Abstract: A sheet feeder (10) has a plurality of feed rollers (A,B,C) driven by a drive shaft (62) contacting at least one sheet from a stack (S) of sheets and feeding that sheet downstream. Pull rollers (D) downstream of the feed rollers (A,B,C) driven by an intermediate shaft (84) feed the one sheet to an output location. A first sensor (130) in communication with the drive shaft (62) controls the drive shaft (62) between a driving condition and a non-driving condition. A second sensor (140) in communications with the intermediate shaft (84) controls the intermediate shaft (84) between a driving condition and a non-driving condition. In a driving condition, the drive shaft (62) drives the feed rollers (A,B,C) at a first radial speed and in a non-driving condition the feed rollers (A,B,C) free-wheel.

Abstract: A side edge alignment system for pre-aligning side edges of sheet stock prior to feeding them into a printing press employs a sheet engaging vacuum suction member driven reciprocatingly across the feed path of the press. As the member travels towards a side alignment stop the engaged sheet is aligned upon engaging the stop. The suction level is adjustable so that the suction member disengages to slide over the top surface of the aligned sheet after engagement with the side alignment stop. Suction is terminated before the return stroke of the suction member. For stack feeding operations the side alignment stop is configured as a rail having planar upper and lower vertical wall surfaces, the upper being offset away from the suction member. Initial stack alignment is secured by lower elements of the stack engaging the lower face of the side alignment stop, leaving upper sheets at a standoff distance from the upper stop surface.