Abstract: A folder inserter machine includes a device for monitoring the passage of stationery items between a pair of feed rollers (32, 38). A first signal is output if a single item is between the rollers and a second signal is output if more than one item is between the rollers. in the illustrated embodiment the first signal indicates to the folder inserter control that the machine is ready to accept a second insert and the second signal indicates that a multiple feed has occurred and flags a warning to the operator.

Abstract: An envelope transport means for driving an envelope in an inserter machine is disclosed. The transport means includes a driven roller, an idler roller which moves into and out of engagement with the driven roller, and a clamp for holding the envelope against movement. An actuator causes engagement and disengagement of the rollers and clamping and unclamping of the clamp means. The actuator is movable between a transport position (rollers and clamp means unclamped) and an insert portion (rollers disengaged clamp means clamped).

Abstract: Paper handling apparatus, in particular a folder-inserter machine, includes transport means (e.g. 32 and 38) for transporting a stationery item from an inlet end and along a paper path. It has control means for controlling said transport means to interrupt and re-establish operation of the transport means. A guide tray 40 is arranged adjacent said inlet end and a switch 43 is associated with the guide tray means and is connected to the control means 25, so that re-establishment of operation of the transport means occurs on actuation of the switch 43.

Abstract: Paper folding apparatus includes means for controlling machine operation and a buckle chute having opposed end regions of which one is generally open to a folding chute. The chute is arranged in use to receive a part of the item to effect a fold therein and the other end includes deflector means arranged in use to deflect an oncoming stationery item to continue along the paper path. Location means reversibly locate the buckle chute adjacent the paper path with either said open end or said deflector means presented to the path. Moreover orientation detection means are associated with the location means for determining which of the open end and the deflector means are presented to the path. In this way the machine control is informed via a signal from the orientation detection means of which end of the buckle chute is in operative position.