Random, but kinda interesting:
Source: http://gradworks.umi.com/15/07/1507071.html
Quote
Silverware singulation system:
Abstract:
Scope and method of study. Singulation of silverware, means to 'single out' individual pieces of silverware pieces from a mixed batch of silverware, consisting of spoons, soup spoons, knives and forks. The objective of this research is to modify, design, construct and test an efficient automated mechanism to singulate silverware pieces, starting with Akella's (2008) machine. The process of singulation was sub-divided into two stages: (1) Stage-01: Divides the batch of 400 silverware pieces into smaller batches of approximately 20 pieces each, which I accomplished by employing a slow moving conveyor belt, inductive proximity sensors and electromagnets. A mixed batch of silverware pieces is spread on the conveyor belt, which feeds them to a downward inclined plate. The electromagnets beneath the inclined plate holds the silverware pieces to the inclined plate, or releases them, depending on the output signals of inductive proximity sensors, which are also placed beneath the inclined plate. (2) Stage-02: Singulates silverware pieces from these smaller batches. A metering bin collects the silverware pieces from the downward inclined plate. A pulsed solenoid vibrates the metering bin by striking the bin bottom. This causes the silverware pieces to move out through the open end of the bin onto a plastic lined Teflon cloth. This cloth is placed above a moving leather belt carrying a series of hemispherical permanent magnets, such that the silverware pieces attracted by one of the magnets slides along the cloth to exit the machine.
Source: http://gradworks.umi.com/15/07/1507071.html
