Abstract: A method for pressing bales of material in a baler is disclosed. The method comprises the steps of feeding the material into the baler through an inlet, pre-compressing the material under a number of compressing cycles by a first press, transporting the pre-compressed material by a transport unit into a second press, and compressing the pre-compressed material by the second press into a finished bale of compressed material. The step of transporting the pre-compressed material by a transport unit into a second press is conducted in a space of the baler, such that an undesirable expansion of the pre-compressed material can be prevented. A baler for pressing bales of material is also disclosed.

Abstract: A controllable packaging device (5) and a method relate to packaging compressed bales (6) on a baling press (2) with a bale-fixing element (11) and a multi-component bale envelope (7) including an upper part (8), a lower part (9) and optionally a sheath-type side part (10). The packaging device includes a fixing device (23) applying the bale-fixing element (11), a supply device (25) supplying the upper part and the lower part and optionally an envelope device (24) applying the side part to the compressed bales. The fixing device and optionally the envelope device are arranged on a transport apparatus (19) that travels along the compressed bale in an advancing direction (22). The supply device is arranged on the transport apparatus and supplies the upper part and the lower part with a supply movement oriented transversely to the advancing direction, from the outside into the baling press.

Abstract: Mattresses are stacked, with support surfaces being substantially in contact, to produce a mattress stack (201). A press (501) applies pressure in the direction of said mattress stack, such that said pressure is normal to the support surfaces and consistent with pressure applied by a reclining body, thereby resulting in reversible compression to form a compressed mattress stack. Restraining elements (601) restrains the mattress stack and the process may be repeated to increase the size of the stack.

Abstract: A transport device stacks partial book blocks along a transport path formed of transfer paths, and includes: a first transfer path at a start of the transport device; a first separating element downstream of the first transfer path and upstream of a second transfer path; a second separating element downstream of the second transfer path and upstream of a processing machine that is operatively connected to the transport device; and a transition path which is arranged either upstream or downstream of the second separating element and within which a book block product that is to be introduced therein is transferable from a transport position where it is lying flat and into a transport position where it is guided standing up. At least one of the transfer paths is equipped with at least one sheet stack feed unit and/or at least one collator-feeder.

Abstract: A multi phase soft gelatin dosage form comprising at least one preformed solid dosage form and at least one liquid fill phase. The multi phase soft gelatin dosage forms of the present invention are especially useful to combine at least one solid dosage form and at least one liquid phase for single ingestion. Method and apparatus for manufacturing the multiphase soft gelatin dosage forms are also described. The solid phase, liquid phase or coatings may comprise active pharmaceutical ingredients, nutraceuticals, nutritional supplements, therapeutic substances, functional excipients or combinations thereof.

Abstract: According to example embodiments, an automatic packing apparatus includes at least one box supply unit configured to move a box stack upwards such that a product is inserted into a packing box of the box stack, the packing box being the uppermost box of the box stack, an inlet formation unit configured to lift the upper surface of the packing box to form an inlet on at least one unbonded side surface of the packing box, a product supply unit configured to transfer the product to the inlet; and a side surface bonding unit configured to bond the at least one unbonded side surface of the packing box. The at least one unbonded side surface includes the inlet and the packing box includes the product inserted therein.

Abstract: An intramedullary orthopedic implant includes a body section having a first end that provides a point of insertion for the body section and a second end. The body section further includes wings extending away from the point of insertion for the body section. The intramedullary orthopedic implant further includes first and second legs extending from the second end of the body section. The first and second legs begin in a first implanted shape, are movable to a second insertion shape, and remain in the second insertion shape as long as the first and second legs are mechanically constrained.

Abstract: Methods, apparatus, and systems for packing or deploying airbag cushions, such as driver side airbag cushions, to improve unfolding kinematics and/or otherwise improve performance. In some implementations of methods for packing an airbag cushion, a first portion of an airbag cushion may be compressed and then secured in a compressed configuration using a first wrap. A second portion of the airbag cushion may then be compressed and secured in a second compressed configuration using a second wrap. The resulting airbag cushion assembly may be configured to separate the wraps sequentially, rather than simultaneously, during inflation of the airbag cushion.

Abstract: A compacted feminine hygiene kit comprising basic items such as at least underwear, at least a feminine wipes and at least a feminine sanitary towel. Further the compacted feminine hygiene kit comprises a shaped base for keeping the feminine hygiene kit assembly rigid body while providing a kit, easy to carry, that offers a greater degree of discretion, convenience, and portability to females.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are processes for continuously bagging pellets. The pellets can be formed from a tacky and/or polymer-containing formulation. Other embodiments relate to systems for continuously bagging pellets. Still other embodiments related the individual components of the processes and systems for continuously bagging pellets.

Abstract: A machine for packaging fiber material comprises feed means (2) supplying predetermined portions of fiber material (3) in an ordered succession, compacting means (4) by which the portions of fiber material (3) are compacted initially, a feed station (8) to which packs (9) are supplied for filling with the fiber material (3), a filling station (D) at which the fiber material (3) is inserted into the packs (9), and a closure station (E) located downstream of the filling station (D), at which the filled packs (9) are sealed. The machine further comprises fiber material (3) compressing and forming means (7) by which each of the portions of fiber material (3) is maintained in a state of compression downstream of the compacting means (4) for a prescribed interval of time, in such a way that the selfsame portion of fiber material (3) is caused to assume a compact geometry of tablet-like form prior to its insertion into the respective pack (9).

Abstract: A process for reprocessing soiled animal bedding material commingled with animal manure. The soiled animal bedding material is separated in a shaker to send at least a preponderance of said manure to a holding tank. Said bedding material is subsequently dried and compacted to form a compacted product. Alternatively, said bedding material is dried (without a compacting step) to form a product.

Abstract: A packaging system for the selection, grouping and loading of varying size and/or configuration product packs into cartons as provided. The packaging system includes a selection area having a primary selector for forming an initial product pack configuration, and a secondary selector adapted to select and direct an additional grouping of products into a nested arrangement against the initial product pack so as to form a nested product pack. The nested product packs thereafter can be engaged by loader arms of a pair of opposed loading assemblies, which move the nested product packs into a series of cartons moving through the packaging machine. Thereafter, the ends of the cartons can be closed and sealed to complete the packaging of the product packs therein.

Abstract: An end plug to be inserted axially into the centre of an end of a roll of paper, includes a holding element adapted to hold and/or guide the end of the roll of paper in correct position in a dispenser. The end plug includes an outer sleeve having an outer end and an inner end and the holding element is connected to the sleeve by elements allowing the holding element to be axially moved from a first position to a second position, in which the holding element protrude outwardly from the outer end of the sleeve, the holding element being releasably held in the first position when moved thereto. A roll of tissue paper including such an end plug and a dispenser provided with such a roll are also disclosed.

Abstract: A packaging apparatus for compressed pressed bales (25) is designed to apply a bale packaging (32) to the pressed bale (25) and has a transporting device (5), which is designed to remove a compressed pressed bale (25) from a press (3, 3?). The transporting device (5) has a movable bale receptacle (6) for picking up the compressed pressed bale (25) on two opposite sides, wherein the bale receptacle has several elongated support elements (20) arranged at a distance from one another on each of the areas intended to retain the pressed bale.

Abstract: An arrangement having a plurality of moistened cosmetic pads based on nonwovens which are piled into a closable packaging container in order to distribute to the final consumer and to prevent evaporation. The pads have, on average, a moisture content of at least 200% of the dry weight thereof in the arrangement, the pads have a fiber structure made of staple fibers, are individually moistened and have a homogeneous moisture content such that the difference of the average moisture content of the pads which are arranged in the upper and in the lower quarter of the stack is, at a maximum, 30% of the average moisture content of all of the pads.

Abstract: A method of handling compressible materials of trash including the steps of; compressing trash material into a compressed charge and then pushing the compressed charge from a compression area into a holding area and allowing the compressed charge to stabilise and settle; compressing a second charge of compressible trash material and pushing the second compressed charge from the compression area into the holding area and thereby pushing the stabilised and settled first charge from the holding area; ejecting the first charge from the holding area into a cover and as the first charge makes its way through said cover a series of wires or straps are tied around said cover.

Abstract: A kit and method for compounding medicated treats for pet animals includes a first compound, a second compound, a mold assembly, and a blister pack subkit. The first compound includes an edible binding agent for the medicated treat. The second compound includes a nutritional supplement. The first compound and the second compound are admixed together with an auxiliary ingredient, which admixture is formed into the medicated treats using the mold assembly. The mold assembly includes at least a mold plate, a base plate, and a pair of mold clamps. The kit may also include an extractor to facilitate removal of medicated treats from the mold assembly. The blister pack subkit includes a blister pack for receiving the medicated treats, and an adhesive backing for sealing the medicated treats within the blister pack.

Abstract: An apparatus for packaging articles, in particular a stack of insulation panels, includes an element for supplying a stack of articles to a transfer position, and an adjustable spout forming a discharge channel having a receiving end and a distal end. The apparatus is further operative to wrap the stack with a packaging foil material, and transfer it into the spout. The adjustable spout comprises at least four spout members which are moveable relative to each other so as to vary the height and the width of the spout.

Abstract: A packaging device is provided for highly-compacted compressed bales (2), which are provided with a fixation (3). The packaging device (1) has a sheathing device (16) for applying a shrink wrapping, which has at least one prepared and diverted stretching hood (4), to the compressed bales (2). A bale compression facility is also provided having at least one bale press (6) for generating highly compacted compressed bales (2), which are provided with a fixation (3), and having at least one packaging device (1) according to the invention. A process is provided for packaging highly-compacted compressed bales (2), which are provided with a fixation (3), wherein said compressed bale (2) is provided with a shrink wrapping, wherein at least one prepared and diverted stretching hood (4) is applied to said compressed bale (2) using a sheathing device (16).

Abstract: A method and apparatus for the production of a pocketed spring unit, the method comprising the steps of compressing and feeding a plurality of springs (42) into troughs (2A, 4A) or castellations in opposed conveyor belts (2,4), moving said springs (42) from said troughs (2A, 4A) or castellations to a position between upper and lower layers of fabric or other material (16A, 18A), step-wise advancing said material (16A, 18A) and said springs (42) in the direction of the output of the apparatus and welding together said lengths of fabric or other material (16A, 18A) at each step-wise advancement by a plurality of sequentially controlled welding anvils (10) so as to form a plurality of discrete pockets (46) each containing a spring (42). Apparatus for carrying out the method is disclosed.

Abstract: The present technology provides intravaginal devices designed to intravaginally deliver difficult to formulate water-soluble molecules and macromolecules for a sustained period of time. The devices include a chamber having at least one orifice and containing a sustained-release formulation. Such formulations include a water-swellable polymer and an intravaginally administrable substance. Methods of making and using the devices are also provided.

Abstract: An apparatus for packaging stacks of folded paper products such as handkerchiefs or the like with blanks of plastic film, comprising at least one pocket (58), insertion means (5), along an insertion direction, of a single stack in said pocket (58) with the interposition and consequent folding of a corresponding blank, said pocket (58) being operatively associated with stop means (24) of the stack completely inserted within said pocket. There are control means (22) adapted to operate the stop means (24) in a coordinated manner with respect to the operation of the insertion means (5), to provide an abutment to the stack during the whole insertion step in the pocket (58), the stop means (24) comprising suction means (72) adapted to keep the film in position and to disengage the same film at least in an extraction step of the stack from the pocket.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a panelboard guard assembly configured to restrict access to a panelboard having a cover and a door defined therein, the cover having first and second side edges. The panelboard guard assembly includes a first strap, a second strap and an adjusting mechanism. The first strap has a first outer end and a first inner end. The second strap has a second outer end and a second inner end. The adjusting mechanism extends between and couples the first strap and the second strap at the first and second inner ends.

Abstract: The present inventive concept(s) relates, in general, to articles that are packaged in a compressed state relative to an uncompressed fully articulated state and methods of making and using same. In a specific embodiment, but not to be considered as limiting, the articles so packaged in a compressed state are plant covers that are either substantially rigid and/or substantially flexible.

Abstract: Containment devices, for example for containing fluid or contaminant spills, are described. An example containment device includes a flexible absorbent structure which is configured to absorb a first liquid material, for example a liquid hydrocarbon, antifreeze, engine coolant, or combinations thereof, while being further configured to repel and/or resist the absorption of a second liquid material, such as water. The absorbent structure may be attached to a containment structure, which is made from a flexible material impervious to the first liquid material, and which may include a pocket for receiving a reinforcement member therein. During use, a reinforcement member is provided in a pocket along a perimeter of the containment structure, the containment structure being adapted to be collapsed into a compact configuration when not use.

Abstract: A process and system reprocesses soiled animal bedding material commingled with animal manure. The material is to remove a preponderance of the manure. The remaining soiled bedding is washed in water and a cleaning agent, rinsed and, optionally, bleached to restore color and appearance. The resulting material is dewatered and dried to reduce its moisture content and kill any remaining pathogens. After being cleaned and sanitized, the material may be reused as bedding or further processed into pellets or other products, such as manufactured fire logs.

Abstract: A hemostatic product having a plurality of hemostatic layers. Each of the hemostatic layers includes a dextran support and at least one hemostatic agent, which is selected from the group consisting of thrombin and fibrinogen. The hemostatic layers are arranged in a stacked configuration.

Abstract: The method for inserting cotton wads into containers uses a wad transport unit, which comprises two star wheels, each having three wad holders. The two star wheels are mounted rotatably on the same rotational axis but with an offset from each other, and each star wheel is driven by its own separate drive means. During rotation of the star wheels, one of the three wad holders of each star wheel is horizontally shifted in such a way that the three wad holders of each star wheel are arranged in a straight line and are thus located above three containers to be filled with the wads.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a prestretched polyethylene film having a longitudinal stretch ratio of from about 1:2 to about 1:4 and having a longitudinal elongation capability of at least 170%, said elongation capability comprising an elastic component. The invention also relates to a method for producing said film and to a method of wrapping compressed bulk material such as a round bale using said film, the method comprising further stretching the prestretched film and applying the film around the compressed bulk material in direct contact therewith. The film according to the invention may be used as a net replacement film and allows increasing the efficiency and the economics in the baling process by allowing faster baling, use of a lesser amount of wrapping film and/or improved protection of the product.

Abstract: Novel micro-encapsulated topical analgesics are provided to treat pain and may be applied via sleeves having dosed therapeutic sections, especially to joints and extremities. Sleeves may be prepared and packaged inside-out and inverted when positioned by the wearer.

Abstract: Novel micro-encapsulated topical analgesics are provided to treat pain and may be applied via sleeves having dosed therapeutic sections, especially to joints and extremities. Sleeves may be prepared inside-out and inverted when positioned by the wearer.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for the production of a pocketed spring unit, the method comprising the steps of compressing and feeding a plurality of springs (42) into troughs (2A, 4A) or castellations in opposed conveyor belts (2, 4), moving said springs (42) from said troughs (2A, 4A) or castellations to a position between upper and lower layers of fabric or other material (16A, 18A), step-wise advancing said material (16A, 18A) and said springs (42) in the direction of the output of the apparatus and welding together said lengths of fabric or other material (16A, 18A) at each step-wise advancement by a plurality of sequentially controlled welding anvils (10) so as to form a plurality of discrete pockets (46) each containing a spring (42). Apparatus for carrying out the method is disclosed.

Abstract: The present inventive concept(s) relates, in general, to articles that are packaged in a compressed state relative to an uncompressed fully articulated state and methods of making and using same. In a specific embodiment, but not to be considered as limiting, the articles so packaged in a compressed state are plant covers that are either substantially rigid and/or substantially flexible.

Abstract: The main objective of this invention is a Mobile plant for dosing, mixing and packaging of powdery products, characterized because it is comprised of a carrying structure and several areas for: reception and weighing, loading, mixing, sack filling, sewing and labelling, metal detection, palletizing and cleaning. This invention is included within the industrial plants technical sector of manufacturing and mixing of powdery products.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for compressing at least one roll of compressible material having an outer diameter and a circumference and an inner core having an inner diameter at least one roll of compressible material are provided. For example, a method according to one embodiment includes positioning a chuck about the circumference of the at least one roll, wherein the chuck is configured to engage the at least one roll at a plurality of evenly spaced locations about the circumference of the at least one roll. The method further includes radially compressing the at least one roll at a plurality of evenly spaced locations about the circumference of the at least one roll with the chuck such that the outer diameter of the at least one roll is substantially uniformly reduced without collapsing the inner core.

Abstract: A bale stacker for forming a number of bales into a bale bundle having a predetermined number of bales. The bale stacker includes a compression chamber in which the bales are formable into the bale bundle, and a loading chamber in which the bales are positionable in respective columns proximal to an upstream opening of the compression chamber. The bale stacker also includes a transfer assembly with a platen for moving the columns from the loading chamber into the compression chamber. Front doors are located at the upstream opening and movable between a closed position, in which the upstream opening is at least partially obstructed by the front doors, and an open position, in which each column of bales is movable respectively through the upstream opening. Controlling means coordinate movement of the front doors with movement of the platen.

Abstract: For the production and filling of (sheet-material) bags (10) with one tobacco portion (18) each, a plurality of bags (10) are preferably made available in the region of a filling station (20). The latter is located in the vicinity of a pressing station (19), which is supplied with the tobacco portions (18). In the region of the pressing station (19) or in a pressing chamber (35), each tobacco portion (18) is compressed in the vertical direction on a horizontal rest, namely on a platform (39), and in addition preferably compressed by a pressing crosspiece (42) in the horizontal direction. The tobacco portion (18) thus formed is introduced into the bag (10).

Abstract: In a method and apparatus for producing a small pouch with a predetermined amount of particulate material therein, a predetermined amount of the particulate material is portioned from a bulk supply and compacted into a single discrete caplet. The caplet is then deposited into an open hollow pouch closed at one end thereof, and the open end is then closed with the caplet between the closed ends of the pouch. The caplet in the pouch is then compressed to return it to its particulate form. The particulate material may be granular or shredded tobacco.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for metering tobacco in portions suitable for packaging. The apparatus includes a feeding element for the tobacco and a device for forming and discharging at least one tobacco portion suitable for packaging. The device comprises a wiping element for wiping tobacco into a portioning chamber. The portioning chamber is variable in volume for compressing the tobacco and releasing the compressed tobacco portion. The portioning chamber is also displaceable relative to the wiping element for displacing from a filling position into a dispensing position and vice versa. An element for discharging the compressed tobacco portion is disposed in the area of the dispensing position.

Abstract: An apparatus for producing an absorbent article includes a holding tool, a female tool disposed along a machine axis, and a male tool disposed along the machine axis. The holding tool has an aperture aligned along the machine axis and means for holding a flexible sheet across the aperture. The female tool has at least one folding element extending in a direction radially away from the machine axis, and the male tool has means for holding a fluid storage element and at least one pleating blade extending in a direction radially away from the machine axis. At least two of the holding tool, female tool, and male tool are capable of relative motion along the machine axis. Further the at least one pleating blade and of the male tool and the at least one folding element of the female tool are aligned to permit manipulation of the flexible sheet about the fluid storage element.

Abstract: An improved method and apparatus is used with a group of bales. The group of bales is gripped with a bale handling apparatus. A flexible strip is positioned around the group of bales. The group of bales is then moved while the group of bales is gripped by the bale handling apparatus and while the flexible strip extends around the group of bales. The flexible strip is positioned relative to the group of bales by a positioning member which is connected with the bale handling apparatus.

Abstract: A method for compacting a slug of product and apparatus for accomplishing the same. The invention describes collecting weighed product in an intermediate settling device to form a compact slug of product. The device can comprise a single settling chamber or can comprise multiple settling chambers which are axially rotatable. The slug can be compacting by jostling and/or vibrating the settling device. Thereafter, the product is discharged to a packaging apparatus. Because the product in the final package is denser, a smaller package can be utilized reducing manufacturing and shipping costs.

Abstract: A method and system for packaging multiple bedding products. The method includes compressing a stack of individual compressed and sealed mattresses between an upper shipping support and a lower shipping support and restraining subsequent expansion of the individual compressed and sealed mattresses with bands enclosing the upper and lower shipping supports and the stack of compressed and sealed mattresses.

Abstract: A packaging apparatus including a receptacle, a ram, a film dispensing assembly and first and second elongate members. The receptacle defines a central axis and has a dispensing end with first and second substantially linear and parallel opposed edges that define an axial limit of the dispensing end. The plastic film material forms a film tube about the receptacle. The first and second elongate members are substantially parallel with the first and second edges. In operation, the ram is extended to eject the batch of material through the dispensing end into the film tube. Retracting the ram forms a partial vacuum within the film tube between the batch of material and the ram. The first and second elongate members compressively engage the film tube between the batch of material and the dispensing end and thereby form folded flaps in the film tube. A method of packaging is also disclosed.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for the production of a pocketed spring unit, the method comprising the steps of compressing and feeding a plurality of springs (42) into troughs (2A, 4A) or castellations in opposed conveyor belts (2, 4), moving said springs (42) from said troughs (2A, 4A) or castellations to a position between upper and lower layers of fabric or other material (16A, 18A), step-wise advancing said material (16A, 18A) and said springs (42) in the direction of the output of the apparatus and welding together said lengths of fabric or other material (16A, 18A) at each step-wise advancement by a plurality of sequentially controlled welding anvils (10) so as to form a plurality of discrete pockets (46) each containing a spring (42). Apparatus for carrying out the method is disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention concerns a method and apparatus for packaging articles, in particular a stack of insulation panels, said apparatus comprising means for supplying a stack comprising one or more articles (1) to a transfer position (3), an adjustable spout (5) providing a discharge channel and having a receiving end and a distal end and with packaging means (6) provided adjacent the distal end, so that the stack is received at the receiving end and discharged at the distal end provided with a packaging foil material, means for transferring said stack in a transfer direction into the spout, wherein the adjustable spout comprises at least four spout members (51, 51, 53, 54), where a plurality of the spout members are moveable relative to each other in one or more directions perpendicular to the transfer direction for increasing or decreasing the height and the width of the spout.

Abstract: An agricultural bagger apparatus and method for compacting feed into a horizontally deployed bag including a compression mechanism and an input hopper that receives agricultural feed. The hopper has a sloping wall and a lower end exit chute located to transfer the feed into the primary compression mechanism (e.g., a rotating toothed cylinder). The tapered hopper causes the feed to bridge, stopping the feed from falling through the chute. A new distribution mechanism in the hopper sweeps the feed adjacent to the sloping wall to prevent feed bridging. By preventing the feed from clogging, there is less reason to risk one=s safety by foolishly inserting their limb into the hopper. Some embodiments also compact feed in the upper portion of the tunnel, for example, by reciprocating a hinged piston above the primary compression mechanism. This increases the compaction on the top portion of the tunnel without unduly juicing the feed.

Abstract: Novel micro-encapsulated topical analgesics are provided to treat pain and may be applied via sleeves having dosed therapeutic sections, especially to joints and extremities. Sleeves may be prepared and packaged inside-out and inverted when positioned by the wearer.

Abstract: A process and system reprocesses soiled animal bedding material commingled with animal manure. The material is to remove a preponderance of the manure. The remaining soiled bedding is washed in water and a cleaning agent, rinsed and, optionally, bleached to restore color and appearance. The resulting material is dewatered and dried to reduce its moisture content and kill any remaining pathogens. After being cleaned and sanitized, the material may be reused as bedding or further processed into pellets or other products, such as manufactured fire logs.