Patent Description:
The present invention also relates one or more methods related to the use of the system and apparatus of the present invention, as well as to discrete component parts thereof.

The packaging and thereafter transport of goods via courier, or other shipping modes has become ubiquitous in our modern society. Such packaging is often an underappreciated aspect of modern commerce as, such packaging is typically disposed of, preferably recycled after use. In the storage, and shipment of materials, packaging is frequently provided by the use of packaging articles based on fibrous based materials such as paper, paperboard, sheet, and especially corrugated cardboard. Such materials are readily formed into sheets which can thereafter be cut, and formed to provide a three-dimensional receptacle, i. e, a packaging article, useful for the containment of goods. Advantageously, such packaging articles provide durability, rigidity, and frequently may also be reused a number of times. Non-limiting examples of such packaging articles are boxes or other containers having three dimensions, which are assembled from a generally flat, generally two dimensional form, i. e, a sheet of a fibrous material such as corrugated cardboard or other foldable sheet, or a collapsed form of a three dimensional packaging article, i.e. a collapsed packaging container. Advantageously, such fibrous materials are frequently successfully recyclable in whole, or in part thereby reducing waste, or the unnecessary harvesting of fiber sources, for example trees or other plants.

Typically, packaging articles are formed using a mechanical apparatus wherein supply source of a sheet or roll of the fibrous material is supplied to a cutting mechanism. Such cutting mechanism may include a die which punches out preformed patterns on an otherwise flat sheet which subsequently, may optionally be scored at certain points thereon in order to facilitate folding such that a three-dimensional, hollow packaging container, (viz. , packaging article,) is formed from the two-dimensional sheet. Such packaging containers typically will include sidewalls, top, and a bottom; the latter two may be formed from overlaid flap parts extending from the sidewalls. Frequently, packaging containers are partially assembled, or may be provided in a ready to assemble form in bundles which comprise a plurality of such packaging containers. Providing such packaging containers in bundles is highly space efficient in that a flattened packaging container may be layered in register with other such packaging containers in order to form a stack thereof; the stack may they be strapped together to provide a uniform orientation of the plurality of flattened packaging containers. This facilitates shipping of such flattened packaging containers, which may be optimally loaded and palletized and shipped to end users who, at their facility may unbundle them and reconfigure them into three-dimensional hollow packaging containers ready for the receipt of goods therein.

Apparatus for bundling flattened packaging containers are not necessarily new, and are known to the art for at least several decades. These include those disclosed in <CIT>. Machines which provide bundling of such containers are commercially available, such as from the present Applicant. These include `bundler apparatus' including those which are sold under the tradename TRC6-SQ4A SoniXs Tandem® which is an apparatus which provides a pair of bundling machines which are essentially separately operable from each other, but which may be used to process to bundles of flattened packaging containers (or further packaging articles, including sheets) which is applied to the apparatus from an upstream source. The operation of this bundler apparatus is also relevant to the disclosure at <FIG> of <CIT> which also discusses the provision of two separate bundling machines which operate in tandem. Both of these apparatus operate whereby (a) two separate bundles of flattened packaging containers are passed into the apparatus whereon (b) the first, or downstream bundle is driven towards the second downstream bundling machine which positions the downstream bundle within while (c) the second, upstream bundle is positioned within the first bundling machine which also positions the upstream bundle within and, essentially simultaneously the second bundling machine and the first bundling machine operate to orient, compress and strap the separate bundles utilizing a compressive strap before (d) both the first machine in the second machine subsequently eject their formed bundles which continue in a downstream direction thereafter, they are ultimately collected for shipping to an end user. While this apparatus operating in tandem does provide some improved unit throughput of formed bundles per unit of time, there remains a plurality of disadvantages. It is to such disadvantages that the system, apparatus, and method of the present invention relates.

In a first aspect, the present invention provides a system and apparatus useful for bundling packaging articles. The system and apparatus comprises at least a first bundling apparatus and at least a second bundling apparatus, wherein the second bundling apparatus and the first bundling apparatus may be laterally displaced in a dynamic manner, and wherein the system and apparatus comprises a reconfigurable, or flexible bridge between the first bundling apparatus and the second bundling apparatus. The flexible bridge has a span which extends between an exit edge of the first bundling apparatus, (hereinafter which may also be referred to as the "upstream" bundling apparatus,) and the entrance edge of the second bundling apparatus, (hereinafter which may also referred to as the "downstream" bundling apparatus). The flexible bridge may assume various configurations and dimensions depending upon the relative linear displacement of the first bundling apparatus with respect to the second bundling apparatus. In one embodiment, the first bundling apparatus, during operation, is generally retained in a static position whereas the second bundling apparatus may be dynamically moved toward, or away from the first bundling apparatus. Simultaneously, or subsequent to any such reconfiguration of the first bundling apparatus with respect to the second bundling apparatus, the span of the flexible bridge may also be re-dimensioned in order to maintain a substantially contiguous and continuous transport surface between the exit edge of the first bundling apparatus and the entrance edge of the second bundling apparatus. Such a configuration provides for variability in the size of the packaging article(s) to be bundled by the system and apparatus. Advantageously, the span of the flexible bridge is sufficiently rigid such that it provides a horizontal supporting surface for packaging articles passing between the first (upstream) bundling apparatus and the second (downstream) bundling apparatus. Such a configuration and mode of operation is not provided by the prior art, tandem apparatus.

A second aspect of the present invention is the flexible bridge apparatus. The flexible bridge apparatus provides for reconfigurable upper transport surface whose dimensions can be varied in response to the lateral positioning and changes thereto between the first bundling apparatus and the second bundling apparatus. In certain embodiments, the flexible bridge apparatus is nonpowered, namely in that it provides a generally planar upper surface which is preferably substantially coplanar and coincident with the stage of the first bundling apparatus as well as the stage of the second bundling apparatus, but provides no propulsive effects to packaging articles present thereon. In other embodiments however, the flexible bridge apparatus provides a propulsive effect to packaging articles, i.e., stacks of individual packaging articles which may be present on its generally planar upper surface. Such a propulsive effect may be used in transporting packaging articles thereon between the first bundling apparatus and the second bundling apparatus. The flexible bridge apparatus may take a variety of forms and configurations depending upon its embodiments. For example, a part of the flexible bridge apparatus which provides the generally planar upper surface may be provided by a belt, or moving mesh surface, or plurality of cylindrical wheels or segments upon one or more common axes. In a particular preferred embodiments the flexible bridge apparatus comprises a plurality of parallel generally cylindrical rollers whose central axes are parallel with respect to one another. The flexible bridge apparatus also includes a support structure, and when the flexible bridge apparatus provides a propulsive effect, a motor and/or other drive means in order to provide the propulsive effect.

Optionally, but preferably the system and apparatus of the invention also comprises a second reconfigurable, flexible bridge apparatus which is located downstream of the second bundling apparatus. Such a second flexible bridge apparatus provides and includes a reconfigurable upper transport surface which is preferably substantially coplanar and coincident with the stage of the second bundling apparatus, opposite to the side of the stage which is coincident with the aforesaid flexible bridge apparatus which spans between the first bundling apparatus and the second bundling apparatus. Provision of such a second flexible bridge apparatus provides for convenient configuration of the overall system and apparatus which facilitates the downstream transport of bundled packaging articles subsequent to their bundling within the system and apparatus.

A third aspect of the present invention relates to the configuration of one or both of the first bundling apparatus and/or the second bundling apparatus. In a preferred embodiment, as the second bundling apparatus is necessarily linearly displaceable from the first bundling apparatus, is necessary to provide a transport system having a transport track which can be used to displace the latter apparatus from the former apparatus. This ideally also ensures that the parallel relationship between the first bundling apparatus and the second bundling apparatus is retained throughout its range of motion, including at their maximum distal displacement, or maximum spaced apart distance position possible, as well as the most proximate displacement, or minimum spacing position possible wherein the first bundling apparatus and the second bundling apparatus are physically least spaced apart and in which the span of the flexible bridge extant is reduced to its minimum surface area. In this third aspect of the invention, at least the second bundling apparatus is configured such that it may receive at either end thereof, the strapping material.

A fourth aspect of the invention is the provision of an "omnidirectional fed" bundling apparatus. As is known from the prior art, as the dynamic repositioning of a bundling apparatus is unnecessary following their installation upon a factory floor, typically the configuration of any such bundling apparatus includes only at one end thereof, a strap feed apparatus which feeds, often from an external stand a continuous supply of strapping material (which may also be referred to as 'banding', or more simply `strap") which often is of a banding-like configuration. The strapping material includes a height or thickness, which is generally a small fraction of its transverse width, and the strapping material has a linear length which is frequently many times, generally an excess of <NUM>, or <NUM> times of its transverse width dimension. Once installed, there no need to configure or to have considered configuration of a bundling apparatus so that it could receive the strapping material from either end of the machine, as the bundling machine would have no need to be laterally repositionable. However, in accordance with the operating characteristics of the system and apparatus described herein, it is advantageous that at least one of the bundling apparatus present therein is configured o it may receive at either and thereof, the strapping material thus providing an "omnidirectional fed" bundling apparatus. Such an omnidirectional bundling apparatus may be the first bundling apparatus and/or the second bundling apparatus. Any such omnidirectional fed bundling apparatus may include one or more supply drive motors and associated component parts which are used to take up the strapping material and transport it to a bidirectional storage cassette. The bidirectional storage cassette is present within a bundling apparatus, and includes a container which is downstream of both the supply source of the strapping material, which may be exterior of the bundling apparatus, as well as the one or more supply drive motors which, up to that point typically retain a degree of tension within the strapping material. However, upon entry into the confines of the bidirectional storage cassette, the tension within the strapping tape is generally released, and a sufficient length of the strapping tape is retained in a loose, generally folded or curved configuration where a portion of it is subsequently taken up by a bundler supply drive motor and associated component parts which remove a portion or linear length of the un-tensioned strapping material from within the bidirectional storage cassette and direct it towards parts of the bundling apparatus, to encircle layered or stacked packaging articles which are to be acted upon by the bundling apparatus in order to provide a strapped bundle of product therefrom. In the prior art, such a bidirectional storage cassette having two entry ports for the insertion of strapping material, and one exit port for the withdrawal of strapping material is believed to be unknown. Thus, this bidirectional storage cassette, and methods for its use also comprise a further feature of the present invention.

An advantage of such an omnidirectional bundling apparatus as described in further detail hereinafter is that it provides for advanced flexibility in industrial installations. A further advantage of such an omindirectional bundling apparatus allows for the interchangeability of one such omnidirectional bundling apparatus by another omnidirectional bundling apparatus. Thus, should in a busy factory one such apparatus require servicing, it can be readily and swiftly taken off-line and a functional spare omnidirectional bundling apparatus can be quickly installed. In the system and apparatus of the present invention, preferably two or more of the bundling apparatus present are omnidirectional bundling apparatus as described herein. To facilitate such a feature, it is advantageous that the system and apparatus of the invention include one or more linearly movable transport pads which may traverse along the transport track each of which such transport pads may be used to support one, possibly more than one bundling apparatus as described here in. Again, in preferred embodiments only one omnidirectional bundling apparatus need be present but two or more may be provided, and each of these may be provided individually upon a separate transport pad. Advantageously, the transport system may have associated therewith drive motors, or linear actuators, or other operative transport devices which may be used to displace in a controlled manner the first bundling apparatus with at least the second bundling apparatus as described herein. Such a transport system may comprise a controller which may be used to provide suitable control signals to such drive motors, linear actuators, or other operative transport devices in order to provide automated or semiautomated linear displacement of the first bundling apparatus with the second bundling apparatus. Less advantageously, but still very technically feasible is the provision of a fully manually operable transport system wherein the first and second bundling apparatus may be pushed or pulled apart with respect to each other in order to establish a desired linear offset therebetween.

In certain preferred embodiments, the system and apparatus comprise a structural frame in addition to the first bundling apparatus, at least the second bundling apparatus, and the flexible bridge apparatus. The structural frame provides for physical support for further elements and apparatus which may be used in conjunction with one or more of the bundling apparatus and/or the flexible bridge apparatus.

In one configuration, the structural frame is used to support an orienting apparatus which comprises a plurality of paddles which are used during the operation of packaging articles within the apparatus in order to orient one or more packaging articles, particularly one or more stacks of discrete packaging articles immediately prior to their bundling within the system and apparatus. Such an orientation operation is generally practiced in order to ensure that there is consistent verticality to the packaging articles immediately prior to their being bundled using the strapping material which is typically under tension subsequent to bundling of the materials/packages. The tensioned bundling strap encircling the packaging articles typically retains the compressed state of the packaging articles, particularly a stack of packaging articles. In such a configuration, the orienting apparatus is separate from the first bundling apparatus and the second bundling apparatus. With such a configuration, the positioning and orientation of the plurality of paddles is also variable, and movable with respect to one or both of the bundling apparatus present. In such a manner, linear displacement and/or linear repositioning of the first bundling apparatus with respect to the second bundling apparatus may occur, without compromising the operation of the orienting apparatus which, can be suitably reconfigured such that parts thereof remain operative with respect to the first bundling apparatus, and remaining parts may be separately operative with respect to the second bundling apparatus, or where parts of the orienting apparatus are operable with both the first and second bundling apparatus.

In a second configuration, the orienting apparatus is present, but is independent of the structural frame. Rather, a part of the orienting apparatus is mounted upon a part of the first bundling apparatus, and a further part is mounted upon the second bundling apparatus, such that when the first bundling apparatus and the second bundling apparatus or linearly displaced with regard to each other, the positioning and orientation of the plurality of paddles is also variable and movable with respect to both apparatus presents. Again, linear displacement and/or linear repositioning of the first bundling apparatus with regard to the second bundling apparatus may take place, without compromising the operation of the orienting apparatus which can be suitably reconfigured such that parts thereof remain operative with respect to the first bundling apparatus, and remaining parts may be operative with respect to the second bundling apparatus, or both apparatus.

In a third configuration, it is conceivable that a part of the structural frame is present and is used to support a part of the orienting apparatus, while a further part of the orienting apparatus is supported by a part of one or both of the first and/or second bundling apparatus. Again however, linear displacement and/or linear repositioning of the first bundling apparatus with regard to the second bundling apparatus may take place, without compromising the operation of the orienting apparatus which, can be suitably reconfigured such that parts thereof remain operative with respect to the first bundling apparatus, and remaining parts may be operative with respect to the second bundling apparatus, or both apparatus.

When a system and apparatus comprises a structural frame in addition to the first bundling apparatus, a second bundling apparatus, and the flexible bridge apparatus, further component parts may also be present and affixed to the structural frame, and kept separate from the first bundling apparatus and/or the second bundling apparatus. Such may be advantageous wherein it is desired to separate functional features or components which provide specific functional features of the overall system and apparatus. For example, a system controller for monitoring and or controlling the operation of the system and apparatus may be provided as a part of the structural frame or as a unit affixed to a part of the structural frame. Such separation allows for convenient operator oversight and/or intervention if necessary. Various sensors may also be affixed to parts of the structural frame, or such are not necessarily required to be present as a part of any of the bundling apparatus or the flexible bridge apparatus. It is also contemplated that portions of the flexible bridge apparatus may, if desirable or necessary, be affixed to a part of the structural frame in order to provide an anchorage or support point thereto. The structural frame may also be used to support one or more panels which may be included from a safety perspective to obscure and provide a barrier to moving parts of the system and apparatus. In certain preferred embodiments, the dimensions of the structural frame are such that it encompasses within it parts of, or preferably all of, the one or both of the bundling apparatus present and/or the flexible bridge apparatus.

Further aspects of the invention will be apparent from a further consideration of the following specification, which discloses preferred embodiments, as well as alternative embodiments. In the various drawings, like numbered/labeled elements are shown throughout the various drawing figures.

Turning first to the prior art, <FIG> disclose a series of schematic depictions of a prior art tandem apparatus A which includes a first bundling apparatus B and a second bundling apparatus C, which remain in a static position with respect to each other. As is known to the prior art, and previously mentioned, each of the first bundling apparatus A and second bundling apparatus B are necessarily in a static position with respect to their lateral displacement. Also visible are a feed track D, and intermediate track E, and an exit track F respectively from an upstream to a downstream orientation. As is seen on <FIG> the feed track D illustrates a pair of stacks S <NUM>, S2 of planar sheets of a material, each of which may be a stack of die cut cardboard parts or layered or stacked packaging containers each in a flattened, generally two-dimensional form. These represent stacks of packaging articles. The stacks S1, S2 may be non-abutting and spaced apart, but in the depiction are shown to be abutting. In the next sequential depiction, in <FIG> the pair of stacks S1, S2 are shown. The upstream stack S1 is positioned on the stage STB and within the strapping line BSL of the first bundling apparatus B, while the downstream stack S2 is spaced apart with respect to the upstream stack S1 and is positioned on the intermediate track E. In the next depiction in this sequenced process, <FIG> illustrates the transport of the downstream stack S2 now upon the intermediate track E, where it is propelled by the intermediate track E and away from the now static, upstream stack S <NUM>. <FIG>, illustrates the next step of the process sequence wherein the downstream stack S2 is now positioned and is static upon the stage STC of the second bundling apparatus C where it has come to a halt on the strapping line CSL of the second bundling apparatus. As this point, the first bundling apparatus B, and the second bundling apparatus C are now caused to operate, compressing and strapping their respective stacks S2, S1. Thereafter as shown on <FIG>, the exit track F and the intermediate track E are now operated to propel respectively, the bundled, downstream stack S2 away from the second bundling apparatus C, and simultaneously the bundled, upstream stack S1 away from the first bundling apparatus B and in the direction of the second bundling apparatus C. The final figure of the sequence, <FIG>, illustrates the spaced apart bundled downstream stack S2, and the bundled upstream stack S1 upon the exit track F and downstream of both the first B and second bundling apparatus C.

As will be appreciated from these foregoing figures, the foregoing process introduces undesirable time lags, and also increases the likelihood of vertical displacement of one or more of the stacked layers or stacked packaging materials S1, S2 due to the start-and-stop nature necessary of the feed track D, intermediate track E, which limits the overall throughput of the process. Although not shown in any of the foregoing figures, it is understood that each of the first bundling apparatus B in the second bundling apparatus C also incorporate separate orienting apparatus each of which comprises a plurality of paddles which are just prior to bundling, to orient their respective stacks immediately prior to their bundling but each of these require paddles for each of the four sides of the stacks within each of the separate bundling apparatus in order to provide verticality immediately prior to bundling. Thus the orienting apparatus operating with each of the first bundling apparatus B and the second bundling apparatus C, requires at least one paddles or sets of paddles, each of which comes into contact with each of the four sides (upstream, downstream and each of two sides between the upstream and downstream sides) of packaging article(s) present within the first bundling apparatus B and the second bundling apparatus C immediately prior to bundling. The existing tandem process is also invariable and inflexible in other ways as well, which shortcoming are overcome by the present invention.

<FIG> and figures following relate to the present invention, and various aspects and features thereof. It is to be understood that like elements are referred to throughout the drawings using the same reference numbers a/o letters.

<FIG> depicts in a perspective view a first bundling apparatus <NUM> and a second bundling apparatus <NUM>, both placed on separate moveable platforms <NUM>, <NUM>, and the platforms themselves are movably affixed to the spaced apart transport tracks <NUM>, <NUM>. As can be seen, the transport tracks <NUM>, <NUM> are generally parallel to the ends of each of the first bundling apparatus <NUM> and the second bundling apparatus <NUM>. The of the first bundling apparatus <NUM> and the second bundling apparatus <NUM> may be displaced laterally with respect to each other by shifting the moveable platforms <NUM>, <NUM> apart from each other using the spaced apart transport tracks <NUM>, <NUM>. Also visible on each of the platforms <NUM>, <NUM> are guide tracks <NUM>, <NUM> which are transverse to the direction of the transport tracks <NUM>, <NUM>; each of the first bundling apparatus <NUM> and a second bundling apparatus <NUM> may be moved on the platforms <NUM>, <NUM> collinearly with these guide tracks <NUM>, <NUM>. It is however to be noted that only one bundling apparatus is necessarily moveable, while the other may be mounted in a static position, i.e.. to a floor or other non-moving support platform. In such an instance, only a single one of the moveable platforms <NUM>, <NUM> is thus necessary to support only one of the bundling apparatus <NUM>, <NUM> which would preferably be the downstream bundling apparatus <NUM>. <FIG> depicts an elevation view of the first bundling apparatus <NUM> and the second bundling apparatus <NUM> and also now shown is an embodiment of the flexible bridge apparatus <NUM> having elements spanning between the first <NUM> and second bundling apparatus <NUM>. In the views provided by <FIG> and <FIG>, the orienting apparatus, and the structural frame (shown in later figures) are omitted in order to provide improved clarity. As can be seen in these two figures, the flexible bridge apparatus <NUM> includes a reconfigurable upper transport surface <NUM> whose dimensions can be varied in response to the lateral positioning and changes thereto between the first bundling apparatus <NUM> and the second bundling apparatus changes <NUM>. Changes to the lateral positioning can be readily accomplished by simply moving the first <NUM> and or second bundling apparatus <NUM> along the transport tracks <NUM>, <NUM> to assume a desired spaced apart relationship between the stages of each of the first <NUM> and second bundling apparatus <NUM>. The upper transport surface <NUM> can then change its dimensions to accommodate the gap "G", and thus span the horizontal distance between the two stages <NUM>, <NUM> of respectively the first <NUM> and or second bundling apparatus <NUM> and thereby provide a substantially continuous support surface for any packaging articles (and/or other articles or materials). As noted previously, the flexible bridge apparatus <NUM> can be powered or nonpowered. In the preferred embodiment, as depicted in these figures the flexible bridge apparatus <NUM> is of the powered type.

The following <FIG> depict various features and various embodiments of flexible bridge apparatus <NUM> according to the invention. The flexible bridge apparatus <NUM> may include certain parts and components not present in all embodiments. Advantageously a flexible bridge apparatus <NUM> is used with at least a first bundling apparatus <NUM> and a second bundling apparatus <NUM> as described herein, and as depicted amongst the drawing figures. In a preferred embodiment, the flexible bridge apparatus <NUM> takes the form of a reconfigurable, flexible bridge which comprises a plurality of parallel spaced apart cylindrical rollers <NUM>, each roller <NUM> having a central axis <NUM>, the central axis upon which the specific cylindrical roller <NUM> may rotate. Each of the cylindrical rollers <NUM> has two ends <NUM> from which extends the central axis <NUM> each of which are advantageously fitted into a support plate 409a and/or 409b which support plates are movable relative to a bridge support frame <NUM> generally shown in <FIG> and in <FIG> wherein the array <NUM> of parallel spaced apart cylindrical rollers <NUM> is omitted for purposes of illustration. The bridge support frame <NUM> includes horizontal guide rails 477a, 477b, and each of which respectively includes a channel 478a, 478b or groove which is intended to accommodate portions or elements of one or more of the support plates 409a, 409b and/or central axis <NUM>, bearing <NUM>, or other part or element. The positioning of the bridge support frame <NUM>, and in particular the horizontal guide rails 477a, 477b is advantageously such that cylindrical rollers <NUM> present within the span between the stage <NUM> of the first bundling apparatus <NUM> and the stage <NUM> of the second bundling apparatus <NUM> is such that its uppermost peripheral surface <NUM> is substantially coincident with the generally planar surface of each of these stages 101a, <NUM>. The stages are the surface upon which one or more packaging articles are placed, prior to, and subsequent to bundling within each of the bundling machines <NUM>, <NUM>. In accordance with a preferred aspect of the invention, such bundling occurs essentially simultaneously. In this manner, the cylindrical rollers <NUM> provide a contiguous horizontal support surface between the stages <NUM>, <NUM>. Where the cylindrical rollers <NUM> are propelled, such rotation imparts lateral mobility of a packaging article, or bundle thereof in the span between the stages <NUM>, <NUM>. Advantageously then, the placement of the horizontal guide rails relative to each of the bundling apparatus <NUM>, <NUM> is such that they are preferably located outside of the ends <NUM>, <NUM> of both of the first bundling apparatus <NUM> the second bundling apparatus <NUM> such that lateral displacement does not cause any interference with the bridge support frame. Other configurations are possible however, as it is only required that a bridge support frame <NUM> is suitably sized in order to permit for the provision of a sufficient number of cylindrical rollers <NUM> within the span "G" between the first bundling apparatus <NUM> and the second bundling apparatus <NUM> at the maximum lateral displacement for any particular installation or configuration of the system and apparatus according to the invention. Advantageously, the bridge support frame <NUM> present is suitably sized in order to permit for the provision of at least one, or no cylindrical rollers <NUM> within the span G extant between the first stage <NUM> and second stage <NUM> when the first bundling apparatus <NUM> and the second bundling apparatus <NUM> are at a minimum lateral displacement from one another.

In a preferred embodiment, in addition to the spaced apart, horizontal guide rails 477a, 477b, the bridge support frame <NUM> further includes a pair of reservoir guide rails 479a, 479b which advantageously are substantially perpendicular to the horizontal guide rails 477a, 477b, and are positioned between the first bundling apparatus <NUM> in the second bundling apparatus <NUM> when they are at a minimal displacement. The reservoir guide rails 479a, 479b are preferably substantially perpendicular, and depend downwardly from a respective horizontal guide rail 477a, 477b, and in each the channel 478a, 478b or groove present within each also extends into each of the spaced apart, reservoir guide rails 477a, 477b (and any further reservoir guide rails which may be present) such that a continuous path is formed therebetween, such that the array <NUM> of cylindrical rollers <NUM> can transit between the reservoir guide rails, and upwardly and/or downwardly and into the channels or grooves of horizontal guide rails, depending upon the displacement of the first bundling apparatus <NUM> with respect to the second bundling apparatus <NUM>. In this way, parallelism of the cylindrical rollers <NUM> forming the span of the flexible bridge <NUM> between the first bundling apparatus <NUM> and the second bundling apparatus <NUM> can be maintained regardless of the lateral displacement therebetween. This ensures that at any lateral such displacement, a sufficient number of individual cylindrical rollers <NUM> are present, thereby bridging the gap G between these two bundling apparatus <NUM>, <NUM>. Thus, as a greater lateral distance is established intermediate the first bundling apparatus <NUM> and the second bundling apparatus <NUM>, one or more cylindrical rollers <NUM> present between reservoir guide rails 477a, 477b (and any further reservoir guide rails which may be present) may be displaced therefrom and drawn upwardly and then between the horizontal guide rails 477a, 477b so to span the gap G between the stages <NUM>, <NUM> of the respective apparatus, and conversely as lateral displacement between the first bundling apparatus <NUM> in the second bundling apparatus <NUM> is reduced, one or more of the cylindrical rollers <NUM> may be displaced or otherwise moved from between the horizontal guide rails 477a, 477b wherein they assumed a generally horizontal position, and downwardly into 479a, 479b (and any further reservoir guide rails which may be present) where they assume a vertical orientation, which is also substantially perpendicular to the horizontal position which they previously assumed. Such an operation of the flexible bridge <NUM> ensures that a sufficient number of individual cylindrical rollers <NUM> are present, and available, to satisfactorily to span the gap between the stages <NUM>, <NUM> of the first <NUM> and the second bundling apparatus <NUM>.

According to a further preferred embodiment in addition to the array <NUM> of individual rollers <NUM> which are present between the stages <NUM>, <NUM> of the first <NUM> and the second bundling apparatus <NUM>, there is also present a second pair of reservoir guide rails 476a, 476b which are also advantageously substantially perpendicular to the horizontal guide rails 477a, 477b, and are positioned downstream of the stage <NUM> of the second bundling apparatus <NUM>. Such is visible in <FIG> and <FIG>, as well as <FIG>. Similarly the second pair of reservoir guide rails 476a, 476b also include channels 478a, 478b or a groove present within each which also extends into each of the spaced apart, reservoir guide rails 477a, 477b (and any further reservoir guide rails which may be present) such that a continuous path is formed therebetween, such that a second array 405b of cylindrical rollers <NUM> can transit between the reservoir guide rails, and upwardly and/or downwardly and into the channels or grooves of horizontal guide rails, depending upon the position of the second bundling apparatus <NUM> relative to the bridge support frame <NUM>. In such a configuration, the flexible bridge <NUM> comprises two flexible bridge sections, a first flexible bridge section provided by the first array <NUM>, and a second flexible bridge section provided by the second array 405b.

It is however to be noted that in its simplest embodiment the bridge support frame <NUM> may be fully provided by a pair of an individual horizontal guide rails with only one pair of reservoir guide rails, with one of each of the pair. Further the bridge support frame <NUM> may be affixed to a static structure, i.e., a floor, or may be affixed to a moveable structure, i.e., the first bundling apparatus <NUM> or a second bundling apparatus <NUM>. It is also possible that the bridge support frame <NUM> is affixed in part, or substantially its entirety to one of the bundling machines <NUM>, <NUM> and/or to a platform on which a bundling machine is mounted, e.g., one or both of the moveable platforms <NUM>, <NUM>. Additionally the bridge support frame <NUM> may additionally include further structural elements which may be ancillary. Such include mounting plates, as well as further structural rails or beams which do not interact directly with any part of the flexible bridge but rather, are used to provide mounting support and to also possibly maintained the paralleledness of the parts of the bridge support frame on opposite sides of one or both of the bundling apparatus <NUM>, <NUM>. It is also conceivable that further guide rails and/or reservoir guide rails may be additionally provided, and present within the bridge support frame in addition to those described above.

Advantageously, the bridge support frame <NUM> is affixed to a support structure, which may be one or more parts of the structural frame. It is also possible that the bridge support frame <NUM> is affixed in part, or substantially its entirety to one of the bundling machines <NUM>, <NUM>, and/or to a platform <NUM>, <NUM> on which a bundling machine is mounted.

<FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG> illustrate certain specific details regarding various embodiments relevant to the flexible bridge <NUM>, and certain of the specific relating to one or more thereof. <FIG> provides in a perspective view and detail of ends of an array <NUM> of a plurality of cylindrical rollers <NUM>, each having a central axis <NUM>, the center axes mounted within an individual support plate, 409a or 409b. <FIG> illustrates in more detail in an elevational view ends of an array <NUM> of a plurality of cylindrical rollers <NUM>, each of which is mounted on a support plate 409a, each of which having two bores <NUM>, each receiving a part of the central axis <NUM> of a roller <NUM>. Also seen is that each support plate 409a overlaps with at least one further support plate, thus forming a rotatable linkage therewith in a moveable, chain like configuration which facilitates transport of the array of cylindrical rollers <NUM> within parts of the bridge support frame <NUM> particularly with respect to the movement of individual rollers <NUM> between the horizontal guide rails 477a, 477b and reservoir guide rails. The individual support plates thus also provide a uniform spacing between the center axes <NUM> of adjacent cylindrical rollers <NUM>. Also seen in <FIG> (as well as in <FIG>) are tri-lobed support plates 409b each of which include three or more bores <NUM>, at least two of which receive a part of the central axis <NUM> of a roller <NUM> and which thus form a rotatable linkage between adjacent and overlapping tri-lobed support plates 409b. Such a configuration may be useful wherein the rotatable cylindrical rollers <NUM> are caused to rotate, which rotation may be used to propel a packaging material in contact with one or more of the rollers. Further, the rotatable linkage formed between individual tri-lobed support plates 409b provides a moveable, chain like configuration which facilitates transport of the array of cylindrical rollers <NUM> within parts of the bridge support frame <NUM> particularly with respect to the movement of individual rollers <NUM> between the horizontal guide rails 477a, 477b and reservoir guide rails. As is seen in <FIG>, such tri-lobed support plates 409b may be present on only one end of each of the cylindrical rollers <NUM>. In alternative embodiments both ends of the cylindrical rollers <NUM> in an array <NUM>, 405b include either forms of the individual support plate, 409a or 409b as disclosed herein.

Referring now to <FIG> therein is depicted in a detailed, perspective view in particular preferred configuration of a part of a flexible bridge positioning apparatus. The depicted part is an indexing drive assembly <NUM> a part of which is present in a cylindrical cavity <NUM> at the intersection of a groove 478a of a horizontal guide rail 477a, and the perpendicular groove 478a of a reservoir guide rail 479a. The presence of the cylindrical cavity <NUM> provides a continuation of each of the aforesaid grooves, and is also used to retain a lobed drive wheel <NUM> of the indexing drive assembly <NUM>. The indexing drive assembly <NUM> includes a central shaft <NUM>, upon which is mounted a lobed drive wheel <NUM> having a plurality of lobes, i.e., 484a, 484b within the cylindrical cavity <NUM>; a portion of the shaft <NUM> is shown in the figure, and while not depicted in this figure it is to be understood that the shaft extends rearwardly and out of the junction at the intersection of the horizontal guide rail 477a and the reservoir guide rail 479a, where it is affixed to a pulley <NUM>, i. e, a toothed pulley which, in conjunction with a toothed drive belt <NUM> allows for very precise rotational control of the lobed drive wheel <NUM>. Adjacent lobes, i. e, 484a, 484b of the lobed drive wheel <NUM> are configured to accommodate therebetween either a part of the shaft <NUM> of a cylindrical roller <NUM> but alternatively may also accommodate any other part of the cylindrical roller <NUM> or a part or element of a support plate 409a or tri-lobed support plate 409b; in such manner rotation of the lobed drive wheel <NUM> is used to transport the array <NUM> of individual rollers <NUM> forming part of the flexible bridge <NUM> relative to the horizontal guide rails 477a, 477b and the reservoir guide rail 479a, 479b and when present, second pair of reservoir guide rails 476a, 476b associated with a second flexible bridge section provided by the second array 405b.

Turning now to <FIG> therein is provided a perspective view of a bridge support frame <NUM> including the placement of the cylindrical cavities <NUM> at the intersections of a horizontal guide rail 477a, 477b with reservoir guide rails 479a, 479b and second reservoir guide rails 476a, 476b, the location of the cylindrical cavities <NUM>, the location of pulleys <NUM>, here toothed pulleys, each connected to the shaft <NUM> of a corresponding lobed drive wheel <NUM>, and a toothed drive belt <NUM>. Also visible in <FIG> are paired secondary pulleys <NUM>, each of which are preferably toothed pulleys, each of the pair of secondary pulleys <NUM> mounted on a secondary shaft 489d, wherein each of the secondary pulleys is interconnected via a toothed drive belt <NUM> which is concurrently connected to one of the lobed drive wheels <NUM> via its pulley <NUM>, while the second pulley of the secondary pair of pulleys is connected via a toothed indexing belt 489b to a further pulley of a further set of secondary pulleys <NUM>, as depicted in <FIG>. It is thus now seen that rotation of any of the pulleys <NUM> or any of the secondary pulleys <NUM> translates their rotational displacement to the other of the pulleys <NUM> and secondary pulleys <NUM> via the movement of the toothed drive belts <NUM> and toothed indexing belt 489b. Further visible in <FIG> is an indexing shaft 489c extending between the ends of the bridge support frame <NUM> and interconnecting one of the set of secondary pulleys <NUM> at one end, with another set of secondary pulleys <NUM> at the opposite end. Thereby, any rotation of the connected set of secondary pulleys <NUM> at one end, transmits its rotation to the other set of secondary pulleys <NUM> at the opposite end of the bridge support frame <NUM>. This in turn causes all of the remaining interconnected pulleys <NUM> and secondary pulleys <NUM> to also rotate to the same extent.

In preferred embodiments the rollers <NUM> of the array <NUM> of the flexible bridge <NUM>, and when present, also the rollers <NUM> of the second array 405b are powered so that the rollers <NUM> rotate, and thus may be used to drive a packaging article in contact with one or more of the rollers <NUM>. Various ways to impart such rotation to rollers <NUM> may be used. Referring now to <FIG> therein is depicted a part of the ends of rollers <NUM> forming part of an array <NUM> (and/or 405b) which are mounted on tri-lobed support plates 409b via their central axis <NUM>. The view of <FIG> is a top plan view, while the view of <FIG> is an elevation view from the side opposite the central axis <NUM> of the rollers <NUM>. <FIG> also clearly depicts that in addition to the central axis <NUM>, a bearing <NUM> may be mounted thereon, which bearing <NUM> contacts and is engaged within the grooves 478a, 478b present. Such bearings <NUM> may be, and are preferably used in embodiments of the invention where arrays <NUM>, 405b of rollers <NUM> with central axes <NUM> are used. As seen in <FIG>, a peripheral gear <NUM> is present at the end of rollers <NUM>. Also present, and mounted on the tri-lobed support plates 409b are cogs <NUM> which engage the peripheral gears <NUM> of adjacent rollers <NUM>. Thereby, when rotational motion is provided to at least one of the rollers <NUM>, or to any one of the cogs <NUM> and/or peripheral gears <NUM>, this rotational motion is transferred to all interconnected rollers <NUM>. Where a suitable motor or other drive apparatus (not shown) to provide such rotational motion as described above, rotational motion of the motor or drive apparatus is transferred to all interconnected rollers <NUM> forming part of an array <NUM>, and where present, 405b. Turning now to <FIG> therein is depicted a part of the ends of rollers <NUM> forming part of an array <NUM> (and/or 405b) which are mounted on support plates 409a via their central axis <NUM>. The view of <FIG> is a top plan view, while the view of <FIG> is an elevation view from the side opposite the central axis <NUM> of the rollers <NUM>. <FIG> illustrates that at the end of each of the rollers <NUM> is provided at least one but typically two peripheral sprockets <NUM>, each of which are engaged with one short chains <NUM> which extend about one peripheral sprocket <NUM> of an adjacent roller <NUM>. Thereby, when rotational motion is provided to at least one of the rollers <NUM>, this rotational motion is transferred via the enmeshed chains <NUM> and peripheral sprockets <NUM> to all interconnected rollers <NUM>. Where a suitable motor or other drive apparatus (not shown) to provide such rotational motion as described above, rotational motion of the motor or drive apparatus is transferred to all interconnected rollers <NUM> forming part of an array <NUM>, and where present, the secondary array 405b. <FIG> shows a part of the ends of rollers <NUM> forming part of an array <NUM> (and/or 405b) which are mounted on interlinked support plates 409a upon a bearing <NUM> located about their central axis <NUM>. The view of <FIG> is a top plan view, while the view of <FIG> is an elevation view from the side opposite the central axis <NUM> of the rollers <NUM>. In <FIG> is seen that a part of the peripheral surface <NUM> of the rollers <NUM> is removed in the depiction to illustrate that in the interior; each of the rollers <NUM> comprises a suitable motor <NUM> or other drive apparatus which causes the rotation of the surface <NUM> of the rollers <NUM> about its central axis <NUM>. Such motor or other suitable apparatus may be any of a number of electrical or magnetic motors which may be controlled directly or by induction to cause the rotation. Advantageously, when operating, each of the rollers <NUM> in an array <NUM> (and/or 405b) is caused to rotate at a common speed and in the same direction as one or more adjacent rollers <NUM>.

The view of <FIG> is a top plan view, while the view of <FIG> is an elevation view from the side opposite the central axis <NUM> of the rollers <NUM>, depicting a further embodiment of an array <NUM> of a flexible bridge <NUM>. Visible in <FIG> a part of the ends of rollers <NUM> forming part of an array <NUM> (and/or 405b) which are mounted on trigonal support plates 409b via their central axis <NUM>. These trigonal support plates 409b are overlapped such that adjacent trigonal support plates 409b are rotatably linked to at least one adjacent trigonal support plates 409b, which similar to support plates 409a, also include a bore for accommodating the central axes <NUM> of a cylindrical roller <NUM>; in the trigonal support plates 409b there are provided two bores <NUM> through which a the central axes <NUM> may extend, and parts of said the central axes <NUM> concurrently extending through two bores <NUM>, one of a first trigonal support plate 409b and one of a second trigonal support plate 409b provide a means to interlink adjacent support plates. Such is similar to what is show in relation to <FIG>. Also, advantageously a bearing <NUM> is also located about their central axis <NUM> as shown in <FIG>. In this embodiment, there are also provided suitable motor <NUM> or other drive apparatus which causes the rotation of the surface <NUM> of the rollers <NUM> about its central axis <NUM>. Such motor <NUM> or other suitable apparatus may be any of a number of electrical or magnetic motors which may be controlled directly or by induction to cause the rotation. In the embodiment depicted, a motor <NUM> is mounted on a part of each trigonal support plate 409b, such that its driveshaft 429a extends through a third bore <NUM> present; the driveshaft 429a may include a pulley 429b or a drive sheave, or alternately a part driveshaft 429a may be grooved to operate such as a pulley in which is present a drivebelt 429c which is also coupled to a part of a cylindrical roller <NUM>. Optionally but advantageously a groove 403a is also present near one end of the cylindrical rollers <NUM>. Advantageously, when operating, each of the rollers <NUM> in an array <NUM> (and/or 405b) is caused to rotate at a common speed and in the same direction as one or more adjacent rollers <NUM> by controlling the operation of the motor <NUM> or other suitable apparatus linked via the drivebelt 429c.

A preferred embodiment of a powered, flexible bridge <NUM> is illustrated in <FIG>, which utilizes a drive motor unit <NUM> which includes a drive sheave <NUM> about which extends a flexible sheave drive belt <NUM>. The drive motor unit <NUM> is moveably mounted upon a part of the bridge support frame <NUM> and may be laterally moveable with respect thereto, and preferably the drive motor unit <NUM> is mounted using bearings or other means to the horizontal guide rails 477a and/or 477b, and/or a channel 478a, 478b or groove which is intended to accommodate portions or elements of one or more of the support plates 409a, 409b such that the drive motor unit <NUM> may move laterally with respect to at least one of the horizontal guide rails 477a or 477b or channels <NUM> or 478b. Such lateral movement may be effectuated by one or more further apparatus, i.e., a linear actuator <NUM> (see <FIG>) or alternately, a rotating threaded screw whose rotation is used to move the drive motor unit <NUM> laterally or any other device or apparatus which may provide such a function. Alternative methods of providing lateral movement are discussed with reference to <FIG> and <FIG>. In certain preferred embodiments, the drive motor unit <NUM> may be linked, preferably by a (decouplable) mechanical link or coupling which is rotatable to either the endmost cylindrical roller <NUM> and/or an endmost support plate 409a but preferably 409b, in an array <NUM>, such that as the drive motor unit <NUM> is repositioned relative to the bridge support frame <NUM>, the position of the interlinked rollers <NUM> and support plates 409a may be drawn up out of, or pushed down into, the space between the reservoir guide rails 479a, 479b and into the space between the horizontal guide rails 477a, 477b thereby to establish that part of the flexible bridge <NUM> which provides an upper transport surface <NUM> whose dimensions can be varied in response to the lateral positioning and changes thereto between the first bundling apparatus <NUM> and the second bundling apparatus changes <NUM>. The position of the drive motor unit <NUM> itself, relative to the either the first bundling apparatus <NUM> and/or the second bundling apparatus <NUM> may be established by independently controlling the position of the drive motor unit <NUM>, or may be controlled by providing a (decouplable, detachable) mechanical link or coupling between a part of the drive motor unit <NUM> and to one of the first bundling apparatus <NUM> or to the second bundling apparatus <NUM> such that as the gap G between these apparatus <NUM>, <NUM> is changed, the mechanically linked/coupled drive motor unit <NUM> will be caused to move relative to the bridge support frame <NUM> and concurrently the position of the interlinked rollers <NUM> relative to the support frame <NUM>. Alternately a linear actuator <NUM> or other similar apparatus may be used instead, wherein the operation of the linear actuator <NUM> causes the displacement of the position of the interlinked rollers <NUM> and support plates 409a, preferably a part of the linear actuator <NUM> is (decouplably, detatchably) mechanically linked with a part of the motor drive unit <NUM>. In any of these embodiments, the array <NUM> of rollers <NUM> which extend between the stage <NUM> of the first bundling apparatus <NUM> and the stage <NUM> of the second bundling apparatus provide the upper transport surface <NUM> of the flexible bridge apparatus <NUM> which rollers <NUM> are contiguous to the stages <NUM>, <NUM>. The provision of providing a decouplable or detachable mechanical link or coupling between a part of the drive motor unit and/or a liner actuator allows for the displacement of a roller curtain within the bridge support frame, so to allow access by an operator within the gap G; such may be advantageous in servicing either of the bundling apparatus <NUM>, <NUM> such as to permit inspection of parts thereof or operation thereof, to supply or resupply strapping material, or to provide routine maintenance or cleaning. In such an instance a part of flexible bridge apparatus <NUM> may comprise a hinged part which may be moved away to allow physical access to the gap G by an operator such as is illustrated in <FIG> where is it shown that a part of horizontal guide rail 477a includes a hinged section which may be swung open to allow entry by an operator between the horizontal guide rails 477a, 477b.

The rollers <NUM> within the array <NUM> are, at least one and thereof, are mounted upon tri-lobed support plates 409b each of which include three or more bores <NUM>, at least two of which receive a part of the central axis <NUM> of a roller <NUM>, and in this embodiment, a idler roller <NUM> is present as well, and is placed to be coincident with an end of each of the rollers <NUM>, which may optionally include a profile surface, or additionally include a further element such as a sheave; the flexible sheave drive belt <NUM> extending about the drive sheave <NUM> of the motor unit <NUM> extends about these ends of the rollers <NUM> and the intermediate idler rollers <NUM> in a serpentine manner such that when the motor unit <NUM> is energized, the flexible sheave drive belt <NUM> is caused to move and to rotate the rollers <NUM> at a common rotational speed and direction.

Turning now to the preferred embodiments shown in <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG>, therein are depicted a flexible bridge apparatus <NUM> according to the invention which in addition to an array <NUM> and the drive motor unit <NUM>, there is also present a second array 405b, and a second drive motor unit <NUM> which includes a drive sheave <NUM> about which extends a flexible sheave drive belt <NUM>. The second drive motor unit <NUM> is also moveably mounted upon a part of the bridge support frame <NUM> and may be laterally moveable with respect thereto. The operation of this second drive motor unit <NUM> and the second array 405b is substantially as described reference to the drive motor unit <NUM> and its array <NUM> but, whereas the array <NUM> provides the array <NUM> of rollers <NUM> which extend between the stage <NUM> of the first bundling apparatus <NUM> and the stage <NUM> of the second bundling apparatus provide the upper transport surface <NUM> of the flexible bridge apparatus <NUM>, the rollers <NUM> of the second array 405b may be positioned relative to the bridge support frame <NUM> and may be laterally moveable with respect thereto to provide an outfeed transport surface 400b which is downstream of the second bundling apparatus <NUM>, and which outfeed transport surface is contiguous with the downstream side of the stage <NUM>. Optionally, the outfeed transport surface 405b may also be continuous with a further unit or device. With the provision of a second array 405b and a second drive motor unit <NUM>, in addition to the upper transport surface <NUM> contiguous with the stages <NUM>, <NUM> of, respectively, the first bundling apparatus <NUM> and the second bundling apparatus <NUM> there may be now provided a reconfigurable, outfeed transport surface 400b which is downstream of the second bundling apparatus <NUM> which is also contiguous with these stages <NUM>, <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, therein is illustrated a plan view from one end of a bridge support frame <NUM>, having both a drive motor unit <NUM> and its array <NUM>, as well a second drive motor unit <NUM> and its array 405b. It is to be understood, in this particular embodiment, the drive motor unit <NUM> and the second drive motor unit <NUM> are both moveable relative to the a bridge support frame <NUM>, and preferably also, one or both of the drive motor unit <NUM> or second drive motor unit <NUM> may be mechanically linked to at least one of the bundling apparatus, either the first bundling apparatus <NUM> or the second bundling apparatus <NUM> and/or at least part of array <NUM> or second array 405b. An actuator <NUM> may be present and may also be linked to one or both of the drive motor unit <NUM> or second drive motor unit <NUM>; the actuator <NUM> may be used to move one or both of the drive motor unit <NUM> or second drive motor unit <NUM> with respect to the position of at least one of the bundling apparatus <NUM>, <NUM>. In this embodiment, lateral motion (as shown as left arrow "L" and right arrow "R" depicted) of array <NUM> and here, also the second array 405b, is provided by rotation of one or more of the indexing drive assemblies <NUM> whose lobed wheel <NUM> engages a part of the array <NUM>. Such may be seen in more detail in <FIG>. Rotation of the lobed wheel <NUM>, in turn is translated to the other indexing drive assemblies <NUM> also present and forming part of the bridge support frame <NUM>, as has been discussed with reference to <FIG> and depicted thereon. In such a method, an indexing drive motor (not shown) or other apparatus is rotatably coupled to a part of the bridge support frame <NUM>, preferably to at least one of the indexing drive assemblies <NUM>, or paired secondary pulleys <NUM>, or secondary pulley shafts <NUM>, or indexing shaft 489c , such that rotation at any one of the foregoing is translated to the remaining indexing drive assemblies <NUM> and in particular their lobed wheels <NUM>. Such a rotation also causes displacement of the array <NUM>, and the drive motor unit <NUM> to which it may be mechanically linked, or via the flexible sheave drive belt <NUM>. Such a rotation also causes displacement of the second array 405b (when present), and the second drive motor unit <NUM> to which it may be mechanically linked, or via the flexible sheave drive belt <NUM>, as lobed wheels <NUM> engaging parts of the arrays <NUM> and 405b are caused to concurrently rotate at the same speed and in the same direction thereby moving the arrays <NUM>, 405b by essentially the same distance, which in turn, also causes the linear displacement of the drive motor unit <NUM> and the second drive motor unit <NUM>. Such motion may be provided even where there are no mechanical linkages between any bundling apparatus <NUM>, <NUM> and the of the drive motor unit <NUM> or second drive motor unit <NUM> and/or any of the arrays <NUM>, 405b. In this embodiment, motion of the arrays <NUM>, 405b may be solely imparted by the rotation of at least one of the lobed wheels <NUM> within one of the indexing drive assemblies <NUM> which is translated to other indexing drive assemblies.

<FIG> illustrates an alternative to the embodiment discussed with regard to <FIG>. In this embodiment, no indexing drive motor (not shown) or other apparatus is rotatably coupled to any one of the indexing drive assemblies <NUM>, or paired secondary pulleys <NUM>, or secondary pulley shafts <NUM>, or indexing shaft 489c as has been discussed in reference to <FIG> and is depicted thereon. Rather, the drive motor unit <NUM> and/or its array <NUM>, and when present, the second drive motor unit <NUM> and/or its array 405b is mechanically linked or otherwise physically coupled to a part of either the first bundling apparatus <NUM>, but preferably to a part of these second bundling apparatus <NUM> and/or to one of the moveable platforms <NUM>, <NUM>, but preferably upon the one associated with the second bundling apparatus <NUM>. Thus when the lateral distance between the first bundling apparatus <NUM> and the second bundling apparatus <NUM> is changed, mechanically linked elements are also caused to move by a similar lateral distance. This causes the parts of the array <NUM>, and 405b (when present) to engage one or more of the lobed wheels <NUM> of indexing drive assemblies <NUM> to rotate, and this rotation is translated to the other indexing drive assemblies <NUM> via the elements of the bridge support frame <NUM>, as has been discussed with reference to <FIG> and depicted thereon. Thus, one or both of the drive motor unit <NUM> and the second drive motor unit <NUM>, and their respective arrays <NUM>, 405b may be repositioned.

Alternately to the embodiments of <FIG>, <FIG> an actuator <NUM> may be present and may also be linked to one or both of the drive motor unit <NUM> or second drive motor unit <NUM>; the actuator <NUM> may be used to move one or both of the drive motor unit <NUM> or second drive motor unit <NUM> with respect to the position of at least one of the bundling apparatus <NUM>, <NUM>. The actuator <NUM> may operate to position the locations of the drive motor unit <NUM> or second drive motor unit <NUM> in place of the arrangements discussed with reference to <FIG>, <FIG>; in such an embodiment the drive motor unit <NUM> or second drive motor unit <NUM> need not be linked to any part of a bundling apparatus <NUM>, <NUM> but each may be linked to an actuator <NUM>, of which one or more may be present. In certain embodiments a actuator <NUM> is affixed to a part of the bridge support frame <NUM>; and the piston or other moveable part of an actuator <NUM> is (decouplably) linked or coupled to one of the motor drive unites <NUM>, <NUM> or a part of the array <NUM>, and 405b(when present).

Whereas the first flexible bridge apparatus has been described in accordance with a preferred embodiment it is to be understood that certain variations and substitutions can be made thereto, without affecting the operability thereof.

The preferred embodiment described and depicted amongst many of the drawing figures, depicted are cylindrical rollers <NUM> forming part of the array <NUM>, and 405b. In the drawings, while their peripheral surface <NUM> are generally smooth, they can have various degrees of roughness in order to improve interfacial friction with any stacks, bundles, or packages to which their peripheral sidewalls or surfaces, the contact with. This can be achieved by providing a chemical treatment which would increase their surface roughness or mechanical treatments or operations, such as the provision of etching, scribing, providing knurling, crosshatching, and the like. It is also contemplated that a further material may be applied thereon, such as providing a continuous and discontinuous web, tape, or sleeve of an elastomeric material or other material having a rougher surface then provided by the bare cylindrical rollers <NUM>.

<FIG> provides a perspective view of a first bundling apparatus <NUM>, a second bundling apparatus <NUM>, a flexible bridge apparatus <NUM> with an upper transport surface <NUM> formed from part of the array <NUM> spanning between the stages <NUM>, <NUM> of respectively, the first <NUM> and second bundling apparatus <NUM>. Also shown is the optional but preferably included second array 405b of the optional further flexible bridge apparatus extending from the stage <NUM>, as well as a bridge support frame <NUM>. The support structure is omitted for purposes of clarity, as well as the orienting apparatus which comprises a plurality of paddles which are used during the operation, but which is described more fully, hereinafter. <FIG> is a top plan view of <FIG>, and additionally illustrates the position of two individual packaging articles PA1, PA2 each of which may be a single article, but advantageously are stacks of individual packaging articles. Each of PA1, PA2 may be planar sheets of a material, each of which may be individual packaging articles, or a stack of die cut cardboard parts or layered or stacked packaging containers each in a flattened, generally two-dimensional form. The direction arrow "D" indicates the 'downstream' direction. From such can be understood that each of the first <NUM> and the second bundling apparatus <NUM> comprise two ends, respectively <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM>, <NUM> perpendicular to each of their entry sides (upstream) and an exit sides (downstream). The stage <NUM> of the first bundling apparatus <NUM> is substantially horizontal and planar, and includes a plurality of cylindrical rollers which are however independently operable from those of the flexible bridge apparatus <NUM>. The first bundling apparatus <NUM> includes a pair of upstanding vertical support arms 111a, 111b, having spanning therebetween a transverse member 111c which may be vertically displaceable. These vertical support arms 111a, 111b and transverse member 111c define an arch coincident with the position of stage <NUM> and defines the directional path for the strapping tape which is used by each of the bundling apparatus to compressively bundle packaging articles to form bundles thereof. The particular process of compression and binding is conventional, and is as currently used in the art. In short, a packaging article, or stack of individual packaging articles are position upon the stage <NUM> and beneath the transverse member 111c, and thereafter is first encircled by a sufficiently long length of the strapping tape which is initially retained within the continuous band/strap, thereafter which is tensioned by the first bundling apparatus <NUM> which thereby imparts a degree of compression to the positioned packaging article or stack, a part of the strapping tape is fused with a free end of the strapping tape in order to form a physical bond and a continuous loop of strapping tape about the packaging article with which retains the compression, and thereafter strapping tape is cut, thus yielding a compressed packaging article, preferably a stack of packaging articles. Optionally during the above optionally the transverse member 111c may move towards the stage <NUM> to impart compression to the packaging article or stack thereof. The degree of compression may be varied, and may include minimal or no compression. The second bundling apparatus <NUM> independently operates in a similar manner. The second bundling apparatus <NUM> also includes corresponding elements, i.e. upstanding vertical support arms 211a, 211b and a transverse member 211c define an arch coincident with the position of its stage <NUM>.

A particular advantage of the invention relates to the process relating to the use of the system and apparatus of the invention in simultaneous bundling of abutting packaging articles, particularly where such are stacks of individual packaging articles. Such may be especially appreciated from <FIG>. As seen therefrom, the relative placement of the first bundling apparatus <NUM> to the second bundling apparatus <NUM> illustrates the upper transport surface <NUM> of the as well as a flexible bridge <NUM> provides a rapidly reconfigurable upper transport surface <NUM> which at any relative position of the first bunding apparatus <NUM> to the second bundling apparatus <NUM> provides an essentially continuous surface, viz. the transport surface <NUM> which extends between the outlet of the first bundling apparatus <NUM> and the inlet of the second bundling apparatus <NUM>. Such permits for the rapid processing of adjacent individual packaging articles, preferably adjacent stacks of plurality of individual packaging materials to be located as abutting one another, yet simultaneously yet within the operating space of one of the bundling apparatus <NUM>,<NUM>; such allows for the simultaneous but separate bundling of each of the adjacent packaging articles or stacks thereof. Such differs from the process described in relation to the prior art, as also, the bundled, still adjacent packaging articles or stacks thereof may be transported downstream after bundling (see <FIG>). Such in improved process is unknown from the prior art, which does not provide such functionality. Further, according to the process as well as the system and apparatus of the invention, as the gap between the first bundling apparatus <NUM> and second bundling apparatus <NUM> may be linearly varied, and the flexible bridge <NUM> may be dynamically reconfigured to maintain the spanning of the upper transport surface <NUM> between the first <NUM> and second bundling apparatus <NUM>, the system and apparatus may be dynamically reconfigured to accommodate adjacent individual packaging articles, preferably adjacent stacks of plurality of individual packaging materials of differing dimensions, yet maintain the ability of simultaneous but separate bundling of each of the adjacent packaging articles or stacks thereof, which provides an improved throughput of bundled adjacent packaging articles or stacks thereof per unit of time, i. e, minutes, hours. After such bundling, the adjacent packaging articles or stacks thereof may be transported further downstream and away from the first <NUM> and second bundling apparatus <NUM>, i.e., such as upon a separate downstream transport track "DTT" (see <FIG>, <FIG>) which is separate from the system and apparatus of the invention. However it is to be noted that the downstream transport track may be positioned sufficiently proximate to the second array 405b so to be essentially coplanar therewith. In such manner an essentially continuous upper surface between the second array 405b and the upper surface of the downstream transport track DTT is provided. Such an optional, but preferred second flexible bridge section provided by the second array 405b which extends between the outlet of the second bundling apparatus <NUM> and a terminal end.

In many commercial operations, stacks of packaging articles to be bundled are supplied to a feed track, such as an upstream transport track "UTT" (see <FIG>, <FIG>). Frequently however, during transit, misalignment and separation between of individual packaging articles frequently occurs, and it is required to utilize an single orienting apparatus which is used to "square up" or vertically align at one or more of the vertical sides of the packaging articles in a stack, prior to initiation of the compression and strapping thereof to form a bundle therefrom. Typically one or more paddles, having one more generally vertical and flat surface are used on two or more of the four sides of the packaging articles to provide such needed vertical alignment. Hence, the prior art having spaced apart bundling machines, each separately further including its own orienting apparatus to be used separately on the individual stacks of packaging articles which were separated in order to square up the vertical sides prior to bundling. The separation of bundling apparatus thus caused separate orienting and compression and strapping to be necessary, and both the bundling apparatus and their associated orienting apparatus essentially operated independently. Such has been depicted in <FIG>. The process, system and apparatus of the invention overcomes this prior art shortcoming.

Ultimately and in contradistinction thereto, as can be understood from considering <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG> this shortcoming is overcome by the utilization of an orienting apparatus <NUM> as illustrated in <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG> as well as in the aforesaid further figures. <FIG> provides a perspective view, <FIG> provides a side elevation view, and <FIG> an end elevation view. <FIG> provides a perspective view of an intermediate paddle assembly 820a from an upstream perspective. The orienting apparatus <NUM> is configured to be concurrently operable with both first <NUM> and second bundling apparatus <NUM> in a dynamic manner. Looking collectively at these figures the orienting apparatus <NUM> includes, a pair of first (upstream) paddle assemblies 802a, 802b each of the pair having a flat vertical paddle face <NUM> affixed to a vertical support arm <NUM>. Each of these paddle assemblies 802a, 802b is linearly displaceable such that each of the pair of first paddle assemblies 802a, 802b can be moved, towards one another. Is a seen from the figures, each of the vertical support arms <NUM> depends from a first horizontal transit arm <NUM> positioned above the paddle assemblies 802a, 802b which may move colinearly along the direction of the first horizontal transit arm <NUM>.

The orienting apparatus <NUM> further includes, a pair of second (downstream) paddle assemblies 812a, 812b each of the pair having a flat vertical paddle face <NUM> affixed to a vertical support arm <NUM>. Further, optionally but preferably each of the second paddle assemblies 812a, 812b may further comprise a flat vertical end paddle assembly <NUM> which is positioned such that a least a part of which is perpendicular to the other flat vertical paddle faces <NUM> of the pair, such that the angle between the end paddle assembly <NUM> and the vertical paddle face <NUM> in each of the pair is <NUM>°. The end paddle assembly <NUM> may be separate from the vertical paddle face <NUM> within each of the pair as is illustrated in <FIG> where the end paddle assembly <NUM> is slidably mounted on a pair of support rods <NUM>(a) which allow for linear displacement of an end paddle assembly <NUM> with a second paddle assembly 812a, 812b from which it depends. Each of these paddle assemblies 812a, 812b is linearly displaceable such that each of the second paddle assemblies 812a, 812b can be moved, towards as well as away from one another. Optionally also one or more of the end paddle assemblies <NUM> may be positioned to abut a forward face (i.e., moving in a downstream direction) of a packaging article. Optionally also paddle assemblies <NUM> and corresponding support rods <NUM>(a) may also be present and depend from one or both of the first (upstream) paddle assemblies 802a, 802b and if present the perpendicular part is upstream and parallel to the flat vertical paddle faces <NUM> of the paddle assemblies 802a, 802b. As is also seen, each of the vertical support arms <NUM> depends from a second horizontal transit arm <NUM> positioned above the paddle assemblies 812a, 812b which may move colinearly along the direction of the second horizontal transit arm <NUM>. Intermediate the first horizontal transit arm <NUM> and the second horizontal transit arm <NUM> and generally parallel with relation to each is a third horizontal transit arm <NUM> is a pair of third (intermediate) paddle assemblies 820a, 820b each of the pair having a flat vertical paddle face <NUM> affixed to a vertical support arm <NUM>. Each of these paddle assemblies 822a, 822b is linearly displaceable such that each of the pair of third paddle assemblies 822a, 822b can be moved towards one another. As seen from the figures, each of the vertical support arms <NUM> depends from the third horizontal transit arm <NUM> positioned above the paddle assemblies 820a, 820b which may move colinearly along the direction of the third horizontal transit arm <NUM>. It is to be noted that, according to preferred embodiments, the orienting apparatus <NUM> includes no further paddle assemblies. Also, according to preferred embodiment, as is depicted in <FIG> the (intermediate) paddle assemblies 820a, 820b each of the pair having a flat vertical paddle face <NUM>, each of which is oriented inwardly and are parallel to the opposite flat vertical paddle face <NUM> of the pair, and also has an upstream flat vertical paddle face 803a perpendicular thereto, and further optionally a downstream flat vertical paddle face 803b also perpendicular to the flat vertical paddle face <NUM>, and preferably parallel to the upstream flat vertical paddle face 803a Preferably also, the (intermediate) paddle assemblies 820a, 820b exclude any perpendicular elements having perpendicular faces, such as the end paddle assembly <NUM>.

The parallelism between the first horizontal transit arm <NUM>, the second horizontal transit arm <NUM>, and the third horizontal transit arm <NUM> is maintained by the supporting elements which are variously shown in the figures; such may include one or more support rods or bars, <NUM> as are generally disclosed in the drawing figures including <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG>. One or more such support rods or bars may be parallel to the first horizontal transit arm <NUM>, the second horizontal transit arm <NUM>, and the third horizontal transit arm <NUM>, others may be perpendicular, but the orientation of such one or more support rods or bars <NUM>, which provide a supporting frame structure to the first horizontal transit arm <NUM>, the second horizontal transit arm <NUM>, and the third horizontal transit arm <NUM> is not necessarily critical other than for permitting the functioning of the first (upstream) paddle assemblies 802a, 802b, the pair of second (downstream) paddle assemblies 812a, 812b and the third (intermediate) paddle assemblies 820a, 820b in the manner hereinafter described. In certain embodiments, one or more of the support rods or bars <NUM> may be configured such that they are perpendicular to one or more of the first horizontal transit arm <NUM>, the second horizontal transit arm <NUM>, and the third horizontal transit arm <NUM> to thus allow for one or more of these to move laterally with respect to another of the first horizontal transit arm <NUM>, the second horizontal transit arm <NUM>, and/or the third horizontal transit arm <NUM>. The feature of linearly movement of one or more of the first horizontal transit arm <NUM>, the second horizontal transit arm <NUM>, and the third horizontal transit arm <NUM> towards and/or away from one another is a preferred embodiment, and permits for more flexible configuration of the system and apparatus of which the orienting apparatus <NUM> forms a part. Using such an arrangement of elements, each of the paddles may be independently moved in at least two directions relative to one or more further paddles and/or with respect to further parts of the system and apparatus of the invention.

A part of the orienting apparatus <NUM> may mounted upon a part of the first bundling apparatus <NUM>, and a further part may be mounted upon the second bundling apparatus <NUM>, such that when the first bundling apparatus <NUM> and the second bundling apparatus <NUM> are linearly displaced with regard to each other, the orienting apparatus <NUM> remains supported by both.

In a further configuration, a further structural frame (not illustrated), separate from the first bundling apparatus <NUM> and second bundling apparatus <NUM> which may be used to support a part of the orienting apparatus <NUM>, while a further part of the orienting apparatus is supported by a part of one or both of the first <NUM> and/or second bundling apparatus <NUM>.

Alternately the orienting apparatus <NUM> is supported in its position relative to the first bundling apparatus <NUM> and the second bundling apparatus <NUM> by the further structural frame which may for example affixed to vertical supporting members to a factory floor or other substrate, but which is otherwise separate from any other part of the first bundling apparatus <NUM> and the second bundling apparatus <NUM>.

Returning now to <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG>, the operation of the orienting apparatus <NUM> in conjunction with the first bundling apparatus <NUM>, second bundling apparatus <NUM> and the flexible bridge apparatus <NUM> having elements spanning between the first <NUM> and second bundling apparatus <NUM>, and a preferred process of the invention, is discussed. <FIG> provides a perspective view of the system and apparatus <NUM> of the invention depicted in the elevation view of <FIG>. As is seen in these figures, two packaging articles, PA1, PA2 each of which is preferably a stack of individual packaging articles which are to be separately bundled are initially positioned with PA2 adjacent to, but not necessarily in abutment with PA1, with PA2 being downstream of PA1. In <FIG>, (<NUM>(b) the two packaging articles, PA1, PA2 are upstream of the first bundling apparatus <NUM> and all of the first (upstream) paddle assemblies 802a, 802b, the pair of second (downstream) paddle assemblies 812a, 812b and the third (intermediate) paddle assemblies 820a, 820b are positioned such that the distance between each of the pairs of each of these paddle assemblies is greater than the maximum transverse width of the two packaging articles, PA1, PA2 which are positioned to enter the first bundling apparatus <NUM>, and the second bundling apparatus <NUM>.

Turning now to <FIG> and <FIG>, therein is depicted a next step of a process according to the invention. <FIG> provides a perspective view of the system and apparatus of the invention <NUM> depicted in the elevation view of <FIG>. It is to be understood that were necessary, previously to the entry of the two packaging articles, PA1, PA2 the lateral position of the first bundling apparatus <NUM> and the second bundling apparatus <NUM> may have been moved to appropriately configure the gap G therebetween, and concurrently, or consequently also the position of the flexible bridge apparatus <NUM> and its elements (part of array <NUM>) spanning between the first <NUM> and second bundling apparatus <NUM> to thereby provide the upper transport surface <NUM>. The flexible bridge apparatus <NUM>, when of the powered type, may be used to propel the two packaging articles, PA1, PA2 to their final positions prior to binding/strapping. Also, either prior to, during or after the positioning of the two packaging articles, PA1, PA2 as is hereinafter described, and/or is depicted in <FIG> and <FIG>, the first (upstream) paddle assemblies 802a, 802b, the pair of second (downstream) paddle assemblies 812a, 812b and the third (intermediate) paddle assemblies 820a, 820b are positioned or repositioned as well. As visible in the relevant drawing figures, the two packaging articles, PA1, PA2 have been moved from their prior position shown in <FIG>, and are positioned such that packaging article PA1 is a least partially positioned between the upstanding vertical support arms 111a, 111b and a transverse member 111c and coincident with the position of the stage <NUM>. Thus, at least a part of packaging article PA1 is positioned to be bundled with the strapping tape, but a part thereof extends over and upon the upper transport surface <NUM>. Not dissimilarly the downstream packaging article PA2 is a least partially positioned between the upstanding vertical support arms 211a, 211b and a transverse member 211c and coincident with the position of the stage <NUM>, and a part of packaging article PA2 is positioned to be bundled with the strapping tape, but a part thereof extends over and upon the upper transport surface <NUM>. Preferably also a part of the flat vertical paddle face <NUM> of each of the third (intermediate) paddle assemblies 820a, 820b is simultaneously in interfacial contact with parts of both of the packaging articles PA1, PA2. Thereafter, immediately prior to operation of the first bundling apparatus <NUM>, and second bundling apparatus <NUM> immediately prior to their operation and bundling of their respective packaging articles, PA1, PA2 the orienting apparatus is caused to function, whereby the first (upstream) paddle assemblies 802a, 802b, the pair of second (downstream) paddle assemblies 812a, 812b and the third (intermediate) paddle assemblies 820a, 820b are first moved to ensure that packaging article PA1 and packaging article PA2 is first initially "squared up" and also that the packaging article or stack PA1 and the second packaging article or stack PA2 are also in abutment, as is particularly seen in the perspective view of <FIG>. It also be noted that the abutting faces of PA1 and PA2 is coincident with and extends between the third (intermediate) paddle assemblies 820a, 820b. Thereafter the first bundling apparatus <NUM> and second bundling apparatus <NUM> operate to encircle each of the packaging article or stack PA1 and the second packaging article or stack PA2 to form separate bundled the packaging article or stack PA1 and the second packaging article or stack PA2 preferably while the first (upstream) paddle assemblies 802a, 802b, the pair of second (downstream) paddle assemblies 812a, 812b and the third (intermediate) paddle assemblies 820a, 820b remain in contact with the vertical sides of the packaging article or stack PA1 and the second packaging article or stack PA2. Thereafter, the orienting apparatus <NUM> operated in retract or otherwise withdraw the first (upstream) paddle assemblies 802a, 802b, the pair of second (downstream) paddle assemblies 812a, 812b and the third (intermediate) paddle assemblies 820a, 820b away from the two bundles PA1, PA2 in order to remove any obstruction to their exit. Advantageously the encirclement of each of the packaging article or stack PA1 and the second packaging article or stack PA2 to form separate bundled packaging article or stack PA1 and second packaging article or stack PA2 occurs substantially simultaneously, i.e. preferably within <NUM> seconds of one another, more preferably (in order of increasing preference) within: <NUM>. <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> seconds of each other. Most preferably bundling occurs concurrently.

With reference now to <FIG> and <FIG>, in which <FIG> provides a perspective view of the system and apparatus <NUM> depicted in the elevation view of <FIG>, the use of the optional, but preferably also present, second flexible bridge <NUM>(b) section provided by the second array 405b is depicted. As can be seen, while most of rollers <NUM> of the second array 405b are contained between the second pair of reservoir guide rails 476a, 476b (i.e., see <FIG>) at least one of the rollers <NUM> may be present and contiguous to the exit edge of the stage <NUM>. As seen, each of the packaging article or stack PA1 and the second packaging article or stack PA2, each now individually bound by a strap ST, exit stage <NUM> preferably in abutment in a downstream direction.

<FIG> illustrates in a further perspective view an alternative process of the present invention operated by the system and apparatus <NUM> of the invention wherein only a single packaging article or stack PA1 is squared up, compressed and bundled using only the bundling apparatus <NUM>. According to this alternate process the stack PA1 the third (intermediate) paddle assemblies 820a, 820b are positioned such that their upstream flat vertical paddle faces 803a are positioned to come into interfacial contact with a downstream side of the packaging article PA1, while the vertical faces <NUM> of the first (upstream) paddle assemblies 802a, 802b are positioned to come into contact with opposite sides of the packaging article PA1, which operation of these paddle assemblies imparts satisfactory verticality in to the parts of the packaging article PA1. Thereafter the bundling apparatus is operated to encircle the packaging article or stack PA1 compress and strap the packaging article. Subsequently, the orienting apparatus <NUM> operated in retract or otherwise withdraw the first (upstream) paddle assemblies 802a, 802b and the third (intermediate) paddle assemblies 820a, 820b away from the bundle PA1 in order to remove any obstruction to its exit from the system and apparatus <NUM> as generally described with reference to <FIG> and <FIG>. It is to be noted, that during this process, the pair of second (downstream) paddle assemblies 812a, 812b are in a position to provide no obstruction to the direction of the bundle PA1 or the operation of the first (upstream) paddle assemblies <NUM>(a), <NUM>(b) and the third (intermediate) paddle assemblies 820a, 820b.

<FIG> depicts a preferred embodiment of an "omnidirectional fed" bundling apparatus <NUM>, <NUM> which may be used as one or more of the bundling apparatus described previously. In the elevation view provided there is present within such an omnidirectional fed bundling apparatus a bidirectional strap magazine <NUM> which is configured such that it may be supplied by a strap feed apparatus SFA which may be present at either end the ends <NUM>, <NUM> or <NUM>, <NUM> of a bundling apparatus <NUM>, <NUM>. The provision of at least one omnidirectional fed bundling apparatus which operates with a bidirectional strap magazine <NUM> as discussed in more details with respect to <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG> facilitates the operation of the system and apparatus of the invention in that it allows for the readily positioning and repositioning of a supply of the strapping material at either end of a bundling apparatus <NUM>, <NUM>, which is particularly advantageous wherein the bundling apparatus <NUM>, <NUM> are linearly displaceable with respect to one another as has been previously described.

It is however also to be appreciated that the provision of a bidirectional strap magazine <NUM> as discussed in more details with respect to <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG> may also be used with a system which includes only a single bundling apparatus. Thus, such a bidirectional strap magazine <NUM> and a bundling apparatus which may accommodate such, and operate to receive strapping material from either of its ends constitutes a further inventive aspect; and such may be used even in the absence of a flexible bridge <NUM>.

<FIG> is a perspective view showing the interior of a bidirectional strap magazine <NUM>, of which <FIG> is a plan view thereof. It is to be understood that a front plate (not shown) has been omitted for clarity in these and in the further drawing figures related to the bidirectional strap magazine <NUM>, but it is to be understood that such a front plate is advantageously present and parallel to rear plate <NUM> which is shown, and both are of similar dimensions. Extending perpendicularly to the rear plate <NUM> and at the margins thereof are respectively a base wall 704a, and two sidewalls 704b, 704c which define an interior, along with a guide block <NUM> which substantially closes the top margin of the rear plate <NUM>. The guide block <NUM> defines a first guide channel 705a which is configured to receive the strap STR which may enter from a first feed end 706a and which continues to a strap exit <NUM>, The guide block <NUM> also defines a second guide channel 705b which is configured to receive the strap STR which may enter from an opposite, second feed end 706b and which continues to the strap exit <NUM>. Also present is a strap feed gate <NUM> which is advantageously rotatable at one end thereof and which in a first 'open' position as is shown in <FIG> allows for entry of strap STR into the interior cavity <NUM> wherein a length of which may be collected in a serpentine configuration prior to exiting via the strap exit <NUM>. In such manner the bidirectional strap magazine <NUM> functions as a reservoir to temporarily contain part of the strap STR in an untensioned state which greatly facilitate its deployment to the bundling apparatus. <FIG> illustrate in more detail, respectively the initial supply of strap STR to the bidirectional strap magazine <NUM> from either the first feed end 706a or the second feed end 706b. The reference line "SD" of <FIG> correlate to line "SD" of <FIG>, thus allowing for a more detailed depiction of this part of the dual-feed cassette <NUM>. Turning first to <FIG> therein is shown the supply of strap STR from an external supply source (not shown, but see <FIG>) which enters via the first feed end 706a in the direction of arrow "x", wherein it transits within the first guide channel 705a towards the diverter <NUM> within the tapered throat <NUM> adjacent to the strap exit <NUM>. Also visible is the strap feed gate <NUM> which is now in a second 'closed' position wherein one of its two arcuate guide surfaces 707a is in close proximity to a corresponding part of the first guide channel 705a; in this position the terminal end (not shown) of the strap STR is guided from the first guide channel 705a, past one side of the diverter <NUM> and out of the bidirectional strap magazine <NUM> via the strap exit <NUM>, wherein the strap moves in the direction of arrow "z". Where the strap STR is fed into the bidirectional strap magazine <NUM> from the second feed end 706b, the terminal end thereof (not shown) enters the second feed end 706b in the direction of arrow "y". wherein it transits within the second guide channel 705b towards the diverter <NUM> within the tapered throat <NUM> adjacent to the strap exit <NUM>. Again the strap feed gate <NUM> is now in its second 'closed' position wherein one of its two arcuate guide surfaces 707b is in close proximity to a corresponding part of the second guide channel 705b; in this position the terminal end (not shown) of the strap STR is guided from the second guide channel 705b, past a further side of the diverter <NUM> and out of the bidirectional strap magazine <NUM> via the strap exit <NUM>, wherein the strap now moves in the direction of arrow "z". From this direction "z', strap STR exiting the bidirectional strap magazine <NUM> now may be fed to the bundling apparatus. With reference now to <FIG>, therein is illustrated that, subsequent to the initial treading of strap STR into the bidirectional strap magazine <NUM> as described with reference to <FIG>, advantageously the strap feed gate <NUM> may be moved to its first 'open' position which allows for a length of strap STR may be collected in a serpentine configuration prior to exiting via the strap exit <NUM>. As can be understood from the foregoing the use of a bidirectional strap magazine <NUM> provides for an "omnidirectional fed" bundling apparatus.

The provision of the system and apparatus of the invention, particularly in the preferred embodiments shown illustrates that during and after bundling both the first stack, and the second stack may remain in abutment as illustrated, or at most may be slightly separated. Such stacks, while remaining in abutment, and are driven in the direction of the exit track wherein they are ultimately palletized. The retention of the orientation of a first, unbundled stack with a second abutting, unbundled stack during the bundling and strapping step, preferably which is practiced simultaneously, allows for retention of orientation of the two resultant stacks throughout the process, and even after post bundling. Such as not been possible according to any apparatus of the prior invention.

Also, while not illustrated in the one or more of the Figures, the principles of the invention may be extended to systems and apparatus which comprise three or more bundling apparatus of the type illustrated as <NUM> and <NUM> where such three or more bundling apparatus are positioned serially in a linear sequence. In which case, there would be required an extension of the above inventive principles whereby it would be necessary to include a flexible bridge apparatus between the exit side of an upstream bundling apparatus, and the inlet side of a successive and downstream bundling apparatus, with the exception of the exit side of the last bundling apparatus in the series or sequence of three or more such bundling apparatus, in which case the provision of a still further flexible bridge apparatus would be optional, although such would be preferred.

Claim 1:
An apparatus for bundling packaged articles, which comprises:
a first bundling apparatus (B),
at least a second bundling apparatus (C), characterised in that the relative linear displacement of the first bundling apparatus and the at least second bundling apparatus is variable,
a reconfigurable bridge (<NUM>) between the first bundling apparatus (B) and the second bundling apparatus (C) which spans between an exit edge of the first bundling apparatus and an entrance edge of the second bundling apparatus, wherein the span of the bridge may be re-dimensioned in order to maintain a substantially contiguous and continuous transport surface between the exit edge of the first bundling apparatus and the entrance edge of the second bundling apparatus.