摘要 |
<p>An envelope sealing apparatus and method are described. A deflector (35) deflects the leading envelope flap (20) out of the normal path through which the envelope (15) moves and into contact with a reversely moving water wheel (40) which wets the flap to activate adhesive thereon. The inherent rigidity of the envelope body is relied on to thereafter force the deflector (35) aside, permitting the envelope body to pass the water wheel (40) without contacting the same. As the envelope (15) continues along the path (30), a diverter (50) causes the deflected envelope flap to curl under and as the envelope passes thereby, forces in cooperation with the water wheel (40) the envelope flap (20) into closing relationship with the envelope. A downstream sealing roller (68) completes closing and sealing of the envelope.</p> |