Patent ID: 7032363

Claim:
A linear fitment applicator for applying a fitment to a container being conveyed along a form, fill, and seal packaging machine, the container having at least one open end and a pre-incised hole for receiving the fitment, the fitment applicator comprising: an anvil having a fitment engaging element for receiving and engaging the fitment, the anvil being movable in a vertical plane between a picking height and a welding height, and being movable in a horizontal plane between a rearward conveying position and a forward welding/picking position, which vertical and horizontal movements are independent of one another; a fitment dispenser for supplying a fitment to the anvil; a sealer for fastening the fitment to the container; a vertical drive for moving the anvil between the picking height and the welding height, a horizontal drive for moving the anvil between the rearward conveying position and the forward welding/picking position; and a wedge for locking the anvil into the forward welding/picking position when the sealer fastens the fitments to the containers.