Apparatus for processing mail items and weighing module with settling section

US7858889B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Bowe Bell & Howell Company · US

Inventors

• Wilfried Hahn · Nienburg, DE
• Matthias Emanuel · Ober-Mörlen, DE

Key dates

• Filing date: Sep 17, 2008
• Grant date: Dec 28, 2010
• Expiry date: May 10, 2029

Classification

• Technology area (CPC G): Physics
• CPC primary: G01G19/005
• WIPO field: Measurement
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

An apparatus is provided for processing mail items transported in a stream on a transport section. The apparatus includes a weighing system which is accessible via the transport section. The weighing system includes a distributor device which divides the stream of mail items into two paths, the paths being joined together again by way of a combining device. A weighing section is provided in the first of the two paths for the automatic weight determination of the mail items, and the second path is configured to bypass the weighing section, with no weighing taking place in the bypass. In other embodiments, a calming/settling section is provided immediately prior to or after the weighing section. The mail items are transported in a clamped manner on one edge over the weighing section, whereas in the settling section, the mail items are transported on one edge while leaning against one of the lateral guide belts.