Abstract: A method for producing packaging cushioning includes successively feeding sheets of a substrate at a first speed to a crumpling mechanism, crumpling the sheets at a second speed to convert the sheets into packaging cushion units, and controlling at least one of the first and second speeds to produce a desired degree of overlap between successive sheets, thereby generating a connected series of the packaging cushion units.

Abstract: A method for producing packaging cushioning includes successively feeding sheets of a substrate at a first speed to a crumpling mechanism, crumpling the sheets at a second speed to convert the sheets into packaging cushion units, and controlling at least one of the first and second speeds to produce a desired degree of overlap between successive sheets, thereby generating a connected series of the packaging cushion units.

Abstract: The present invention describes a blade assembly for use with side-sealing and lap-sealing machines, which are used to seal thermoplastic film. Briefly, the cutting element is oval in shape, and has its entire outer edge profiled. This provides four distinct cutting surfaces, depending on the mounting orientation of the cutting element in the machine. This cutting element is held against a heating block, and its temperature is continuously monitored by a temperature sensor. The sensor is spring-loaded to insure solid contact with the cutting element, and thus, accurate temperature measurements. This entire assembly is then encased in insulation. Additionally, the cutting element is mounted on an adjustable platform, which permits vertical adjustments relative to the film. Thus, the specific portion of the cutting element which actually engages the film can be adjusted to improve the cutting quality or further extend the useful life of the cutting element.

Abstract: The present invention describes a blade assembly for use with side-sealing and lap-sealing machines, which are used to seal thermoplastic film. Briefly, the cutting element is oval in shape, and has its entire outer edge profiled. This provides four distinct cutting surfaces, depending on the mounting orientation of the cutting element in the machine. This cutting element is held against a heating block, and its temperature is continuously monitored by a temperature sensor. The sensor is spring-loaded to insure solid contact with the cutting element, and thus, accurate temperature measurements. This entire assembly is then encased in insulation. Additionally, the cutting element is mounted on an adjustable platform, which permits vertical adjustments relative to the film. Thus, the specific portion of the cutting element which actually engages the film can be adjusted to improve the cutting quality or further extend the useful life of the cutting element.

Abstract: Apparatus for the automatic packaging of one or more articles. One or more modular infeed systems are provided, each adapted to feed product to a wrapping machine, and each preferably adapted to communicate with a wrapping machine to identify its configuration to the wrapping machine. In a preferred embodiment, each modular infeed includes a film roll unwind assembly, an integrated film folding head, a product conveyance mechanism and a closed-loop communications network.