Method and device for forming stacks of flat elements

US7651089B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• E.C.H. Will GmbH · DE

Inventors

• Bernd Höpner · Augsburg, DE
• Holger Kroger · Norderstedt, DE
• Jochem Meyer · Hamburg, DE

Key dates

• Filing date: Jun 19, 2007
• Grant date: Jan 26, 2010
• Expiry date: Jun 19, 2027

Classification

• Technology area (CPC B): Performing Operations; Transporting
• CPC primary: B65H2405/32
• WIPO field: Handling
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

A method and a device is provided for forming stacks of flat elements in a stacking region, the flat elements being guided to the stacking region substantially continuously. The flat elements are stacked on a main stack carrier. Upon achieving a finished stack of a predetermined number of flat elements stacked on the main stack carrier, an auxiliary stack carrier is inserted into the stacking region above the finished stack. Subsequent flat elements are then stacked on the auxiliary stack carrier. The finished stack is then removed from the main stack carrier and, subsequently, the main stack carrier is moved below the auxiliary stack carrier. The auxiliary stack carrier is then withdrawn from the stacking region, transferring the subsequent flat elements on the main stack. During or after this withdrawal process, at least an upper portion of the main stack carrier is moved substantially opposite the direction of withdrawal of the auxiliary stack carrier.