Abstract: An insert track (30) of an insertion machine comprises a continuous elastomer belt (32) which travels a horizontal plate 9101) and proximate a plurality of insert station hoppers (52H-57H). The plate (101) has an upper surface (103) formed from an ultra high molecular weight (UHMW) polyethylene. The plate (101) is sandwiched in a friction fit between the insertion machine frame (100) and a track front edge guide (105). The plate carries a track rear edge guide (104). In its friction fit the plate (101) is slidable for selectively changing the width of the track from the track front edge guide (105) to the track rear edge guide (104). The track front edge guide (105) has a bridge member (112) connected thereto proximate each insert station (52-57). Each bridge member (112) extends above and across the width of the belt (32). Each bridge member (112) has a drag strip (113) suspendedly connected thereto proximate the midpoint of the belt (32).

Abstract: An insertion machine includes an insertion station (44) whereat groups of items are stuffed into an envelope held open at an envelope opening station (49). The insertion station comprises an cam (212)-driven carriage (202) which linearly reciprocates in a direction (480) toward and away from the envelope opening station (49). The carriage (202) carries a plurality of selectively mounted, selectively rotatable pusher fingers (204). The pusher fingers (204) have a profile suitable for shoving items along a partially inclined insertion plate surface 403 and into an opened envelope. The pusher fingers (204) are selectively rotatable to an operative orientation (720) and to an inoperative orientation (722) under the supervision of a controller (205). Jam detectors (550, 552) are provided proximate reciprocating entry fingers (500, 502) which move when a jam occurs in the inserting process. Should a jam occur, the pusher fingers (204) are controlled to rotate to their inoperative orientation (722).

Abstract: An insertion machine includes an insertion station (44) whereat groups of items are stuffed into an envelope held open at an envelope opening station (49). The insertion station comprises a cam (212)-driven carriage (202) which linearly reciprocates in a direction (480) toward and away from the envelope opening station (49). The carriage (202) carries a plurality of selectively mounted, selectively rotatable pusher fingers (204). The pusher fingers (204) have a profile suitable for shoving items along a partially inclined insertion plate surface 403 and into an opened envelope. The pusher fingers (204) are selectively rotatable to an operative orientation (720) and to an inoperative orientation (722) under the supervision of a controller (205). Jam detectors (550, 552) are provided proximate reciprocating entry flanges (500, 502) which move when a jam occurs in the inserting process. Should a jam occur, the pusher fingers (204) are controlled to rotate the their inoperative orientation (722).

Abstract: An insert track (30) of an insertion machine comprises a continuous elastomer belt (32) which travels over a horizontal plate (101) and proximate a plurality of insert station hoppers (52H-57H). The plate (101) has an upper surface (103) formed from an ultra high molecular weight (UHMW) polyethylene. The plate (101) is sandwiched in a friction fit between the insertion machine frame (100) and a track front edge guide (105). The plate carries a track rear edge guide (104). In its friction fit the plate (101) is slidable for selectively changing the width of the track from the track front edge guide (105) to the track rear edge guide (104). The track front edge guide (105) has a bridge member (112) connected thereto proximate each insert station (52-57). Each bridge member (112) extends above and across the width of the belt (32). Each bridge member (112) has a drag strip (113) suspendedly connected thereto proximate the midpoint of the belt (32).

Abstract: An insertion machine includes an insertion station (44) whereat groups of items are stuffed into an envelope held open at an envelope opening station (49). The insertion station comprises a cam (212)driven carriage (202) which linearly reciprocates in a direction (480) toward and away from the envelope opening station (49). The carriage (202) carries a plurality of selectively mounted, selectively rotatable pusher fingers (204). The pusher fingers (204) have a profile suitable for shoving items along a partially inclined insertion plate surface 403 and into an opened envelope. The pusher fingers (204) are selectively rotatable to an operative orientation (720) and to an inoperative orientation (722) under the supervision of a controller (205). Jam detectors (550, 552) are provided proximate reciprocating entry fingers (500, 502) which move when a jam occurs in the inserting process. Should a jam occur, the pusher fingers (204) are controlled to rotate to their inoperative orientation (722).