Patent ID: 6951170
Filing Date: 2005-10-04
Classification: B65B

Abstract:
1. A strapping machine configured to feed a strapping material around a load, position, tension and seal the strapping material around the load, the strapping machine comprising: a machine frame; a work surface for supporting the load in the strapping machine; a strap chute for carrying the strap around the load and for releasing the strap material from the strap chute, the strap chute defining a longitudinal axis transverse to the chute; a feed assembly configured to convey the strap around the strap chute in a feed mode and to retract and tension the strap around the load during a tensioning mode, wherein during the tensioning mode, the strap is released from the strap chute and pulled around the load; and a weld head, wherein the strap chute is formed having a chute frame and an inner wall defining a track for conveying the strap through the strap chute, the inner wall being movable relative to the chute frame, parallel to the longitudinal axis between an operating position and a release position to release the strap from the strap chute, the strap chute including a drive assembly operably connected to the inner wall for moving the inner wall between the operating and release positions, the drive assembly including driven elements mounted to the inner wall for longitudinal movement therewith, the driven elements constraining movement of the inner wall in a direction transverse to the longitudinal direction, the drive assembly including at least two spaced apart drive members operably connected to the inner wall and configured for movement transverse to the longitudinal direction and transverse to the movement of the inner wall, and wherein the driven elements are rollers extending outwardly from opposing sides of the inner wall that are engaged in longitudinal slots formed in the chute frame.