Device for the stacking of flexible objects

US6776407B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Siemens Aktiengesellschaft · DE

Inventors

• Bernd Lindenmayer · Stockach, DE
• Dietmar Oexle · Singen, DE
• Rolf-Peter Skrdlant · Helmstedt, DE

Key dates

• Filing date: Jan 21, 2003
• Grant date: Aug 17, 2004
• Expiry date: Jan 21, 2023

Classification

• Technology area (CPC B): Performing Operations; Transporting
• CPC primary: B65H2701/1916
• WIPO field: Handling
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

The present invention relates to a system and method for stacking objects in a stack. The objects may be flat flexible objects with front and back edges being narrower than side walls. Accordingly, the objects may comprise mail pieces. Per the invention, the mail pieces are directed to a stacker. The stacker comprises an impact wall with abutting installation and limiting walls. Accordingly, the stack may be formed therebetween with the installation wall being urged towards the limiting wall so as to sandwich the stack. At least one diverter element or vain is included upstream from the stacker. A roller of a conveying element is positioned upstream from the upper most vain. An object is directed towards the impact wall. When the objects leading edge impacts the wall, the vain or roller closest to the trailing portion of the object causes the trailing portion to be urged towards the stack. The vains may be pivoted while the roller made to turn in a select manner. Accordingly, trailing edges of objects do not interfere with leading edges of subsequent objects.