Importance

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Abstract

A system and method for stacking a predetermined number of nestable objects is disclosed, including several alternative embodiments. The system is preferably designed for use with a plurality of nestable objects each having a measurable thickness. A cavity is configured for containing the nestable objects in an orientated position. The objects may be taken directly from a manufacturing process or otherwise loaded to the system at a receiving end. An ejector mechanism operates at the receiving end of the cavity to tamp, by relatively short strokes, successive objects into the cavity until a predetermined number of objects is achieved. At the point of tamping the last object into the cavity, the ejector executes a longer stroke to advance the now vertically oriented and stacked objects toward a discharge end of the cavity. A flange is functionally positioned proximate the discharge end of the cavity to create a span within the cavity having a length. In use the flange halts the advancement of an edge of the stacked arrangement of objects while the remaining edges continue forward. The result is a change in the orientation of the stacked arrangement of nestable objects upon reaching the predetermined number of objects within the cavity. The reorienting objects are simultaneously discharged from the cavity. The length of the span created by the flange and the cycled ejector strokes cooperate within the cavity to allow for the reorientation of the same number of stacked objects each cycle.

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First Claim