Abstract: A connector for connecting two conductor rail sections, the connector having an electrical conductor that is fastened at each end to the conductor rails. A central region of the conductor is fastened to a connection element. The connection element is slidingly connected to both of the two conductor rails. The electrical conductor has two flexible, undulating portions. These are located between the central region of the electrical conductor and each of its two, attached ends, and serve to compensate for the expansion and contraction of the two conductor rails with changes in temperature.

Abstract: An apparatus for unloading blocks that are stacked on pallets and have flat separators interposed between the blocks is provided. The apparatus has a three-dimensionally controlled and movable pick-up head on which is disposed an approximately horizontally oriented insertion tool that terminates in a pointed insertion tip. The insertion tool is adapted by means of a horizontal movement to extend below a respectively to be removed block of blanks. In order to recognize an improperly taken up block of blanks prior to further processing thereof, a sensor unit is provided that cooperates with a reflective element that is disposed on the underside of the insertion tool. This makes it possible to inspect if a portion of the bottom blank is disposed below the insertion tool. A block of blanks that has been recognized as improper is initially separated out.