Abstract: A device includes two carriers each having a processing tool for a material, a linear guide on which the two carriers are arranged in a linearly displaceable manner, and a push rod movably driven along the linear guide in two opposite directions. The carriers each have a coupling device with which each of the carriers can be selectively coupled to the push rod. A controller controls the coupling devices such that the push rod moves the two carriers together along the linear guide, or only one or a subset of the carriers so that a distance between the carriers can be changed. A method for processing, a strip material with a the device wherein the carriers, after each processing cycle of the strip material, are moved together by the push rod alternately in a first direction and in a second direction opposite to the first direction by a first distance.

Abstract: A device for de-stacking a stack (1) of articles, in particular of cup-like capsules (1.1-1.n), in particular with a peripheral edge, comprises separating elements (2.1, 2.7) for engaging between adjacent articles (1.1, 1.2) of the stack (1) of articles. A plurality of these separating elements (2.1-2.12) are arranged in engagement in the stack (1) all around the stack (1), and the separating elements (2.1-2.12) of the plurality are mounted to be radially movable. The separating elements (2.1-2.12) of the plurality are each mounted resiliently (3.1-3.12), and the device comprises a mechanism (5, 11.1, 11.2) for moving the separating elements (2.1-2.12) of the plurality outwards, into a position of non-engagement in the stack (1). The device permits the automatic de-stacking of stacked articles which are fragile yet at the same time fit firmly into one another and have irregularities in terms of their orientation within the stack.

Abstract: A molding tool for use in pressing operations for pressing powder material, in particular coffee powder, includes a concave, in particular dome-shaped, pressing surface. On the pressing surface there is an extensive non-stick texture for preventing powder material, in particular coffee powder, from adhering. The non-stick texture includes a multiplicity of local recess structures, wherein the recess structures each have a depth of 0.04 mm to 0.2 mm, in particular a depth of 0.08 mm to 0.14 mm. The non-stick texture prevents powder material from adhering during and after a pressing operation, even in the case of powder materials containing oil, e.g. coffee powder. It also prevents such adhering for different types of coffee and in pressing operations in which high pressures arise.