Abstract: A method and apparatus for performing an order change in a corrugator uses a minimum slit head configuration with all slit heads carried on two sides of a single tool support structure. A single robot is operable on the support structure to independently reset the positions of slit heads during a running order to prepare for subsequent order change in a most efficient manner, utilizing order scheduling that eliminates order changes that cannot be formed with the minimum slit head configuration.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for performing an order change in a corrugator uses a minimum slit head configuration with all slit heads carried on two sides of a single tool support structure. A single robot is operable on the support structure to independently reset the positions of slit heads during a running order to prepare for subsequent order change in a most efficient manner, utilizing order scheduling that eliminates order changes that cannot be formed with the minimum slit head configuration.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for performing an order change in a corrugator uses a minimum slit head configuration with all slit heads carried on two sides of a single tool support structure. A single robot is operable on the support structure to independently reset the positions of slit heads during a running order to prepare for subsequent order change in a most efficient manner, utilizing order scheduling that eliminates order changes that cannot be formed with the minimum slit head configuration.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for performing an order change in a corrugator uses a minimum slit head configuration with all slit heads carried on two sides of a single tool support structure. A single robot is operable on the support structure to independently reset the positions of slit heads during a running order to prepare for subsequent order change in a most efficient manner, utilizing order scheduling that eliminates order changes that cannot be formed with the minimum slit head configuration.

Abstract: A self-valving vacuum distribution system for a belt-driven sheet conveyor utilizes the sheets to automatically open vacuum control valves sequentially in a downstream direction as the sheet is carried on the belts. The system also automatically adjusts for varying sheet widths to automatically apply vacuum holding force only to the belt conveyor area covered by the sheet.

Abstract: A method and apparatus is disclosed for optimizing an arrangement of articles, such as stacks of paperboard sheets, into horizontal tiers, then stacking the horizontal tiers one on top another to form a rectangular-shaped unit, wherein the rectangular shaped unit has base dimensions substantially equal to a selected standard pallet-type. The system includes a computer programmed to receive the base size of an article, the total number of articles desired, and a selected pallet type. The computer is connected to a palletizer for building the actual unit of articles consistent with an optimized unit configuration. The palletizer has a tier forming station in which tiers of articles are formed according to the selected tier configuration, and a transfer device for moving the formed tiers into a stack forming station wherein the tiers are sequentially deposited. The system can add spacing between selected articles in a tier, and stack the tiers such that the spaces in adjoining tiers are not aligned.

Abstract: A system for continuously delivering sheets which are provided in successive discrete stacks includes a stack infeed conveyor which includes a cushioned upper holddown belt synchronized to operate with a lower supporting infeed conveyor and to provide stability to stacks of relatively short sheets. A continuous lift apparatus receives successive stacks from the infeed system and utilizes a dual lift apparatus to provide the continuous delivery of stacked sheets which are individually fed from the top of the continuously ascending stack.

Abstract: A palletizing system adapted particularly to the formation of stacks of rectangular prismatic shaped articles utilizes a conventional vertical stacking station which is uniquely supplied with tiers of articles alternately formed on and deposited from opposite sides of the stacking station. Virtually continuous tier and stack formation is possible and common control routines may be utilized to form tiers from multiple rows of articles.

Abstract: A lift locking assembly for the vertically movable platform in a stacking apparatus includes toothed locking devices at each corner of the platform which are triggered simultaneously into engagement with correspondingly toothed racks by a triggering cable assembly attached in a manner to directly simulate movement of the platform lift chains. The triggering cables always remain taut, but become more highly loaded in tension as a result of platform movement without a corresponding movement in the lift chain or the hydraulic cylinder operating the lift chain, as a result of chain and/or hydraulic system failure. The four locking devices at the corners of the lift platform are interconnected by a common actuating linkage which may also be manually operated to separately lock the lift platform in any desired position for servicing or the like.