Patent ID: 6217020
Filing Date: 2001-04-17
Classification: B65H

Abstract:
An apparatus for detecting lead mailpiece position in a nudger for a mail handling system which processes a stack of mail along a feed path, the apparatus comprising:a wall comprising a cutout for accommodating a first arm;the first arm biased toward the lead mailpiece and mounted to be received through the cutout in the wall, the first arm for sensing position of a lead mailpiece of the stack of mail;a first sensor for detecting when the first arm is in a position for proper feeding of the lead mailpiece along the feed path;a second arm positioned on the first arm for detecting lean of the lead mailpiece in the stack of mixed mail; anda sensor for detecting when the second arm is in a position for proper feeding of the lead mailpiece along the feed path;whereby when the first sensor detects that the first arm is in a position for proper feeding of the lead mailpiece along the feed path and the second arm is in a position for proper feeding of the lead mailpiece along the feed path, the mailpiece is fed downstream along the feed path.