Abstract: A system for detecting Poly-Bag and Poly Wrap on mail pieces, intended to be a sub-assembly on a mail unit open system that automatically opens wrapped bundles of either letter or flat mail. The system generally includes two orthogonally-opposed but otherwise identical Poly Bag Detectors both controlled by a programmable controller and deploying a swinging pendulum test, plus a Poly Wrap detector employing a rolling friction wheel test.

Abstract: An electrical isolation apparatus to automatically interrupt main power in advance of its junction to the main electrical panel whenever the main disconnect switch is turned off. A method for retrofitting an existing electrical panel enclosure with an electrical isolation box (EIB) is also disclosed, along with a retrofit kit. The electrical isolation apparatus includes an auxiliary relay resident in the main electrical panel enclosure and actuated by said main disconnect switch. The electrical isolation apparatus also includes the EIB in a second ride-on enclosure attached to the main panel enclosure. The EIB encloses a power contactor with at least one power contactor switch (three for three-phase). The control input of the power contactor is connected through both enclosures to the auxiliary relay resident in the main enclosure for controlling the power contactor. Indicator lights, a voltage monitor, and a reset/test switch panel-mounted on the EIB enclosure are also disclosed for status display.

Abstract: A system for automatic positioning, wrapper and strap cutting, wrapper removal, wrapper and strap takeaway, and debundled stack positioning and delivery of bound mail pieces, magazines, catalogs, brochures and other similar flat items (collectively “bundles”) for subsequent sorting and processing, all without damaging the contents within the bundle. Incoming bundles are supported on two supporting plates configured to move horizontally toward and away from each other, and spaced to expose a portion of the bottom surface of the bundle. A cutting device cuts the wrapping and straps on the exposed bottom portion of the bundle, and the supporting plates are moved away from each other to increase the spacing. As the spacing is increased gripping devices atop both supporting plates grab and pull the cat edges of the wrapping, until the bundle falls through to a holding device.