Abstract: A duplex sheet printer comprising a first and second sheet quality detection device for determining a suitability of a sheet for printing. The first sheet quality detection device applies a first sheet rejection threshold to which sensed sheets are compared, while the second sheet quality detection device applies a second sheet rejection threshold different from the first. The controller designates sheets in the printing system to be sensed by one of the sheet quality detection devices in accordance with the sheet's media type or the sheet being on a simplex or duplex pass. Different rejection criteria are thus applied to the sheets without adjustment of a sheet quality detection device, resulting in high speed printing.

Abstract: Methods for forming a stock roll including a folded film within another folded film include combining the films and winding them into the stock roll. In particular, one or more implementations of a method of forming a stock roll involve combining films on an extrusion tower. Thus, implementations of the present invention can greatly reduce costs and space requirements, while allowing a single stock roll to feed a bag-making machine in order to produce bag-in-bag structures. One or more implementations further include stock rolls including a first folded film within another folded film.

Abstract: A method of forming a container from a blank of sheet material using a machine is provided. The blank includes a bottom panel, two side panels, two end panels, and a reinforcing panel assembly extending from a first side panel. The machine includes a hopper station, a corner post forming station, and a plunger station. The method includes rotating the reinforcing panel assembly upwardly toward the first side panel as the blank is transported from the hopper station to the corner post forming station, forming a corner wall and a reinforcing end tab by folding reinforcing panels about fold lines as the blank is transported through the corner post forming station, rotating the side panels and the end panels to be substantially perpendicular to the bottom panel by directing the blank through the plunger station, and coupling the reinforcing end tab to an end panel to form the container.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a sealing system for sealing together at least a pair of flexible pouch material layers. The sealing station can have a first sealing bar, a second sealing bar and a drive system that is in contact with the first sealing bar. The drive system is operable to move the first sealing bar between an open position and a closed position such that the first sealing bar can apply a predefined pressure on the flexible pouch material layers when positioned or located between the sealing bars. A pressure sensor is also included and in communication with the drive system, the pressure sensor operable to detect if the drive system applies less or too much pressure than the predefined pressure on the flexible pouch material layers located between the first and second sealing bars.

Abstract: An inclined position of a product, leaving a nip between two folding rollers of a longitudinal folding machine, is corrected. The product is pressed into the nip between the rollers by a folding blade that can be moved up and down relative to a folding table. The product thus leaves the nip between the rollers and is transported in a direction of transport. The time of passage of a leading or a trailing edge of a product is detected at two measurement points which are spaced apart from each other and which are arranged transversely to the direction of transport of the product to be folded. Based on the times of passage that are detected by the two measurement points, and on commutation and/or data processing techniques, a deviation between a time offset detected during the passage of the corresponding product edge at the two measurement points, and a nominal time offset, is determined and analyzed.

Abstract: A folder gluer for conveying a cardboard sheet and folding up the cardboard sheet from a deployed state thereof is disclosed. The folder gluer comprises two flat belts including a first belt and a second belt arranged in parallel for conveying a cardboard sheet, two pulleys provided at a starting part or a terminal part in a conveying direction of the folder gluer for respectively driving the first and second flat belts by friction forces, two motors for respectively driving the pulley for the first belt and the pulley for the second belt, a sensor device for respectively detecting the speeds of the first belt and the second belt, and a control device for controlling at least one of the two motors such that a difference in the speeds of the first belt and the second belt detected by the sensor device becomes zero.

Abstract: An item handling system includes a vacuum source, a transport element defining a plurality of vacuum openings in fluid communication with the vacuum source to create a securing force on an item proximate to the transport element for holding the item in contact with the transport element, and a drive element for driving the transport element to transport the item. The transport element further defines a plurality of sensor openings arranged in two substantially parallel arrays along a longitudinal direction of the transport element. The system further includes a sensor associated with each array of sensor openings for sensing energy passing through the sensor openings to thereby sense the item on the transport element. Each sensor is disposed at a common longitudinal position relative to the transport element. Sensing the item corresponds to a condition where the sensor associated with each array is blocked.

Abstract: A device for processing sheets, rolls or the like, preferably sheets or rolls of corrugated paper, into useful articles. More specifically, the invention relates to a paper wrapping device that can convert a sheet or strip of paper into a useful article comprising a plurality of wrapped paper layers, suitable for use as a support member or a pallet stringer. Also the invention provides a device that contains a conveying unit which transfers a material, such as paper, to a forming unit which produces a core layer and further wraps additional layers in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction around said core in one or more layers to form a support member having a solid wrap of continuous layers.

Abstract: A device for processing sheets, rolls or the like, preferably sheets or rolls of corrugated paper, into useful articles. More specifically, the invention relates to a paper wrapping device that can convert a sheet or strip of paper into a useful article comprising a plurality of wrapped paper layers, suitable for use as a support member or a pallet stringer. Also the invention provides a device that contains a conveying unit which transfers a material, such as paper, to a forming unit which produces a core layer and further wraps additional layers in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction around said core in one or more layers to form a support member having a solid wrap of continuous layers.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for making bags is disclosed. It includes receiving a film and imparting a plurality of successive seals to the film to form bags. The location of the imparted seals is determined by monitoring at least two sensors. A plurality of perforations are imparted to the film at locations relative to a corresponding seal in response to the determination. The position of a perforator such as rotary position, of a knife may be controlled in response to determining the location. The seals may be formed by a rotary drum, and the perforation by a rotary knife. The sensors may be at the same or different cross machine direction and/or machine direction locations. Startup may include adjusting and recording the position of a prior perforation relative to a prior corresponding seal, and using that recording as a base relative location in another embodiment.

Abstract: A device for holding lateral tabs of box blanks filing along a conveyor particularly in a folder-gluer. At least one rotary support is actuated in synchronicity with the passage of said blanks the activation being via a drive member arranged on an adjustable bearing structure. At least one sensor detects the blanks. The sensor is connected to an electronic control unit that commands the drive member which is rendered autonomous.

Abstract: Disclosed is a card game wherein payouts are based on a maximum number of matching suits in a player's hand. Players have the option to choose the size of their hand at the outset of the game. In one live version, once players select their hand size and place their wagers, dealers deal each player two cards. Additional cards are dealt as common cards. Alternatively, players may be dealt all cards directly. Players are paid based on one of multiple pay tables depending on the maximum number of cards which have identical suits in their hand. The greater the number of identical suits in the hand, the greater the payout. Jackpots, including progressive jackpots, based on poker rankings may also be implemented. In a second live version, players may place six wagers on hands having from two to five cards. In this version, players receive four cards which may be used in combination with a single common card. Electronic gaming devices may also facilitate video versions of the game.

Abstract: Systems and methods for providing alarming indications and troubleshooting indications and actions in connection with a web converting manufacturing process such as that used for manufacturing disposable absorbent garments. Some of the disclosed embodiments include relating inspection data, such as product (or process) attribute data, to data from other manufacturing-related systems. Also disclosed are systems and methods for linking product (or process) attribute data obtained during the manufacturing process with one or more data sources including raw material data, process setting data, product quality data, and/or productivity data. Also disclosed are systems and methods for identifying manufacturing set point changes and automatically implementing such changes and automated web steering changes based on data from one or more inspection systems.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for positioning webs of film of a packaging device, according to which goods are introduced into a first web of film in troughs, a second web of film is withdrawn from a supply of web against the resistance of a brake and is placed on the first web of film and interlinked with the same, the advance of the second web downstream of the supply of web being detected by a first optical recognition means. In order to exactly position the two films one on the other, a second recognition means is provided that detects any dimensional errors, thereby changing the position of the first recognition means relative to the direction of conveyance of the second web of film.

Abstract: Form-fill-seal machine includes parts for moving a web of packaging material through the machine according to a process path and parts for transforming the web into filled bags, as well as a zipper strip applicator device for supplying a zipper strip for each bag transverse to the process path, by use of a first and a second conveyor, which in the supply direction of the zipper strip are placed one behind the other and are both provided with parts for retaining the zipper strip during supply, a blade being placed between the first and the second conveyor for cutting the zipper strip and the first and the second conveyor being provided with their own first and second drive.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and a device for analyzing the accuracy of a fold (3) which is produced via a folding apparatus for printed products. In the process, with the printed products (1) being shingled, sensors (4) detect the position of the fold with respect to markings (5) which are printed onto the printed product, the folding accuracy and other quantities connected therewith being determined therefrom with the aid of computers.

Abstract: A device for controlling at least one cut in an inner liner for a group of cigarettes in a cigarette packaging machine comprises at least one optical detector consisting of a light source and a sensor.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for positioning webs of film of a packaging device, according to which goods are introduced into a first web of film in troughs, a second web of film is withdrawn from a supply of web against the resistance of a brake and is placed on the first web of film and interlinked with the same, the advance of the second web downstream of the supply of web being detected by a first optical recognition means. In order to exactly position the two films one on the other, a second recognition means is provided that detects any dimensional errors, thereby changing the position of the first recognition means relative to the direction of conveyance of the second web of film.

Abstract: An outsert-forming apparatus and method that forms outserts and booklets having printed product information thereon. The apparatus may comprise a first folding unit that forms a first folded article from a sheet of paper having printed information thereon, a second folding unit that forms a second folded article from the first folded article, a first detector positioned to detect the second folded article, an adhesive applicator positioned to apply adhesive to the second folded article, a second detector positioned to detect the adhesive applied to the second folded article, and a controller operatively coupled to the first detector, the second detector and the adhesive applicator.

Abstract: Method and device for measuring a folding angle of a sheet (6,25,26) in a folding machine, whereby a number of distances are measured in a plane (28) that crosses the sheet (6,25,26) and the element (4,24,7), whereby a distance profile (19) of the measured distances is determined, and whereby the folding angle (A) of the sheet (6,25,26) is determined as a function of the angle (B,B1,B2) between the sheet (6,25,26) and the element (4,24,7).

Abstract: Wrapping material (2) supplied to a packaging machine is caused to advance along a predetermined feed path (3) through a first checking station (27a) where an emitter device (29) charges at least one predetermined portion (30, 34) of the wrapping material (2) electrostatically, and a second checking station (27b) where a sensor (31) detects the presence of the electrostatic charges applied previously to the predetermined portion (30, 34) of the material (2). The sensor (31) is positioned along the feed path (3) downstream of and at a predetermined distance from the emitter device (29).

Abstract: A system for providing a shipping label and a packing list on a container is provided which enables rapid and automated sequential application of a packing list and a shipping label to the container. The shipping label is configured complemental to the packing list whereby the packing list may first be adhered directly to the container and then the shipping label may be placed thereover. The shipping label may be applied over the packing list while the container moves continuously down a conveyor. The invention further includes an apparatus for sequentially applying the packing list and then the shipping label, and a method for applying the packing list and shipping label in registry.

Abstract: A buckle folding unit with a folding pocket having an adjustable pocket stop, includes a first detector for detecting a first instant as a sheet travels from an inlet to the buckle folding unit until it reaches the pocket stop, a second detector for detecting a second instant as the sheet travels from a formation of a fold as far as an outlet from the folding pocket, and a device for determining a length of the sheet conveyed between the first and the second instants; a method for controlling the register of the buckle folding unit; and a folding machine having at least one buckle folding unit constructed with at least one of the foregoing features.

Abstract: An apparatus adapted to be used for the automatic handling of sheets from which leaflets are formed and which includes a transfer unit for conveying sheets, an accumulator station disposed adjacent the transfer unit and being adapted to receive sheets from the transfer unit and to accumulate the sheets in a stack, a sensor associated with the accumulator station and being adapted to generate a signal indicative of whether the height of the stack of sheets in the accumulator station is at least equal to a minimum height, a sheet feeder adapted to periodically remove sheets from the stack of sheets at a substantially constant rate and a control mechanism operatively coupled to the sensor and the sheet feeder.

Abstract: A plastic bag making machine which includes a web sensor, a push station, a sealing and cutting station, and a wicketer and stacking station has its punch apparatus is carried on a punch carriage movable in a direction transverse to the web feed direction and its conveyor carrier on a conveyor carriage movable in such transverse direction.

Abstract: A system for providing a shipping label and a packing list on a container is provided which enables rapid and automated sequential application of a packing list and a shipping label to the container. The shipping label is configured complemental to the packing list whereby the packing list may first be adhered directly to the container and then the shipping label may be placed thereover. The shipping label may be applied over the packing list while the container moves continuously down a conveyor. The invention further includes an apparatus for sequentially applying the packing list and then the shipping label, and a method for applying the packing list and shipping label in registry.

Abstract: A plastic bag making machine which includes a web sensor, a punch station, a sealing and cutting station, and a wicketer and stacking station has its punch apparatus is carried on a punch carriage movable in a direction transverse to the web feed direction and its conveyor carried on a conveyor carriage movable in such transverse direction.

Abstract: In some process contexts it is desirable to maintain a constant strain on the web instead of constant tension. The novel system measures the caliper of the web material and adjusts the tension to achieve the desired constant strain. The caliper may be measured by monitoring the radius of the expiring web reel in connection with the angular position of the reel. The web caliper is input into a control scheme that includes an algorithm determining the appropriate tension to applied to the web in accordance with its caliper. The control scheme outputs a variable force command to a dynamic dancer which adjusts the web tension and thus sets the constant web strain. The variable force may be injected via an air cylinder, a hydraulic cylinder, a spring with a dynamic ground, or an electromagnetically driven actuator.

Abstract: A folder for processing a stream of printed signatures from a printing press and related method. The signatures have a desired path with a path edge and each signature has a lead and trail edge. The folder comprises a plurality of sensor sets, each sensor set for determining if the lead and/or trail edge of the signature deviates from the path edge by more than a certain tolerance.

Abstract: To align two webs, which are joined together to form a multilayered web and of which one web exhibits a certain elasticity, this web is held under a stress, which elongates elasticly said web. The tension is increased or decreased in conformity with the deviation of the scanned marks of the web from the desired values so that by suitable elongation or shortening the web is aligned with respect to the other.

Abstract: Devices used in making bags or otherwise carrying out operations on a web of material, such as a plastic web are repositioned based upon a measure of the repeat length of the intermittent advance of the web and comparison of the actual value of that advance with a setpoint value and in accordance with the product of the resulting error and the position of the device along the path of the web. The repositioning can use a positive coupling between a motor on the device and the path either via a rack and pinion for a spindle and nut.

Abstract: An apparatus for the processing and segmenting of a cover-forming laminate web or sheeting structure which is adapted to interconnect a plurality of containers, such as the base members of blister packages each of which is designed to contain a hydrophilic contact lens in a sterile aqueous solution. More specifically disclosed is an apparatus for the imprinting, perforating, slitting and cutting the laminated web structure such that the severed laminate segments constitute printed covering label for an array of such containers, and whereby the laminated web or sheeting segment may be severed along weakening or perforation lines so as to provide a separable packaging arrangement for individual of the containers which are subsequently adhered thereto.

Abstract: A bag-making apparatus is configured for automatic positioning of a plurality of attachments of the apparatus which are in operative association with a web of bag-making material. The adjustment apparatus is configured to effect conjoint translational movement of the plurality of attachments along an attachment bed of the apparatus thus providing highly accurate and automated positioning of the attachments attendant to changes in print repeat length of the web. In the illustrated embodiment, the adjustment mechanism includes a pivotably mounted lever arm which extends generally along the length of the attachment bed, with a system of gear racks operatively interconnected with the lever arm for effecting conjoint translational movement of the attachments. Automatic controls of the arrangement effect automated adjustment during dwell or stop periods of bag making, and also facilitate reconfiguration of the apparatus for making bags of differing print repeat lengths.

Abstract: An apparatus for the processing and segmenting of a cover-forming laminate web or sheeting structure which is adapted to interconnect a plurality of containers, such as the base members of blister packages each of which is designed to contain a hydrophilic contact lens in a sterile aqueous solution. More specifically disclosed is an apparatus for the imprinting, perforating, slitting and cutting the laminated web structure such that the severed laminate segments constitute printed covering label for an array of such containers, and whereby the laminated web or sheeting segment may be severed along weakening or perforation lines so as to provide a separable packaging arrangement for individual of the containers which are subsequently adhered thereto.

Abstract: A system and method for automatically producing folded and sealed printed products from form sheets includes a high-speed printer interconnected with a conveyor which directs form sheets from the outfeed of the printer to the infeed of a folder gluer. In an alternative embodiment for producing such products from a form web, the system and method includes a burster interconnected with a conveyor to separate the printed form web into form sheets. Means for controlling the system include jam detection means for sensing and stopping all system components in the event of a form jam. Means for communicating between the printer and conveyor align those elements without need for conventional hard wiring or mechanical fasteners. Means for communicating between the burster and conveyor includes a simple cable and cable connections.

Abstract: A machine for producing continuous form stationery by folding a strip of paper along transverse lines of weakening formed therealong. The machine includes a dispensing roller which directs a continuous strip of paper into a mechanism which distributes successive lines of weakening formed in the paper in substantially opposite directions and having additional mechanisms for creasing the distributed paper along the lines of weakening to produce continuous form stationery. The machine also includes a drive shaft which delivers motive power to the paper distribution mechanism and is synchronized with the dispensing roller, the motive power being transmitted to the drive shaft through a removable gear member having a selected outer diameter which varies with the fold length of paper directed into the distributing mechanism.

Abstract: In order for a laying machine for laying out a fabric web comprising a fabric web guide mechanism for drawing the fabric web off a fabric reel and laying it out as a fabric layer, including a fabric feed device for feeding the fabric web in accordance with the speed of the laying machine, and also comprising a tension relief control means, to be designed as simply as possible from a structural point of view, it is proposed that the fabric web loop be arranged between the fabric feed device and the laid-out fabric layer, that the fabric web loop be formed by a bend of free-falling fabric web piece in a direction extending transversely to the direction of fall, and that the sensing barrier detect a change in the length of the arc of the bend through displacement of the freely hanging bend.

Abstract: A machine for forming cardboard boxes of the double-plinth type provides for the supply to the machine of flat punched sheets, already partially glued, intended to constitute the bottom, the side walls and the hinged lid with a first attached plinth of the box, in parallel with the supply of auxiliary punched sheets for defining, after gluing to the bottom of the box, the second plinth of the box itself. The machine forms the box and automatically glues the auxiliary punched sheets to the box itself.

Abstract: Apparatus for receiving and forming a cut pile of sheets which are received in joined form from a processing station, and includes a dragging device to control the feed of the joined sheets, a guide to move the uncut sheets past a cutting mechanism in an accordian-like fashion, and a plate to receive the cut pile of sheets; and a temporary support and separator between the receiving plate and the guide to provide for the cutting of the sheet material in pre-fixed sheet lengths.

Abstract: A continuous filter rod wherein dissimilar filter rod sections alternate with each other is monitored by a photosensitive detector which detects changes in the degree to which different sections absorb and/or reflect radiation. A pulse generator transmits signals for each unit length of the rod and such signals are multiplied and transmitted to several counters one of which ascertains whether or not the number of signals between two successive changes of the intensity of radiation is too low (this denotes that the length of filter rod sections of a certain type is insufficient), another of which ascertains whether or not the number of signals between two successive changes of the intensity of radiation is excessive (this denotes that the length of filter rod sections of a certain type is excessive), and a third of which ascertains whether or not the cutoff severs the filter rod at desired locations, e.g., midway across successive filter rod sections of a given type.