Patent ID: 8662346

Claim:
Dispensing apparatus for sheets, comprising: a removing mechanism configured to contact a bottom sheet of a stack of sheets, the removing mechanism configured to grip and fold the bottom sheet using a frictional force; a delaying member for a delay of a predetermined time between the dispensing of two successive sheets; an actuating mechanism for driving the removing mechanism, wherein the actuating mechanism is driven by way of a physically supplied mechanical drive force of an operator of the dispensing apparatus; and an engaging structure located on lateral sides of the removing mechanism and configured to pull ends of the bottom sheet in an outward direction to fan out the bottom sheet, the outward direction existing in a plane that is about perpendicular to a direction of sheet discharge from the dispensing apparatus, the engaging structure including lifting plates, the lifting plates provided with openings through which at least one of pins, strips and bands contact the bottom sheet to pull on the ends of the bottom sheet.