Patent ID: 7565964
Filing Date: 2009-07-28
Classification: B31B

Abstract:
1. A system for sequentially receiving and conveying randomly spaced cartons, each having a trailing end extending generally transverse to a conveying direction, a length extending in the conveying direction, and at least one flap, moving along a conveying path, comprising: a conveyor driven in an endless path with a forward run extending at least partially along the conveying path, said conveyor including a plurality of first lugs adapted for selectively moving from a non-actuated condition into the conveying path in an actuated condition to engage a next-in-line carton, a diverter having a fixed location relative to the lugs, said diverter having a first, home position for allowing the lugs in the non-actuated condition to pass and a second position for guiding a selected lug to the actuated condition, a sensor positioned adjacent the conveyor for sensing the next-in-line canon and generating a corresponding output signal; and a controller for using the output signal to actuate the diverter to guide the selected lug to the actuated position, ready for engaging the wailing end of the next-in-line carton immediately upon entering the conveying path adjacent the forward run of the conveyor, means for folding the at least one flap while the carton is conveyed along the conveying path by the selected lug, whereby efficient conveyance of the cartons is achieved without the need for matching the driving of the conveyor with the receiving of the cartons by the conveyor.