Patent ID: 6945010
Filing Date: 2005-09-20
Classification: B65B

Abstract:
1. An apparatus for forming and securing a loop handle in a tubular covering for an item to be packaged, and for use with a conveyor assembly for conveying the item to be packaged from a first selected position to an upper end of a hereinafter identified chute, said apparatus comprising: a frame for supporting said apparatus and for engaging a support surface; a chute carried by said frame, wherein said chute is adapted for receiving the tubular covering and maintaining an end of said tubular covering in an open position whereby the item to be packaged engages the tubular covering at a distal end of said chute; a voider assembly carried by said frame proximate said chute, said voider assembly including a pair of voider gates defined by a stationary set of voider gates and a moveable set of voider gates, wherein each set of voider gates is defined by voider plates, the voider plates of each gates having an opening that is adapted to be positioned so as to substantially register with said chute when said voider plates are in an open position, wherein said stationary voider gate is positioned proximate said distal end of the chute, and said moveable voider gate is selectively moveable between an extended position so as to be in spaced relation from said stationary voider gate and a retracted position so as to be positioned proximate said stationary voider gate, further wherein said stationary and said moveable voider gates are adapted to gather said tubular covering when said voider plates are in a closed position thereby forming an elongated gathered cord; a product restrainer assembly carried by said frame, for receiving the item to be packaged as the item to be packaged exits said chute and passes through said voider assembly; a handle formation assembly carried by said frame for engaging a portion of said gathered cord of tubular covering disposed between said stationary voider gate and said moveable voider gate and forming said gathered cord into a loop handle; and clipper mechanisms carried by said frame in spaced relation from said handle formation assembly, for engaging said loop handle defined in said gathered cord of tubular covering and for securing at least a first clip and a second clip to said gathered cord for securing an open end of said tubular covering for the item to be packaged, and for securing said loop handle, wherein said clipper mechanisms are further adapted for severing said gathered cord of tubular covering at a point disposed between said first and second clips.