Patent ID: 7454877
Filing Date: 2008-11-25
Classification: B65B

Abstract:
1. A strapping machine configured to feed a strap around a load, position, tension and seal the strap around the load, the strapping machine comprising: a surface to support the load in the strapping machine; a strap chute to carry a strap around the load and release the strap from the strap chute; a motor assembly to convey the strap around the strap chute, retract the strap material around the load, and tension the strap around the load, the motor assembly having a motor and a tension clutch operably engageable with the motor, the tension clutch engaged with the motor only during a tensioning process; an adjustable speed drive capable of receiving a first reference signal and a second reference signal, and configured to actuate the motor assembly to apply a first amount of torque to the strap when receiving the first reference signal and to apply a second amount of torque to the strap when receiving the second reference signal; and a controller configured to send the first reference signal to the adjustable drive to operate the adjustable speed drive in a first mode while conveying the strap around the strap chute and retracting the strap material around the load, and configured to send the second reference signal to the adjustable drive to operate the adjustable speed drive in a second mode while tensioning the strap around the load, wherein in the first mode, the adjustable speed drive actuates the motor assembly to apply the first amount of torque to the strap, and in the second mode, the adjustable speed drive actuates the motor assembly to apply the second amount of torque to the strap.