Importance

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Abstract

A stacking apparatus is disclosed which is situated so as to receive elements as they are ejected from an element-forming apparatus. A holder is provided for holding a plurality of the elements in spaced relationship to each other. Two or more parallel rods, movable in the lengthwise direction of the rods, move relative to the holder from a position adjacent to the elements to a position whereby the rods penetrate the plurality of elements while the elements remain in spaced relationship to each other. When the plurality of elements are so penetrated, the holder is moved downward relative to the rods such that the plurality of elements are free from and are suspended above the holder. A sweeping mechanism, which can include at least one stub shaft, is then moved relative to the base in a path parallel to the length direction of the rods so as to serially engage all of the elements suspended on the rods and sweep the elements from the rods into a nesting relation to each other towards a final position free from the parallel rods. An abutment fixed with respect to a base of the apparatus provides a stop toward which the elements are swept by the sweeping mechanism for accumulating the elements in the stacked relationship. After the elements are delivered to a position adjacent the abutment, the movable parallel rods and the sweeping mechanism are returned to their initial position to permit a subsequent delivery of elements from the element forming apparatus into the holder.

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First Claim