Patent ID: 9044783
Filing Date: 2015-06-02
Classification: B07C,B65H

Abstract:
1. An automatic stack feeder comprising: a frame; a plurality of belts located with respect to each other on the frame so as to define openings therebetween, the plurality of belts configured to support a container enclosing a stack of articles; a lower support comprising lower tines extending upward from the lower support, the lower support moveably connected to the frame, wherein the lower support is moveable to partially extend through the openings between the plurality of belts, and wherein the lower support is moveable between a first end of the plurality of belts and a second end of the plurality of belts; an upper support comprising upper tines extending downward from the upper support, the upper support configured to open the container and to supply supporting pressure to a side of the stack of articles, wherein the upper support is moveable between the first and second ends of the plurality of belts; and a controller configured to coordinate the movements of the plurality of belts, the lower support, and the upper support; wherein the upper and lower tines are offset from each other such that the upper and lower tines mesh within the same plane, without impinging on each other.