Plural Packages In Outer Cover Patents (Class 53/171)
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Patent number: 10613523Abstract: Methods for simultaneously producing different products on a single production line are disclosed. The method may be used to produce different fluent products and other types of products including assembled products. In some cases, the method includes providing a plurality of articles which are components of the products to be produced. The method further involves providing a track system and a plurality of vehicles for the articles. At least some of the vehicles may be independently routable around the track system. The method further includes simultaneously sending one article-loaded vehicle to a unit operation station where a step in the production of a product is performed and another article-loaded vehicle to a unit operation station where a step in the production of a different product is performed.Type: GrantFiled: September 8, 2017Date of Patent: April 7, 2020Assignee: The Procter & Gamble CompanyInventors: Ryan Andrew Burkhard, Nathan E Moore, Elizabeth Marie Fikes, Daniel Richard Royce, Kyle Christopher Ballman
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Publication number: 20150101283Abstract: The device for producing the packaging comprises a unit for producing blister packs, a unit for producing the packaging containers, a transfer device for transferring the blister packs in the packaging containers, a sealing station for the packaging containers, and preferably also a stamp, all of which are arranged in a single machine. The packaging for tablets thus manufactured has a packaging container and several blister packs, which are loosely accommodated in a holding section of the packaging container, and the holding section is sealed by a lidding sheet.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 9, 2014Publication date: April 16, 2015Inventors: Peter Fuhrmann, Fritz Fochler
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Patent number: 8899001Abstract: With a random incoming axial stream of pallets of articles, there is a stack of blanks, an axial stream synchronized with pallets is formed, all of the pallets are transferred from the axial stream synchronized with pallets to constitute an axial stream that is synchronized with lots, lots are separated by empty spaces having length of one or more article lengths, whereby the spacing is thus variable and adapted to lot length, blanks are unstacked upon demand based on the pallets to constitute a synchronized stream of blanks corresponding to the stream synchronized with lots. Blanks are separated by empty spaces with length of one or more article lengths, starting from the stream synchronized with lots and the stream synchronized with blanks; each lot of articles is made to work with each blank before the blank is folded around the lot of articles and made into a single unit.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 2010Date of Patent: December 2, 2014Assignee: Automatisation et Renovation du Conditionment dans les Industries Laitieres ARCILInventor: Romuald Bachelle
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Patent number: 8789345Abstract: Procedure for the low-risk and zero-emission transportation of sulphur from solid sulphur deposits, in blocks of large dimensions, characterized in that it comprises the formation of blocks of sulphur, having suitable dimensions for being moved, by means of water cut techniques and the wrapping of the blocks obtained in polyethylene sheets.Type: GrantFiled: September 4, 2007Date of Patent: July 29, 2014Assignee: SAIPEM S.p.A.Inventor: Leonardo Zan
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Patent number: 8713897Abstract: A system and method for inspecting a filled prescription order is described. The prescription order includes a first plurality of tablets that is different from a second plurality of tablets. Additionally, the first plurality of tablets has a particular shape and a color that is different from the second plurality of tablets. The system and method generates an order that is communicated to a filling system. A code is then generated at the filling system when the filling system can fill the order. An automated inspection at visual wavelengths is performed for each of the pouches at an inspection station. The automated inspection at visual wavelengths inspects a color and a shape of each tablet. The method then proceeds to scan the code at the inspection station to verify that the correct pouches are associated with the tablets that correspond to the prescription order.Type: GrantFiled: August 3, 2012Date of Patent: May 6, 2014Assignee: Edge Medical Properties, LLCInventors: Robert A. Luciano, Jr., Leslie Baker, Larry Luciano
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Patent number: 8474228Abstract: A packaging system for transporting vials containing biological samples may comprise a first tray defining at least one first tray cavity; and a second tray defining at least one second tray cavity and configured to mate with the first tray. The packaging system may further comprise at least one first tray cavity and at least one second tray cavity, wherein the at least one first tray cavity and the at least one second tray cavity are configured to securely hold respective vials for transport, and to restrain caps on the respective vials during transport, wherein the at least one first tray cavity and the at least one second tray cavity oppose each other when the first tray and the second tray are mated together. The packaging system may also be configured to permit barcode scanning of vials held within the first tray cavity and the second tray cavity.Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 2009Date of Patent: July 2, 2013Assignee: Life Technologies CorporationInventors: Nicholas Adair, Joselito Crespo, Allen Perry, Paul Russell
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Patent number: 8448411Abstract: The present invention concerns a method and a machine to group and join at last two articles by attaching a first packaging to form a packaging unit. The individual packaging units are joined together with an additional second packaging to form a bigger unit. The process is carried out continuously, whereby the packaging units are transposed or not.Type: GrantFiled: July 20, 2010Date of Patent: May 28, 2013Assignee: Krones AGInventors: Wolfgang Huber, Michael Hartl
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Patent number: 8407971Abstract: A single package providing dormitory room supplies for at least one student at an institution of higher education and associated method of use is disclosed. This package includes at least one shipping container. Numerous internal containers can be located within the shipping container. Dormitory room supplies are then located within the shipping container and/or internal containers. The essential items included are classified into the following categories: linen, clothing, organizational, electrical or electronic, and kitchen items. The package can be used to supply one or more dormitory rooms with all the essentials needed or to provide extras, which are typically required but not strictly essential. The single package can also include a cargo container, in which multiple shipping containers are located, to supply multiple dormitory rooms. This cargo container can be transported on a ship and as the trailer or placed on a trailer of a semi-trailer truck.Type: GrantFiled: July 15, 2010Date of Patent: April 2, 2013Assignee: Dorm-In-A-Box, LLCInventor: Christopher Vahlkamp
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Publication number: 20120279173Abstract: According to one embodiment, a sheet processing apparatus includes a feeding unit including a support surface inclined with respect to a vertical direction and a stacking surface substantially perpendicular to the support surface, a plurality of paper sheets being stacked on the stacking surface in such a manner that the paper sheets are inclined along the support surface, a pick up mechanism configured to pick up the paper sheets from a side of the stacking surface of the feeding unit, a conveying path configured to convey the picked up paper sheets, an inspection device configured to inspect the conveyed paper sheet, and an accumulation unit configured to accumulate the inspected paper sheets.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 21, 2012Publication date: November 8, 2012Applicant: KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOSHIBAInventors: Yoshitaka Sakoguchi, Kazuhiro Mukai, Hisashi Oosawa
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Patent number: 8276348Abstract: The packing according to the invention comprises: a container for holding said at least one object to be sterilized, having an inlet opening and a discharge opening via which said at least one object may pass into and out of said container, said container comprising a rigid part which comprises a peripheral wall bored with a multitude of small holes having dimensions smaller than those of the said at least one object, and a non-rigid part in a material porous to the sterilization fluid and non-porous to microbial contamination, this non-rigid part being able to contain said rigid part and to be sealed thereon; and at least one envelope made in a flexible and airtight material, which is vacuum sealing fitted on said container.Type: GrantFiled: June 9, 2008Date of Patent: October 2, 2012Assignee: Becton Dickinson France, S.A.S.Inventors: Emeric Mermet, Thomas Dubois
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Patent number: 8069680Abstract: Methods disclosed herein include methods of manufacturing integrally thermally-sealed storage containers. Methods include creating at least one indentation in at least one layer of first thermal barrier sheet, wherein the at least one layer of first thermal barrier sheet includes at least one first ultra efficient insulation material and wherein the at least one indentation is in a size and shape substantially conforming with material to be stored; placing material to be stored within one or more of the at least one indentation; placing at least one layer of second thermal barrier sheet adjacent to the material to be stored, wherein the at least one layer of second thermal barrier sheet includes at least one second ultra efficient insulation material; and creating a thermal seal between at least two layers of thermal barrier sheet, substantially thermally sealing the material to be stored.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 2008Date of Patent: December 6, 2011Assignee: Tokitae LLCInventors: Roderick A. Hyde, Edward K. Y. Jung, Nathan P. Myhrvold, Clarence T. Tegreene, William H. Gates, III, Charles Whitmer, Lowell L. Wood, Jr.
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Patent number: 8042318Abstract: A process for preparing a water-soluble container comprising at least two compartments which comprises: a. forming a first pocket in a first water-soluble film by thermoforming or vacuum forming the first water-soluble film in a mould; b. filling the first pocket with a first composition; c. closing the first pocket with a second water-soluble film to produce an intermediate container; d. moving the intermediate container by deforming the mould to provide a second pocket; e. filling the second pocket with a second composition; and f. closing the second pocket with a third water-soluble film.Type: GrantFiled: January 5, 2010Date of Patent: October 25, 2011Assignee: Reckitt Benckiser N.V.Inventors: Francesc Ayats, Frederic Moreux, Jordi Salvador, Ralf Wiedemann
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Patent number: 8024912Abstract: Methods and apparatus for enclosing a palletized container of fresh containers of perishables inside a modified atmosphere-containing plastic bag/enclosure stretched over the containers and over upwardly-folded and sealed margins of a plastic sheet placed between the pallet and the containers to seal the containers of perishables inside the bag/enclosure and to facilitate forming and maintaining a modified atmosphere inside the bag/enclosure.Type: GrantFiled: June 21, 2010Date of Patent: September 27, 2011Assignee: Chiquita Brands, LLCInventors: Richard F. J. Macleod, Frederick Forgnone, Jason Wells
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Patent number: 7770366Abstract: Methods and apparatus for enclosing a palletized container of fresh containers of perishables inside a modified atmosphere-containing plastic bag/enclosure stretched over the containers and over upwardly-folded and sealed margins of a plastic sheet placed between the pallet and the containers to seal the containers of perishables inside the bag/enclosure and to facilitate forming and maintaining a modified atmosphere inside the bag/enclosure.Type: GrantFiled: March 11, 2008Date of Patent: August 10, 2010Assignee: Transfresh CorporationInventors: Richard F. J. Macleod, Frederick Forgnone, Jason Wells
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Patent number: 7743587Abstract: Method for the manufacture of mixed packages and device for carrying out said method. The abstract of the disclosure is submitted herewith as required by 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b). As stated in 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b): A brief abstract of the technical disclosure in the specification must commence on a separate sheet, preferably following the claims, under the heading “Abstract of the Disclosure.” The purpose of the abstract is to enable the Patent and Trademark Office and the public generally to determine quickly from a cursory inspection the nature and gist of the technical disclosure. The abstract shall not be used for interpreting the scope of the claims. Therefore, any statements made relating to the abstract are not intended to limit the claims in any manner and should not be interpreted as limiting the claims in any manner.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2008Date of Patent: June 29, 2010Assignee: KHS AGInventors: Werner Hagenbrock, Joachim Junghans
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Patent number: 7434374Abstract: A method and a line for the high-speed packaging of filter bags (1) containing an infusion product comprises at least three successive operating steps whereby: the filter bags (1) are wrapped in a continuous protective tubular envelope (2) by sealing a continuous V-shaped folded strip (3) along a longitudinal sealing line (5) and transversal sealing lines (6); the tubular envelope (2) is cut into lengths; and the filter bags (1), individually wrapped in respective envelopes (2), are placed in cartons. In the method and line (26) according to the invention, the transversal seal (6) is made in two successive steps as the continuous folded strip (3) moves through two separate consecutive sealing stations (7, 8), the first station (7) making a part of the transversal seal (6) and the second station (8) completing the same transversal seal (6).Type: GrantFiled: February 9, 2007Date of Patent: October 14, 2008Assignee: Tecnomeccanica S.r.l.Inventor: Andrea Romagnoli
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Patent number: 7415812Abstract: A method and apparatus for making a hinged lid side-by-side vertically hinged cigarette pack (10) having a first bundle (22) and a second bundle (23) of cigarettes is described. The machinery includes a first machine (30) to form a first foil wrapped bundle surrounded by a first inner frame, a second machine (31) for forming a second foil wrapped bundle surrounded by a second inner frame and a third machine (32) for combining the first and second foil wrapped bundle into a single hinged lid side-by-side vertically hinged pack.Type: GrantFiled: November 30, 2004Date of Patent: August 26, 2008Assignee: British American Tobacco (Investments) LimitedInventors: Andrew Jonathan Bray, Alan Douglas Tearle, Steven Holford
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Patent number: 7069706Abstract: A method for packaging coca beans and like bean-shaped natural products, wherein the cocoa beans are packaged in ventilating, at least partially relatively form-retaining and stackable packaging devices. Packaging devices for cocoa beans or like bean-shaped, natural products, which packaging device comprises a frame and a sack-shaped element suspendible therein, wherein a filling opening is provided for bringing the products into at least the sack-shaped element and wherein the frames with filled sacks are stackable.Type: GrantFiled: May 15, 2003Date of Patent: July 4, 2006Assignee: =InnoSpecial Products B.V.Inventor: Hendrik Antonius Hoogland
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Patent number: 6874299Abstract: A high speed bagging system and a method for placing a liquid product into a bag and placing at least two of these bags into a pouch is described. The system comprises at least two bag fillers housed in a common filler housing and operating simultaneously to place the liquid product in respective bags on a continuous basis during a working cycle. Filled bags are simultaneously conveyed on a two lane conveyor system. The two-lane conveyor is configured to optimize floor space area. Each conveyor belt has an outlet end associated with a respective bagging machine at a bagging station. The bagging machines are adapted to place at least two of the bags into a pouch on a continuous basis during the working cycle. The bagging machines feed a respective pouch closure device to close a mouth opening of the pouches which are then discharged on a discharge conveyor.Type: GrantFiled: May 29, 2003Date of Patent: April 5, 2005Assignee: Glopak Inc.Inventor: Roland Basque
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Publication number: 20040237473Abstract: A high speed bagging system and a method for placing a liquid product into a bag and placing at least two of these bags into a pouch is described. The system comprises at least two bag fillers housed in a common filler housing and operating simultaneously to place the liquid product in respective bags on a continuous basis during a working cycle. Filled bags are simultaneously conveyed on a two lane conveyor system. The two-lane conveyor is configured to optimize floor space area. Each conveyor belt has an outlet end associated with a respective bagging machine at a bagging station. The bagging machines are adapted to place at least two of the bags into a pouch on a continuous basis during the working cycle. The bagging machines feed a respective pouch closure device to close a mouth opening of the pouches which are then discharged on a discharge conveyor.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 29, 2003Publication date: December 2, 2004Applicant: Glopak Inc.Inventor: Roland Basque
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Publication number: 20040226263Abstract: A machine (100) that makes filter bags (1) containing a product for infusion in a liquid, comprises the following, arranged in succession: a unit (53) for preparing and feeding the materials used to make the filter bags; and at least: an assembly (54) for metering the infusion product; a forming unit (55); a dividing unit (56) and a unit (57) for cutting the filter bags (1). In the preparing and feeding unit (53) three separate filter bag materials, consisting of a web (17) of filter paper, a continuous thread (31), and a row of tags (6) are gradually brought together, while moving continuously, and first loops (10) are made in the thread (31) and gathered between the tags (6). The filter bags (1) are subsequently formed in the metering assembly (54), in the dividing unit (56) and in the cutting unit (57), which also operate with continuous motion.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 23, 2003Publication date: November 18, 2004Applicant: TECNOMECCANICA S.r.L.Inventor: Andrea Romagnoli
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Publication number: 20040118086Abstract: An apparatus for making packages (1) comprising groups (2) of products wrapped with stretch film comprises the following: a transporting surface (3) for conveying groups (2) of products presenting a front face (FD) in a defined feed direction (A); a first pair of film feed stations (4, 5) located on opposite sides of the transporting surface (3); a first selection carriage (6) comprising at least two units (7, 8) for forming a respective tubular length (9, 10) of film fed by the respective stations (4, 5), and means (11) for driving the first carriage (6) to and fro in a direction transversal to the feed direction (A) in such manner as to cyclically perform the following operations: forming the tubular length of film (9) on a first unit (4) outside the transporting surface (3), and at the same time positioning the other unit (5) with the respective tubular length of film (10) on it in a stretched configuration at the transporting surface (3) to form a part of the latter so as to enable feeding of the group (2Type: ApplicationFiled: December 11, 2003Publication date: June 24, 2004Applicant: AETNA GROUP S.p.A.Inventor: Mauro Cere
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Patent number: 6748719Abstract: A machine for wrapping products, wherein a stacking plate receives a succession of wrapped products, and groups the products into a succession of stacks, which are transferred, axially with respect to the stacking plate, to an input station of a wrapping wheel for wrapping the stacks in respective sheets of wrapping material, and transferring the wrapped stacks to a substantially horizontal output conveyor; the wrapping wheel rotating in steps about a horizontal first axis, and having a number of radial seats; and the stacking plate being mounted to rotate about a second axis perpendicular to the first axis and defining, with the first axis, a plane through the input station and forming a substantially 30° angle with a vertical plane through the first axis.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 2003Date of Patent: June 15, 2004Assignee: Azionaria Costruzioni Macchine Automatiche A.C.M.A. S.p.A.Inventors: Sandro Salicini, Stefano Cavallari
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Publication number: 20030230048Abstract: A machine for wrapping products, wherein a stacking plate receives a succession of wrapped products, and groups the products into a succession of stacks, which are transferred, axially with respect to the stacking plate, to an input station of a wrapping wheel for wrapping the stacks in respective sheets of wrapping material, and transferring the wrapped stacks to a substantially horizontal output conveyor; the wrapping wheel rotating in steps about a horizontal first axis, and having a number of radial seats; and the stacking plate being mounted to rotate about a second axis perpendicular to the first axis and defining, with the first axis, a plane through the input station and forming a substantially 30° angle with a vertical plane through the first axis.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 21, 2003Publication date: December 18, 2003Applicant: AZIONARIA COSTRUZIONI MACCHINE AUTOMATICHE A.C.M.Inventors: Sandro Salicini, Stefano Cavallari
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Patent number: 6658813Abstract: Combined packages including a plurality of complementary containers are disclosed. A first such container is a first generally rectanguloidal container that contains a first item and a second such container is a second generally rectanguloidal container that contains a second item that is different from and complementary to the first item. A packaging material at least partially surrounds each of the containers, thus holding the container in mutual abutment. A combined package can also include an adhesive between the containers that holds a face of the first container and a face of the second container in mutual abutment. To facilitate palletizing the combined packages, the overall shape of the combined package can be generally rectanguloidal. The first container can have a plurality of faces, each of which is generally coplanar with a respective face of the second container. Apparatus and methods for manufacturing such combined packages are also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: May 16, 2002Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Inventor: Forrest Kelly Clay
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Patent number: 6612100Abstract: A protective cover that is pre-folded by a protective cover pre-folding apparatus is supplied to a pack producing apparatus. After sheets are stacked on the protective cover, the protective cover is fully folded onto the sheets to produce a pack, which is then inserted into a bag to produce a package. The package is then delivered from a package stacking apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: August 23, 2000Date of Patent: September 2, 2003Assignee: Fuji Photo Film Co., Ltd.Inventors: Hideyuki Morimoto, Hirokazu Kawai, Yuji Okabe, Yasushi Kikuchi, Masao Tsuruta, Takao Asakura
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Publication number: 20030140601Abstract: Method and device for packing bags filled with product in a box. The bags are made gas-permeable and after the bags have been filled with product the residual volume of gas therein is removed by drawing off the gases present in the bag by means of suction. This is achieved by conveying the bags over a belt on which vacuum is acting. Prior to this step the bags can be subjected to a vibratory treatment in order to optimise the position of the product in the bags.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 25, 2002Publication date: July 31, 2003Inventor: Martin Prakken
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Patent number: 6564528Abstract: A method and apparatus for apparatus for bagging a plurality of filled bags, such as 5-lb., 10-lb. or 15-lb. potatoes, into a larger baler bag, such as a 50 or 60 lb. baler bag, has a chute for receiving the filled bags and defining a path of travel for the filled bags. A plurality of flaps are movably coupled to the chute at spaced apart locations along the length of the chute to define a plurality of sequential stops. The flaps move between a first stop position extending into the path of travel of the filled bags, and a second pass position extending out of the path of travel of the filled bags. The plurality of flaps move sequentially from the upper end of the chute to the lower end between the first stop position and the second pass position, such that the filled bags are sequentially lowered from one flap to another. A plurality of baler bag heads have pivoting flap members secured to a collar for holding the baler bags between the flaps and lips on the collar.Type: GrantFiled: August 27, 1999Date of Patent: May 20, 2003Assignee: Automation Manufacturing, LLCInventor: Dennis Keegan
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Publication number: 20020092277Abstract: A sheet package producing system for producing a sheet package having a predetermined number of sheets or X-ray films is provided. A cutting/stacking device forms the sheets by cutting continuous sheet at a regular length, and for stacking the sheets in the predetermined number. A covered sheet stack producing device inserts the stacked sheets into a protective cover, to obtain a covered sheet stack. A packaging device packages the covered sheet stack to obtain the sheet package. The cutting/stacking device, the covered sheet stack producing device and the packaging device are connected in series with one another. Those devices are balanced in line capacity balance relative to one another. In a preferred embodiment, the cutting/stacking device includes a supply module for feeding the continuous sheet. A cutter module cuts the continuous sheet to obtain the sheets. A stacker module stacks the sheets in the predetermined number.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 11, 2002Publication date: July 18, 2002Applicant: FUJI PHOTO FILM CO., LTD.Inventor: Hiroyuki Nishida
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Publication number: 20020017468Abstract: Combined packages including a multi-pack carton of beverage containers and one or more complementary containers are disclosed. The multi-pack carton typically contains at least six or twelve beverage containers, which can be cans or bottles. A packaging material at least partially surrounds both the multi-pack carton and the complementary container, thus holding the multi-pack carton and the complementary container in mutual abutment. A combined package can also include an adhesive between the multi-pack carton and the complementary container that holds a face of the multi-pack carton and a face of the container in mutual abutment. To facilitate palletizing the combined packages, the surface areas of the faces can be approximately the same, and the overall shape of the combined package can be generally rectanguloidal. Apparatus and methods for manufacturing such combined packages are also disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 6, 2001Publication date: February 14, 2002Inventor: Forrest Kelly Clay
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Patent number: 6308494Abstract: A drug filling machine has a plurality of feeders containing a plurality of different kinds of drugs. A plurality of drugs are discharged from one or some or the feeders into a vial. A sealing unit is provided for sealing the mouth of the vial with a transparent sheet. The sealing unit includes a sheet presser for pushing the transparent sheet into the mouth of the vial to form a sealing sheet having a tray-shaped section, a cutter for cutting the transparent sheet into a predetermined shape, and a heater for fusing the transparent sheet to the top end of the vial to seal the mouth of the vial.Type: GrantFiled: July 7, 2000Date of Patent: October 30, 2001Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Yuyama SeisakushoInventors: Shoji Yuyama, Hiroyasu Hamada
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Patent number: 6293393Abstract: A combined food and beverage package including a snack food container and a multi-pack carton of beverage containers is disclosed. The multi-pack carton typically contains at least six or twelve beverage containers, which can be cans or bottles. A packaging material at least partially surrounds both the multi-pack carton and the snack food container, thus holding the multi-pack carton and the snack food container in combination. The combined package can also include an adhesive between the multi-pack carton and the snack food container that holds a face of the multi-pack carton and a face of the snack food container in mutual abutment. To facilitate palletizing the combined packages, the surface areas of the faces can be approximately the same. Apparatus and methods for manufacturing such a combined food and beverage package are also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: July 18, 2000Date of Patent: September 25, 2001Assignee: SDK Co., Inc.Inventor: Forrest Kelly Clay
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Patent number: 6244018Abstract: A collator includes a first conveyor having a discharge end and a second receiving conveyor positioned below the discharge end of the first conveyor. As each product bag falls toward the second conveyor, an air blast assists in uprighting the bag. The second conveyor may be temporarily operated at a high speed to separate the product bags into groups. A deflector may be mounted at the discharge end of the second conveyor for directing product bags into containers.Type: GrantFiled: July 27, 1999Date of Patent: June 12, 2001Assignee: Dallas A. C. Horn & Co.Inventor: Mark A. Ritter
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Patent number: 6164041Abstract: Packaging a plurality of cuboid containers, such as cigarette packs, in a package that is larger than the containers is enabled by arranging the containers in an offset array in which adjacent sides of the containers are offset from each other by a predetermined amount. A blank of relatively stiff material is folded around the array to form the package. The amount the containers are offset in the array is the same amount by which the package sides are longer than the adjacent sides of the containers. This enables the array in effect to fill the package even though the containers themselves are smaller than the package. The invention is particularly useful for cigarette packs since it enables the same package blank to be used for different size cigarette packs.Type: GrantFiled: July 14, 1998Date of Patent: December 26, 2000Assignee: Focke & Co., (GmbH & Co.)Inventors: Heinz Focke, Johann Koster
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Patent number: 6070395Abstract: Bags containing a particle, powder or granule product are packed inside a wrapper formed from an elongated laminar wrapping of thermo-bonding plastic. The wrapping is sealed along longitudinal seams to form a sleeve. The bags of product are advanced on a transporter and pressed to a compact and even shape. A first bag is placed on a temporary support and the wrapping formed into a sleeve about the bag. The first bag is allowed to fall into the sleeve. The sleeve and bag are caused to ascend at the same time, and the sleeve is closed with seams during its descent. The process is then repeated for successive bags until the sleeve contains a set number of bags. The sleeve is then closed into a welded wrapping about the bags.Type: GrantFiled: January 9, 1997Date of Patent: June 6, 2000Assignee: Mainar, S.A.Inventor: Ferruccio Carmelo Calvano
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Patent number: 5946883Abstract: A drug filling machine has a plurality of feeders containing a plurality of different kinds of drugs. A plurality of drugs are discharged from one or some or the feeders into a vial. A sealing unit is provided for sealing the mouth of the vial with a transparent sheet. The sealing unit includes a sheet presser for pushing the transparent sheet into the mouth of the vial to form a sealing sheet having a tray-shaped section, a cutter for cutting the transparent sheet into a predetermined shape, and a heater for fusing the transparent sheet to the top end of the vial to seal the mouth of the vial.Type: GrantFiled: December 10, 1997Date of Patent: September 7, 1999Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Yuyama SeisakushoInventors: Shoji Yuyama, Hiroyasu Hamada
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Patent number: 5878554Abstract: The system involves the use of shallow boxes having an integral base and lid, with the lid being foldable down to close the box as part of the automated packaging of stacks of sheets of labels or other sheet material. The system involves one or more accumulators having buffering capability between sheet stackers and the cartoning equipment. The lids may be scored and subject to a pre-breaking step so that their three layer construction may be readily formed into boxes in the course of the packaging process.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 1997Date of Patent: March 9, 1999Assignee: Avery Dennison CorporationInventors: Dale E. Loree, Anthony J. Grace
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Patent number: 5813196Abstract: A method and a machine for automatically bagging articles in a bag and in a sequential and uninterrupted manner. A plurality of articles are continuously fed to the machine and received in two or three compartments, herein three compartments. Once the third article is received in the third compartment, all three articles are discharged within a bag held under the machine. A control circuit, after a predetermined time delay actuates an article support element which is caused to enter into the third compartment or the first compartment depending on the sequence of loading the machine whereby to support a fourth article entering the third compartment due to the fact that the bottom end of all compartments is open. The feeding device is uninterrupted and continues to feed articles to the machine regardless if the bottom discharge gate is open and the sequence is automatically reversed, back and forth, between the first and third and third and first compartments.Type: GrantFiled: January 16, 1996Date of Patent: September 29, 1998Assignee: Glopak, Inc.Inventors: Serge Page, Guy Champagne, Dave Roberts, John Edwards
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Patent number: 5794416Abstract: A system for configuring a stack of layers of boxes to fill an enclosed compartment or cargo space in sequential stack positions according to measurements of the compartment as stored by a computer and the box layer height as determined by the computer. The computer calculates the maximum height of the stack and each predetermined stack location within the cargo space necessary to fill the enclosed cargo space and, through a programmable logic controller, directs a delayering clamp to index itself relative to a stack of boxes, and then removes as many boxes as necessary from the stack. The remaining layers of boxes in the stack are then fed to a stretch-wrap station where the remaining layers of the stack are rotated while the stretch wrap is being applied. The stretch-wrapped stack is then transferred to a station for holding for a forklift or other device to take it into the enclosed cargo area and stack it.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 1996Date of Patent: August 18, 1998Assignee: Recot, Inc.Inventor: Kem M. Rahman
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Patent number: 5680745Abstract: Twin packets of cigarettes, each consisting of two half packets with respective foil wrappings and arranged side by side inside an outer wrapping, are formed on a wrapping line by feeding a single succession of half packets along the input portion of the wrapping line, and successively transferring the half packets to the output portion of the wrapping line by grouping the half packets into twos to form, at the output portion, a single succession of groups, each consisting of two side by side half packets.Type: GrantFiled: January 19, 1995Date of Patent: October 28, 1997Assignee: G.D Societa' Per AzioniInventors: Marco Brizzi, Antonio Gamberini
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Patent number: 5647190Abstract: A method and machine whereby two rigid packets, traveling in a first direction parallel to the longer longitudinal axes of the packets, are transferred to the inputs of respective conveyors, one of the two packets being rotated 180.degree. about its longitudinal axis, and the other packet being rotated 180.degree. about an axis crosswise to its longitudinal axis; and the two packets are fed along the respective conveyors in a second direction crosswise to the respective longer longitudinal axes and to the crosswise axis into a position wherein the two packets present a common longitudinal axis, are oppositely oriented along the common longitudinal axis, are rotated 180.degree. in relation to each other about the common longitudinal axis, and are connectable to form a twin packet.Type: GrantFiled: November 15, 1994Date of Patent: July 15, 1997Assignee: G.D Societa' Per AzioniInventors: Alessandro Minarelli, Roberto Osti
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Patent number: 5588285Abstract: A system for packing a plurality of packages into a container has an input conveyor for delivering the packages one at a time at regular intervals and at a constant input speed to a transfer station and an output conveyor having a perforated lower belt and an upper belt together defining a path extending from an upstream end at the transfer station to a vertically displaceable downstream end at a loading station. A container conveyor extends past the loading station for displacing a succession of the containers through the station. A controller connected to all of the drives operates the output conveyor at a low stacking speed to form an overlapped group of the packages on the output conveyor. It periodically switches the output conveyor from the low stacking speed to a high gapping speed when a predetermined number of the packages have been deposited on the output conveyor by the input conveyor to form a space on the output conveyor between succeeding groups of packages.Type: GrantFiled: July 6, 1995Date of Patent: December 31, 1996Assignee: Ostma Maschinenbau GmbHInventor: Heinz F. Odenthal
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Patent number: 5495700Abstract: The pack-forming unit (12) brings printing products into a tube-like form and sheathes them with a retaining element. The packs (20) thus formed are ejected into a first stack compartment (22) which is emptied into a second stack compartment (24) as soon as a certain number of packs (20) are stacked in it. A strap (30) is then laid around the stacked packs (20), in order to keep the latter together to form a bundle (32) which can be easily handled.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 1994Date of Patent: March 5, 1996Assignee: Ferag AGInventors: Hans-Ulrich Stauber, Willem F. S. M. Van Wegen
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Patent number: 5469687Abstract: An apparatus and method for forming stacked article groups utilizing clip-type article group carriers. The overall apparatus is aligned in a generally linear, continuous orientation. The apparatus longitudinally moves infeed cans from an infeed end to an output end. The apparatus generally comprises (a) an article grouping and clip-type carrier application assembly having at least one input and first and second output lines; (b) a first conveyor disposed to receive and transport first article groups having clip-type carriers attached thereto from and first output line, the first article groups being transported at a first vertical level; (c) a second conveyor disposed to receive and transport second article groups having clip-type carriers attached thereto from the second output line, the second article groups being transported at a second vertical level which is above the first vertical level; and (d) means to merge the second article groups over the top surface of the first article groups.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 1993Date of Patent: November 28, 1995Assignee: Riverwood International CorporationInventor: Allen L. Olson
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Patent number: 5456061Abstract: A cushioned shipping assembly includes a carton and foam inserts to support a product shipped by a supplier, which elements are successively returned by an end user to be reused in the same or other shipping assembly, while various components are recycled as they become spent. In some embodiments, the carton collapses to a diminished size for return. A resource center reroutes or refurbishes the components, recycling aged or spend pieces. On-premises pelletizing of reclaimed polymer provides a more efficient, environmentally clean system. Spent inserts of identified polymer may be diverted to users of specific resins.Type: GrantFiled: June 2, 1993Date of Patent: October 10, 1995Assignee: ReSource America, Inc.Inventors: Michael J. Grey, Wayne Williams, William H. Shaw
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Patent number: 5430994Abstract: An apparatus for transferring bag packs (10) containing sensitive loose material to a collective packer for the introduction of the packs into a carton or the like. To compensate for the difference in performance rates of a production machine (bag packer) for the packs (10) and the collective packer, there is provided a conveying device (17) with at least two conveyor belts (18, 19) which act as compensating conveyors. The packs (10) are fed to a special collecting station (16) by the conveying device (17). This collecting station comprises an intermediate band (35) and a group band (43). In the region of the intermediate band (35), the packs (10) are spaced out at a distance so they can be detected. In the region of the group band (43), a pack group (11) is formed from packs (10) lying tightly next to one another.Type: GrantFiled: May 10, 1993Date of Patent: July 11, 1995Assignee: Focke & Co. (GmbH & Co.)Inventors: Heinz Focke, Wolfgang Heinzig
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Patent number: 5373680Abstract: An apparatus for folding and packaging of hygiene products such as tissues r sanitary napkins has two operational lines arranged in parallel between an input feeder and a packaging station. One of the lines includes stations for folding, enveloping, embossing, and cutting operations. The other line includes one or more transport mechanisms that by-pass the first mentioned line to transport articles directly from the inlet to a packaging station. Thus, if desired, articles may be supplied to the packaging station without any folding or other intermediate treatment by using the by-pass line. An output feeder is arranged to cooperate with either the main production line or the by-pass line for feeding articles to a packing station.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 1992Date of Patent: December 20, 1994Assignee: Winkler & Duennebier Maschinenfabrik und Eisengiesserei KGInventor: Klaus Munsch
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Patent number: 5267426Abstract: A system for loading product into a container comprises a conveyor with side by side staggered delivery portions, a pair of side by side bottom opening receptacles fed at different times by the deliver portions of the conveyor, a hopper moveable in an alternating manner to a product receiving position beneath each of the receptacles and a container holder below and fed by the hopper.Type: GrantFiled: May 26, 1992Date of Patent: December 7, 1993Inventor: Robert Davis
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Patent number: 5263302Abstract: A device for the packing of rigid or flexible receptacles, especially filled plastic bags, which are triangularly or teardrop-shaped in section, comprises a conveying belt for conveying the receptacles one behind the other, a discharge unit for discharging the receptacles one behind the other into a reception case located thereunder, the reception case being rotatable about 180.degree. and being located below the discharge unit. After a first receptacle is discharged into the reception case, it is rotated by 180.degree. and a layer consisting of oppositely directed receptacles in which the pointed end portions overlap is formed. Thereafter, the so-formed layers are deposited in a final packing case located below the reception case. An optimum utilization of space in the final packing case is attained by the receptacles due to the overlapping of their pointed end portions.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 1991Date of Patent: November 23, 1993Inventors: Manfred Hauers, Dieter Vits
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Patent number: 5161350Abstract: A dispenser-container comprises a container body provided with two containing spaces, containing wet contents and dry contents, respectively. The container body is a bag constituted by a first flexible sheet made of a liquid impervious material and a second flexible sheet made of a liquid impervious material. The first sheet constitutes a bag of a pillow type, longitudinal edges of the first sheet overlap each other and are at most slightly sealed with each other to such an extent that they can be manually separated to form an opening for dispensing the dry contents. The second sheet is fixed to the first sheet along the entire peripheries thereof and is located outside or inside the pillow type bag.Type: GrantFiled: May 24, 1991Date of Patent: November 10, 1992Assignee: Kennak U.S.A. Inc.Inventor: Kenji Nakamura