Retractable device for flipping a workpiece, Particularly a mattress of other cushion structure

A method for flipping a workpiece on a work surface having an edge, comprising the steps of:

• raising a retracted arm out of the work surface to pivot the workpiece up and away from the edge;
• sliding the arm and the workpiece toward the edge;
• guiding the workpiece through a 180 degree rotation so that the workpiece is flipped, at least partially in place, back onto the work surface,
• providing sensor data to a computer control about the position of the workpiece;
• and
• halting operation of pneumatic drives if the workpiece travels a preset distance beyond a periphery of the work surface.

A material handling system mounted within a worktable having a work surface with an edge comprising:

• an arm having an initial position within the worktable below the work surface;
• a mechanical drive coupled to said arm for raising said arm to pivot the workpiece up and away from the edge and for subsequently sliding said arm and the workpiece toward the edge;
• a catcher plate for guiding the workpiece through a 180 degree rotation so that the workpiece is flipped, at least partially in place, back onto the work surface;
• a support arm for engaging a lower surface of the workpiece;
• a bracket arm for engaging a side surface of the workpiece farthest from the edge;
• and
• a microprocessor coupled to said mechanical drive for coordinating movements of said support arm and said bracket arm.