Abstract: A high-speed labeling device (20) is provided for use on form, fill and seal packaging equipment or other types of thermoforming equipment. The device (20) includes a label dispensing unit (22) operable to sequentially and successively deliver a plurality of labels to a delivery location (56). A label transport assembly (24) is locates adjacent to unit (22) and has a shiftable label-receiving component (58) operable to receive labels (28). A control assembly (55, 68, 54a) is operably coupled with the dispensing unit (22) and transport assembly (24) in order to dispense the plural webs (28) as a group and without interruption in the movement of the component (58) during sequential dispensing of the labels (28). The device (20) can achieve labeling speeds up to 50% greater than those obtainable with conventional labelers.

Abstract: A combined cutting blade and heat bar for use with a vacuum packaging device having a lid for sealing over the cavity of a base is disclosed. The cutting blade and heat bar are connected to one another and movable via a single actuating mechanism mounted to the lid. In use, in one step the combined mechanism is lowered with the heat bar unheated and the cutting element cuts slits in the bag for evacuation of the air. After air evacuation, the combined mechanism is lowered with the heat bar heated, melting the bag closed behind the slitted area of the bag.

Abstract: A labeling device (20) is provided which is especially designed for use as a transverse labeler with in-line packaging machines (22). The device (20) includes a label dispensing unit (34), and a transport and tamping assembly (36) with a tamping assembly (68). The assembly (68) has a plurality of side-by-side hollow upright plates (78) presenting label-engaging ends (80) and remote ends (82), with the plates (78) secured with movement in unison to a slotted crosspiece (84); an air cylinder assembly (98) is coupled with the crosspiece (84) for selective movement of the plates (78). Apparatus (100) is also provided for creating reduced pressure conditions at the ends (80) of the plates (78), including fans (104) oriented to draw air through the hollow plates (78). The transport and tamping assembly (36) is adjustably mounted to the labeler frame (38) in order to permit selective adjustment of the assembly (36).

Abstract: A chamber-type vacuum packaging machine (20) equipped with a conveyor assembly (28) is provided which has increased productivity and ease of use inasmuch as the assembly (28) permits rapid assembly-line transfer of packages between the loading station (52) and the sealing station (60) of the machine (20). The assembly (28) includes a continuous belt (90) presenting an upper run (94) and a lower run (96) together with end-mounted roller assemblies (98, 100) which support the belt (90) and permit selective shifting of the upper run (94) between the stations (52, 60) in order to transfer loaded packages to be sealed to the sealing station (60). In order to facilitate mounting of the assembly (28) and periodic breakdown thereof for cleaning and/or replacement of belt (90), the assembly (28) is configured so that the upper and lower runs (94, 96) are both located atop the table (24) of the machine (20).

Abstract: The present invention is a seal bar for use in connection with a vacuum packaging machine, the seal bar being actuated by an air bladder and moved over floating guide shafts. The guide shafts provide the primary electrical connection to the seal bar, thereby eliminating the need for a direct electrical connection to the seal bar.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for communicating with a multiple lane labeling machine such that the labeling machine will only dispense and place labels on packaged articles. The present invention comprises a labeling machine having sensors positioned in front of the label transport, which positions the labels on the packaged articles. These sensors are preferably positioned directly in front of the label transport over the row of articles preceding the transporter and operate to detect the presence and absence of packaged articles and their content. Thus, if a package is absent from a row or does not contain product the sensors alert the labeling machine of the absence of an article so that the labeler does not dispense a label for a missing article or empty package.