Abstract: An insert mechanism particularly suitable for opening multiple page, folded, flexible, lightweight "shopper" type paper publications is disclosed which utilizes a pointed pin movable through an arc relative to the path of travel of the paper section which causes the pin to penetrate and lift only a portion of the sheets on the leading corner of the section remote from the fold while the section is advanced along a transport device. The pin is radially secured to a wheel, and the wheel rotates in timed relationship to the advancement of the leading corner of the folded paper. As the pin travels through its arc, it raises the lifted portion of the sheets to a position above a proximal separation shelf. An intermittent air stream directed towards the pin separates and directs downwardly any sheets lifted but not penetrated by the pin.

Abstract: An improved, mobile, compartmentalized cart for newspaper inserts or other sheet-type items is provided which includes selectively operable brake mechanism for fixing the cart against translatory movement while at the same time allowing the cart to rotate for providing easy individual access to the respective cart compartments. The cart is preferably provided with a central, elongated, axially reciprocable, spring-biased rod having a floor-engaging brake pad on the lower end thereof, with the cart being rotatable about an upright axis coincident with the rod. A cam latch is secured to the upper end of the rod for selectively raising the pad from the floor-engaging position thereof, and for holding the pad in such position. The cam latch is especially configured for allowing the rod and pad to shift downwardly, under the influence of the biasing spring, to a point where the pad is below the level of engagement between the floor and the cart casters.