Gripper clamps for conveying paper sheet products

Abstract

A gripper tractor assembly is provided for selectively grasping, conveying and releasing newspapers and like products in a high speed transit path between processing stations. Its structure comprises two jaws pivotable about a common pivot pin for movement between open and closed jaw positions by means of a cammed lever assembly and equipped with rollers for engaging a transport tract defining its travel path. Alignment of the products is assured by a pair of separated stops against which the paper is positioned and gripping means centered therebetween. The papers are gripped by a rubber-like O-ring mounted on an arm extending from the gripping edge of one jaw as the edge is abutted against the stops in self-aligning fashion. The tractors are positioned at precise spacing along a link chain for movement therewith. Removable attachment means for the carriage includes an L-shaped chain link, which permits removable bolt coupling of the carriages to the link chain for easy maintenance and installation. To avoid stresses tending to release the clamping action of the jaw or to misalign paper products during transport, the jaws hold the papers against a platform surface holding the papers at an angle to the transport axis in natural position for shingling to avoid bending or stresses.