Abstract: A machine for packing flat articles in a case which includes a case elevator on which a case is supported with an open side of the case sloping and exposed. Flat articles are directed into the case transversely of the open side to form a stack inside the case. A tongue engages the stack as the stack increases in size. The tongue controls means for lowering the case as the articles are projected into the case so that the level of the upper end of the stack remains substantially constant. The tongue is withdrawn when the stack has reached a predetermined size. A hold down and pusher member is advanced into engagement with an upper portion of the stack when the stack has reached the predetermined size to hold the articles of the stack in the case as the tongue is being withdrawn. The case is transferred to a tipover frame which swings the case upwardly against a flap folding belt. As the case is transferred, flaps are closed.

Abstract: A machine for opening and inspecting a folding carton to break improper glue spots and to demonstrate that the carton opens properly. Vacuum cups engage opposite side panels of the carton as the carton advances through an inspection section. The vacuum cups advance with the carton and diverge from the path of the carton to separate the panels. As the carton reaches an inspection station, photocell devices inspect the carton to determine if the carton is properly opened. The carton is advanced to the inspection station by a conveyor which picks up the carton from an accelerator device. The accelerator device in turn picks up the carton from the bottom of a stack and accelerates the carton to conveyor speed. Before the accelerator device initiates advance of the carton in conveyor direction, a carton releasing device engages a side of the carton and advances the carton transversely of the direction of conveyor advance to free the carton from other cartons in the stack.

Abstract: A machine for stacking and bundling flat articles. The articles are collected in a stack on an elevator arm. The stack is compressed and advanced into a generally U-shaped basket having parallel spaced sides. The basket can swing about an upright axis and about a horizontal axis. The basket swings about the horizontal axis to a lay-over position in which the sides of the basket are upright. The stack is pushed from the basket when in lay-over position. A tray portion of the basket can be adjusted crosswise of the basket to accommodate stacks of articles of various sizes. The horizontal axis can be advanced along a 45.degree. angle to the horizontal so that the tray position at the lay-over basket position can be at the same height for various positions of the tray member in the basket.