OK so I figure this thing is mainly intended for use inline as a means of flow control, but I gather it outputs a redstone signal when the destination contains the amount greater or equal to the output buffer. This seems like the first machine I've read of that can "look into" an inventory and return a signal indicating how full it is.

I'm sort of guessing this could be used to inhibit machines upstream of the regulator in order to prevent overproduction? Like if I take a redstone line from a regulator at the output of a factory section back to a timer at the input then when the regulator signals full the timer stops, possibly allowing other machines to recieve supplies instead of the excess piling up in all the intermediate stages?

Thinking more about this: the regulator only regulates its output but it continues to accept items I think. That kind of defeats the object if what you want is to distribute the output of one machine to two or more destinations.

I probably need to look at the retrievulator, since it leaves unwanted inventory behind I guess a second retrievulator could draw on the same inventory?

I don't think the sorting machine is the answer. I gather it can distribute items but I think it works at a fixed ratio.

Hey boris, if you catch me online I can show you the retrievulator setup that prevents overflow sorts, etc.

Thanks. I'm only starting out at factories and if I'm honest my build probably isn't big enough.

I've only just built a retriever. I'm wondering about power distribution by pushing batteries down pneumatic tubes. If I use filters to send the charged batteries then I should be able to paint the tubes and mix items on the same tube network?

Taking a break from factories to set up a new farm.