Abstract

An apparatus is disclosed for storing and discharging rod-shaped workpieces of different lengths and types and for the automatic supply of, in particular, a cutting-off machine or a station for processing these workpieces under the control of a computer or the like, with at least one shelf system being provided that is equipped with shelf compartments. A hoist is provided for supplying the shelf system and for removing workpieces from the shelf system. The length of each incoming or outgoing workpiece is determined and the determined length value is appropriately stored in the computer. The length measurement is performed by a length measuring device for determining the distance of the front end faces of the workpieces from an abutment. The length measuring device includes a manually operated device that is operated with ultrasound, light or the like directed onto a wall in the region of the workpiece abutment. The manually operated device is equipped with an extension in the form of an abutment for placement against the front end face of the respective workpiece. The manually operated device is coupled with the computer by way of a data exchange device which provides information about the length and type of the workpiece. The length values of the workpieces determined by the manually held device are fed into the computer by actuation of a handle on the manually operated device.