Patent ID: 8531699
Filing Date: 2013-09-10
Classification: B65H,G07B

Abstract:
1. An envelope alignment transport for aligning an edge of transported envelopes so that the edge is aligned with an alignment surface that is parallel to a direction of transport of the envelopes, the alignment transport comprising: an alignment nip comprising a driven element and an idler element for engaging opposing surfaces of the items, the driven element angled so as to provide a driving force in the direction of transport and towards the alignment surface, the idler element comprising a spherical roller that is free to roll in any direction; a manifold; a source providing pressurized gas to the manifold; and an orifice in the manifold proximate to the third transport path, wherein the spherical roller idler element is disposed in the orifice, and wherein the spherical roller fits loosely in the orifice so that the pressurized gas can flow out of the orifice to provide a normal force on envelopes in the alignment nip; and wherein the alignment surface configured for engaging the envelopes while the envelopes are conveyed in the envelope alignment transport.