Abstract: A method of constraining a product while packaging and an apparatus to carry out the method. The product is positioned in a constraint cage having constraining fingers or plates on all four sides of the product in a first position. The constraint cage is then moved from the first position to a second position where packaging is performed by lowering a case over the product while the product is continuously constrained by either the cage or the case or both. Thereafter, the case is conveyed with the enclosed product while closing the major and minor flaps of the case.

Abstract: An automatic case erector and sealer apparatus useful in the erecting of packaging cases, boxes and cartons from flats, utilizing case puncturing and gripping pins, spraying adhesive onto the interior surfaces of the case flaps, while the flaps are in a semi-open position, and sealing the minor and major flaps of the erected flats with compression to thereby secure the major and minor flaps for subsequent filling of the formed case, box or carton with consumer goods.