Abstract: A cartoning apparatus for loading stacked article groups into carton sleeves. The cartoning apparatus comprises at least two article infeed mechanisms, each supplying at least one stream of articles at a predetermined height or level, an article selection and transport mechanism intersecting the article infeed mechanisms to form and move a stream of stacked article groups of a predetermined pattern, a carton supply and transport mechanism synchronized and moving parallel with said article selection and transport mechanism to provide cartons with open ends facing the moving article groups, and an article group transfer mechanism constructed and arranged to move article groups into the open ends of the carton sleeves.

Abstract: A method for forming thermoplastic containers utilizing a final blow station remote from a parison formation station. In the method, a finish portion of a plastic container is formed by the injection of molten thermoplastic material into a neckring. The neckring is then moved relative to the thermoplastic material issuing orifice while the flow of material continues. This causes formation of a tubular parison. The parison is then transported, while hanging from the neckring, to a final blow station where a blow mold or final shape mold closes around it. The parison is then blown to the contours of the interior of the blow mold. While this is taking place, a second neckring has been brought into registry with the material orifice and a new parison formed. The second parison is then moved to the final blow station while the finished plastic container is moved to a removal station.