Abstract: A system is provided for synchronizing the end of order cutoff for a plunge slit order change on a corrugator that minimizes scrap and cuts the end order sheets to a length and width such that jam-ups at order change are eliminated. The system detects a transverse edge discontinuity immediately prior to end of order cutoff and, in conjunction with a prior calculation comparing sheet lengths and order end positions between upper and lower webs, positions an upstream transverse partial web slit at an optimum order end position such that the entire web is ultimately cut on the partial sever at an optimum position for scrap minimization and scrap sheet size and shape.

Abstract: A system is provided for synchronizing the end of order cutoff for a plunge slit order change on a corrugator that minimizes scrap and cuts the end order sheets to a length and width such that jam-ups at order change are eliminated. The system detects a transverse edge discontinuity immediately prior to end of order cutoff and, in conjunction with a prior calculation comparing sheet lengths and order end positions between upper and lower webs, positions an upstream transverse partial web slit at an optimum order end position such that the entire web is ultimately cut on the partial sever at an optimum position for scrap minimization and scrap sheet size and shape.

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 feeding and slitting short length, long width sheets and particularly suitable for solid fiberboard materials, includes a dual acting rake-type sheet feeder, a sheet decurling apparatus, and a multi-head slitter, all of which are interconnected to maintain positive sheet control through the entire system with resultant highly accurate short width slit sheet portions.

Abstract: A downstacker for paperboard sheets includes a sheet speed reducing shingler positioned in the stacking station and forming a shingling nip with the top sheet of the continuously descending stack. The shingling nip is positioned to engage and nip the next following sheet simultaneously with engagement of the stacking station backstop by the preceding sheet, thereby obviating sheet marking by an overrunning nip roll. A false backstop is periodically interposed to define a stack separation level and create an offset in the stack which engages the end of a separating fork as the continuously forming stack descends to facilitate insertion of the fork supporting into the stack. The fork provides interim support for the upper stack portion which continues to form while the lower stack portion is rapidly discharged.

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.