at least a portion of its travel through the
conveyor* or a device associated therewith.
Subclass:
37
Coded carrier:
This subclass is indented under subclass 34. Subject matter
wherein a carrier* is provided with coded information to
control its destination and includes means providing a visual
cue indicating the particular terminal to which the carrier
will be transmitted.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 4+ for coded carriers claimed in combination
with a flow diverter which is controlled in response to the
code.
Subclass:
38
AMBULANT OR PORTABLE:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter wherein the fluid current conveyor* is either (a)
provided with means to facilitate movement of the conveyor*
from one location to another (e.g., wheels, skids), or (b) is
specifically adapted to be carried by an operator to the
location of use or during use of the conveyor*.
Subclass:
39
Vehicle mounted:
This subclass is indented under subclass 38. Subject matter
wherein the fluid current conveyor* has attached thereto or
is supported on a transport means having means (e.g., wheels,
skids, etc.) to facilitate movement of the conveyor* over the
surface upon which it is supported.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
37, Excavating, appropriate subclasses for vehicle mounted
excavating means.
56, Harvesters, appropriate subclasses for harvesters having
pneumatic conveyors combined with means for severing the
crops.
239, Fluid Sprinkling, Spraying, and Diffusing, appropriate
subclasses for vehicle mounted pneumatic conveyors having
means for scattering or spraying a fluent material over an
extended surface area.
299, Mining or In Situ Disintegration of Hard Material,
appropriate subclasses for a vehicle mounted fluid current
conveyor combined with means for disintegrating hard material
in situ.
Subclass:
40
Plural vehicles:
This subclass is indented under subclass 39. Subject matter
wherein the fluid current conveyor* or a portion thereof, is
supported on two or more discrete transport means each having
means to facilitate movement of the conveyor* over the
surface.
Subclass:
41
Towed vehicle:
This subclass is indented under subclass 39. Subject matter
wherein the conveyor* or transport means is provided with
means by which it can be connected to a device (e.g., a motor
vehicle, line, etc.) to pull the conveyor* over the surface
on which it is supported.
Subclass:
42
Power takeoff:
This subclass is indented under subclass 39. Subject matter
wherein the fluid current conveyor* is carried on, pulled by,
or pushed by a motor vehicle, and wherein the motor
propelling the vehicle operates the conveyor* or device
associated therewith via a power transmission.
Subclass:
43
With storage means on vehicle for fluid conveyor components:
This subclass is indented under subclass 39. Subject matter
wherein the fluid current conveyor* includes means whereby
the same may be assembled or disassembled, and wherein the
transport means includes a specified portion where the
disassembled conveyor parts are stowed.
Subclass:
44
With auxiliary supporting means:
This subclass is indented under subclass 39. Subject matter
wherein means in addition to the movement facilitating means
is provided which is deployed at the location of intended use
to stabilize the conveyor*.
Subclass:
45
WITH MEANS TO PREVENT PIPELINE SLUMPING:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter wherein means are provided to prevent settling of the
load from the fluid when the fluid current conveyor* is shut
down.
Subclass:
46
WITH ADJUNCTIVE SUBSTANCE ADDED:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter wherein a substance in addition to and different than
the load and conveying fluid is introduced prior to, or
during conveying, or at discharge.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
45 if the adjunctive substance added prevents pipeline
slumping.
Subclass:
47
Liquid:
This subclass is indented under subclass 46. Subject matter
wherein the substance added is in a liquid state.
Subclass:
48
Water:
This subclass is indented under subclass 47. Subject matter
wherein the substance added is water.
Subclass:
49
Solid:
This subclass is indented under subclass 46. Subject matter
wherein the substance added is neither fluid nor gaseous.
Subclass:
50
SLUG CONVEYING:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter wherein the load in the fluid current conveyor* is
conveyed in groups or batches, with the space between
consecutive groups or batches containing fluid only.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 63+ for a rotary conveyor having material
carrying pockets which successively feed material through the
inlet of a fluid current conveyor.
85 for a pulsing fluid current.
Subclass:
51
WITH DIVERSE POWER-DRIVEN CONVEYOR:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter including a driven load moving means in addition to
the fluid current conveyor*.
(1) Note. Pumps, per se, are excluded from the above
definition.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
198, Conveyors: Power-Driven, appropriate subclasses for
power-driven conveyors, per se.
Subclass:
52
Rotary:
This subclass is indented under subclass 51. Subject matter
wherein the additional conveyor includes a load moving
surface, each point of which moves in a circular path through
360 degrees about a central axis.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
198, Conveyors: Power-Driven, subclass 803.16 for rotary
conveyors, per se.
Subclass:
53
Screw:
This subclass is indented under subclass 52. Subject matter
wherein the load moving surfaces is in the shape of a helix.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
198, Conveyors: Power-Driven, subclass 467.1, 550.1, 550.6
for screw conveyors, per se.
Subclass:
54
With material recirculating screw:
This subclass is indented under subclass 53. Subject matter
wherein a second load moving helical surface is provided
which serves to return at least a portion of the load from
the discharge end of the first helix to the intake of the
same.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
366, Agitating, subclasses 84+ for subject matter relating
to the working of rubber or heavy plastic in parallel screw
conveyors.
Subclass:
55
Including means to fluidize material:
This subclass is indented under subclass 53. Subject matter
wherein means are provided to cause the load to assume a
flowable state while being moved by the helical surface.
Subclass:
56
Feeding to fluid conveyor inlet:
This subclass is indented under subclass 53. Subject matter
wherein the screw conveyor discharges the load at or adjacent
to the inlet* of the fluid current conveyor.
Subclass:
57
Feeds to inlet of blower or pump:
This subclass is indented under subclass 56. Subject matter
wherein the screw conveyor discharges directly into a driven
device which propels the conveying fluid through the fluid
current conveyor*.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
80 for an endless conveyor which feeds the load through the
intake of a blower or pump.
subclasses 96+ for a blower or pump, per se, having a load
intake opening in its housing.
Subclass:
58
Screw axis coaxial with axis of rotary blower or pump:
This subclass is indented under subclass 57. Subject matter
wherein the fluid propelling device includes a fluid
propelling surface, each point of which moves in a circular
path about a central axis, which axis lies on a common line
with the rotary axis of the screw conveyor.
Subclass:
59
Plural screw:
This subclass is indented under subclass 57. Subject matter
wherein the screw conveyor comprises two or more discrete
helical load moving surfaces.
(1) Note. This subclass includes screw conveyors having two
or more discrete helixes on a common shaft.
Subclass:
60
With check valve between screw and fluid current conveyor:
This subclass is indented under subclass 56. Subject matter
wherein means are provided along the load path between the
screw conveyor and fluid current conveyor* which allows the
load to pass in only one direction.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 127+ for a check valve between a receptacle and
a fluid current conveyor.
Subclass:
61
Fluid jet at conveyor inlet:
This subclass is indented under subclass 56. Subject matter
wherein a concentrated stream of conveying fluid is directed
downstream in the fluid current conveyor* at the discharge
end of the screw conveyor.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 93+ for booster fluid jets.
144 for a fluid jet at a conveyor inlet being fed by a
receptacle.
153 for a fluid jet downstream of the inlet for inducing
suction at the inlet.
194 for a conduit having a fluid nozzle associated
therewith.
Subclass:
62
Successively registering pockets:
This subclass is indented under subclass 52. Subject matter
wherein the load moving surface comprises a plurality of
circumferentially spaced members or depressions, each of
which defines by itself or along with a surrounding housing a
chamber or cavity which rotates about a central axis, and
isolates a quantity of the load from a supply.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
71 for rotary throwers.
74 for reciprocating trap chambers.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
222, Dispensing, subclass 636 for fluid flow discharged
dispensers having rotary trap chambers; and subclasses 367+
for other dispensers employing rotary trap chambers.
Subclass:
63
Input to fluid conveyor:
This subclass is indented under subclass 62. Subject matter
wherein the rotating chambers or cavities discharge the load
at or adjacent to the inlet* of the fluid current conveyor*.
Subclass:
64
With venting of pockets:
This subclass is indented under subclass 63. Subject matter
wherein a pressure or vacuum condition in the chamber or
cavities is neutralized prior to or after the point when each
chamber or cavity communicates with a load supply.
Subclass:
65
Having radial blades:
This subclass is indented under subclass 63. Subject matter
wherein the load moving surface comprises a series of
radially extending members distributed circumferentially
about the central axis, the cavities or chambers being
defined by adjacent members and a surrounding housing.
Subclass:
66
Rotatable about vertical axis:
This subclass is indented under subclass 65. Subject matter
wherein the central axis is substantially perpendicular to
the earth's surface.
Subclass:
67
Fluid flow discharges pockets:
This subclass is indented under subclass 65. Subject matter
wherein the load is discharged from the rotating chambers or
cavities by a fluid stream which may be the fluid conveyor
current, or may emanate from a nozzle in the rotating
cavities or chambers or located adjacent to the path
thereof.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
222, Dispensing, subclass 636 for fluid flow discharged
dispenser having rotary trap chambers.
Subclass:
68
Peripheral pockets formed on rotating member:
This subclass is indented under subclass 63. Subject matter
wherein the load moving surface comprises a plurality of
load-receiving cavities on the surface of a rotating member.
Subclass:
69
Brush:
This subclass is indented under subclass 52. Subject matter
wherein a plurality of flexible bristles are provided to
advance the load.
Subclass:
70
Roller:
This subclass is indented under subclass 52. Subject matter
wherein the load moving surface comprises the periphery of a
rotating annular or cylindrical member.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
198, Conveyors: Power-Driven, subclasses 780+ for live
roller conveyors.
Subclass:
71
Thrower:
This subclass is indented under subclass 52. Subject matter
wherein the rotary load moving surface is adapted to contact
the load with sufficient force and speed to propel the load
through the air or along a path solely by said contact.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 62+ for similar rotary conveyors having or
forming rotating material pockets.
subclasses 96+ for impellers that additionally generate a
fluid current to propel the load after it passes
therethrough.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
198, Conveyors: Power-Driven, subclasses 638+ for rotary
throwers, per se.
Subclass:
72
Magazine:
This subclass is indented under subclass 51. Subject matter
wherein the additional conveyor comprises a rack having a
series of stations therein for load articles which are
received on or discharged from the rack as each station is
indexed to an outlet* or inlet* of the fluid current
conveyor*.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
221, Article Dispensing, subclasses 69+ for cellular
magazine-type dispensers.
Subclass:
73
Reciprocating or oscillating:
This subclass is indented under subclass 51. Subject matter
wherein the additional conveyor comprises a load moving
surface which is movable to-and-fro along the same path.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
198, Conveyors: Power-Driven, subclass 750.1 for a
reciprocating conveyor, per se.
Subclass:
74
With pocket:
This subclass is indented under subclass 73. Subject matter
wherein the load moving surface either (a) comprises a
depression formed on a reciprocating or oscillating member,
or (b) is enclosed by and defines a chamber within a
stationary housing.
Subclass:
75
Vibrating:
This subclass is indented under subclass 73. Subject matter
wherein the load moving surface moves to-and-fro in
reciprocations or oscillations of small amplitude and high
frequency.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
198, Conveyors: Power-Driven, subclass 752.1 for a
vibrating conveyor, per se.
Subclass:
76
Pusher:
This subclass is indented under subclass 73. Subject matter
wherein the load moving surface contacts and moves the load
along a supporting surface.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
198, Conveyors: Power-Driven, subclasses 736+ for a
reciprocating pusher conveyor, per se.
Subclass:
77
Endless:
This subclass is indented under subclass 51. Subject matter
wherein the additional conveyor comprises a driven load
moving means which is carried by or comprises a surface of
continuous belt or band.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
198, Conveyors: Power-Driven, subclasses 804+ for an
endless conveyor, per se.
Subclass:
78
Permeable belt:
This subclass is indented under subclass 77. Subject matter
wherein the load moving means comprises an endless belt or
band formed of a material that is previous to fluids and not
to the load.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
198, Conveyors: Power-Driven, subclass 471.1 and 689.1 for
endless conveyors having permeable belts which utilize
suction to hold the load on the belt.
Subclass:
79
At inlet to fluid conveyor:
This subclass is indented under subclass 77. Subject matter
wherein the endless conveyor discharges the load at or
adjacent to the inlet* of the fluid current conveyor*.
Subclass:
80
Feeds to intake of blower or pump:
This subclass is indented under subclass 79. Subject matter
wherein the endless conveyor discharges directly into a
driven device which propels the conveying fluid through the
fluid current conveyor*.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 57+ for a screw conveyor feeding to the intake
of a blower or pump.
subclasses 96+ for a blower or pump having a load intake
opening in its housing.
Subclass:
81
Pushers, buckets, or tines:
This subclass is indented under subclass 79. Subject matter
the load moving surface comprises either, (a) a plurality of
discrete members carried by the belt or band and which
contact and move the load along a supporting surface, (b) a
plurality of containers carried by the belt or band, or (c) a
plurality of elongated members protruding outwardly from the
surface of the belt or band.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
198, Conveyors: Power-Driven, subclasses 692+ for
conveyors having load impalers; subclasses 701+ for conveyors
having buckets; and subclasses 725+ for endless conveyors
having pushers.
Subclass:
82
At outlet of fluid conveyor:
This subclass is indented under subclass 77. Subject matter
wherein the endless conveyor receives the load as it is
discharged from the outlet* of the fluid current conveyor*.
Subclass:
83
WITH LOAD BRAKING OR RETARDING MEANS:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter wherein means are provided which act on the load to
decelerate the load.
(1) Note. A barrier (e.g., valve), per se, that is
manipulated to retard or block passage of the load is
excluded.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
28 for gate at the conveyor outlet which causes the load to
be decelerated by the compressed or rarefied air between the
gate and a load article moving respectively toward or away
from the gate.
Subclass:
84
Utilizing a fluid:
This subclass is indented under subclass 83. Subject matter
wherein the load is stopped or slowed by means which directs
or alters the flow of a fluid at or adjacent the load.
(1) Note. The fluid may or may not be the conveying fluid.
Subclass:
85
PULSING FLUID CURRENT:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter wherein means are provided to cause the conveying
fluid to be forced intermittently in the fluid current
conveyor* in successive bursts.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
50 for slug conveyors using a pulsing fluid current for
conveying the load at spaced intervals.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
15, Brushing, Scrubbing, and General Cleaning, subclass 404
for vacuum cleaners which employ a pulsing air flow.
34, Drying and Gas or Vapor Contact With Solids, subclass 191
for a pulsating treating gas or vapor flow.
Subclass:
86
HAVING MEANS FOR MAINTAINING LOAD IN SUSPENSION ALONG FLOW
PATH:
Subject matter under the definition wherein the fluid current
conveyor* is provided with means along a substantial portion
of the load path to continuously direct fluid against the
load as it is being conveyed to insure that a substantial
portion of the load is surrounded and supported by fluid.
(1) Note. The above fluid may or may not be the conveying
fluid.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 136+ for fluid agitation of the load in a
receptacle at the intake of a fluid current conveyor.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
34, Drying and Gas or Vapor Contact With Solids, subclass 359
and 576+ for a method or apparatus for conveying or
suspending material by means of a fluid current while drying
or treating a solid material with the fluid.
414, Material or Article Handling, subclass 676 for means
for pneumatically supporting an article while the article is
being moved by mechanical or manual means.
Subclass:
87
With load orienting means:
This subclass is indented under subclass 86. Subject matter
wherein load articles are conveyed along a predetermined path
and means are provided to turn a load article to change its
attitude with respect to said path.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
198, Conveyors: Power-Driven, subclasses 373+ for load
orienting means.
Subclass:
88
By load supporting jets:
This subclass is indented under subclass 86. Subject matter
wherein the fluid is continuously directed against the load
by a series of closely spaced nozzles along a conduit or
other means defining the load path, and wherein the load is
moved and supported by the fluid issuing from the nozzles.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 94+ for a conveyor* having plural spaced inputs
along a conduit for introducing a booster fluid to compensate
for decreasing pressure downstream.
137 for load agitating fluid jets in a receptacle.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
222, Dispensing, subclass 195 for agitation of material in a
receptacle by fluid jets, but with no conveying within the
receptacle by fluid.
Subclass:
89
Including permeable member:
This subclass is indented under subclass 86. Subject matter
wherein the fluid is continuously directed against the load
through a section of foraminous material.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
34, Drying and Gas or Vapor Contact With Solids, subclass 174
for similar subject matter wherein the gas passing through
the permeable member heats or otherwise treats the material.
Subclass:
90
In receptacle:
This subclass is indented under subclass 89. Subject matter
wherein the load path is located within a hopper or similar
container.
(1) Note. The load must be conveyed along a path defining
surface within the receptacle for placement in this and
indented subclasses. If the fluid moves the material in a
random manner to stir or dislodge the same, then the fluid is
considered to be agitating fluid.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
138 for a receptacle at the intake of a fluid current
conveyor and having a permeable member therein through which
agitating fluid is passed.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
222, Dispensing, subclass 195 for fluid agitation of
material in a receptacle.
Subclass:
91
Permeable member surrounding discharge opening or conduit:
This subclass is indented under subclass 90. Subject matter
wherein the container has a conduit or opening therein
through which the load is discharged, and the foraminous
material is distributed through substantially 360 degrees
about the conduit or opening to cause the load to flow along
the material toward the conduit or opening.
Subclass:
92
By fluid whirling action:
This subclass is indented under subclass 86. Subject matter
wherein means are provided to cause the conveying fluid to
eddy or form a vortex along the load path.
Subclass:
93
HAVING MEANS TO INTRODUCE BOOSTER FLUID INTO CONVEYOR:
Subject matter under the definition wherein means are
provided downstream of the inlet* of the fluid conveyor at
which additional conveying fluid is forced or drawn into the
conveyor*.
(1) Note. A fluid introduced into a receptacle* having
plural fluid inputs is not a booster fluid. A booster fluid
must be introduced into the conveyor* after the load and
primary fluid have left the receptacle*.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
61 for a fluid jet at a fluid current conveyor inlet being
fed by a screw conveyor.
subclasses 86+ for conveyors having means for directing
fluid at the load along a substantial portion of the load
path thereof.
subclasses 142+ for a receptacle at the inlet of a fluid
current conveyor and having a conduit therein through which
the material is lifted out of the receptacle by lifting fluid
entering the conduit at a plurality of spaced locations.
144 for a fluid jet at a fluid current conveyor inlet fed by
a load receptacle.
153 for a fluid nozzle downstream of an inlet for inducing
suction at the inlet.
194 for a conduit having a fluid nozzle associated
therewith.
Subclass:
94
Plural booster inputs:
This subclass is indented under subclass 93. Subject matter
wherein the additional conveying fluid is supplied at two or
more points spaced along the load path.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
88 for a fluid current conveyor having means for directing
fluid jets against the load to support the same.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
241, Solid Material Comminution or Disintegration, subclass
41 for means for applying fluid to the same material at a
plurality of spaced points in the apparatus.
Subclass:
95
With parallel fluid supply conduit:
This subclass is indented under subclass 94. Subject matter
wherein the additional conveying fluid is supplied at spaced
points along the load path by a pipe or duct, wherein a
substantial portion of the pipe or duct and the load path are
an equal distance apart at every point.
Subclass:
96
BLOWER OR PUMP HAVING LOAD INTAKE OPENING IN HOUSING:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter wherein a driven device is provided to propel the
conveying fluid through the conveyor, which device includes a
surrounding casing having a load inlet whereby the load
passes directly through the fluid propelling device.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 57+ for a similar pump combined with a screw
conveyor which feeds the load to the pump.
80 for similar pump combined with an endless conveyor for
feeding the load to the same.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
415, Rotary Kinetic Fluid Motors or Pumps, appropriate
subclasses for rotary fluid pumps.
416, Fluid Reaction Surfaces (i.e., Impellers), appropriate
subclasses for specific features of fluid pump impellers.
417, Pumps, appropriate subclasses for subject matter
relating to the pumping of fluids. Class 417 takes subject
matter relating to the pumping of slurries, fluent material
and the like if handled in a manner not inconsistent with the
handling of fluids.
418, Rotary Expansible Chamber Devices, appropriate
subclasses for fluid pumps including a working member which
moves as defined in the class definition.
Subclass:
97
Including load or blower protecting means:
This subclass is indented under subclass 96. Subject matter
wherein the fluid propelling device is provided with means to
prevent damage to either itself or the load.
Subclass:
98
Having separate opening in housing for conveying fluid
input:
This subclass is indented under subclass 96. Subject matter
wherein the surrounding casing is provided with a second
inlet for conveying fluid only.
Subclass:
99
Rotary:
This subclass is indented under subclass 96. Subject matter
wherein the fluid propelling device includes a fluid
impelling surface each point of which moves in a circular
path about a central axis.
Subclass:
100
Having radially extending blades:
This subclass is indented under subclass 99. Subject matter
wherein the fluid impelling surface comprises a plurality of
elongated members extending perpendicularly from said central
axis.
Subclass:
101
Mounted on axial face of a disc:
This subclass is indented under subclass 100. Subject matter
including a flat circular member which carries the radially
extending elongated members on a circular face.
Subclass:
102
With load receptacle feeding to intake of blower or pump:
This subclass is indented under subclass 100. Subject matter
wherein a container discharges the load directly through the
load inlet into the casing of the fluid propelling device.
Subclass:
103
Blower or pump housing movably mounted relative to
receptacle:
This subclass is indented under subclass 102. Subject matter
wherein the casing of the fluid propelling device is
adjustable or movable with respect to the container.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
415, Rotary Kinetic Fluid Motors or Pumps, subclass 126 for
a pump having a casing part selectively movable relative to
fixed support.
Subclass:
104
Plural blowers or pumps:
This subclass is indented under subclass 102. Subject matter
wherein two or more fluid propelling devices are provided.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
140 for a receptacle located at the intake of a fluid
current conveyor and carrying a plurality of blowers or
pumps.
Subclass:
105
HAVING LOAD BY-PASS AROUND BLOWER OR PUMP:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter wherein a driven device is provided for propelling the
fluid current through the conveyor* and means is provided for
shunting the load around the fluid propelling device.
(1) Note. The shunt path must consist of a single fluid
current conveyor section for placement in this subclass.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 109+ for a shunt path which comprises a fluid
current conveyor feeding to a second fluid current conveyor.
Subclass:
106
ENDLESS FLUID CURRENT PATH:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter wherein a closed fluid path is provided and wherein
the conveying fluid is propelled by a fluid current
generating means (i.e., blower or pump) which is located
along the path.
Subclass:
107
MATERIAL-BACKFLOW DISCHARGE:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter wherein means are provided to discharge from the load
path any portion of the load that moves backward by gravity
against the intended flow.
(1) Note. This subclass does not include devices in which
separation of heavier particles is effected by subjecting the
material to a blast of such strength that only the lighter
particles are conveyed away. For such devices, see Class 55,
Gas Separation, subclass 434 and indented subclasses; and
Class 209, Classifying, Separating, and Assorting Solids,
subclass 21 and indented subclasses; and subclass 133 and
indented subclasses.
Subclass:
108
INTAKE TO FLUID CURRENT CONVEYOR:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter relating to structure prior to or at the point along
the load path at which the load is first guided or supported
and is acted upon by the fluid current.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 51+ for fluid current conveyors having a driven
load moving surface associated therewith for feeding the load
to or through the inlet.
Subclass:
109
Combined intake and discharge:
This subclass is indented under subclass 108. Subject matter
wherein either (a) the inlet* of a fluid current conveyor can
also serve as the outlet*, or (b) means are provided at the
inlet* of a fluid current conveyor to feed the load through
the inlet*, which means also receives the load from the
outlet* of a fluid conveyor.
Subclass:
110
With terminal:
This subclass is indented under subclass 109. Subject matter
wherein the means to receive and feed the load comprises
structure which effects the intake or discharge of load
articles individually into or from the fluid current
conveyor.
Subclass:
111
Captive carrier:
This subclass is indented under subclass 110. Subject matter
wherein the load article is a carrier* which is not readily
removable from the fluid current conveyor*.
Subclass:
112
Single inlet-outlet:
This subclass is indented under subclass 110. Subject matter
wherein the load article is fed from and discharged into the
terminal* via the same opening.
Subclass:
113
Movable inlet:
This subclass is indented under subclass 108. Subject matter
wherein the inlet* to the fluid current conveyor* is movably
mounted relative to some supporting structure of the conveyor
such that the inlet* either is adjustable or may be moved to
the load to be conveyed.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 38+ for apparatus wherein the entire conveyor is
mounted for movement from one location to another.
subclasses 164+ for a fluid current conveyor having a
movable outlet.
Subclass:
114
Follows load level:
This subclass is indented under subclass 113. Subject matter
wherein the load is drawn into the inlet* from a receptacle*
or open pile of load material and means are provided to move
or allow movement of the inlet* to follow the boundary of a
column or pile of load material.
Subclass:
115
Reciprocating or swinging:
This subclass is indented under subclass 113. Subject matter
wherein the inlet* is mounted for movement back and forth
along a straight or arcuate path.
(1) Note. An intake conduit which is carried by a
receptacle and is moved relative to cooperating structure to
control the amount of material entering the conveyor is
considered to be a valve and is excluded from this subclass.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 128+ for an intake conduit which is carried by a
receptacle and serves as a valve.
subclasses 164+ for a reciprocating or swinging outlet.
Subclass:
116
Having telescoping intake:
This subclass is indented under subclass 115. Subject matter
wherein the inlet* and structure contiguous therewith
comprises a plurality of interconnected nested segments
movable axially relative to each other.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
158 for a telescoping deflector at the outlet of a fluid
current conveyor.
167 for a telescoping outlet conduit of a fluid current
conveyor.
195 for miscellaneous telescoping conveyor conduits.
Subclass:
117
Conveyor having plural intakes:
This subclass is indented under subclass 108. Subject matter
wherein a fluid current conveyor* is provided with two or
more distinct inlets* which feed to a common load path.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 181+ for a load combiner, per se.
Subclass:
118
From receptacle:
This subclass is indented under subclass 117. Subject matter
wherein a hopper or similar container for holding a quantity
of load material or articles is provided at or adjacent to at
least one of the inlets* to feed the load therethrough.
Subclass:
119
Having plural compartments:
This subclass is indented under subclass 118. Subject matter
wherein the hopper or similar container is divided into two
or more distinct spaces, each holding a quantity of load and
feeding the same through a different inlet*.
Subclass:
120
Plural receptacles:
This subclass is indented under subclass 118. Subject matter
wherein a plurality of discrete containers are provided, each
of which feeds to a different one of said plurality of
inlets*.
Subclass:
121
With sifter:
This subclass is indented under subclass 108. Subject matter
wherein a sieve is provided at or adjacent the inlet* to
separate or reduce coarse lumps of load material.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
209, Classifying, Separating, and Assorting Solids,
subclasses 21+ for operations of separating and grading or
sorting solids employing both sifting and gaseous suspension;
and subclasses 233+ for sifters in general. See especially
subclasses 243+ for sifters combined with means for feeding
solids to the same.
Subclass:
122
Load receptacle type:
This subclass is indented under subclass 108. Subject matter
wherein a hopper or similar container for holding a quantity
of load material or articles is provided at or adjacent to
the inlet* to feed the load therethrough.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 86+ for a fluid current conveyor with a
receptacle at the intake which includes means for maintaining
the load in suspension along a flow path inside the
receptacle.
subclasses 89+ especially, for a receptacle that both
receives the load from the outlet of a first fluid current
conveyor and feeds the load to the inlet of a second fluid
current conveyor.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
137, Fluid Handling, subclass 268 for a device having a
holder for solid material to be entrained in a fluid
current.
Subclass:
123
Having inlets to separate conveyors:
This subclass is indented under subclass 122. Subject matter
wherein the receptacle* feeds the load to the inlets* of two
or more distinct fluid current conveyors*.
Subclass:
124
Plural receptacles in series:
This subclass is indented under subclass 122. Subject matter
wherein the receptacle* at the fluid conveyor inlet* is fed
by a second receptacle*.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
25 and 29+, for means to control the load input to a
receptacle in response to a sensed condition.
Subclass:
125
With gate valve between receptacles:
This subclass is indented under subclass 124. Subject matter
wherein a plate like member is provided in the flow path
between the receptacles* to regulate the load flow
therebetween.
Subclass:
126
With conical plug valve between receptacles:
This subclass is indented under subclass 124. Subject matter
wherein a load flow regulator is provided between the
receptacles* which includes a conical or frustoconical member
to vary the cross-sectional area of the load flow path.
Subclass:
127
With valve between receptacle and fluid conveyor:
This subclass is indented under subclass 122. Subject matter
wherein means are provided in the flow path of the load
between the receptacle* and fluid conveyor inlet whereby the
flow of load entering the conveyor* can be controlled.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
137, Fluid Handling, appropriate subclasses for a valve
combined with a fluid handling system, or a valve, per se,
which is automatic in operation.
251, Valves and Valve Actuation, appropriate subclasses for
valve structure, per se.
Subclass:
128
Reciprocating, rotating, or swinging:
This subclass is indented under subclass 127. Subject matter
wherein the means to control the flow of the load comprises a
member having a surface mounted for movement across or along
the flow path in either a back and forth manner or in a
revolving movement about an axis.
Subclass:
129
Rotatable hollow cylinder type:
This subclass is indented under subclass 128. Subject matter
wherein the movable flow controlling member is a hollow
cylinder having an opening in its side and which is rotated
about its central axis to control the flow of the load from
the receptacle* to the interior of the cylinder.
Subclass:
130
Gate type:
This subclass is indented under subclass 128. Subject matter
wherein the movable flow controlling member comprises a
platelike member.
Subclass:
131
Pivotable:
This subclass is indented under subclass 130. Subject matter
wherein the platelike member is swingably mounted.
Subclass:
132
Vertically movable:
This subclass is indented under subclass 128. Subject matter
wherein the movable flow controlling member is mounted for
movement in a direction perpendicular to the earth's
surface.
Subclass:
133
Sleeve or conduit:
This subclass is indented under subclass 132. Subject matter
wherein the vertically movable flow controlling member is in
the form of a hollow cylinder or tube.
(1) Note. The hollow cylinder or tube may be the intake
conduit.
Subclass:
134
With means to agitate load in receptacle:
This subclass is indented under subclass 122. Subject matter
wherein means are provided to stir or dislodge the load in
the receptacle*.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
222, Dispensing, appropriate subclasses for a receptacle
having an agitator and a discharge outlet.
366, Agitating, appropriate subclasses for agitating in a
receptacle which is not feeding to a fluid current conveyor
(406) and has no claimed discharge outlet (222). Class 366
provides for fluid current conveying to or from an agitating
receptacle when the conveying is ancillary to the material
agitation. See subclass 150.1 and 184+ for the above
combinations.
Subclass:
135
Rotary:
This subclass is indented under subclass 134. Subject matter
wherein the means to stir or dislodge the load comprises a
load contacting surface inside the receptacle* which rotates
about an axis through at least 360 degrees.
Subclass:
136
Fluid:
This subclass is indented under subclass 134. Subject matter
wherein the load is stirred or dislodged by directing a fluid
against the load inside the receptacle*.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
222, Dispensing, subclass 195 for a receptacle that employs
gas agitation to assist in dispensing the same.
Subclass:
137
Jet:
This subclass is indented under subclass 136. Subject matter
wherein a nozzle is provided to direct the fluid against the
load in the receptacle* in a localized stream.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
88 for serially arranged fluid jets along a load path inside
a receptacle, wherein the fluid jets maintain the load in
suspension to travel along the load path.
Subclass:
138
Passed through permeable member:
This subclass is indented under subclass 136. Subject matter
wherein the agitating fluid is directed against the load in
the receptacle* through a foraminous material.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 90+ for a receptacle having fluid current
conveyor therein comprising a fluid permeable member which
defines the load flow path.
Subclass:
139
Blower or pump carried by receptacle:
This subclass is indented under subclass 122. Method or
apparatus wherein a driven fluid propelling device is
supported by the receptacle*.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 96+ for a blower or pump through which the load
and conveying fluid pass.
Subclass:
140
Plural blowers or pumps:
This subclass is indented under subclass 139. Method or
apparatus wherein two or more driven fluid propelling devices
are supported by the receptacle*.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
104 for a receptacle which feeds the load through a
plurality of associated blowers or pumps.
Subclass:
141
Inlet conduit extending downwardly inside receptacle:
This subclass is indented under subclass 122. Subject matter
wherein the inlet* is formed by a conduit protruding
interiorly of the receptacle* and through which the load is
lifted as it is conveyed out of the receptacle*.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
133 for an inlet conduit in a receptacle which is
reciprocated to control the quantity of the load passing
therethrough.
Subclass:
142
With conduit supplying lifting fluid to interior of
receptacle:
This subclass is indented under subclass 141. Subject matter
wherein the load is propelled upwardly through the inlet*
defining conduit by pressure fluid entering the receptacle*
through a pipe or duct.
Subclass:
143
Fluid supplying conduit extends to inlet conduit:
This subclass is indented under subclass 142. Subject matter
wherein the pipe or duct supplying pressure fluid to the
interior of the receptacle* terminates at or inside the
inlet* defining conduit.
Subclass:
144
Conveying fluid velocity altered at load input:
This subclass is indented under subclass 122. Subject matter
wherein means are provided at or adjacent the inlet* to
accelerate or decelerate the conveying fluid as it flows by
the inlet*.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
61 for apparatus employing a fluid jet at a fluid current
conveyor inlet which receives the load from a screw
conveyor.
93 for fluid current conveyors in which one or more fluid
jets supply additional fluid downstream of the inlet.
153 for a fluid jet which induces suction at an inlet that
is not fed by a receptacle.
194 for a conveyor conduit having a nozzle.
195 for a length of conduit having a varying cross section.
Subclass:
145
Having connection for external suction or pressure source:
This subclass is indented under subclass 122. Subject matter
wherein the receptacle* includes means specifically adapted
to be detachably connected to a suction or pressure device to
remove the load from the receptacle*.
Subclass:
146
Conveying fluid introduced under pressure to interior of
receptacle:
This subclass is indented under subclass 122. Subject matter
wherein the load is propelled through the inlet* by either a
pressure fluid in a closed receptacle*, or a fluid stream
which moves through and entrains the load in the
receptacle*.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
124 for a plurality of pressurized receptacles in series.
subclasses 136+ for a receptacle and means to introduce
agitating fluid under pressure into the interior thereof.
subclasses 142+ for a pressurized receptacle at intake from
which the material enters the conveyor through an inlet
conduit extending downwardly inside the receptacle.
Subclass:
147
Terminal type:
This subclass is indented under subclass 108. Subject matter
wherein structure is provided at or adjacent to the inlet*
for the feed of load articles individually therethrough.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 110+ for a terminal which serves as an inlet and
an outlet.
Subclass:
148
Intake gate:
This subclass is indented under subclass 147. Subject matter
wherein the terminal* is provided with a movable closure
member past which a load article to be transmitted is
inserted.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 26+ for an intake gate whose position controls
the conveying fluid.
Subclass:
149
Gate lock:
This subclass is indented under subclass 148. Subject matter
wherein means are provided to prevent insertion of a load
article past said closure until a previously inserted load
article has been transmitted.
Subclass:
150
Serially arranged gates:
This subclass is indented under subclass 148. Subject matter
wherein the terminal* is provided with a second movable
closure downstream of the first closure and past which a load
article must move before being transmitted through the
conveyor*.
(1) Note. An air lock is typically formed by the two
gates.
Subclass:
151
Upstream of suction source:
This subclass is indented under subclass 108. Subject matter
wherein the load is drawn into the conveyor* by creating a
vacuum at the inlet* by forcing or withdrawing conveying
fluid into or from the fluid flow path at a point subsequent
to the inlet*.
Subclass:
152
Including specific intake nozzle structure:
This subclass is indented under subclass 151. Subject matter
wherein significance is attributed to a particular feature
(e.g., shape) of the inlet*.
(1) Note. A constant cross-sectional conduit at the inlet*
is excluded from this subclass.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
15, Brushing, Scrubbing, and General Cleaning, subclass 415.1
for vacuum cleaner nozzles.
37, Excavating, subclasses 317+ for suction dredgers.
Subclass:
153
Suction induced by pressure stream:
This subclass is indented under subclass 151. Subject matter
wherein the vacuum at the inlet* is created by forcing
conveying fluid into the fluid flow path at a point
subsequent to the inlet*.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
61 for devices employing a fluid jet as a fluid current
conveyor inlet which receives the load from a screw
conveyor.
93 for a suction inducing fluid jet downstream of an inlet
supplying additional fluid to the conveyor.
194 for a conveyor conduit with a nozzle.
Subclass:
154
FLUID CURRENT CONVEYOR OUTLET MEANS:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter relating to structure at or subsequent to the point
along a fluid current conveyor* at which the load is either
no longer guided or supported, or is no longer acted upon by
the fluid current.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 109+ for structure which serves as an outlet and
an inlet of flow current conveyor.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, for apparatus used in
separation of a gas and solid particles entrained therein,
per se.
210, Liquid Purification or Separation, appropriate
subclasses for subject matter relating to the separation of
liquids and solids.
Subclass:
155
Conveyor having plural outlets:
This subclass is indented under subclass 154. Subject matter
wherein the fluid current conveyor* is provided with two or
more distinct outlets* which are fed from a common load
path.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 1+ for a conveyor having a load path selectively
communicable to any of a plurality of downstream paths.
106 for conveyors having an endless fluid current path and
plural outlets along the load flow path.
subclasses 181+ for a load flow diverter or divider, per
se.
Subclass:
156
Feeding plural receptacles:
This subclass is indented under subclass 155. Subject matter
wherein at least two outlets* discharge the load into
different receptacles*.
Subclass:
157
Deflector:
This subclass is indented under subclass 154. Subject matter
wherein means in addition to a conveying conduit is provided
at or adjacent to the outlet* to alter the loads direction as
it is discharged.
(1) Note. Patents relating to outlets which are movable
with respect to a supporting conduit have been placed as
originals in subclasses 164+.
(2) Note. This and indented subclasses include baffles
located in a conduit prior to the outlet* to direct the load
toward the outlet*.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
164 for a movable conveyor outlet.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
239, Fluid Sprinkling, Spraying, and Diffusing, appropriate
subclasses for subject matter relating to the scattering of
fluids, or fluent solids in slurry or dry form, over an
extended area on a surface or plant. See particularly
subclasses 8+ and 654+ for a method or apparatus for
scattering a nonfluid material which includes a step or means
for mixing the material with a gas or liquid.
Subclass:
158
Telescoping:
This subclass is indented under subclass 157. Subject matter
wherein the deflector comprises a plurality of relatively
movable interconnected nested segments.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
116 for a telescoping intake conduit.
167 for a telescoping outlet conduit.
195 for a telescoping conveyor conduit in general.
Subclass:
159
Pivoted:
This subclass is indented under subclass 157. Subject matter
wherein the deflector is mounted for swinging movement about
an axis through less than 360 degrees.
Subclass:
160
Adjustable:
This subclass is indented under subclass 159. Subject matter
wherein the deflector can be positioned by an operative in
any of a plurality of selected positions about the pivot
axis.
Subclass:
161
From remote location:
This subclass is indented under subclass 160. Subject matter
wherein means are provided to enable an operator at a
location beyond reach of the deflector to position the same
remotely.
Subclass:
162
Rotatable:
This subclass is indented under subclass 157. Subject matter
wherein the deflector at the outlet* revolves about an axis
through 360 degrees.
Subclass:
163
Carried by receptacle:
This subclass is indented under subclass 157. Subject matter
wherein the deflector is located within a receptacle*.
(1) Note. The deflector must comprise means other than an
interior wall or a filter in a receptacle*.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 168+ for a load deflecting wall or filter in a
receptacle.
174 especially for baffles or guides which act on the load
as it falls through a receptacle after being discharged
upwardly into the same.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
55, Gas Separation, subclass 434 for solids-gases separating
deflectors, per se.
Subclass:
164
Movable outlet:
This subclass is indented under subclass 154. Subject matter
wherein the outlet* is movably mounted relative to the
remainder of the fluid conveyor*.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 113+ for a movable inlet.
subclasses 157+ for deflecting means at the outlet other
than the conduit itself.
Subclass:
165
Horizontally swinging:
This subclass is indented under subclass 164. Subject matter
wherein the outlet* is mounted for curvilinear movement about
a substantially vertical axis.
Subclass:
166
And vertically swinging:
This subclass is indented under subclass 165. Subject matter
wherein the outlet* is additionally mounted for curvilinear
movement about a substantially horizontal axis.
Subclass:
167
Telescoping:
This subclass is indented under subclass 164. Subject matter
wherein the outlet* and structure contiguous therewith
comprises a plurality of interconnected nested segments
movable axially relative to each other.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
116 for a telescoping intake conduit.
158 for a telescoping deflector at the outlet.
195 for miscellaneous telescoping conduits.
Subclass:
168
With material separating receptacle:
This subclass is indented under subclass 154. Subject matter
wherein a receptacle* is provided with means to remove
particulate load material from the conveying fluid at the
outlet* of the fluid current conveyor*.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
109 for a load separating receptacle that feeds the load
received to another fluid current conveyor.
163 for a receptacle having a load deflector carried thereby
which does not comprise a receptacle wall or a filter.
Subclass:
169
Having air lock:
This subclass is indented under subclass 168. Subject matter
wherein the load passes through a chamber which is
alternately communicated, through appropriate valving, with
the conveyor* and the discharge environment.
(1) Note. The chamber can be the receptacle itself.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 62+ for driven rotary air locks.
Subclass:
170
Having plural inputs:
This subclass is indented under subclass 168. Subject matter
wherein the load is fed into the receptacle* from two or more
distinct fluid current conveyors*.
Subclass:
171
Having filter:
This subclass is indented under subclass 168. Subject matter
wherein the receptacle* is provided with means to remove load
material from the conveying fluid at the outlet* comprising a
member which is previous to the conveying fluid and
impervious to load material.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
55, Gas Separation, for a filter, per se.
210, Liquid Purification or Separation, subclasses 348+ for
a filter, per se.
Subclass:
172
And means to clean filter:
This subclass is indented under subclass 171. Subject matter
wherein means are provided to remove load material collected
on or inside the filter.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
55, Gas Separation, subclasses 301+ for filter cleaning.
210, Liquid Purification or Separation, subclasses 407+ for
filter cleaning.
Subclass:
173
Cyclone separator:
This subclass is indented under subclass 168. Subject matter
wherein a vessel is provided at the outlet* to remove
particulate load material from the conveying fluid by
accelerating the load material in a spiral path.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
55, Gas Separation, subclasses 447+ for a cyclone
separation, per se.
Subclass:
174
Conveyor outlet conduit extending upwardly inside
receptacle:
This subclass is indented under subclass 168. Subject matter
wherein the outlet* is formed by a conduit protruding
interiorly of the receptacle* such that the load is projected
upwardly inside the receptacle as it is discharged from the
conduit.
Subclass:
175
And upstream pressure source:
This subclass is indented under subclass 168. Subject matter
wherein conveying fluid is forced into the conveyor* at a
point prior to the separating receptacle*.
Subclass:
176
Having terminal:
This subclass is indented under subclass 154. Subject matter
wherein structure is provided at or adjacent to the outlet*
for effecting discharge of load articles individually from
the conveyor, or for accepting load articles as they are
discharged individually from the conveyor.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 110+ for a terminal which serves as both an
inlet and an outlet.
Subclass:
177
With gate and means to open gate prior to article or carrier
arrival:
This subclass is indented under subclass 176. Subject matter
in which the terminal* is provided with a movable closure at
the outlet* past which the load article moves as it exits the
conveyor*, wherein means are provided to move the closure
from the path of the article or carrier* as it approaches the
closure.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 12+ for a gate which controls the flow of the
conveying fluid and is operated in response to a sensed
condition.
subclasses 28+ for a gate at the outlet which controls the
movement of the load and is operated in response to a sensed
condition.
Subclass:
178
Serially arranged gates:
This subclass is indented under subclass 177. Subject matter
wherein the terminal* is provided with a second movable
closure subsequent to the first closure and defining a
chamber therebetween.
Subclass:
179
Upward delivery:
This subclass is indented under subclass 176. Subject matter
wherein the fluid current conveyor* includes a section of
conduit just prior to the terminal* which transmits the
article or carrier* vertically upward.
(1) Note. The terminal* usually includes or is preceded by
a guide or conduit in which the direction of movement of the
article or carrier* is changed 180 degrees so that the
article or carrier is assisted by gravity in discharging
downwardly past a gate.
Subclass:
180
Discharge gate:
This subclass is indented under subclass 176. Subject matter
in which the terminal* includes a movable closure past which
an article or carrier* is discharged.
Subclass:
181
LOAD FLOW DIVERTER, DIVIDER, OR COMBINER:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter wherein means are provided to either (a) selectively
establish communication between a load path and one of a
plurality of branched paths, or (b) simultaneously connect a
load path with a plurality of paths, or vise versa.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 1+ for a load diverter combined with a fluid
current conveyor having a plurality of outlets, or a load
diverter which is controlled in response to destination
information carried by the load.
subclasses 117+ for a fluid current conveyor having a
plurality of distinct inlets to a common load path.
subclasses 155+ for a fluid current conveyor having a
plurality of outlets.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
111, Planting, subclass 175 for a flow divider head claimed
in combination with a planting device.
122, Liquid Heaters and Vaporizers, subclasses 305+ for a
flow divider or combiner claimed in combination with a liquid
heater or vaporizer.
Subclass:
182
Movable conduit section:
This subclass is indented under subclass 181. Subject matter
wherein an enclosed load path of limited length is provided
which can assume various positions for selectively
establishing communication between a load path and one of a
plurality of branched paths.
Subclass:
183
Movable valve in conduit:
This subclass is indented under subclass 181. Subject matter
wherein a load path is selectively placed in communication
with one of a plurality of branched paths by an adjustable
closure member which can be positioned to block one of said
branched paths.
Subclass:
184
CARRIER:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter relating to an auxiliary device for use in a fluid
current conveyor* comprising a container for carrying
material or articles while being conveyed.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 4+ for a carrier having means for controlling a
load diverter.
37 for a carrier having a destination indicator.
111 for a captive carrier.
Subclass:
185
Wheeled:
This subclass is indented under subclass 184. Subject matter
wherein the carrier* is provided with one or more rotatable
annular or cylindrical members adapted for rotating contact
with the wall of a conveying conduit.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
105, Railway Rolling Stock, subclass 138 for a carrier
having wheels which cooperate with a rail or guide.
Subclass:
186
Having side opening:
This subclass is indented under subclass 184. Subject matter
wherein the carrier* is provided with an access opening in a
surface that is generally parallel to the direction of its
travel.
Subclass:
187
Having end opening:
This subclass is indented under subclass 184. Subject matter
wherein the carrier* is provided with an access opening in a
surface that is generally perpendicular to the direction of
its travel.
Subclass:
188
With closure of end opening:
This subclass is indented under subclass 187. Subject matter
wherein means are provided to selectively cover and uncover
the access opening at the end of the carrier.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
220, Receptacles, subclass 200 for closures for
receptacles.
Subclass:
189
Removable:
This subclass is indented under subclass 188. Subject matter
wherein the closure is dissociated from the carrier to
uncover the end opening therein.
Subclass:
190
With conduit engaging seal or bumper structure:
This subclass is indented under subclass 184. Subject matter
wherein the carrier* is provided with means protruding from
its end or periphery adapted either to engage the walls of a
conveying conduit to minimize loss of pressure across the
carrier as the same travels through the conduit, or to guard
against impact damage to the carrier* or other structure with
which it comes into contact.
Subclass:
191
CONDUIT:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter relating to a pipe, duct, or channel for guiding the
load as it travels through the fluid current conveyor*.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 86+ for a conduit having means for maintaining
load material traveling therethrough in suspension.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
104, Railways, subclass 138.1 for tubular ways; and
subclasses 154 and 155+ for fluid current propulsion
railways.
138, Pipes and Tubular conduits, appropriate subclasses for
conduits in general.
Subclass:
192
With fluid valve or load spacer:
This subclass is indented under subclass 191. Subject matter
wherein the conduit is provided with either (a) means to
regulate the flow of conveying fluid, or (b) means to ensure
a predetermined distance between two or more load articles
which are conveyed concurrently.
Subclass:
193
With wear protection means:
This subclass is indented under subclass 191. Subject matter
wherein means are provided to reduce the detrimental effect
of contact between the load and conduit.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
55, Gas Separation, subclass 435 for wear liners or surface
characteristics of deflectors.
Subclass:
194
Having fluid nozzle:
This subclass is indented under subclass 191. Subject matter
wherein means are provided to direct a stream of conveying
fluid into the interior of the conduit.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
61 for a fluid nozzle at the inlet of a fluid current
conveyor fed by a screw conveyor.
144 for a fluid nozzle at the inlet of a fluid current
conveyor fed by a receptacle.
153 for a nozzle downstream of the inlet of a fluid current
conveyor for inducing suction at the inlet.
Subclass:
195
Having changing cross section:
This subclass is indented under subclass 191. Subject matter
wherein the cross-sectional area of the conduit varies along
its length.
(1) Note. Telescoping conduits, per se, can be found here.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
116 for a telescoping intake conduit.
158 for a telescoping deflector at a conveyor outlet.
167 for a telescoping outlet conduit.
Subclass:
196
Flexible:
This subclass is indented under subclass 191. Subject matter
wherein the conduit either (a) is formed from a pliant
material, or (b) is comprised of a plurality of flexibly
connected rigid segments.
Subclass:
197
PROCESSES:
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Miscellaneous methods and not provided for in the preceding
subclasses.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 46+ for processes in which an additional
substance is added to the load or conveying fluid.
Subclass:
198
MISCELLANEOUS:
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus which are not provided for in the preceding
subclasses.
Information Products Division -- Contacts
Questions regarding this report should be directed to:
U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
Information Products Division
PK3- Suite 441
Washington, DC 20231
tel: (703) 306-2600
FAX: (703) 306-2737
email: oeip@uspto.gov
Last Modified: 6 October 2000