Abstract: An apparatus and method for forming flat cut carton blanks into erected cartons with debowed carton side panels is disclosed. The apparatus includes a forming head receiving and directing a carton blank through forming guides. Pinching wheels rotatably secured adjacent the forming guides include a pinching notch with a leading edge projecting inwardly into the forming head path. The pinching notch engages the descending carton bottom and side panels to capture and pinch the fold lines and overbreak the side panels at the fold lines between the carton side and bottom panels. An inclined surface with a sharp creasing edge abutting the inside of the fold line assists the pinching notch in creasing the fold lines. An extension edge formed adjacent a trailing edge of the pinching notch completes the overbreaking action. A release edge formed adjacent the leading edge gently releases the carton side panels from the overbreaking position upon counter rotation of the wheel.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for assisting in turning or reorienting cartons during transition between conveyors is disclosed wherein a moving finger engages one side of the carton adjacent the leading edge of the carton. The moving finger initiates the turning action and assists in the final turning action generated by a friction plate and pressure brush. The finger is mounted in a horizontal plane for rotation about a vertical axis and engages the side of the carton within leading 15%-35% along the length of the carton. The finger provides sufficient turning assist action to assure reorientation of a carton through at least 90.degree.. The finger should be flexible in order to provide shock absorbing action.