Abstract: A packaging machine for inserting a batch of semi-compressible articles into preformed bags open at one end, having a longitudinal ram movable toward and away from the open bag and batch receiving means located at the leading end of the ram to carry the batch into the open bag, the batch receiving means having a pair of generally elongated flat parallel walls extending forwardly of the leading end of the ram and spaced from each other to receive the batch therebetween. At least one of said walls is flexible along its length and engages means located at the entrance of the bag by which it is deflected transversely of the direction of movement to impart a compressive force upon the articles as they are inserted into the bag.

Abstract: A packaging machine for inserting semi-compressible articles into preformed bags comprises an upper gripping member, a lower gripping member which can be raised towards the upper gripping member to clamp therebetween extension portions of a stack of bags, the lower gripping member mounting means for temporarily retaining the bags of the stack of bags relative to the lower gripping member and means for inserting articles through the open end of the upper bag. The arrangement is such that the gripping members grip the extensions of the bags so that articles can be inserted into the upper bag, the articles undergoing limited compression against the end wall of the bag after which the clamping pressure is released. The filled bag then moves relative to the lower gripping member, the force applied to the bag being sufficient to overcome the restraint imposed by the temporary retaining means.