Article feeder with a retractable product guide

US9751704B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• United States Postal Service · US

Inventors

• Edward F. Houston · Bristow, US
• Juan A. Roman · Fairfax, US
• William P. McConnell · Saint Augustine, US
• Robert E. Hume · Granite, US
• Thomas A. Hillerich · Jeffersontown, US
• Darin Dickey · Owings Mills, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Jun 22, 2016
• Grant date: Sep 5, 2017
• Expiry date: Jun 22, 2036

Classification

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

Abstract

An automatic stack feeder having a moveable stack or product guide is disclosed. The automatic stack feeder may be configured to receive a stack of articles and a container enclosing a stack of articles. To ensure the stack of articles is properly supported following unloading from the container, the stack guide is moveable between a first and a second position, wherein the stack guide is in contact with the stack of articles while in the first position, and not in contact with the stack when in the second position.