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(11) | EP 0 384 255 A3 |
| (12) | EUROPEAN PATENT APPLICATION |
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| (54) | Machine for withdrawing predetermined batches of flat objects, such as envelopes or sheets of paper, from a continuously forming row |
| (57) The machine comprises a conveyor (30) for advancing the objects (3) in a continuous
row in which they are orientated vertically and transversely: a parting means is provided
consisting of two elongate parallel elements (11′) and (11˝) which when alongside
each other define a pointed rod (11), said rod (11) being disposed on a transverse
axis passing through the row (2) of objects (3); means (10) insert the pointed end
of said rod (11) axially through the row (2) of objects and means (20) move the two
elongate elements (11′) and (11˝) together and apart to define a gap which separates
an end segment (2′) of the row from the remaining row portion (2˝); gripper means
(40) are also provided comprising two jaws (41) and (42) for gripping said end row
segment (2′); after the rod (11) has been inserted through the row (2) and the two
elements (11′) and (11˝) have been moved apart, the gripper means (40) are moved towards
the upper surface of the conveyor (30) to insert one jaw (41) into said gap; the elements
(11′) and (11˝) are then extracted from the row (2) and the jaws (41) and (42) are
clamped against the row segment (2′). |