Inventors:
James J. Pasko - Naperville IL
Ireneusz W. Baran - Chicago IL
Assignee:
Maneely-Illinois, Inc. - Chicago IL
International Classification:
B65G 5902
Abstract:
A method and apparatus for transferring elongated objects includes a transfer cart comprising a vertically movable table top mounted on a mobile base. The transfer cart is selectively reciprocally transferred between a loading station and an unloading station. The table top has cradle means thereon to hold the elongated objects during transfer with the ends of the elongated objects overhanging both ends of the table top. At the unloading station, the table top and elongated objects thereon are raised to an elevated position, and pivotal support arms are extended under the elevated overhung ends of the elongated objects. The table top is lowered to deposit the elongated objects on the extended arms for gravity feed transfer to a work station. The transfer cart with lowered table top is returned to the loading position, and the pivotal support arms after unloading are retracted to provide clearance for raising the table top during the next cycle. Control panels are respectively positioned adajcent the loading station and the unloading station, with the operation of the mobile base, table top and arms being remotely and automatically controlled from either panel.