Spreading device and method for parting containers

摘要

A method and apparatus for parting containers comprising a first strip spring and a second strip spring, each strip spring extending along a first axis. The two strip springs have substantially flat first ends that are joined together, and substantially bowed second ends. The second ends of the first and second strip springs are bowed in a substantially concave configuration relative to the first axis. A guide block having a groove formed therethrough receives the two strip springs and places the springs in intimate facing contact with each other. The guide block groove extends for a short distance along the first axis, and the strip springs are adapted to slide through the groove along the first axis. When the strip springs move relative to the guide block along the first axis in a direction away from the first ends, the second ends of the strip springs move into close juxtaposition with each other, and when the strip springs move relative to the guide block in the opposite direction the strip spring second ends spread apart.