Patent Publication Number: US-8123152-B2

Title: Shredder auto feed system

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/777,827, filed Jul. 13, 2007, the entire contents of which is incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     1. Field of Invention 
     The present invention is generally related to an apparatus having cutter elements for destroying documents such as paper sheets. In particular, the apparatus comprises a mechanism for advancing at least a top sheet from a stack of paper in a tray into the cutter elements for shredding. 
     2. Background 
     A common type of shredder has a shredder mechanism contained within a housing that is mounted atop a container. The shredder mechanism typically includes a series of cutter elements that shred articles such as paper that are fed therein and discharge the shredded articles downwardly into the container. An example of such a shredder may be found, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 7,040,559. 
     Prior art shredders have a predetermined amount of capacity or amount of paper that can be shredded in one pass between the cutter elements. Typically, the sheets of paper are fed into the shredder mechanism manually. Thus, when an operator needs to shred, he or she can only shred a number of sheets of paper by manually inserting one or more sheets one pass at a time. Examples of such shredders are shown in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,192,467, 4,231,530, 4,232,860, 4,821,967, 4,986,481, 5,009,410, 5,188,301, 5,261,614, 5,362,002, 5,662,280, 5,772,129, 5,884,855, and 6,390,397 B1 and U.S. Patent Application Publications 2005/0274836 A1, 2006/0179987 A1, 2006/0179987 A1, 2006/0249609 A1, and 2006/0249609 A1, which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. 
     Other shredders are designed for automatic feeding. The shredder will include a bin in which a state of documents can be placed. A feeding mechanism can then feed the documents from the stack into the shredding mechanism. This type of shredder is desirable in an office setting for productivity reasons, as the user can leave the stack in the bin and leave the shredder to do its work. With manual feed shredders, the user would have to spend time feeding smaller portions of the stack manually, thus taking away from productivity time. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     One aspect of the invention provides a shredder comprising a housing and a paper shredder mechanism received in the housing and including an electrically powered motor and cutter elements. The motor rotates the cutter elements in an interleaving relationship for shredding paper sheets fed therein. A tray holds a stack of paper sheets to be fed into the cutter elements. A moveable paper feed mechanism positioned above the tray, and is movable between a lowered position for engaging the stack and a raised position for disengaging from the stack. A feed driver system is constructed to (a) drive the feed mechanism in a feeding direction to feed paper atop the stack to the cutter elements, and (b) move the feed mechanism in an alternating manner between the lowered and raised position such that the feed mechanism alternates between engaging the stack to feed paper and disengaging from the stack to allow the cutter elements to advance the paper therethrough. 
     The moveable paper feed mechanism may comprise a rotatable feed roller. The shredder may also further comprise an arm connected to the rotatable feed roller for moving the feed roller between the lowered and raised positions. The moveable paper feed mechanism may also comprise a rotatable cam mechanism. The cam mechanism may have an opening that is at least in part air permeable to provide a vacuum to assist in feeding paper sheets. The tray may include a sloped feed bed. The shredder may also include a sensor, timer, or lid. 
     Another aspect of the invention provides a shredder comprising a housing and a paper shredder mechanism received in the housing that includes a motor and cutter elements. The motor rotates the cutter elements in an interleaving relationship for shredding paper sheets fed therein. A tray holds a stack of paper sheets to be fed into the cutter elements. A moveable paper feed mechanism is positioned above the tray and has an exterior paper engaging surface that is at least in part air permeable. A vacuum generator is provided to apply a vacuum to an interior of the moveable paper feed mechanism to draw air through the exterior paper engaging surface, thereby lifting one or more top sheets from atop the stack. A feed driver system is constructed to drive the feed mechanism to feed paper to the cutter elements. 
     The shredder may also further comprise a fan mechanism for providing the air to lift at least the edge of at least the top sheet of the stack. The fan mechanism may be the vacuum generator. The moveable paper feed mechanism may be a rotatable drum or a belt. The tray may include a sloped feed bed. The shredder may also include a sensor, timer, or lid. 
     In another aspect of the invention, a method is provided for advancing paper sheets into cutter elements for shredding. The method comprises: providing a tray for holding a stack of paper sheets; providing a moveable paper feed mechanism to advance paper sheets into the cutter elements; rotating cutter elements in an interleaving relationship for shredding paper sheets fed therein; driving the feed mechanism in a feeding direction to feed paper to the cutter elements from atop the stack of paper sheets in the tray, and moving the feed mechanism in an alternating manner between a lowered and raised position such that the feed roller alternates between engaging the stack to feed paper and disengaging from the stack to allow the cutter elements to advance and shred the paper therethrough. 
     Another aspect of the invention provides a method for advancing paper sheets into cutter elements for shredding. The method comprises: providing a tray for holding a stack of paper sheets; providing a moveable paper feed mechanism positioned above the tray, the moveable paper feed mechanism having an exterior paper engaging surface that is at least in part air permeable; applying a vacuum to an interior of the moveable paper feed mechanism to draw air through the exterior paper engaging surface, thereby lifting one or more sheets from atop the stack to the exterior paper engaging surface of the drum; rotating cutter elements in an interleaving relationship for shredding paper sheets fed therein; and driving the feed mechanism to feed the one or more lifted sheets to the cutter elements. 
     Other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description, the accompanying drawings, and the appended claims. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of a shredder in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 2  is an overhead view of a rotatable feed roller mechanism in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIGS. 3   a - 3   e  show side views of the rotatable feed roller mechanism of  FIG. 2  for advancing paper in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 4  is a detailed side view of a rotatable drum in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 5  is a detailed underside view of the rotatable drum of  FIG. 4 ; 
         FIGS. 6   a - 6   e  show side views of the rotatable drum of  FIG. 4  for advancing paper in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIGS. 7   a - 7   e  show side views of a rotatable cam mechanism for advancing paper in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIGS. 8   a - 8   f  show side views and a top view of a feed belt mechanism for advancing paper in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 9   a  shows a side view of a shredder of alternate configuration comprising a detachable paper shredder mechanism in accordance with an embodiment; 
         FIG. 9   b  shows a side view of a shredder of alternate configuration comprising a removable waste bin in accordance with an embodiment; 
         FIG. 9   c  shows a side view of a shredder of alternate configuration comprising a hinged shredder mechanism and a removable waste bin in accordance with an embodiment; 
         FIG. 10  shows a perspective side view of a stripping device that may be used with the paper shredding mechanism of a shredder in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIGS. 11   a - 11   c  show a side view of a stripping device of alternative configuration that may be used with the paper shredding mechanism of a shredder in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; and 
         FIG. 12  is a detailed view of a control panel for use with the shredder of  FIG. 1  in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT(S) OF THE INVENTION 
       FIG. 1  is a perspective view of a shredder in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The shredder  10  is designed to destroy or shred articles such as paper. The shredder  10  comprises a housing  12  that sits on top of a container  16 , for example. The container  16  receives paper that is shredded by the shredder  10 . The container  16  may comprise a hole or opening  17  for a user to grasp. For example, the user may grab opening  17  to open or access the inside of the container  16 , as described below with reference to  FIGS. 7   a - 7   c . The container  16  may be a waste bin, or may also be used to house a separate and removable waste bin, for example. 
     Generally speaking, the shredder  10  may have any suitable construction or configuration and the illustrated embodiment is not intended to be limiting in any way. 
     The shredder  10  comprises a paper shredder mechanism  20  in the housing  12 , and includes a drive system with at least one motor, such as an electrically powered motor, and a plurality of cutter elements  21 . The cutter elements are mounted on a pair of parallel mounting shafts (not shown). The motor operates using electrical power to rotatably drive first and second rotatable shafts of the shredder mechanism  20  and their corresponding cutter elements  21  through a conventional transmission so that the cutter elements  21  shred or destroy articles fed therein. The shredder mechanism may also include a sub-frame for mounting the shafts, motor, and transmission. The drive system may have any number of motors and may include one or more transmissions. Also, the plurality of cutter elements  21  are mounted on the first and second rotatable shafts in any suitable manner and are rotated in an interleaving relationship for shredding paper sheets fed therein. The operation and construction of such a shredder mechanism  20  is well known and need not be discussed herein in detail. 
     The housing  12  of shredder  10  is designed to sit atop a container  16 , as noted above. The housing  12  works in cooperation with a cartridge or tray  14 , shown in detail in  FIG. 2 . Tray  14  comprises a feed bed  15  and is designed to hold a plurality or stack of paper sheets  22  that are to be shredded. The tray  14  is mounted such that the paper may be fed from bed  15  of the tray  14  and into the cutter elements  21  of the shredder mechanism  20 . For example, the tray  14  and shredder mechanism  20  may be mounted horizontally such that the paper is fed into the shredder mechanism  20  and destroyed. In an embodiment, the tray  14  comprises a sloped feed bed  15  (see, e.g.,  FIGS. 3   a - 3   e ). The sloped feed bed  15  assists in feeding sheet(s) atop a stack  22  in a forward and upward direction into the shredder mechanism  20 , for example. A sloped feed bed  15  also assists in preventing jamming of the paper in the shredder mechanism  20 . 
     In another embodiment, the tray  14  may comprise a sectioned or partitioned bin, providing limited access to an upper bin, for example, while documents in lower bin are fed to the shredder mechanism  20 . 
     In an embodiment, the tray  14  is provided with a lid  18 . The lid  18  is provided with hinges  19  such that the lid  18  may be pivoted between an open and closed position. Pivoting the lid  18  allows a user access to the inside of tray  14 , such as for filling the tray  14  with paper to be shredded. In an embodiment, the tray  14  comprises a handle  29  to assist in lifting the lid  18 . For example,  FIGS. 1 and 2  illustrate embodiments of the handle  29 .  FIGS. 1 and 2  illustrate a handle  29  in the form of a lip provided near or on an edge of the lid  18 . In an embodiment, the handle may extend from the side of the lid  18  on top of tray  14 . However, any type or form of handle  29  for assisting in lifting the lid  18  may be used and should not be limiting. 
     In an embodiment, the lid  18  may comprise a safety switch. The safety switch may be used to detect if the lid is pivoted to an open position. The safety switch may be coupled to the shredder mechanism  20  to prevent operation of the cutter elements  21  when the lid  18  is in the open position. Similarly, when the lid  18  is in a closed position, the shredder mechanism  20  may be activated to begin operation of the cutter elements  21  and an advancement (or feed) mechanism, as will be described. 
     The tray  14  or lid  18  may also comprise a locking mechanism that prevents a user from opening the lid or accessing the tray, which may not be desirable while the shredder is in use. For example, the lid  18  may include a magnetic latch. Alternatively, the tray or lid may include a code lock that prevents a user from opening the lid or having access to the tray. For example, a user may need to input a code into a control panel, such as a control panel A as shown in  FIG. 1 , for access to the documents to be shredded in the tray  14 . Further description for the control panel A is provided with respect to  FIG. 12  below. 
     In an embodiment, lid  18  may comprise an opening (not shown) for allowing insertion of paper sheets into the tray  14 . In another embodiment, an opening may be provided below the lid  18 . That is, as shown in  FIG. 3   e , for example, when the lid  18  is in the closed position, an opening or gap  32  may be formed between the lid and bottom of the tray  14  or feed bed. Thus, the tray  14  may also be filled by inserting paper sheets (e.g., a single sheet or a small stack) through the gap  32  and into the feed bed without having to lift the lid  18 . This feature may be advantageous, for example, where the shredder is running and feeding from a large stack and the user simply wants to add a small number of documents to the tray  14  or bed  15 . Rather than opening the lid  18  and stopping the shredding process with the safety switch, the user can just slip the small number of documents into the stack  22  via the gap  32 . However, the use of a lid in general is optional and may be omitted entirely. A user may add paper to the tray  14  through an open top, for example. 
     The tray  14  is designed to hold a stack  22  of paper sheets therein that are to be shredded. The paper sheets may be of any type, size, or construction (e.g., white paper, letter size, legal size, A4, envelopes, etc.). 
     As previously noted, a control panel A may be provided for use with the shredder  10 .  FIG. 12  illustrates a detailed view of a control panel A in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. As shown, the control panel A comprises at least a screen  54  and a plurality of buttons  56 ,  57 ,  58 , and  59 . Any number of buttons, however, may be provided. The screen  54  may be an LCD screen, for example, to show available menus or options to a user. Lights, LEDs, or other known devices (not shown) may also be provided on control panel A. Generally, the use of a control panel is known in the art. 
     The buttons  56 - 59  on control panel A are provided to assist the user with the shredder  10  and communicate actions to the controller, e.g., to turn on the shredder mechanism, start the timing mechanism, etc. For example, button  56  may be used to communicate the state of the shredder&#39;s particular condition (e.g., ON, OFF). Button  56  may be used to activate or pause the shredder mechanism  20  in the shredder  10 . The status of the shredder, e.g., “Shredding” or “Pause” may also appear on the screen  54 , for example. 
     Button  57  may be a timer button, for example. In an embodiment, the timer button  57  is used to set a time delay. The button  57  may be pressed by a user to display or scroll through available delay times for setting the shredder mechanism  20  on a delayed start, for example, such as 30 minutes or 1 hour. Once a user chooses a time delay, the user then confirms the selection by pressing the confirmation button  59 , for example. Thus, the timer button  57  used to set a timer (not shown) for controlling at least a time to start movement of an advancement or feed mechanism to advance paper sheets into the shredder mechanism  20 , as will be described in the embodiments below. 
     Button  58  may be a lock/unlock button, for example, that allows a user to lock access to the bin. For example, as noted above, lid  18  may include a magnetic latch for prohibiting access to the tray  14 . Thus, lock button  58  may be used to lock the magnetic latch and therefore prevent a user from opening the lid or having access to the tray. To unlock the lid  18  and provide the user access to the tray  14 , a user presses lock button  58  and inputs a code into the control panel A (e.g., the screen may prompt a user for an unlock code). Similarly, the lock button  58  may be used to lock the lid  18  with respect to the tray  14 , such that when the lid  18  is closed, the user presses button  58  and is prompted to enter a code for activating the lock mechanism (e.g., magnetic latch). 
     As previously noted, button  59  is provided as a confirmation button, allowing a user to confirm a selection or entry when completed or when prompted. Thus, when a user wants to complete entry of a code, either for unlocking or locking, the confirmation button  59  may be pressed. 
     The shredder  10  also comprises a mechanism opposed to or adjacent the tray surface for advancing at least a top sheet from a stack of paper in a tray into the cutter elements for shredding. That is, shredder  10  is designed with an advancement mechanism for automatically feeding one or more sheets to a shredder mechanism  20  without requiring a user to manually feed individual or a preset quantity of sheets into the cutting elements  21 . 
       FIG. 2  shows in detail an embodiment of an advancement mechanism in accordance with the present invention comprising a feed mechanism  23 . The feed mechanism  23  comprises a rotatable feed roller  24 , arm  26 , and a feed driver system  25  designed to work in cooperation with the stack  22  in the tray  14 . As shown, the rotatable feed roller  24  of the feed mechanism is positioned above or adjacent the bed  15  of the tray  14 . 
     In an embodiment, the rotatable feed roller  24  is mounted on the arm  26 . The arm  26  is used to move the rotatable feed roller  24  between a lowered position for engaging the stack  22  and a raised position for disengaging from the stack. In an embodiment, the arm may be an articulating or pivoting arm. In another embodiment, the rotatable feed roller  24  is eccentrically mounted to an axle so that in a relative sense it cycles between the raised and lowered positions as it rotates. 
     The arm  26  may be moved, for example, via a motor and a gear or wheel mechanism(s). Generally, known links, gears, drive axles, and other devices may be used to connect the arm to the motor. The motor used to move or activate the arm  26  may be shared (e.g., with the shredder mechanism  20 ), or a separate motor may be provided specifically for activating the arm  26 . 
     In one embodiment, the feed driver system  25  comprises a driver for moving the arm between the lowered and raised positions. In an embodiment, as shown in  FIG. 2 , a rotary driver is mounted to the arm  26  for rotating the rotatable feed roller  24 . 
     In another embodiment, the rotatable feed roller  24  is eccentrically mounted to an axle, and the feed driver comprises a rotary driver for rotating the axle so that the rotation of the feed roller feeds the paper atop the stack. The rotary driver is also used to move the feed roller in an alternating manner between the lowered and raised positions by the eccentric mounting. 
     In an embodiment, the feed roller  24  of the arm  26  is activated and rotated when the lid  18  of tray  14  is closed. The arm  26  may be activated and articulated (e.g., up and down or pivotally) when the lid  18  of the tray  14  is closed. The arm  26  may move cyclically with respect to the shredder mechanism  20  when the shredder mechanism  20  is activated. For example, the arm  26  may be connected via a gear(s) such that when the motor for the shredder mechanism  20  is activated (i.e., cutter elements  21  are activated), the rotation and cyclic movement (i.e., up and down or pivoting) motion of the arm  26  is activated. When the lid  18  is lifted to access the tray  14  the motor may be deactivated, thus the arm  26  is prevented from movement (e.g., either pivotally or up and down, or the rotation of the feed roller  24 , or both). In an embodiment, a separate motor may be provided for the rotation of the feed roller  24  on arm  26 . 
     In an embodiment, the feed roller  24  and/or arm  26  is removable or replaceable, for example, if damaged. 
     In an embodiment, the feed driver system is constructed to rotate and move the feed roller  24 , as will be described below. 
     In an embodiment, the rotatable feed roller  24  is a plurality or array of drive wheels or rollers  24 . For example, two or more rollers may be provided on the end of arm  26 . A plurality of rollers aids in covering a greater length or width of the tray  14  and thus aids in feeding at least the top sheet(s) of paper from the stack  22 . 
     In an embodiment, the rotatable feed roller  24  is mounted directly to a rotating axle (i.e., not on the arm  26 ). 
     A power switch  28  may also be provided on the shredder  10 . The power switch  28  may be provided on tray  14 , for example, or anywhere else on the shredder  10 . The power switch  28  includes a manually engageable portion connected to a switch module (not shown). Movement of the manually engageable portion of switch  28  moves the switch module between states. The switch module is communicated to a controller (not shown) which may include a circuit board. Typically, a power supply (not shown) is connected to the controller by a standard power cord with a plug on its end that plugs into a standard AC outlet. The controller is likewise communicated to the motor of the shredder mechanism  20 . When the switch  28  is moved to an on position, the controller can send an electrical signal to the drive of the motor so that it rotates the cutting elements  21  of the shredder mechanism  20  in a shredding direction, thus enabling paper sheets to be fed therein. The switch  28  may also be moved to an off position, which causes the controller to stop operation of the motor. Further, the switch  28  may also have an idle or ready position, which communicates with the control panel A. The switch module contains appropriate contacts for signaling the position of the switch&#39;s manually engageable portion. Generally, the construction and operation of the switch  28  and controller for controlling the motor are well known and any construction for these may be used. Also, the switch need not have distinct positions corresponding to on/off/idle, and these conditions may be states selected in the controller by the operation of the switch. 
     In an embodiment, a sensor is provided in tray  14  for sensing the presence of paper sheets or a stack  22 . The sensor may be used to communicate with the controller that sheets are ready to be shredded or destroyed, or to communicate with the feed driver system. The presence of sheets may also start a timer. For example, a time delay may be activated such that a feed mechanism  23  begins to move or rotate after a set period of time (e.g., 30 minutes, 1 hour). The sensor may be of any type, e.g., optical, electrical, mechanical, etc. and should not be limiting. Additionally, audio sensors may be used with tray  14 . For example, a sensor may be able to pick-up audio signals or sounds when paper is shredding or as paper is lifted. 
       FIGS. 3   a - 3   e  show side views of the rotatable feed roller mechanism  23  of  FIG. 2  for advancing paper in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. As previously noted, the feed driver system (not shown) of shredder  10  is constructed to rotate and move the rotatable feed roller  24 . The feed driver system (not shown) is constructed and arranged to rotate the feed roller  24  to engage and feed paper atop the stack  22  in the bed  15  of the tray  14  to the cutter elements  21  of the shredder mechanism  20 , and move the feed roller in an alternating manner between a lowered and raised position such that the feed roller  24  alternates between engaging the stack  22  to feed paper and disengaging from the stack  22  to allow the cutter elements to advance the paper therethrough. 
     As shown in  FIG. 3   a , the lid  18  may be pivoted upon hinges  19  to allow access to the inside of the tray  14  or feed bed  15 . In an embodiment, when the lid  18  is lifted, the rotatable feed roller  24  is actuated such that it moves up to a raised position such that paper may be inserted into the feed bed  15  of the tray  14 . After insertion of the paper sheets or stack  22 , the lid  18  is pivoted closed as seen in  FIG. 3   b , and the shredder mechanism  20 , feed drive mechanism  23 , and feed driver system  25  of the shredder  10  are activated (e.g., upon closure of the lid, via sensor, or manually). As noted above, a sensor detecting the presence of paper on the feed bed  15  may be used to communicate and activate the feed driver system, i.e., the rotatable feed roller  24 , using an optical sensor, electromechanical sensor, or switch. In an embodiment, the driver system comprises a timer for controlling at least the start time for movement of the rotatable feed roller  24  and/or the arm  26  in an alternating manner between the lowered and raised positions. 
     When the shredder  10  is activated, the rotatable feed roller  24  is lowered such that it engages the top of the stack  22 , as shown in  FIG. 3   c . The feed drive system activates the roller  24  such that at least a top sheet  30  of the stack  22  is fed into the shredder mechanism  20 . Specifically, the roller  24  is rotated and the sheet(s)  30  is advanced and fed forward and into the cutting elements  21  of the shredder mechanism  20 . As the sheet(s)  30  is (are) fed forward, the rotatable feed roller  24  moves to a raised position, as shown in  FIG. 3   d , such that the roller  24  disengages from the stack  22 . The sheet(s)  30  are then grasped and pulled into the shredder mechanism  20  by the cutter elements  21 . The feed roller  24  then moves back to the lowered position, as seen in  FIG. 3   e , to thus re-engage the stack  22  and advance the next or top sheet(s) into the shredder mechanism  20 . 
     The advantage of raising and lowering the rotatable feed roller  24  in an upward and downward movement is that it reduces jamming from occurring. Additionally, a sloped feed bed also aids to prevent jamming. 
     In an embodiment, the movement of the feed roller  24  need only be used to advance sheet(s) partially, such that the cutter elements  21  themselves grasp and pull the rest of the sheet(s) therebetween. Thus, sheets or paper which is torn, folded, of different size (e.g., letter size, legal size, etc.), type (e.g., white paper, envelopes, etc.), or construction are advanced into the shredder mechanism  20  with only limited rotation of the feed roller  24  (i.e., instead of continuous rotation). 
     The shredder  10  may also comprise a stripper device  36  for stripping paper sheets from staples, shown in  FIGS. 4 ,  10 , and  11 . Although  FIG. 4  describes an additional embodiment, the device  36  of  FIGS. 4 ,  10 , and  11  may also be provided in the embodiments described in  FIGS. 2-8   f . The stripper device  36  may be provided in the tray  14 , for example. In one embodiment, as shown in  FIGS. 4 and 10 , the stripper device  36  is attached to the lid  18 . The stripper device  36  may be designed such that it is adjacent to the stack  22  and in front of the feed mechanism  23  or rotatable feed roller  24  (or any other advancement mechanism as disclosed in  FIGS. 2-8   f . In an embodiment, the stripper device  36  is provided in front of a rotating shredder auto-feed mechanism. In an embodiment, the stripper device  36  is provided behind the rotating shredder auto-feed mechanisms (e.g., rotatable feed roller  24  or rotatable drum  40 ). 
       FIGS. 11   a - 11   c  show a side view of a stripper device  37  of alternative configuration. The stripper device  37  comprises a holding portion  35  and a pivoting portion  39 . The pivoting portion  39  pivots relative to the holding portion, as described below. The stripper device  37  is provided near the end of the stack  22  in the tray  14 . The stripper device  37  may designed to be adjacent the edges of paper sheets. The stripper device  37  may be provided in front of the shredder mechanism  20  and cutting elements  21  and behind or in back of the feed mechanism  23  or rotatable feed roller  24 . In an embodiment, the stripper device  37  is provide adjacent the edges(s) of stack  22  in the tray and behind a shredder auto-feed mechanism. 
     The device  36  is used to strip paper sheets that are stapled together in the stack  22  from a staple as the paper sheets are fed to the cutter elements of the shredder mechanism  20 . In an embodiment, the device  36  has an extended surface or lip  36   a  that extends into the path of which stapled sheets or documents are drawn. Thus, as a sheet(s) of a stapled document is grasped by the rotatable feed roller  24 , the extended surface  36   a  intercedes by holding or providing resistance to at least the top edge (e.g., near the staple) of the stapled documents. Thus, as the rotatable feed roller  24  feeds the sheet into the shredder mechanism  20 , and the cutter elements  21  advance the sheets therethrough, the device  36 ,  36   a  cooperatively provides resistance to at least the top edge of the document allowing for the paper sheet(s) to be stripped from the stapled edge. Optionally, the extended surface or lip  36   a  of device  36  during operation of the roller  24  and shredder mechanism  20  provides enough resistance to tear a sheet from the stapled documents, such that as each sheet is grasped and fed toward the shredder mechanism  20  by the rotatable feed roller  24 , the sheet is removed from the stapled document. 
     Similarly, the device  37  of  FIGS. 11   a - 11   c  may also be used to strip paper sheets that are stapled together in the stack  22 .  FIG. 11   a  illustrates a stack  22  in the tray  14  without staples, with stripper device  37  near edges of the sheets in the stack  22 .  FIGS. 11   b - 11   c  illustrate how at least a top sheet  30  being fed by the roller  24  is stripped from a staple  43  holding a stack of sheets together. Specifically, at least one top sheet  30  is grabbed by the advancement mechanism (e.g., roller  24 ). As sheet  30  is rotated by roller  24  toward the cutting elements  21  of shredder mechanism, the sheet  30  is forced to bend. The movement of the sheet  30  forces the rest of the stack of stapled sheets to press against the pivoting portion  39  of the stripping device  37 . Thus, the stack pivots the pivoting portion  39  relative to the holding portion  35 . As shown in  FIG. 11   b , the stapled stack is pushed forward into the device  37  and is held by holding portion  35 . When the sheet  30  bends and is fed forward toward the shredder mechanism  20 , the staple  43  (i.e., sheets) is held in place by holding portion  35  as the sheet  30  is grasped by the cutting elements  21 . The cutting elements  21  then pull the sheet  30  into the shredder mechanism  20  (to be shredded), as shown in  FIG. 11   c . The cutting elements  21  provide resistance with respect to the stack and strip or tear the sheet  30  from the staple  43  of the document. 
     In an embodiment, both stripper devices  36  and  37  may be used in shredder  10 . The shredder devices  36  and  37  work in cooperation with the auto feed mechanism or advancement mechanism to feed stapled documents or sheets from the tray. The use of both stripper devices  36  and  37  provide an advantage to the user in that the user does not need to place or orient the documents/sheets in the tray  14  in a specific matter. Specifically, the orientation of the sheets may be such that stapled documents/sheets are placed in the tray  14  with the direction of the staples being adjacent the shredder mechanism  20  and/or behind the feed mechanism (e.g., toward the opening of the tray  14 ). Despite the orientation of the staples, the devices  36  and  37  will provide resistance to at least the top sheet(s)  30  being fed into the cutter elements  21  and pull or strip the sheet(s)  30  from the staple  43 . 
       FIG. 4  also illustrates a side view of another embodiment of an advancement mechanism for shredder  10  in accordance with the present invention comprising a rotating drum mechanism  38 . The rotating drum mechanism  38  may be used as an advancement mechanism in a similar manner as previously described with reference to the shredder  10  of  FIG. 1 . The shredder  10  of  FIGS. 4-6   e  comprises a housing  12 , tray  14 , container  16 , and paper shredder mechanism  20  as previously noted. The shredder mechanism  20  is received in housing  12  and includes an electrically powered motor for rotating the cutter elements  21 . The cutter elements  21  are preferably rotating in an interleaving relationship for shredding paper sheets, fed from the tray  14 , therein. 
     In an embodiment, the tray  14  may comprise a lid  18 , which, for example, may be a pivoting lid  18  with hinges  19 . The tray  14  comprises a feed bed  15  and designed to hold a plurality or stack of paper sheets  22  that are to be shredded, and thus drawn into the shredder mechanism  20 . In an embodiment, feed bed  15  is a curved or sloped feed bed. Also, as shown in  FIG. 6   e , when the lid  18  is in the closed position, an opening or gap  32  may be formed between the lid and bottom of the tray  14  or feed bed. Thus, the tray  14  may also be filled by inserting paper sheets (e.g., a single sheet or a small stack) through the gap  32  and into the feed bed  15  without having to lift the lid  18 . 
     The shredder may also comprise a switch  28  or any number of sensors as previously described. In an embodiment, a sensor is provided in tray  14  for sensing the presence of paper sheets or a stack  22 . The sensor may be used to communicate with the controller that sheets are ready to be shredded or destroyed, or to communicate with the feed driver system. The presence of sheets may also start a timer for controlling at least a start time for applying a vacuum to the interior of a rotatable drum  40 . The sensor may be of any type, e.g., optical, electrical, mechanical, etc. and should not be limiting. The shredder  10  may also comprise a control panel A. 
     The shredder  10  may have any suitable construction or configuration and the illustrated embodiment is not intended to be limiting in any way. 
     The rotating drum mechanism  38  comprises a rotatable drum  40 , vacuum generator  46  (e.g., see  FIGS. 6   a - 6   e ) and a feed driver system (not shown) designed to work in cooperation with the stack  22  in the tray  14 . As shown, the rotating drum  40  is positioned above or adjacent the bed  15  of the tray  14  and along a horizontal axis. The rotating drum  40  has an exterior paper engaging surface  52  that is at least in part air permeable. 
     The rotating drum  40  comprises a generally round configuration. The drum  40  may be of a circular or oval shape, for example. In an embodiment, the rotation of drum mechanism  38  or drum  40  is activated when the shredder mechanism  20  is activated. In an embodiment, the rotation of drum  40  is activated when the lid  18  of tray  14  is moved to a closed position (i.e., inhibiting access to the bed  15  of the tray  14 ). In an embodiment, the drum  40  is rotated using a motor(s) and/or drive wheel mechanism(s). In an embodiment, the drum  40  is rotated and activated for rotation using the same motor used to drive the shredder mechanism  20 . For example, the rotation of the drum  40  may be linked by belts, axles, or gears, as known in the art, to rotate upon activation of the cutter elements  21  in the shredder mechanism  20 . In an embodiment, the drum  40  uses a separate motor for rotation. 
     The rotating drum  40  works in cooperation with the vacuum generator  46  to advance paper through the cutter elements  21  of the shredder mechanism  20 . In one embodiment, the vacuum generator  46  comprises a fan mechanism and a fan exhaust or blower  48  (see, e.g.,  FIG. 6   a ) that are used to feed one or more top sheets from the stack  22  in the tray  14 . The vacuum generator or fan  46  is used to apply a vacuum to the interior of the rotatable drum  40 , to draw air through the exterior paper engaging surface  52 , thereby lifting one or more sheet(s)  30  from atop the stack  22  in the tray  14 . 
     In an embodiment, the exhaust  48  from the fan  46  is blown into the feed bed  15  to raise at least the top sheet(s) of the paper and separate at least the top sheet(s) from the stack of paper sheets  22 . That is, the same fan may be used as the vacuum generator and as the blower or exhaust. In another embodiment, two separate fans or mechanisms may be used as the vacuum and blower/exhaust. 
     In an embodiment, the vacuum generator  46  is activated when the shredder mechanism  20  is activated. In an embodiment, the vacuum generator  46  is activated when the lid  18  of the tray  14  is moved to a closed position. 
       FIGS. 6   a - 6   e  show side views of the rotating drum mechanism  38  of  FIGS. 4 and 5  for advancing paper in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. As previously noted, the feed driver system of shredder  10  is constructed to rotate and move the rotating drum  40 . The feed driver system is constructed to move and rotate the rotating drum  40  such that when at least a top sheet is engaged to its exterior surface  52  it feeds paper atop the stack  22  in the bed  15  of the tray  14  to the cutter elements  21  of the shredder mechanism  20 . 
     The embodiment of  FIGS. 6   a - 6   e  uses a fan  46  to generate both a vacuum and exhaust  48  in the shredder  10 . As shown in  FIG. 6   a , the lid  18  may be pivoted upon hinges  19  to allow access to the inside of the tray  14  or feed bed  15 . In an embodiment, when the lid  18  is lifted, the rotatable drum  40  and feed driver system are deactivated such that paper may be inserted into the feed bed  15  of the tray  14 . After insertion of the paper sheets or stack  22 , the lid  18  is pivoted closed as seen in  FIG. 6   b , and the shredder mechanism  20 , rotating drum mechanism  38 , and feed driver system of the shredder  10  are activated (e.g., upon closure of the lid  18 , via a sensor, or manually). As noted above, a sensor may be used to communicate and activate the feed driver system, i.e., the rotatable drum  40 , using an optical sensor, electromechanical sensor, or switch, for example. 
     In an embodiment, the driver system comprises a timer for controlling at least the start time or activation of vacuum generator or fan mechanism  46 . The vacuum or fan  46  is activated to produce a vacuum within the interior of the rotatable drum  40 . The vacuum or fan  46  draws air through the exterior paper engaging surface  52 . As noted above, the fan  46  is used to provide both the vacuum and blower/exhaust  48 . Thus, when activated, the blower/exhaust  48  is also activated, blowing air into the tray  14  and bed  15 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 6   b , when exhaust  48  is activated, the air causes at least the top sheet(s)  30  of paper to lift and separate from part of the other sheets of paper in the stack  22 . The separation of at least the top sheet  30  of paper from atop the stack  22  allows for the vacuum applied to the center of rotating drum  40  to more easily draw the sheet of paper to the exterior paper engaging surface  52 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 6   c , after initiation of the vacuum  46 , one or more top sheets  30  of paper lifts from the stack  22  and onto the exterior paper engaging surface  52 . The feed drive system is constructed to rotate the drum  40  to feed at least the top sheet  30  of the stack into the shredder mechanism  20 . Specifically, as the rotatable drum  40  rotates, as shown in  FIGS. 6   d  and  6   e , the paper is advanced and fed forward into the shredder mechanism  20  and between cutter elements  21  for shredding. The sheet(s)  30  are grasped and pulled into the shredder mechanism  20  by the cutter elements  21 . The exhaust  48  may continue to blow and keep at least one top sheet of paper slightly lifted and separated from the stack. The rotatable drum  40  continues to grab and advance one or more top sheets into the shredder mechanism  20  until all of the paper sheets in stack  22  have been shredded. 
     In one embodiment, a paper removal device  50  is provided.  FIGS. 6   a - 6   e  show a positioning and use of a paper removal device  50 , for example. The paper removal device  50  may be designed such that it at least partially surrounds or at least is positioned adjacent a surface of the rotating drum  40  in the shredder  10 . The paper removal device  50  may be provided between the feed driver system and the shredder mechanism. The paper removal device  50  is used to ensure removal of the paper sheet(s) from the rotating drum  40 , should the vacuum that is applied to the interior of the drum  40  continue hold the sheet(s) to the exterior paper engaging surface  52 . That is, when paper from the stack  22  is lifted to the exterior paper engaging surface  52  via vacuum from fan  46 , the paper removal device  50  may provide assistance for removing the paper sheet(s) from the surface  52  as the drum  40  rotates and feeds the paper into the cutter elements  21  of the shredder mechanism  20 . 
     In an embodiment, a filter may be provided in rotatable drum  40  to filter particles that may be drawn in by the vacuum applied to its interior (e.g., paper pieces, dust, etc.). 
     Also shown in the Figures, as described with reference to  FIGS. 4 and 10 , is an embodiment wherein a stripping device  36  may be used for stripping paper sheet(s) from staple(s). A sloped feed bed  15  may also be provided. 
     Further, in an embodiment, the rotation of rotatable drum  40  may be used to advance sheet(s) only partially. Thus, sheets which are torn, folded, of different size (e.g., letter size, legal size, etc.), type (e.g., white paper, envelopes, etc.), or construction are advanced into the shredder mechanism  20 . 
     In one embodiment, the rotating drum  40  comprises an inner cylinder (not shown) and an outer cylinder  41 . For example, with reference to  FIG. 5 , the outer cylinder  41  of the drum  40  has a plurality of openings  42 . The plurality of openings  42  form at least part of the paper engaging surface  52 . In an embodiment, the outer cylinder  41  comprises openings  42  partially around its circumference. For example, the openings  42  may be provided in succession along  180  degrees of the entire  360  degree circumference of the cylinder  41  (i.e., halfway). The inner cylinder (not shown) is provided within outer cylinder. The inner cylinder comprises at least one opening (not shown) focused toward the stack  22  in the tray  14 . During operation, the outer cylinder  41  rotates with respect to the inner cylinder (and stack  22 ). As the outer cylinder  41  rotates, the openings  42  align with the opening of the inner cylinder such that a concentrated vacuum (e.g., from fan  46  applied to the interior of inner cylinder) is applied through the openings  42  toward stack  22 , so as to lift at least one sheet atop the stack  22  towards the adjacent paper engaging surface  52  of the outer cylinder  41 . Thus, the top sheet(s) is lifted from the stack  22  using a maximum vacuum force along the paper engaging surface  52  of the cylinder  41 . As the openings  42  of the outer cylinder  41  rotate up and away, the sheet(s) of paper may be released and pulled into the shredder mechanism  20  by the cutter elements  21  for shredding of the sheet(s). 
     In an embodiment, both the outer cylinder  41  and the inner cylinder rotate. Similarly, as noted above, as the openings  42  of the outer cylinder  41  rotate with respect to the inner cylinder (as the inner cylinder also rotates), and with respect to the stack  22  in tray  14  (e.g., from fan  46  applied to the interior of the drum  40 ). As the cylinders rotate, the openings  42  in the paper engaging surface  52  of the outer cylinder  41  align with the at least one opening (not shown) of the inner cylinder. In an embodiment, the openings of the cylinders are designed such that during rotation a concentrated vacuum is applied through openings  42  toward or adjacent the stack  22 , thus providing a maximum vacuum force along the paper engaging surface  52 . The top sheet(s) of paper from the stack  22  are then be lifted and rotated toward the shredder mechanism  20  as previously described. As the openings  42  of the outer cylinder  41  rotate up and away, the sheet(s) of paper may be released and pulled into the shredder mechanism  20  by the cutter elements  21  for shredding of the sheet(s). 
       FIGS. 7   a - 7   e  show side views of a rotatable cam feed mechanism  72  for advancing paper in a shredder  10  in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The shredder  10  used in  FIGS. 7   a - 7   e  comprises a housing  12 , tray  14 , container  16 , paper shredder mechanism  20 , and cutter elements  21  as described in the previous Figures. The rotatable cam feed mechanism  72  is an advancement mechanism used in a similar manner as previously described with reference to  FIGS. 1 and 3   a - 3   e.    
     The rotatable cam feed mechanism  72  comprises a rotatable cam  74 , elongated opening  76 , axle  78 , and a feed driver system (not shown) designed to work in cooperation with the stack  22  in the tray  14 . As shown, the rotatable cam  74  is of the cam feed mechanism  72  is positioned above the bed  15  of the tray  14 . 
     In an embodiment, the rotatable cam  74  is mounted at least on the axle  78 . In an embodiment, the axle  78  is provided on a horizontal axis that is parallel to tray  14 . The cam  74  is rotated on the axle  78  to engage and disengage the stack. As shown, the shape of the rotatable cam  74  is designed such that as it rotates about the axis of axle  78 , the feed end  75  or feed head of the cam  74  engages and disengages with the top of the stack  22 . 
     In an embodiment, rotatable cam  74  is provided with elongated opening  76 . The elongated opening  76  is provided within the body of the cam  74  and is used to mount the cam  74  on the axle  78 . Thus, when the cam  74  is rotated, the elongated opening  76  allows the cam  74  to slide from a raised position (i.e., disengaged from the stack) to a lowered position (i.e., engaged with the stack). 
     In an embodiment, similar to the feed mechanism  23  of  FIGS. 2 and 3   a - 3   e , the feed driver system of shredder  10  is constructed to rotate and move the rotatable cam  74  in  FIGS. 7   a - 7   e . The feed driver system is constructed to rotate the rotatable cam  74  on axle  78  to engage and feed paper atop the stack  22  in the bed  15  of the tray  14  to the cutter elements  21  of the shredder mechanism  20 . In an embodiment, the feed driver system is constructed and arranged to also move the cam  74  (during rotation) such that feed end  75  moves down into engagement with the stack and out of engagement with the stack using elongated opening  76 . The motors, gears, and drive mechanisms as described with reference to the rotatable feed roller and arm of  FIGS. 2 and 3   a - 3   e  may similarly be used with the herein described rotatable cam. 
     As shown in  FIG. 7   a , the lid  18  may be pivoted upon hinges  19  to allow access to the inside of the tray  14  or feed bed  15 . In an embodiment, when the lid  18  is lifted, the rotatable cam  74  is actuated such that it is moved up to a raised position such that paper may be inserted into the feed bed  15  of the tray  14 . For example, the cam  74  may be moved using elongated opening  76  and axle  78 . After insertion of the paper sheets or stack  22 , the lid is pivoted closed as seen in  FIG. 7   a , and the shredder mechanism  20  and feed driver system of the shredder are activated, either automatically (e.g., upon closure of the lid  18  or via sensors) or manually (e.g., via power switch  28 ). As noted above, a sensor detecting the presence of paper on the feed bed  15  may be used to communicate and activate the feed driver system, i.e., rotatable cam  74 , using an optical sensor, electromechanical sensor, or switch. In an embodiment, the driver system comprises a timer for controlling at least the movement of the rotatable cam  74 , i.e., activating and/or deactivating the rotation of the cam  74 . 
     When the shredder  10  is activated, the cam  74  is rotated such that the head  75  engages the top of the stack  22 , as shown in  FIG. 3   c . At least a top sheet  30  of the stack  22  is fed into the shredder mechanism  20 . Specifically, the cam  74  is rotated about and along axis  78  and the sheet(s)  30  is advanced and fed forward by head  75  into the cutting elements  21  of the shredder mechanism  20 . As the sheet(s)  30  is (are) fed forward, the head  75  of the rotatable cam  74  moves to a raised position, as down in  FIGS. 7   d - 7   e , such that cam  74  disengages from the stack  22 . Thus, the sheet(s)  30  may be pulled into the shredder mechanism  20  by the cutter elements  21  themselves, as they grasp and destroy the paper between the cutter elements  21 . The head  75  of the rotatable cam  74  then moves back to re-engage the stack  22  and advance the next or top sheet(s) into the shredder mechanism  20 . 
     The advantage of using the rotatable cam  74  is that it reduces jamming from occurring as the feed head  75  moves in and out of contact with the paper sheets of the stack  22 . Additionally, should a sloped feed bed be provided (as shown in  FIGS. 7   a - 7   e ), the sloped feed bed also assists in preventing jamming. 
     Additionally, in an embodiment, the movement of the cam  74  may be used to advance sheet(s) only partially, as described above with reference to the feed roller of  FIGS. 2 and 3   a - 3   e.    
     In an embodiment, rotatable cam  74  comprises at least one opening that is at least in part air permeable. In an embodiment, the opening comprises a vacuum port  80 . As shown in  FIGS. 7   a - 7   e , vacuum port  80  may be provided near or on the end of feed end  75 . The vacuum port  80  provides a concentrated vacuum for drawing air into the rotatable cam  74 . Thus, the vacuum port  80  assists in lifting at least a top sheet(s)  30  from the stack  22 . As the cam  74  is rotated on the axis, the end  75  moves into engagement with the stack  22 , and the concentrated vacuum lifts at least the top sheet(s)  30  from the stack  80  and into contact with the vacuum port  80  of the cam  74 . As the sheet(s)  30  are rotated toward shredder mechanism  20 , the end  75  of cam  74  is rotated up and away such that the end(s) of the sheet(s) are pulled into the cutter elements  21  for shredding. Thus, the vacuum port  80  is rotated out of contact with the sheet(s)  30  as the end  75  of the cam  74  is rotated away from the stack  22 . 
     An exhaust port (not shown) may also be provided on the outside of the shredder or within the tray  14  so as to lift one or more sheets from the top of the stack  22  as described with respect to  FIGS. 6   a - 6   e.    
       FIGS. 8   a - 8   f  show side views and a top view of a rotating feed belt mechanism  82  for shredder  10  for advancing paper in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The shredder  10  used in  FIGS. 8   a - 8   f  comprises a housing  12 , tray  14 , container  16 , paper shredder mechanism  20 , and cutter elements  21  as described in the previous Figures. The rotating feed belt mechanism  82  may be used as an advancement mechanism in a similar manner as previously described with reference to  FIGS. 1 ,  4 , and  6   a - 6   e.    
     The rotating feed belt mechanism  82  comprises an “endless” feed belt  84 . The rotating feed belt mechanism  82  also comprises a fan or vacuum generator  46 , exhaust or blower  48 , tube stripper  50 , and feed driver system (not shown), as previously described with reference to  FIGS. 4-6   e , designed to work in cooperation with the stack  22  in the tray  14 . As shown in  FIG. 8   a , the belt  84  is positioned above the bed  15  of the tray  14 . The belt  84  rotates about two tubes  90 , for example. In an embodiment, the belt  84  has an exterior paper engaging surface  86  that is at least in part air permeable. In an embodiment, the paper engaging surface  86  comprises a plurality of elongated openings  88  that extend through the belt  84 . 
     The paper engaging surface  86  of the belt  84  is constructed and arranged to advance paper through the shredder mechanism  20 . As shown in  FIG. 8   f , the belt  84  rotates about two tubes  90  to provide an elongate surface  86  to engage and advance paper. The elongated openings  88  are shown in a spaced apart relation, and are designed to provide a concentration of air when used with vacuum generator  46 . Although the openings  88  are shown spanning the width of the belt  84 , the openings may be any shape or size. For example, the belt  84  may have small holes that are at least in part air permeable. The size and shape of the openings of rotatable belt  84  should not be limiting. 
     In an embodiment, the rotation of rotating feed belt mechanism  82  or belt  84  is activated when the shredder mechanism  20  is activated. In an embodiment, the advancement of belt  84  is activated when the lid  18  of tray  14  is moved to a closed position (i.e., inhibiting access to the bed  5  of the tray  14 ). In an embodiment, belt  84  is moved using motor(s) and/or drive wheel mechanism(s). In an embodiment, the belt  84  is driven using the same motor used to drive the shredder mechanism  20 . For example, the movement of the belt  84  may be linked by belts, axles, or gears, as known in the art, to rotation upon activation of the cutter elements  21  in the shredder mechanism  20 . In an embodiment, the belt  84  used a separate motor. 
     The belt  84  works in cooperation with the vacuum generator  46  to advance paper through the cutter elements  21  of the shredder mechanism  20 , as shown in  FIGS. 8   b - 8   e . In an embodiment, the vacuum generator  46  comprises a fan mechanism, and, as previously noted, a fan exhaust or blower  48 , that are used to feed one or more top sheets from the stack  22  in the tray  14 . The vacuum generator or fan  46  is used to apply a vacuum to the interior of the belt  84  to draw air through the exterior paper engaging surface  86  (i.e., using elongated openings  88 ), thereby lifting one or more top sheets  30  from the stack  22  in the tray  14 . 
     In an embodiment, the fan exhaust  48  is blown into the feed bed  15  to raise at least the top sheet(s)  30  of the paper and separate at least the top sheet(s)  30  from the stack of paper sheets  22 . In an embodiment, the same fan may be used as the vacuum generator and as the blower. In another embodiment, two separate fans or mechanisms may be used for the vacuum and the blower. 
     In an embodiment, the vacuum generator  46  is activated when the shredder mechanism  20  is activated. In an embodiment, the vacuum generator  46  is activated when the lid  18  of the tray  14  is moved to a closed position. 
     As previously noted, the feed driver system (not shown) of shredder  10  is constructed to rotate and move the belt  84 . The embodiment described in  FIGS. 8   a - 8   e  uses the fan  46  to generate both a vacuum and exhaust  48  in the shredder  10 . This example is for explanatory purposes only and should not be limiting. 
     Similarly to the previously described embodiments, lid  18  may be pivoted upon hinges  19  to allow access to the inside of the tray  14  of feed bed  15 . In an embodiment, when the lid  18  is lifted, the belt  84  and feed driver system are deactivated such that paper may be inserted into the feed bed  15  of the tray  14 . After the lid  18  is pivoted closed as shown in FIG.  8   b , the shredder mechanism  20 , rotating feed belt mechanism  82 , and feed driver system are activated. As noted above, a sensor may be used to communicate and activate the feed driver system, i.e., the belt mechanism  82 , using an optical sensor, electromechanical sensor, or switch, for example. 
     In an embodiment, the driver comprises a timer for controlling at least the activation of vacuum generator or fan mechanism  46 . The vacuum or fan  46  is activated to produce a vacuum within the interior of the belt  84 . The vacuum or fan  46  draws air through the exterior paper engaging surface  86  and/or elongated openings  88 . 
     As noted above, fan  46  may be used to provide both the vacuum and blower exhaust  48 . Thus, when the shredder  10  is activated, the blower or exhaust  48  is also activated, blowing air into the tray  14  and bed  15 . As shown in  FIG. 8   b , when exhaust  48  is activated, at least the top sheet(s)  30  of paper are lifted and separated from the other sheets of paper in the stack  22 . The separation of at least the top sheet  30  of paper from the stack  2  allows from the vacuum applied to the center of the belt  84  to more easily draw the sheet of paper to the exterior paper engaging surface  86 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 8   c , the initiation of the vacuum  46  lifts the paper  30  from the stack  22  and onto the engaging surface  86 . The feed drive system is constructed to drive the belt  84  about tubes  90  to feed at least the top sheet  40  of the stack in to the shredder mechanism  20 . Specifically, as the belt  84  is driven, as shown in  FIGS. 8   d  and  8   e , the paper is advanced and fed forward into the shredder mechanism  20  and between cutter elements  21  for shredding. The sheet(s) are grasped and pulled into the shredder mechanism  20  by the cutter elements  21 . The exhaust  48  may continue to blow to keep at least one top sheet  30  of paper slightly lifted and separated from the stack  22 . The belt  84  continues to advance one or more top sheets into the shredder mechanism  20  until all of the paper sheets  22  in the stack  22  have been shred. 
     As noted with respect to  FIGS. 6   a - 6   e , in one embodiment, the paper removal device  50  may be provided. The paper removal device  50  is designed to work as described with reference to  FIGS. 6   a - 6   e , wherein the device  50  may at least partially surround or at least be positioned adjacent a surface of the belt  84  in the shredder  10  and assist in the removal of paper sheets from the exterior surface  86  of the belt  84  as it rotates to feed paper into the cutter elements  21  of the shredder mechanism  20 . A stripping device  36 , as described above with reference to  FIGS. 4 and 10 , may also be provided to work with the rotating belt mechanism  82 . 
     The advancement mechanisms for “automatically” feeding one or more sheets as described in  FIGS. 3   a - 3   e ,  6   a - 6   e ,  7   a - 7   e , and  8   a - 8   f  of shredder  10  ideally allow a user to drop off a stack of paper sheets or documents without having the need to manually feed individual or a present quantity of sheets into the shredder  10 . For example, a user would add a stack of documents to the tray  14  and be able to walk away. The shredder  10  may then either automatically engage in shredding the documents in the tray  14  (e.g., upon closure of the lid  18  or via sensor), or set a preset timer so as to delay the time the shredder  10  is activated for the shredding process to begin. A user may also activate the shredding process by pushing a button on the control panel A (e.g., button  56 ). 
     One major advantage of the described advancement mechanisms in shredder  10  is the decreased amount of time a user must spend shredding documents. For example, the productivity of a user would be improved since the user is able to perform other tasks while the shredder  10  is activated. Another advantage is that the shredder  10  is designed to handle paper or documents of different sizes, textures, shapes, and thicknesses, including letter, legal, and A4 size paper, as well as envelopes and stapled sheets, for example. The documents may also be in any order. 
     Optionally, the shredder  10  may be utilized in a system having a centrally located shredder unit for a multitude of users. For example, the shredder  10  allows for each individual to save what they need to shred at a later time in their own individual tray. An individual can fill his or her own tray until shredding is needed. Each individual may then insert the tray into the shredder  10 . In an embodiment, each individual tray may comprise a locking mechanism, such that documents may be secured within the tray, as well as to the work area of the individual, for additional security of the documents to be shredded. 
     The shredder  10  may also be utilized in a system wherein users use a mobile cart device to pick up items to be shred, for example. The cart device may be used to pick up individual trays or allow users to securely add documents that need to be shredded to a locked tray. Thus, other users or services may be used to shred documents without having access to such documents. 
     As noted above with respect to  FIG. 1 , the shredder  10  comprises a housing  12  that sits on top of a container  16 .  FIGS. 9   a - 9   c  illustrate shredder devices of alternate configuration in accordance with embodiments of the present invention. As previously noted, the container  16  may be a waste bin, or may also be used to house a separate and removable waste bin, for example.  FIG. 9   a  shows a side view of a shredder device of alternate configuration comprising a detachable paper shredder mechanism  60 . The housing  12  may be a detachable shredder mechanism  60  that may be removed from the container  16 , for example, for emptying the container  16  (or a waste bin  62 ) of shredded paper chips or strips, for example. 
       FIG. 9   b  shows a side view of a shredder device of alternate configuration comprising a removable waste bin  64 . The waste bin  64  may comprise a step or pedal device  66  that allows a user to access the bin and discard waste into the bin  64  without being passed through the shredder mechanism  20 . The step or pedal device  66  may also be provided to allow a user to easily access the bin  64  for emptying shredded paper, for example. 
       FIG. 9   c  shows a side view of a shredder device of alternate configuration comprising a housing  12  with a hinge  68  and a removable waste bin  70 . The shredder device may comprise the ability for a user to access the container  16  or waste bin  70  by pivoting and lifting the housing  12  on hinge  68 . The waste bin  70  may also be removed by a user when shredded paper needs to be removed, for example. 
     Although a waste bin is described as being provided in the container  16  in the above embodiments, it is optional and may omitted entirely. Generally, container  16  may have any suitable construction or configuration. 
     While the principles of the invention have been made clear in the illustrative embodiments set forth above, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications may be made to the structure, arrangement, proportion, elements, materials, and components used in the practice of the invention. 
     It will thus be seen that the objects of this invention have been fully and effectively accomplished. It will be realized, however, that the foregoing preferred specific embodiments have been shown and described for the purpose of illustrating the functional and structural principles of this invention and are subject to change without departure from such principles. Therefore, this invention includes all modifications encompassed within the spirit and scope of the following claims.