Patent ID: 6857252

Claim:
A strap path access guide for a strapping machine of the type having a feed assembly and a chute, the strapping machine including a strapping head disposed between the feed assembly and the chute, the strapping machine configured to receive first and second courses of associated strap material, position, tension and seal the strap material around a load, the feed assembly including a pair of tensioning wheels and a pair of feed wheels disposed along a strap path, the feed wheels feeding the strap material into and around the chute and the tensioning wheels retracting the strap material and tensioning the strap material around the load, the strap path access guide comprising: a fixed lower guide portion extending between the tensioning wheels and the strapping head, the fixed lower guide portion defining a lower surface of the strap path; a pivotable upper guide portion, the upper guide portion pivotable about a pivot point that is spaced from and rearwardly beyond the tensioning wheels, the upper guide portion pivotable between a closed position in which the upper and lower guide portions cooperate with one another to define the strap path and an open position in which the strap path is fully accessible, the upper guide portion being pivotable in a plane transverse to a direction of travel of strap material through the strap path; and a latching assembly for securing the upper guide portion in the closed position.