Patent ID: 6305146
Filing Date: 2001-10-23
Classification: B65B

Abstract:
An apparatus for folding articles comprising:a draw-in surface defining a gap shaped to receive an article having first and second sides extending along a first direction;a folding member configured to move between a retracted position and an extended position so as to place the article in a folded state where the first and second sides are folded about a fold line and extend along a second direction substantially perpendicular to the first direction; anda transfer mechanism pivotally oriented relative to the gap and the folding member so as to move between a receiving position where the transfer mechanism receives the article in the folded state and a transfer position, and having a receptacle configured to receive the folded article when the folding member moves to the extended position; andwherein the receptacle includes parallel first and second surfaces configured to hold the article in the folded state while the transfer mechanism moves from the receiving position to the transfer position, the second surface being movable relative to the first surface between an engaged position where the second surface of the receptacle compresses the second side of the article about the fold line, and a disengaged position where the second surface of the receptacle allows the article to be transferred away from the receptacle.