Method and system for semi-automated tray loading device

US9221640B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Bell and Howell, LLC · US

Inventors

• Neal Middleberg · Apex, US
• Gerard A. DeRome, Jr. · Cary, US
• Richard Johnson · Fuquay-Varina, US
• Lenny Neifert · Apex, US
• Mark Gerard Paul · Raleigh, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Mar 15, 2013
• Grant date: Dec 29, 2015
• Expiry date: Jan 15, 2034

Classification

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

Abstract

The present application relates to techniques and equipment to stack mailpieces for sweeping. The mailpieces are manufactured on a mail processing machine such as, but not limited to an inserter or wrapper. More particularly, there is provided an on-edge conveyor where components have been ergonomically positioned to permit the filling of a mail tray in an efficient manner with minimal lifting of weight. A quantity of mailpieces that have already been offset can be pulled over the rolled/rounded edge of the conveyor into an awaiting mail tray supported on a roller conveyor. The operator is then able push the full tray to the side, load another empty tray, and repeat the process.