Abstract: Panel-like members are aligned as they are transferred sequentially from a pick-up station to a discharge station by a primary carriage mounted for linear movement selectively to the pick-up position and to a position adjacent the discharge station. At least one extensible, secondary carriage is carried by the primary carriage and is rotatable about a vertical axis selectively to a transport position and to an aligned position and is movable linearly to an extended position and to a retracted position. The secondary carriage and a pick-up head carried thereby is movable selectively to an upper transport position and to a lower pick-up and discharge position. Linear movement of the primary carriage is stopped prior to its reaching the discharge station with the secondary carriage being movable toward an extended position after movement of the primary carriage is stopped.

Abstract: A supporting cage carrying a plurality of vertically spaced panels is operatively connected to an actuator which moves the cage upwardly through a series of movements to selected vertical positions. A control member connected to the actuator limits upward movement of the cage so that each panel is aligned sequentially with an elongated ram which moves in a rectilinear direction in spaced relation to the adjacent panel to eject the aligned panel from the cage. The next panel is then moved upward and ejected with this cycle being repeated until the cage is empty.

Abstract: Apparatus for handling sheets of material in which the sheets are received at a pick-up station and conveyed to a discharge station by means of a carrier, in combination with means to maintain a differential of pressure between the sheets and a plenum chamber beneath which a flight of the carrier operates. The invention also contemplates means to discharge the sheets at the discharge station comprising a stripper which enters between the sheet of material being conveyed and the plenum, thus to admit air under atmospheric pressure between the two, permitting the sheet to drop off. The invention contemplates also the use of means to release the vacuum on the sheet of material being conveyed by momentarily shutting off the suction fan from the plenum chamber, permitting the sheet to drop.