Patent ID: 6305684
Filing Date: 2001-10-23
Classification: B65H

Abstract:
A sheet separator, comprising:(a) a sheet path along which a sheet having a first and second surfaces is passed;(b) an advancing roller positioned to drive forward the first surface of a sheet in said sheet path;(c) a retarding roller positioned to drive the second surface of a sheet in said sheet path;(d) a drive for driving said retarding roller backward;(e) a roller shaft on which said retarding roller is mounted in fixed relation, said roller shaft extending axially from said retarding roller; and(f) a friction clutch spaced from said retarding roller and connecting said drive with said roller shaft, said clutch permitting said retarding roller to be driven forward when fewer than two sheets are engaged between said advancing and retarding rollers, and said clutch permitting said retarding roller to be driven backward when two or more sheets are engaged by said advancing and retarding rollers.