Method for separating at least two bridges of a segmented transport system for printing materials, apparatus for implementing the method and machine for processing printing materials

A method for separating at least two bridges of a segmented transport system for printing materials, the method comprising the following steps:

• providing the transport system with a segmented electric linear drive;
• providing the electric linear drive with a first and a second primary part, each primary part being constructed as a segmented long-stator;
• providing the electric linear drive with a plurality of secondary parts constructed as carriages, coupling a respective secondary part assigned to the first primary part and a respective secondary part assigned to the second primary part with a respective crossmember to form a respective movable bridge of the transport system;
• jointly moving first and second bridges located in the same segment of the transport system under open-loop control;
• and
• individually moving the first bridge, reaching into a further segment as a result of the jointly open-loop controlled movement, under closed-loop control for separating the first bridge from the second bridge to locate the first and second bridges in different segments during a further movement.