Patent ID: 7220093
Filing Date: 2007-05-22
Classification: B07C

Abstract:
1. A mailpiece feeder assembly comprising: a lifting mechanism adapted to selectively lift a mailpiece from a stack of mailpieces, wherein the lifting mechanism reciprocates in a first direction between an engagement position wherein the lifting mechanism engages the mailpiece, and a lifted position wherein the lifting mechanism separates the mailpiece from the stack of mailpieces; wherein the lifting mechanism comprises at least one suction element and at least two separator elements, the at least one suction element and the at least two separator elements contacting a top surface of the mailpiece when the lifting mechanism engages the mailpiece; and a gripping mechanism adapted to selectively remove the mailpiece from the lifting mechanism and move the mailpiece to a desired location, wherein the gripping mechanism reciprocates, in a second direction generally perpendicular to the first direction, between at least a mailpiece grasping location, wherein the gripping mechanism closes around the mailpiece and removes the mailpiece from the lifting mechanism, and a mailpiece release location wherein the gripping mechanism is open and releases the mailpiece to the desired location.