Abstract: The present invention is directed to a conveying device for flat printed products. Exemplary embodiments include a transport device for transporting signatures. A plurality of arms, each having a seizing device, are assigned to the transport device for seizing signatures emerging from the transport device. Upon rotational movement of the arms, the seizing devices dive into non-raised portions of a transporting element of the transporting device for seizing a leading edge of respective signatures.

Abstract: A variable velocity profile deceleration device is provided for gripping a signature from a cutting cylinder, tape system or other transporting device at high speeds. The signatures are positively gripped, decelerated through a smooth velocity profile, and delivered to a further processing device such as a single copy gripper conveyor, or a stacker. The deceleration device includes a plurality of rotary grippers mounted to a drum. The drum rotates about an axis under the control of a drive. The rotary grippers each include an upper roller in rolling engagement with a lower roller at a nip. An independent gripper drive is coupled to each rotary gripper for rotating the upper and lower rollers.

Abstract: An apparatus for splitting a product stream includes a conveying belt entering a folder to grip products. The conveying belt comprises first and second product grippers arranged thereon in an endless configuration. The first grippers are selectively rotatable around an axis during movement of the conveying belt to allow for a secondary stream of products to be formed.