Patent ID: 11897645
Assignee: SEALED AIR CORPORATION (US)
Field: Handling (Mechanical engineering)
Classification: CPC B | IPC B

Claim 0:
1. A packaging machine, comprising:
an indexing mechanism configured to move a web of preformed bags along a path of travel, wherein the web includes first and second plies that extend between two sides of the web, seals that extends across the web between the two sides of the web to form bottoms of the bags, and lines of weakness in at least the second ply at tops of the bags, wherein each of the bags includes a compartment located between the first and second plies, between the two sides, and between one of the seals at the bottom of the bag and one of the lines of weakness at the top of the bag;
a base downstream of the indexing mechanism along the path of travel and configured to support a first engagement member, wherein the first engagement member includes a first finger having a beveled end; and
a clamping arrangement configured to support a first gripper, wherein the first gripper includes a beveled surface and a gripping surface;
wherein the base further comprises a first engagement recess, wherein the first engagement member is positioned within the first engagement recess, and wherein the beveled end of the first finger is capable of being disposed within the first engagement recess; and
wherein the indexing mechanism is configured to reverse index the web when the beveled end of the first finger is disposed within the first engagement recess so that the first finger and the first gripper are inserted into the top of one of the bags with the second ply sliding between the first finger and the base and the first ply being engaged by the beveled surface of the first gripper.