Buffer-storage system for aligned items, particularly cups

摘要

The items are delivered aligned in a stream (2) to storage tubes (3) open at the bottom, and which are selectively connected to the feed and discharge systems. Supports at the tube bottom ends are movable into the shut position to support a stack of items in each of the tubes. Filled tubes (6) are suspended from a first guide rail and empty ones (4) from a second one (16). A changeover station brings each tube from the first rail to the discharge mechanism (V), where it is emptied, and then to the second rail, the tubes being thrust to the loading station and then to the changeover one.