Patent ID: 6431017
Filing Date: 2002-08-13
Classification: B65H,Y10T

Abstract:
A device for aligning a stack of flat workpieces having opposite parallel faces comprising:first and second alignment devices disposed on opposite sides of a space in which the stack of workpieces is to be aligned, and operable to simultaneously apply and release opposed forces to the stack; first and second arm mechanisms connected respectively to the first and second alignment devices; first and second resilient positioning elements that respectively bias the first and second arm mechanisms such that the first alignment device applies force to the stack, and the second alignment device does not apply force to the stack; a drive mechanism coupled to the arm mechanisms to impart simultaneous linear motion thereto in opposite directions, the drive mechanism including: a drive shaft pivotable about an axis, a transverse member secured to the drive shaft, and pivotable therewith, the transverse member including first and second projections that travel in a reciprocating arcuate path relative to the drive shaft as the transverse member pivots; and first and second couplers extending respectively from the ends of the arm mechanisms opposite the alignment devices, each coupler being shaped to receive a complementary portion of one of the projections therein, and to permit rotational relative motion therebetween, but being restrained by the first and second resilient positioning elements respectively to maintain contact at all times with the first and second projections.