Abstract: A case feeder mechanism, used in quantities of two or more in a horizontal magazine, feeds cases to a removal position at the discharge end of the magazine, for extracting and processing by a case erecting machine. Each mechanism has two U-shaped channels, a sliding ratchet pawl channel and a fixed ratchet pawl channel, each containing a row of ratchet pawls. Each sliding ratchet pawl channel pushes the ratchet pawls against the back of the case group, driving the group towards the removal position. Individual sensing valves determine when the lead case is in the removal position and control each sliding ratchet pawl channel independently. Each fixed ratchet pawl channel holds the ratchet pawls in position, supporting the case group during resetting of the sliding ratchet pawl channel. To reload, cases are simply inserted, preferably in bundles, behind the existing case group.

Abstract: A case is gripped by its side panel by suction cups mounted on a squaring arm and rotated out of a magazine into contact with a squaring rail, which forces the case into a squared configuration as the case rotates into position between two drive belts, one fixed, and one with a gate-like swinging section which is rotated open. The bottom minor flaps are then closed by minor flap folders as the swinging belt section rotates closed, gripping the case. The drive belts then convey the case out of the squaring area, over flap ploughs which close the bottom major flaps. The squaring arm, fixed drive belt, and rear minor flap folder are mounted to a carrier. The front minor flap folder and major flap ploughs are mounted to a second carrier. The adjustment mechanism of both carriers is coupled to the adjustment mechanism of the magazine height.

Abstract: A case is gripped by its side panel by suction cups mounted on a squaring arm and rotated out of a magazine into contact with a squaring rail, which forces the case into a squared configuration as the case rotates into position between two drive belts, one fixed, and one with a gate-like swinging section which is rotated open. The bottom minor flaps are then closed by minor flap folders as the swinging belt section rotates closed, gripping the case. The drive belts then convey the case out of the squaring area, over flap ploughs which close the bottom major flaps. The squaring arm, fixed drive belt, and rear minor flap folder are mounted to a carrier. The front minor flap folder and major flap ploughs are mounted to a second carrier. The adjustment mechanism of both carriers is coupled to the adjustment mechanism of the magazine height.