US3067856A

US3067856A - Sheet feed controlling means

Info

Publication number: US3067856A
Application number: US774000A
Authority: US
Inventors: Burton L Gamble
Original assignee: Continental Can Co Inc
Current assignee: Continental Can Co Inc
Priority date: 1958-11-14
Filing date: 1958-11-14
Publication date: 1962-12-11
Anticipated expiration: 1979-12-11

Description

Dec. 11, 1962 B. GAMBLE 3,067,856

SHEET FEED CONTROLLING MEANS Filed Nov. 14, 1958 FIG. 1

9 Sheets-Sheet 1 ENAMEL BAKING OVEN COATING MACHINE FIG- 2 7 1 MAGNETIC 17 o 10 0 06 1s t 17 15 INVENTOR FIG- 3 BURTON L. GAMBLE ATTORNEYS Dec. 11, 1962 B. L. GAMBLE SHEET FEED CONTROLLING 9 Sheets-Sheet 2 Filed Nov. 14, 1958 FIG. 4

mvcn'ron BURTON L. GAMBLE Dec. 11, 1962' B. L. GAMBLE 3,067,856

SHEET FEED CONTROLLING MEANS Filed NOV. 14, 1958 9 Sheets-Sheet 3 FIG- 6 A5 FIG. 9

I L 24 l FIG- 12 INVENTOR BURTON L. GAMBLE.

ATTORNEYS Dec. 11, 1962 B. L. GAMBLE 3,067,856

SHEET FEED CONTROLLING MEANS Filed NOV. 14, 1958 9 Sheets-Sheet 4 FIG. 7

INVENTOR g BURTON L. GAMBLE ATTORNEYS Dec. 11, 1962 B. L. GAMBLE 3,067,856

SHEET FEED CONTROLLING MEANS Filed NOV. 14, l958 9 Sheets-Sheet 5 FIG. 10

FIG- 1 1 INVENTOR BURTON L. GAMBLE Dec. 11, 1962 B. 1.. GAMBLE 3,067,856

SHEET FEED CONTROLLING MEANS Filed NOV. 14, 1958 9 Sheets-Sheet 6 FIG. 13

/./49 FIG. 14

I E i 127 152 i J 138 1153 1 1 0 6 125 o 1 I 130 124 E 1*}:;;il I29 INVENIV/OR I L BURTON 1.. dAMBLE RNEYS Dec. 11, 1962 B. L. GAMBLE 3,067,856

SHEET FEED CONTROLLING MEANS Filed-Nov. 14, 1958 9 Sheets-Sheet 7 FIG- 17 FIG- 18 4 128 b V (-135 f I Al L FIG. 16

INVENTOR BURTON L. GAMBLE Dec. 11, 1962 B. L. GAMBLE 3,067,856

SHEET FEED CONTROLLING MEANS Filed Nov. 14, 1958 '9 Sheets-Sheet s Dec. 11, 1962 B. L. GAMBLE 3,067,856

SHEET FEED CONTROLLING MEANS Filed NOV. 14, 1958 9 Sheets-Sheet 9 FIG- 24 i I l 25 INVE NTOR BURTON- L. GAMBLE 221 5 AT RNEYS United States Patent 3,067,856 Sl-EET FEED CONTRGLLING MEANS Burton L. Gamble, Hinsdale, Ill., assignor to Continental Can Company, inc, New York, N.Y., a corporation of New York Filed Nov. 14, 1958, Ser. No. 774,000 11 Claims. (Cl. 198-102) The invention relates generally to the art of manufacturing cans and primarily seeks to provide novel means for quickly stopping the movement of coated sheets as they pass from feed means or" a sheet coating machine and are engaged by a conveyor for a baking oven.

In the making of can bodies which are provided with an internal lining, the can bodies are formed from sheets which have been previously coated on one side. In order to facilitate the coating of such sheets, the sheets are first passed through a sheet coating machine and are then fed from the sheet coating machine on a feed conveyor. In order that the production of the sheet coating machine may be a maximum, the rate of feed of the sheets is relatively high.

After the sheets have had the coating material applied thereto, it is necessary that they be passed into an oven. At the present time coated sheets are passed through an oven by using wickets which first tilt the sheets from a generally horizontal position to a generally upstanding position and then feed the sheets through the oven. In order that the sheets may be engaged by the wickets of the oven feed, it is necessary that the sheets be substantially stopped when engaged by the wickets. The proper control of the feeding of the sheets into position for engagement by the wickets is a problem.

In the feeding of sheets from the sheet coating machine to the oven feed, if the sheets are fed too fast and run into the support bar of the wicket, the leading edge of the sheet becomes damaged and the sheet must be discarded. On the other hand, if the sheet is fed too slowly, the sheet does not fully enter the wicket and may be damaged in this manner. Further, there is the possibility that the sheet will not pass into the oven and thus cause a jam.

An object of the invention is to provide a novel apparatus of the character stated including a sheet feeding table which receives sheets from the sheet coating ma chine, feeds and supports such sheets for engagement by wickets of the oven feed; the feed table being provided with brake means which are of such a nature whereby they cause rapid deceleration of the sheets so that the sheets are substantially stopped when engaged by the wickets and such brake means being of such a nature whereby at the time the sheets are engaged by the wickets to be lifted thereby, the sheets are substantially released by the brake means so that no undesired force is required on the part of the wickets to remove the sheets from the feed table.

Another object of this invention is to provide an imroved feed mechanism for feeding sheets rapidly from a sheet coating machine in a generally horizontal position and through an oven in a generally upstanding position, the sheet feeding means including a first conveyor for moving sheets in processional order and in spaced relation in a generally horizontal plane, releasing the sheets from the first feed means and applying a retarding force on the sheets to rapidly decelerate the sheets, and then releasing the sheets prior to engagement by a second feed means which includes wickets swinging about a horizontal axis so that the wickets engage the relatively stopped and released sheets and lift and tilt the sheets for movement through an oven.

Another object of the invention is to provide a feed mechanism for feeding sheets rapidly from a sheet coating machine into an oven wherein the sheets are rotated from a generally horizontal position to a generally upstanding position, the feed mechanism including a brake mechanism of the type which incorporates a sheet support in the form of a table, the table having mounted therein permanent magnets which place a retarding force on the sheets as they pass thereover, and there being associated with the permanent magnets compressed air jets which are actuated in timed relation to the engagement of the relatively stationary sheets by wickets of a second feed conveyor so that the restraining forces of the magnets on the sheets are substantially removed and the wickets may remove sheets from the sheet support without undue resistance.

Another object of this invention is to provide'an improved braking mechanism to be positioned between two feed conveyors whereby a sheet may be rapidly fed by a first feed conveyor and is then suddenly decelerated prior to engagement by the second feed conveyor, the brake mechanism including a supporting plate in the form of a feed table, there being incorporated in the plate permanent magnets for placing a retarding force on a sheet moving thereover to rapidly decelerate the sheet, and the plate being so mounted whereby once a sheet is in overlying position for engagement by the second feed conveyor, the sheet is elevated above the magnets so as to reduce to a minimum the retarding force of the effect of the magnets on the sheet whereby the sheet may be moved by the second feed means with a minimum of resistance.

A further object of this invention is to provide an improved brake mechanism to be used in conjunction'with a feed system of the type which requires that sheets being fed be rapidly decelerated prior to the engagement by a second feed conveyor, the brake mechanism including a stationary feed table having mounted therein suction cups, the suction cups being communicated with a vacuum source by means of a valve which is so controlled whereby the vacuum is produced in timed sequence to the feeding of a sheet over the suction cups, and there being provided means for momentarily elevating the suction cups when the sheet is in overlying relation so that the suction cups project above the feed table and the desired suction between the suction cups and the sheet is obtained.

A still further object of this invention is to provide in an apparatus of the character stated a novel brake mechanism for sheets which Will accomplish the rapid deceleration of sheets being fed at a rapid rate, the brake mechanism including a pair of retarders disposed in opposed relation and adapted to engage opposite side edges of a sheet fed therebetween, and there being provided a mechanism for moving the retarders together in timed relation to the positioning of a sheet therebetween and for releasing the retarders in timed relation to the engagement of the sheets by a second feed mechanism.

With the above and other objects in view that will hereinafter appear, the nature of the invention will be more clearly understood by following the detailed description, the appended claims, and the numerous views illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

In the drawings:

- FIGURE 1 is a schematic elevational view illustrating the environment in which the invention is utilized. 7

FIGURE 2 is a'plan view of the assembly of FIGURE 1 showing in cooperation with the feed mechanism thereof a form of the invention wherein the retarding force is provided by magnets.

FIGURE 3 is a view similar to FIGURE 2 and shows a form of the invention wherein the retarding force is provided by means of a vacuum.

FIGURE .4 is a plan view of a first form of brake mechanism and shows the specific details thereof including the relationship thereof with respect to a wicket of the oven feed.

FIGURE 5 is a fragmentary elevational view of the brake mechanism of FIGURE 4 and shows the manner in which a plate of the feed table of the brake mechanism is elevated to remove a sheet resting thereon substantially in the range of the retarding force of the brake mechanism.

FIGURE 6 is a fragmentary sectional view taken substantially upon the plane indicated by the section line 6-6 of FIGURE 4 and shows the manner in which compressed air is supplied in timed sequence to air nozzles for the purpose of lifting a sheet resting on the feed table in overlying relation to retaining magnets thereof for eliminating the magnetic retarding force of the magnets on the sheet.

FIGURE 7 is a plan view similar to FIGURE 4 and shows a second form of brake mechanism including the positioning of a wicket relative thereto.

FIGURE 8 is a fragmentary side elevational view of the brake mechanism of FIGURE 7 with parts broken away and shows the manner in which magnets at side areas of the brake mechanism are mounted for retraction below the feed table of the brake mechanism so as to release a sheet lying on the feed table from the magnetic force of the magnets.

FIGURE 9 is an enlarged fragmentary vertical sectional view taken on the line 9--9 of FIGURE 7 and shows the modified form of valve mechanism for providing air jets through the feed table and beneath a sheet lying thereon for the purpose of elevating the sheet relative to the magnets.

FIGURE 10 is a plan view of a third form of brake mechanism and shows the specific details of retarders thereof which are disposed in opposed relation for engaging opposite side edges of a sheet.

FIGURE 11 is a side elevational view of the brake mechanism of FIGURE 10 with portions broken away and shows generally the details for operating the retarders.

FIGURE 12 is an enlarged fragmentary sectional view taken on the line 12--12 of FIGURE 10 and shows the specific cross section of the sheet engaging portion of one of the retarders.

FIGURE 13 is an enlarged plan view of the central portion only of another form of brake mechanism and shows the specific arrangement of suction cups in the feed table thereof.

FIGURE 14 is an enlarged fragmentary side elevation view of the brake mechanism of FIGURE 13 and shows the specific details of the operating mechanism thereof.

FIGURE 15 is an enlarged fragmentary sectional view taken along the line 15 -15 of FIGURE 14 and shows the specific details of one of the suction cups.

FIGURE 16 is an enlarged fragmentary sectional view taken along the line 1616 of FIGURE 14 and shows the specific details of the operating mechanism of the brake mechanism for effecting the timed elevation of the suction cups thereof.

FIGURE 17 is an enlarged plan view of a side portion of a brake mechanism corresponding to the central portion of FIGURE 13.

FIGURE 18 is an enlarged elevational view of the brake mechanism of FIGURE 17 and shows the specific details of the operating mechanism thereof.

FIGURE 19 is an enlarged plan view of a central portion of another form of brake mechanism and showing the arrangement of fixed magnets with respect to a feed table portion of the brake mechanism.

FIGURE 20 is an elevational view of the brake mechanism of FIGURE 19 and shows certain of the details of the operating mechanism thereof.

FIGURE 21 is a fragmentary transverse vertical sectional view taken along the line 21-21 of FIGURE 20 and shows the specific details of the mechanism for retracting magnets of the brake mechanism to positions below the feed table thereof whereby the magnets are rendered relatively ineffective.

FIGURE 22 is an enlarged fragmentary sectional view taken along the line 2222 of FIGURE 19 and shows the manner in which a magnet is adjustably mounted on a support plate therefor.

FIGURE 23 is an enlarged fragmentary sectional view taken along the line 2323 of FIGURE 19 and shows the relationship between one of the magnets and the feed table when the magnet is in an elevated position.

FIGURE 24 is an enlarged fragmentary plan view of the side portion of a brake mechanism corresponding to the brake mechanism of FIGURE 19 and shows the gen eral arrangement of the components thereof.

FIGURE 25 is a longitudinal sectional view taken through the brake mechanism of FIGURE 24 along the line 25-25 and shows the means for raising and lowering the magnets in timed relation.

FIGURE 26 is a transverse sectional view taken along the line 26-26 of FIGURE 24 and shows further the relationship of the various components of the brake mechanism.

The general environment of the invention is best illustrated in FIGURES 1, 2 and 3 of the drawings. In the customary manufacture of can bodies having coated interiors, there are first provided coated sheets of the desired sizes. In order to apply the coating to these sheets the sheets are passed through a coating machine 5 and are fed therefrom by means of a sheet feeder 6 which will be considered a first conveyor. After the sheets have been provided with the desired coating, it is necessary that the sheets pass through a baking oven 7. The baking oven 7 is provided with feed means in the form of a second conveyor 8. The second conveyor 8 is a special conveyor in that it is formed by a plurality of wickets 9, which wickets are carried by transversely spaced conveyor chains 10 passing over suitable sprockets 12. The sprockets 12 are in turn mounted on transverse horizontal shafts, such as the shaft 11. The conveyor 8 is of such a nature whereby the wickets 9 pass about the axis of the shaft 11 and when in a generally horizontal position, will lift and turn a coated sheet from a generally horizontal position to an upstanding position. Such sheets are then passed through the baking oven in a horizontal run 13 of the conveyor 8. The horizontal run 13 is disposed uppermost and the wickets returned in a second horizontal run 14 which is disposed lowermost.

The necessity of providing the coated sheets in quantity results in the coated sheets being fed through the coating machine at a very high rate. Thus the coated sheets are fed from the coating machine by the sheet feeder 6 at a high rate. Inasmuch as the coated sheets are immediately passed into the baking oven by being fed onto the conveyor 8, it will be readily apparent that it will be necessary to suddenly decelerate the sheets in order that they may stop their horizontal travel prior to engagement by the wickets 9 in order that they may be properly picked up by the wickets 9 and transported through the baking oven 7. Furthermore, the coated sheets must be fed between the sheet feeder 6 and the conveyor 8 in timed relation. If the sheets are fed too fast and too far into the conveyor 8, the sheets will engage parts of the conveyor 8 and damage the sheets. On the other hand, if the sheets are fed too slow into the conveyor 8, they will not be properly engaged by the wickets 9 and a jamming of the conveyor 8 will result.

Disposed intermediate the sheet feeder 6 and the conveyor 8 is a brake mechanism 15 which constitutes the invention, the brake mechanism being of such a nature whereby the sheets, as they are fed by the sheet feeder 6 toward the conveyor 8, will be decelerated so that the soeasse horizontal travel will have stopped by the time they are engaged by the wickets 9, and at the same time the sheets will be released by the brake mechanism so that they may be removed by the wickets 9.

In FIGURE 2 there is illustrated one form of the brake mechanism 15. In this form the force for decelerating the coated sheets is supplied by a plurality of magnets. The brake mechanism of FIGURE 2 is merely an example of the numerous forms which the invention may take and includes a forward central brake assembly 16 and a pair of side rear brake assemblies "'17.

In FIGURE 3 of the drawings, the magnetic brake mechanism 15 has been replaced by a brake mechanism 18 which operates on the principle of applying a suction to the coated sheets so as to retard its horizontal movement. The brake mechanism 18 like the brake mechanism 15, includes a central forward brake assembly 19 and a pair of rear side brake assemblies 20.

At this time it is pointed out that in certain instances, particularly when narrow and relatively small sheets are being conveyed, only the central forward brake assemblies will be required. On the other hand, under certain circumstances only the rear side brake assemblies will be required. In other instances, particularly where the sheets are relatively large and of heavy gauge material, the entire brake mechanism will be required. It is also pointed out at this time that one type of brake assembly may be used for the forward central brake assembly and another type of brake assembly may be used for the rear side brake assemblies. In other words, a brake mechanism may be formed of any desired combination of magnetic and vacuum brake assemblies. It is to be understood, however, that in each instance the brake assemblies of a brake mechanism will be so spaced so as to clear the wickets 9. The general arrangements illustrated in FIG- URES 2 and 3 are examples of such spacing.

In FIGURES 4, 5 and 6 there is illustrated a first form of the invention. The relative position of this form of the invention with respect to the coating machine and the oven has been, illustrated only by positioning a wicket 9 with respect to the invention in a position for engaging a sheet and a sheet receiving table 21 which will receive sheets from the sheet feeder 6. The form of the invention illustrated in these figures is referred to in general by the reference numeral 22. The brake mechanism 22 includes a frame which is a continuation of the sheet feeder 6. The frame includes a transverse channel memher 24 and longitudinal frame members 25. The transverse channel member 24 supports the table 21 and the forward central brake assembly 26 of the brake mechanism 22.

The brake assembly 26 includes a generally triangular frame 27 which supports a generally triangular mounting plate 29 in which there is seated a plurality of permanent magnets 36}, the arrangement of the permanent magnets 30 being best illustrated in FIGURE 4. The plate 29 is aligned with the plate 21 and functions as a temporary sheet support prior to the engagement of the sheet by the wicket 9. As the coated sheets pass on to the plate 29 the magnetic attraction of the magnets 36 on the coated sheet will resist the horizontal sliding movement of the sheet over the plate 29 and serves to bring the sheet to a stop before it reaches the conveyor chains 10.

The magnetic attraction of the magnets 30 on the coated sheet will be relatively great and if it were necessary for the wickets 9 to overcome this magnetic attraction in order to lift the sheet, then undue force would be applied on the wickets 9. Therefore, in order that the magnetic attraction of the magnets 3t? on the coated sheet may be substantially overcome, there is provided a plurality of nozzles 51 which open through the plate 29, the nozzles 31 being carried by the plate 29. The general arrangement of the nozzles 3-1 is best illustrated in FIGURE 4. The nozzles are connected to a manifold 32, FIGURE 6, which is in turn connected to a control valve 33 by means of piping 34. Also connected to the control valve 33 is a compressed air supply line 35 which may be connected to any convenient compressed air source.

Secured to the channel frame member 24 in underlying relation to the frame 27 are suitable mounting brackets 36 in which a transverse shaft 37 is journaled. The shaft 37 is generally aligned with the valve 33 which is supported by a pair of plates 38, the plates 38 also being secured to the channel frame member 24. Secured to the shaft 37 is a pulley 39 over which there is entrained a drive belt 40 which will rotate the shaft 37 in timed relation to the actuation of both the sheet feeder 6 and the conveyor 8. The drive belt 40 may be either connected to a separate drive mechanism or to the drive mechanisms for the sheet feeder 6 and the conveyor 8.

Secured to the shaft 37 for rotation therewith is a cam il with which there is engaged a roller type follower 42.. The follower 42 is part of an actuating mechanism 43 for the valve 33.

The sequence of operation of the brake assembly 26 is that a coated sheet is fed thereonto by the sheet feeder 6 with the magnets 30 of the brake assembly 26 affecting the deceleration of the coated sheet. The coated sheet will be stopped in overlying relation to the brake mechanism 22 for engagement by the wicket 9. Immediately prior to the stopping of the coated sheet and the engagement of the coated sheet by the wicket9, the cam 41 will actuate the valve 33 so as to supply compressed air to the air nozzles 31. The air nozzles 31 will then direct jet streams of air against the underside of tne coated sheet so as to elevate the coated sheet and overcome the magnetic attraction of the magnet St on the coated sheet. Thus the coated sheet may be removed from the brake assembly 26 by the wicket 9 without applying any undue force on the wicket 9.

The brake mechanism 22 also includes rear side brake assemblies 44. The rear side brake assemblies 44, with the exception of being right and left are identical. Accordingly, only one will be described in detail. Each rear side brake assembly 44 includes a frame 45 which is secured to both the longitudinal frame member 25 adjacent thereto and to the channel framemember 24. Overlying the frame 45 is a forward sheet support plate 4-6 and a rear sheet support plate 47. The

sheet support plates

46 and 47 are connected together by a transverse horizontal hinge 48.

The sheet support plate 47 is provided with a cut-out 29. The cut-out 49 provides clamps for a guide 5%. The guide Sit is a side guide for the coated sheets to assure the proper alignment of the coated sheets on the brake mechanism 22.

Underlying the central portion of the sheet supportplate 47 adjacent the guide 5d are suitable permanent magnets 52. The magnets 52 are secured to the frame 45 and supported thereby. Inasmuch as the sheet support plate 47 normally directly overlies the permanent magnets 52, coated sheets moving over the sheet support plate 57 will be affected by the magnetic attraction of the magnets 52 and this magnetic force thereon will effect the deceleration of the coated sheets.

Disposed along opposite sides of the brake mechanism 22 is a base structure 53 which may be part of the oven '7. Mounted on the base structure 53 is an upright support 54 which extends beneath the sheet support plate 47. The support 54 carries a transverse shaft 55 on which there is mounted a pulley 56 over which there is entrained a drive belt 57 which will be connected to a suitable drive mechanism whereby the shaft 55 will be rotated in timed relation to the operation of the conveyor 8. Mounted on the shaft 55 and driven by the pulley 55 is an eccentric 53 which has a follower 59. Connected to the follower 59 is an actuating rod 6% which is in turn connected by means of a swivel fitting 61 to the underside of the sheet support plate 47.

7 The timing of the drive for the shaft 55' is such that as a coated sheet moves into position on the sheet support plate 47, the eccentric 58 will operate to move the sheet.

support plate 4-7 upwardly to its dotted line position of FIGURE 5 and thus elevate the sheet support plate 47 and the coated sheet overlying it relative to the fixed magnets 52. This will substantially overcome the magnetic attraction of the magnets 52 on the coated sheet so that the wicket 9 may lift the coated sheet from the support plate 47 with a minimum of effort.

The brake mechanism 22 has been illustrated as including the brake assembly 26 and two brake assemblies 44. Depending upon the particular requirements, the brake assembly 26 alone may be used or the two brake assemblies 44- may be used. In other instances, particularly where the coated sheet is relatively large and heavy, all three brake assemblies will be used. It is to be understood that the

brake assemblies

26 and 44 will be provided with magnets which have the necessary retarding attraction on a coated sheet so as to stop the coated sheet in position for engagement with the wicket 9.

A second form of brake mechanism, referred to by the reference numeral 62, is illustrated in FIGURES 7, 8 and 9. The brake mechanism 62 includes a central forward brake assembly 63 and a pair of side rear brake assemblies 64. The

brake assemblies

63 and 64 are supported from the channel frame member 24 and the longitudinal frame members and are arranged so as to be closely adjacent, but out of alignment with the wicket 9 as it moves into a coated sheet engaging position.

The brake assembly 63 includes a generally triangular frame 65. Mounted in the upper part of the frame 65 is a plate 67. Carried by the plate 67 is a plurality of permanent magnets 68 which correspond to the magnets and may be similarly spaced. Underlying the plate 67 in spaced relation thereto is a second plate 69 which is also mounted within the frame 65. The

plates

67 and 69 combine with the frame to form an air-tight chamber 70.

The frame 65 is provided with an opening 71 there- I through which is aligned with a similar opening 7-2 in the channel frame member 24. Passing through the opening 72 and terminating in the opening 71 is a compressed air supply line 73 which may be connected to any desired compressed air source. Thus compressed air is maintained within the space between the

plates

67 and 69 at all times.

Formed in the upper part of the plate 67 is a plurality of air nozzles 74 whose positions are best illustrated in FIGURE 7. The air nozzles 74 open downwardly into air passages 76 which, in turn, open through the bottom of the plate 67 into the chamber 70.

Aligned with each of the air nozzles 74 is a fitting 77 which is thrcadedly seated in the plate 69. The fitting 77 is in the form of a valve guide for a valve stem 78 of a valve 79. There is a valve 79 for each of the air nozzles 74 and the valve 79 is normally urged downwardly by means of a spring 80 carried by the valve stem 78 so as to prevent the flow of air from the chamber 753 through the air nozzles 74. It is to be noted that the valve stems 78 extend down through the plate 69.

As is best shown in FIGURE 9, depending from the roar part of the frame 65 is a hinge member 81 which in turn supports a plate 82 for pivotal movement. The plate 82 underlies the plate 69 and engaged the lower ends of the valve stems 78.

Adjustably supported by the channel frame member 26 are mounted brackets 83. The vertical position of the mounting brackets is maintained by means of adjusting screws 34 carried by a plate 86 underlying the channel frame member 24. Supported by the mounting brackets 83 is a transverse shaft 87 which carries a pulley 8S. Entrained over the pulley S8 is a drive belt 39 which will be connected to a suitable drive source to drive the shaft 87 in timed relation to the operation of the sheet feed 6 and the conveyor 8. Also carried by the shaft 87 is a cam 90 which is driven from the pulley 83. The end of the plate 82 remote from the hinge 31 rests upon the cam 90 and as the cam rotates, the plate 82 is moved upwardly so as to move the valves 79 to open position whereby air will pass from the chamber 70 through the air nozzles 74. The effect of the compressed air on the underside of a coated sheet overlying the magnets 63 will be to elevate the coated sheet and counteract the magnetic attraction of the magnets 68 on the coated sheet.

The brake assemblies 64 being identical, only one of the brake assemblies will be described in detail. Each brake assembly 64 includes a frame 91 which is carried by its respective longitudinal frame member 25 and the channel frame member 24. It is to be noted that the frame 91 slopes upwardly and rearwardly so that a sheet support plate 92 overlying the frame slopes upwardly and rearwardly, as is best illustrated in FIGURE The sheet support plate 92 is provided with a cut-out 93 so as to provide clearance for a side guide, such as a guide 50, the guide being omitted, but being addable if desired.

Secured to the supporting base 53 and extending upwardly therefrom in underlying relation to the central part of the sheet support plate 92 is a support 94. The support 94 carries a horizontal shaft 95 on which there is mounted a pulley 96. Entrained over the pulley 95 is a drive belt 97 which serves to drive the pulley 96 in timed relation to the operation of the conveyor 8. Carried by the shaft 95 and driven by the pulley 96 is an eccentric 98 which includes a follower 99 having a support rod 100 extending upwardly therefrom. The support rod 106 is in turn pivotally connected by means of a transverse pivot pin 101 to a supporting frame 102. The supporting frame 102 is suitably guided by the frame 91 for vertical movement only. The support frame 102 carries a plurality of permanent magnets 103 which normally underlie the sheet support plate 92 and serve to attract coated sheets sliding along the sheet support plate 92. Once the horizontal movement of the coated sheet has been stopped by the magnetic attraction of the magnets 103 thereon, the action of the eccentric 98 is to lower the support frame 102 which in turn moves the magnets 103 downwardly away from the sheet support plate 92. The disposal of the magnets 103 remote from the coated sheet and the sheet support plate 92 will greatly diminish the magnetic attraction on the coated sheet and thus permit the wicket 9 to freely lift the coated sheet from the sheet support plate 92.

In FIGURES 10, 11 and 12 there is illustrated another form of brake mechanism which is referred to in general by the reference numeral 3.04. The brake mechanism 1E4 includes a triangular frame 105 which is secured to the channel frame member 24 and is disposed in the central forward part of the brake mechanism 10d. The frame 105 serves as a forward sheet support. The frame 105, as illustrated, does not carry a brake assembly. However, while no brake assembly has been illustrated, any desirable brake assembly may be used or the frame 105 may merely serve as a coated sheet support.

The brake mechanism 104- also includes a pair of side brake assemblies 1&6. Inasmuch as the side brake assemblies Th6 are identical, only one of the brake assemblies will be described in detail.

The individual brake assembly 106 includes a supporting frame 107 which is secured to the longitudinal frame member 25 adjacent it and the channel frame member 24. Overlying the frame 107 is a sheet support plate 108. The sheet support plate 108 is provided with a central cut-out 1G9. Mounted within the cut-out 109 is a sheet retarding mechanism 110.

The sheet retarding mechanism 110 includes a support 111 extending upwardly from the base member 53. Secured to the upper end of the support 111 is a horizontal track 112 in which there is mounted a carriage 113. The carriage 113 is mounted for guided sliding movement 9 transversely of the direction of movement of the coated sheet and is provided with a guide 114. As is best illustrated in FIGURE 12, the guide 114 includes a spacial coated sheet engaging insert 115.

Extending upwardly from the outer part of the guideway 112 is a bearing member 116 in which there is rotatably journaled a drive shaft 117. The drive shaft 117 has mounted thereon a pitman wheel 118 to which there is connected a pitman rod 119. The opposite end of the pitman 119 is pivotally connected to the carriage 113 by means of a fitting 120.

It is to be understood that the shaft 117 of each of the brake assemblies 106 is to be driven from a suitable drive mechanism in timed relation to the conveyor 8. As the coated sheet passes on to the sheet support plates 108 and moves into engagement with the guides 114, the carriages 113 will be moved toward each other so that the guides 114 will clampingly engage the side edges of the coated sheet so as to retard the movement thereof. As soon as the horizontal movement of the coated sheet is discontinued, the guides 114 will move apart releasing the coated sheet so that it may be easily lifted by the wicket 9.

In FIGURES 13, l4, l and 16 there is illustrated another form of central brake assembly which is referred to in general by the reference numeral 121. The brake assembly 121 is secured to the frame of the sheet feeder 6 including the channel frame member 24 and includes a frame referred to by the reference numeral 122. The frame 122 includes a pair of longitudinal frame members 123 which are secured by means of spacers 124 to the underside of the channel frame member 24. The rear ends of the frame member 123 are connected together by means of a transverse frame member 125 which in turn has connected thereto a rear vertical frame member 126. A supporting bracket 127 is carried by the upper end of the vertical frame member 126. Secured to the channel frame member 24 and the supporting bracket 127 is a sheet support plate 128 which is generally triangular in outline and which constitutes a continuation of the plate 21.

Mounted on the frame members 123 is a pair of transversely aligned bearing blocks 129 in which there is journaled for rotation a shaft 130. Mounted on the shaft 130 is a drive sprocket 131 over which there is entrained a drive chain 132. The drive chain 132 will be connected to a suitable drive mechanism which is driven in timed relation to the operation of the sheet feeder 6 and the conveyor 3. At this time it is pointed out that any suitable type of drive may be used, the drive varying with the particular conditions and the equipment available.

Generally aligned with the bearing blocks 129 is a pair of guides 133 in the form of bolts having reduced externally threaded upper ends 134 which are threadedly engaged into internally threaded bores 135 formed in the plate 123. The guides 133 depend from the plate 128 and terminate in heads 136. Slidably mounted on the guides 133 are sleeves 137 carried by a mounting plate 138, the sleeves 137 being in the form of bushings received in other sleeves 139 rigidly secured to the plate 138 in depending relation. The plate 138 is normally urged downwardly by means of springs 140 carried by the guides 133 and extending between the underside of the plate 128 and the upper ends of the sleeves 137.

Secured to the upper surface of the plate 138 is a plurality of suction units 141. Each suction unit 141 includes a base block 142 which is rigidly secured to the plate 138. The base block 142 has extending therethrough a bore 143 the upper part of which is internally threaded as at 144. A screw-type air nozzle 145 is threadedly engaged in the bore 143 and serves to clamp in place a sheet engaging ring 146 which is preferably formed of rubber or a rubber-like material so that the desired seal between the ring 146 and a coated sheet may be obtained. The ring 146 fits in a support member 147 overlying the base 10 142. The air nozzle has a bore 148 therethrough communicating with the bore 143.

As is best shown in FIGURE 13, the suction units 141 are arranged in two rows. Underlying each row of suction units 141 is a manifold 149 which has openings there in aligned with openings 150 in the plate 138, which openings 150 are in turn aligned with the bores 143. Connected to the forward ends of the manifolds 149 are air hoses 151 which are, in turn, connected to a control valve 152. As is best shown in FIGURE 14, the control valve 152 is mounted on the channel frame member 24. The control valve 152 will have connected thereto a vacuum line (not shown).

The valve 152 includes an actuator 153 of the type which is operated by means of a lever 154. The lever 154 is disposed in depending relation and has the lower end thereof engaged by a spring assembly 155 which normally v urges the lever 154 to a valve closing position. The lever 154 carries a roller-type follower 156 the purpose of which will be described in more detail hereinafter.

Referring once again to FIGURE 16 in particular, it will be seen that there are keyed onto the shaft 130 a pair of

disks

157 and 158. Adjustably carried by the disk 157 is a cam 159. A somewhat similar, but differently formed earn 160 is carried by the disk 158. The cams 1591 and 1613 are adjustably mounted on their

respective disks

157 and 158 by means of bolts 16-1 which pass through slots 162 in the

disks

157 and 158, as is best shown in FIGURE 14.

The earn 159 is aligned with a roller-type follower 163 carried by a transverse pin 164 supported by a pair of depending ears 165 on the underside of the plate 138. The cam 159 is provided with a lobe 166 which, when it engages the follower 163 will elevate the plate 138. At this time it is pointed out that the suction units 141 are aligned with openings 167 in the plate 128. Normally the ring 146 is disposed either flush with or below the surface of the plate 128. As a coated sheet passes on to the sheet support plate 128 and at such time as the leading edge thereof clears the rearmost one of the suction units 141, the cam lobe 16 6 will engage the follower 163 and elevate the suction units 141 so that the rings 146 thereof will move into sealed engagement with the underside of the coated sheet thereby providing the desired suction on the coated sheet to decelerate the coated sheet.

At approximately the same time as the vacuum units 141 are elevated, a lobe 16 3 of the earn 160 will engage the follower 156 and serve to open the valve 152. This will apply a suction to the suction units 141 at the desired time. As soon as the coated sheet stops in a position for engagement by the wicket E the valve 152 will again move to its closed position and the suction units 141 will be retracted so as to release the coated sheet. Incidentally, by not elevating the suction units 141 until after the coated sheet is in overlying relation thereto, damaging of the sealing rings 146 is prevented.

In FIGURES 17 and 18 there is discloseda side brake assembly which is referred to in general by the reference numeral 169. The side brake assembly 169 operates on the same principle as the brake assembly 121 and includes a suitable supporting frame 171) on which there is mounted a sheet support plate 171. The sheet support plate 171 has associated therewith a plurality of suction units 172 which correspond to the suction units 141. The suction units 172 are supported by means of a generally triangular support plate 173 which corresponds to the support plate 138. The suction units 172 are connected together by means of a manifold 174 which is, in turn, connected to a control valve 175 by means of a suction line 176. The control valve 175 corresponds to the control valve 152. Carried by the frame is an actuating mechanism 177 which will serve to elevate the suction units 172 in the proper timed sequence and at the same time open the control valve 175. Inasmuch as the structural details of the operating components of the acerzaee l1 brake assembly 169 are identical to those of the brake assembly 121, further description is believed to be unnecessary.

In FIGURES 19 through 23 there is illustrated another form of central brake assembly which is referred to in general by the reference numeral 173. The brake assembly 178 is carried by the channel frame member 24 and includes a frame 179. The frame 179 is substantially identical to the frame 122 and includes a pair of longitudinal frame members 180 which are connected at their forward ends by means of a spacer 181 to the underside of the channel frame member 24. The rear ends of the frame members 180 are connected together by a transverse frame member 182 to which there is secured a vertical frame member 183. The upper end of the vertical frame member 133 is provided with a bracket 184 which, in conjunction with the channel frame member 24 forms a support for a sheet support plate 185. The sheet support plate 185 is a continuation of the plate 21.

As is best shown in FIGURE 21, the plate 185 is provided with a pair of transversely aligned internally threaded inserts 186. Threadedly engaged in the inserts 186' are guide members 187 in the form of bolts having lower heads 188. Mounted on the guide members 138 for vertical movement is a support plate 189. The support plate 189 has secured thereto in depending relation sleeves 194) which carry bushings 191. The bushing 191 of each sleeve 190 are aligned and receives its respective guide 187.

Carried by the plate 189 adjacent opposite side edges thereof are permanent magnet assemblies 192. Each magnet assembly 192 includes a support 193 which is held in place by means of two diagonally oppositely disposed bolts 194, the bolts 194 passing through the support 193 and being threadedly engaged in internally threaded inserts secured to the plate 189, the inserts being referred to by the reference numeral 195. Passing through the opposite corners of the support 193 are positioning studs 1%. The studs 196 bear against the upper surface of the plate 189 and are threadedly engaged in the support 193. Each of the studs 196 is provided with a lock-nut 197. Seated in each of the supports 193 is a permanent magnet 198.

As is best shown in FIGURES 22 and 23, the plate 185 is provided with an opening 199 for each of the magnet assemblies 192. Normally the magnets 198 are disposed flush with the upper surface of the plate 185. The magnets 198 are held in this position by a support assembly which is best illustrated in FIGURE 21 and is referred to in general by the reference numeral 2%.

The support assembly 290, as shown in FIGURE 21, includes a pair of bearing blocks 291 which are transversely aligned and which have extending therethrough a shaft 292. The shaft 202 has mounted at one end thereof a drive sprocket 263 over which there is entrained a suitable drive chain 204 (FIGURE which will be connected to a suitable drive unit so as to drive the shaft 292 in timed relation to the operation of the sheet feeder 6 and the conveyor 8.

Keyed on the shaft 202 intermediate the bearing blocks 201 is a disk 265 which had adjustably mounted thereon a cam 206. The cam 206 engages a roller-type follower 267 which is carried by a suitable support bracket 268 depending from the plate 189. Springs 299 mounted around guides 187 urge the follower 207 into engagement with the cam 206, thus the plate 189 is supported at all times by the cam 296.

In the operation of the brake assembly 178, as the coated sheet passes on to the plate 185, it is attracted by the magnets 198 and decelerated. After the coated sheet has stopped, and is about to be engaged by one of the wickets 9, the plate 189 will be lowered so as to retract the magnets 198. This will diminish the magnetic attraction on the coated sheet and permit the wicket 9'to lift the coated sheet off of th of effort.

In FIGURES 24, 25 and 26, there is illustrated another form of side brake assembly which is referred to in general by the reference numeral 216. The brake assembly 210 is a companion brake assembly to the brake assembly 178 and is intended to be used in conjunction therewith. However, it is to be understood that it may be used in conjunction with other types of brake assemblies, the side brake assemblies being used interchangeably with others of the central brake assemblies.

The brake assembly 210 includes a supporting frame 211 which suitably supports a generally rectangular plate 212. The plate 212, as is best illustrated in

URES

24 and 26, has secured thereto in overlying relation an elongated inner strip 213, an intermediate strip 214 and an outer strip 215, the outer strip 215 having connected thereto a vertical guide 216. The guide 216 is intended to engage the side edge of a coated sheet to align it with the brake assembly 210. The

strips

213, 214 and 215 are transversely spaced and have downwardly and forwardly curved leading ends, as is best shown in FIGURE 25. The strip 215 and its guide 216 are adjustably secured to the plate 212 by means of brackets 217 which are adjustably secured in place by means of bolts 218.

The plate 212 and overlying portions of the strip 213 are provided with openings 219 through which magnet assemblies 220 pass. The magnet assemblies 220 are identical to the magnet assemblies 192 and need not be described in more detail.

The magnet assemblies 220 are mounted on a plate 221 which corresponds to the plate 189. The plate 221 is supported for guided vertical movements on the plate 212 in the same manner as is the plate 189. This support includes a pair of vertical guides 222 which are disposed in sleeves 223 secured to the underside of the plate 221 in depending relation. Also secured to the underside of the plate 221 in depending relation is a bracket 224 which carries a roller-type follower 225.

Mounted on the frame 211 are bearing blocks 226 carrying a shaft 227 which, in turn, has secured thereto a drive sprocket 228 over which there is entrained a drive chain 229. The drive chain 229 will be driven in timed relation to the operation of the sheet feeder 6' and the conveyor 3. i

Keyed on the shaft 227 is a cam 230 which underlies the follower 225 and which, together with the follower 225, serves to support the plate 221.

it is to be understood that the magnet assemblies 220 will normally project up into the strip 213 and be substantially flush with the upper surface of the strip 213. The magnet assemblies 220 will then serve to decelerate a coated sheet passing on to the brake assembly 210. After the coated sheet has been stopped, the magnet assemblies 220 are lowered so as to reduce the magnetic attraction on the coated sheet in order that one of the wickets 9 may readily remove the coated sheet from the brake assemblies 220.

As Was previously stated, any desired combination of the various brake assemblies may be utilized. However, generally the side brake assemblies will be identical with each other although they may be of entirely different construction from the central brake assembly. Also, as pointed out above, either the side brake assembly or the central brake assembly may be eliminated although for practical purposes each brake mechanism will include a central brake assembly and two side brake assemblies.

While numerous examples of construction and arrangement of the novel features of the invention are disclosed herein, it is to be understood that these features can be further variously modified without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

13 I claim: I 1. In a mechanism for coating metal sheets of the type including a coating machine and an oven, a sheet feeding mechanism for feeding sheets between said coating machine and said oven, said sheet feeding mechanism comprising a first conveyor for feeding sheets from said coating machine in a horizontal path, a second conveyor for receiving sheets from said first conveyor and feeding the sheets through the oven in generally upstanding positions, and a brake mechanism disposed intermediate said first conveyor and said second conveyor for receiving sheets from said first conveyor, stopping the horizontal movement of the sheets and then releasing the sheets for movement by said second conveyor, said brake mechanism including a generally horizontal sheet support, individual brake elements of the sheet attractive type carried by said sheet support in a sheet attracting position, and means for increasing the spacing between said brake elements and an overlying sheet to render said brake elements ineffective in timed relation to the operation of said second conveyor.

2. In a mechanism for coating metal sheets of the type including a coating machine and an oven, a sheet feeding mechanism for feeding sheets between said coating machine and said oven, said sheet feeding mechanism comprising a first conveyor for feeding sheets from said coating machine in a horizontal path, a second conveyor for receiving sheets from said first conveyor and feeding the sheets through the oven in generally upstanding positions, and a brake mechanism disposed intermediate said first conveyor and said second conveyor for receiving sheets from said first conveyor, stopping the horizontal movement of the sheets and then releasing the sheets for movement by said conveyor, said brake mechanism including a generally horizontal sheet support, individual brake elements of the sheet attractive type carried by said sheet support in a sheet attracting position, said sheet support including at least one sheet supporting plate, guide means mounting said supporting plate for upward movement away from associated ones of said brake elements, and means connected to said supporting plate for elevating said supporting plate in timed relation to the'operation of said second conveyor whereby a sheet is released from said brake elements at the time of engagement by said second conveyor.

3. In a mechanism for coating metal sheets of the type including a coating machine and an oven, a sheet feeding mechanism for feeding sheets between said coating machine and said oven, said sheet feeding mechanism comprising a first conveyor for feeding sheets from said coating machine in a horizontal path, a second conveyor for receiving sheets from said first conveyor and feeding the sheets through the oven in generally upstanding positions, and a brake mechanism disposed intermediate said first conveyor and said second conveyor for receiving sheets from said first conveyor, stopping the horizontal movement of the sheets and then releasing the sheets for movement by said conveyor, said brake mechanism including a generally horizontal sheet support, individual brake elements of the sheet attractive type carried by said sheet support in a sheet attracting position, a plurality of upwardly directed nozzles opening through said sheet support adjacent said brake elements, and means for supplying compressed air to said nozzles in timed relation to the operation of said second conveyor for overcoming the force of said brake elements on a sheet.

4. in a mechanism for coating metal sheets of the type including a coating machine and an oven, a sheet feeding mechanism for feeding sheets between said coating machine and said oven, said sheet feeding mechanism comprising a'first conveyor for feeding sheets from said coating machine in a horizontal path, a second conveyor for receiving sheets from said first conveyor and feeding the sheets through the oven in generally upstanding positions, and a brake mechanism disposed intermediate said first conveyor and said second conveyor for receiving sheets from said first conveyor, stopping the horizontal movement of the sheets and then releasing the sheets for movement by said second conveyor, said brake mechanism including a generally horizontal sheet support, a support unit underlying said sheet support, a plurality of individual brake elements of the sheet attractive type carried by said support unit, openings in said sheet support receiving said brake elements, control means connected to said brake elements for first rendering said brake elements operative in timed relation to the feeding of sheets onto said sheet support and then rendering said brake elements ineffective in timed relation to the operation of said second conveyor.

5. In a mechanism for coating metal sheets of the type including a coating machine and an oven, a sheet feeding mechanism for feeding sheets between said coating machine and said oven, said sheet feeding mechanism comprising a first conveyor for feeding sheets from said c0ating machine in a horizontal path, a second conveyor for receiving sheets from said first conveyor and feeding the sheets through the oven in generally upstanding positions, and a brake mechanism disposed intermediate said first conveyor and said second conveyor for receiving sheets from said first conveyor, stopping the horizontal movement of the sheets and then releasing the sheets for move ment by said second conveyor, said brake mechanism including a generally horizontal sheet support, a support unit underlying said sheet support, a plurality of individual brake elements of the sheet attractive type carried by said support unit, openings in said sheet support receiving said brake elements, control means connected to said brake elements for first rendering said brake elements operative in timed relation to the feeding of sheets onto said sheet support and then rendering said brake elements ineffective in timed relation to the operation of said second conveyor, and other control means connected to said support unit for lowering said support unit and said brake elements in timed relation to the operation of said second conveyor.

6. In a mechanism for coating metal sheets of the type including a coating machine and an oven, a sheet feeding mechanism for feeding sheets between said coating machine and said oven, said sheet feeding mechanism comprising a first conveyor for feeding sheets from said coating machine in a horizontal path, a second conveyor for receiving sheets from said first conveyor and feeding the sheets through the oven in generally upstanding positions, and a brake mechanism disposed intermediate said first conveyor and said second conveyor for receiving sheets from said first conveyor, stopping the horizontal movement of the sheets and then releasing the sheets for movement by said second conveyor, said brake mechanism including a generally horizontal sheet support, a support unit underlying said sheet support, a plurality of individual brake elements of the sheet attractive type carried by said support unit, openings in said sheet support receiving said brake elements, said brake elements being in the form of vacuum cups, a vacuum line connected to said vacuum cups, a valve mounted in said vacuum line, control means connected to said valve for operating said valve to apply a vacuum to said vacuum cups in timed relation to the feeding of sheets onto said sheet support and then venting said vacuum cups to release the sheet in timed relation to the operation of said second conveyor.

7. In a mechanism for coating metal sheets of the type including a coating machine and an oven, a sheet feeding mechanism for feeding sheets between said coating machine and said oven, said sheet feeding mechanism comprising a first conveyor for feeding sheets from said coating machine in a horizontal path, a second conveyor for receiving sheets from said first conveyor and feeding the sheets through the oven in generally upstanding positions, and a brake mechanism disposed intermediate said first conveyor and said second conveyor for receiving sheets from said first conveyor, stopping the horizontal move-,

ment of the shee and then releasing the sheets for movement by said second conveyor, said brake mechanism in cluding a generally horizontal sheet support, a support unit underlying said sheet support, a plurality of individual brake elements of the sheet attractive type carried by said support unit, openings in said sheet support receiving said brake elements, said brake elements being in the form of vacuum cups, a vacuum line connected to said vacuum cups, a valve mounted in said vacuum line, control means connected to said valve for operating said valve to apply a vacuum to said vacuum cups in timed relation to the feeding of sheets onto said sheet support and then venting said vacuum cups to release the sheet in timed relation to the operation of said second conveyor, and other control means connected to said support unit for lowering said support unit and said brake eiements in timed relation to the operation of said second conveyor.

8. In a mechanism for coating metal sheets of the type including a coating machine and an even, a sheet feeding echanism for feeding sheets between said coating machine and said oven, said sheet feeding mechanism comprising a first conveyor for feeding sheets from said coating machine in a horizontal path, a second conveyor for receiving sheets from said first conveyor and feeding the sheets through the oven in generally upstanding positions, and a brake mechanism disposed intermediate said first conveyor and said second conveyor for receiving sheets from said first conveyor, stopping the horizontal movement of the sheets and then releasing the sheets for movement by said second conveyor, said brake mechanism including a generally horizontal sheet support, individual brake elements in the form of magnets seated in said sheet support in sheet attracting positions, and means for increasing the spacing between said brake elements and an overlying sheet to render said brake elements ineffective in timed relation to the operation of said second conveyor.

9. In a mechanism for coating metal sheets of the type including a coating machine and an oven, a sheet feeding mechanism for feeding sheets between said coating machine and said oven, said sheet feeding mechanism comprising a first conveyor for feeding sheets from said coating machine in a horizontal path, a second conveyor for receiving sheets from said first conveyor and feeding the sheets through the oven in generally upstanding positions, and a brake mechanism disposed intermediate said first conveyor and said second conveyor for receiving sheets from said first conveyor, stopping the horizontal movement of the sheets and then releasing the sheets for movement by said second conveyor, said brake mechanism including a generally horizontal sheet support, individual brake elements in the form of magnets seated in said sheet support in sheet attracting positions, said sheet support including at least one sheet supporting plate, guide means mounting said supporting plate for upward movement away from associated ones of said brake elements, and means connected to said supporting plate for elevating said supporting plate in timed relation to the operation of said second conveyor whereby a sheet is released from said brake elements at the time of engagement by said second conveyor,

10. in a mechanism for coating metals sheets of the type including a coating machine and an oven, a sheet feeding mechanism for feeding sheets between said coating machine and said oven, said sheet feeding mechanism comprising a first conveyor for feeding sheets from said coating machine in a horizontal path, a second conveyor for receiving sheets from said first conveyor and feeding the sheets through the oven in generally upstanding positions, and a brake mechanism disposed intermediate said first conveyor and said second conveyor for receiving sheets from said first conveyor, stopping the horizontal movement of the sheets and then releasing the sheets for movement by said second conveyor, said brake mechanism including a generally horizontal sheet support, individual brake elements in the form of magnets seated in said sheet support in sheet attracting positions, a plurality of upwardly directed nozzles opening through said sheet support adjacent said brake elements, and means for supplying compressed air to said nozzles in timed relation to the operation of said second conveyor for overcoming the force of said brake elements on a sheet.

11. In a mechanism for coating metal sheets of the type including a coating machine and an oven, a sheet feeding mechanism for feeding sheets between said coating machine and said oven, said sheet feeding mechanism comprising a first conveyor for feeding sheets from said coating machine in a horizontal path, a second conveyor for receiving sheets from said first conveyor and feeding the sheets through the oven in generally upstanding positions, and a brake mechanism disposed intermediate said first conveyor and said second conveyor for receiving sheets from said first conveyor, stopping the horizontal movement of the sheets and then releasing the sheets for movement by said second conveyor, said brake mechanism including a generally horizontal sheet support, a support unit underlying said sheet support, a plurality of individual brake elements in the form of magnets carried by said support unit, means connected to said support unit for supporting and lowering said support unit and said brake elements in timed relation to the operation of said second conveyor.

References Cited in the file of this patent UNITED STATES PATENTS 1,150,302 Perkins et al Aug. 17, 1915 1,448,065 Harrich Mar. 13, 1923 1,810,859 Thurmer June 16, 1931 1,853,478 Vincent Apr. 12, 1932 2,186,566 Albright Jan. 9, 1940 2,568,073 Koppel Sept. 18, 1951 2,576,218 Fox Nov. 27, 1951 2,767,823 Beamish Oct. 23, 1956 2,821,286 Russell Jan. 28, 1958 2,880,846 Schone Apr. 7, 1959 FOREIGN PATENTS 122,142 Australia Sept. 12, 1946