Abstract: A method and system for forming a package that addresses operational challenges in container packaging systems. A packaging machine may include a conveyance system that provides continuous blank transport through multiple processing stages. The system may include pre-break stages that prepare fold lines in the blank for subsequent folding operations. Leading edge manipulators may include mechanical elements with finger-like protrusions and biasing mechanisms for controlled pressure application. Trailing edge cam assemblies may include dynamic cams with engagement points mounted on rotatable shafts driven by servo motors. Tamper wheels may provide rolling surfaces with wedge-shaped recesses for secondary fold line reinforcement.

Abstract: A method of moving a blank in a product packaging system, the method including positioning the blank on a blank feeding assembly, the blank feeding assembly defining a first machine direction, advancing the blank from the blank feeding assembly toward a product conveyor assembly configured to move at least one product in a second machine direction, the second machine direction offset from the first machine direction, and moving the blank along a blank turning assembly, the blank turning assembly having a plurality of turning rails following at least one of a curved path and an angled path between the blank feeding assembly and the product conveyor assembly.

Abstract: A method of engaging a plurality of products, the method includes positioning the plurality of products on a conveyor assembly, driving the conveyor assembly to move the plurality of products in a machine direction, driving a plurality of flight assemblies in a closed path about a product engaging assembly positioned above the conveyor assembly, engaging a respective product with a respective flight assembly, and engaging the respective flight assembly with a respective cam track of a plurality of cam tracks along a cam plate of the product engaging assembly to one of maintain a rotational arrangement of a portion of the respective flight assembly or cause the portion of the respective flight assembly to rotate.

Abstract: A method of handling packages can comprise moving a plurality of slats in a downstream direction so that a portion of each slat passes over an electromagnet. Each slat can be pivotable between a horizontal a tilted position, and the electromagnet can be energized to at least partially hold the slats in the horizontal position. The method further can include positioning a package on one or more slats of the plurality of slats so that the package is moved in the downstream direction on the one or more slats and moving the package off the one or more slats comprising deenergizing the electromagnet while moving the one or more slats past the electromagnet so that the one or more slats pivot from the horizontal to the tilted position so that the package moves off the one or more slats while the slats move in the downstream direction.

Abstract: An apparatus for handling stacks of articles, such as cups or containers, includes a selectively extensible conveyor which can be indexed for moving the stacks of articles, and which can moved from an extended position to a retracted position. By movement from the extended position, the conveyor is moved from beneath one or more of the stacks for discharging stacks from the apparatus. The apparatus includes one or more movable stack gates for controlling, guiding, and stabilizing movement and discharge of the stacks, to thereby avoid problems associated with the instability of the stacked articles.

Abstract: An apparatus for handling stacks of articles, such as cups or containers, includes a selectively extensible conveyor which can be indexed for moving the stacks of articles, and which can moved from an extended position to a retracted position. By movement from the extended position, the conveyor is moved from beneath one or more of the stacks for discharging stacks from the apparatus. The apparatus includes one or more movable stack gates for controlling, guiding, and stabilizing movement and discharge of the stacks, to thereby avoid problems associated with the instability of the stacked articles.