Patent ID: 8387774
Filing Date: 2013-03-05
Classification: B65G

Abstract:
1. An apparatus for providing spaced out boards, said apparatus comprising: a provider configured to provide a flow of boards, said provider having a providing end wherefrom the flow of boards is provided; a conveyor configured to convey spaced out boards, said conveyor having a receiving end overlapping the providing end; a movable stopper having a blocking position for retaining a board at the receiving end of the conveyor and preventing forward movement of said board on the conveyor, and a release position for freeing said retained board and allowing movement of the board on the conveyor, the stopper extending below a plane of the receiving end of the conveyor when in the release position; a vertical pusher, including a pivotable arm positioned above a plane defined by a top surface of the receiving end overlapping the providing end, configured to apply a temporary downwardly oriented force from above on an upper surface of a board retained at the receiving end of the conveyor, said force temporarily increasing friction of the board on the conveyor and urging movement of the board on said conveyor, and said pivotable arm applying a pressure ranging between 10 and 90 PSI; and a controller configured to coordinate an actuation of the vertical pusher and movement of the stopper to its release position.