System and method for advancing the leading edge of a corrugated web

摘要

The present invention is directed to an apparatus for advancing the leading edge of a corrugated web for positioning the web for a secondary operation, such as a cutting operation to cut a discrete sheet from the web. The web has a plurality of alternating peaks and valleys. The apparatus comprises an endless loop conveyor including a plurality of spaced support bars for contacting the valleys of the web. At least one vacuum source holds the web against the support bars. A motor and a distributed control system repeatedly advance the conveyor and the leading edge of the web from the entrance end to the exit end of the conveyor. A rotary encoder and a sensor sense the presence of a support bar near the position for applying the cutting operation. The vacuum source is de-activated, and at least one pressure source is activated to remove the cut sheet from the support bars. The de-activation of the vacuum source and the activation of the pressure source are done progressively from one end of the conveyor to the other to progressively remove the cut sheet from the conveyor.