Patent ID: 7152531
Filing Date: 2006-12-26
Classification: B65H

Abstract:
1. An interleaf removal apparatus for removing an interleaf from a stack of alternating plates and interleaves, said interleaf removal apparatus comprising: (a) a plurality of suction cups for holding and fixing an interleaf under suction; (b) a support for supporting said plurality of suction cups; (c) a lifting element for vertically moving said plurality of suction cups together with said support with respect to said stack; (d) a suction element for causing said plurality of suction cups to exert suction; (e) a suction cup moving element for moving at least one of said plurality of suction cups toward and away from the remainder of said plurality of suction cups; and (f) a rotatable holding element including a pair of rollers capable of rotating while holding an interleaf therebetween, wherein said lifting element vertically moves said support to locate an interleaf held under suction by said plurality of suction cups in a nearby position close to said rotatable holding element, wherein said suction cup moving element is capable of moving at least one of said plurality of suction cups when said interleaf held under suction is in said nearby position, and wherein said rotatable holding element rotates while holding said interleaf held under suction in a stretched condition in said nearby position to remove said interleaf held under suction outwardly, and said suction element releases the suction when said interleaf held under suction is held by said rotatable holding element.