Patent ID: 8069635

Claim:
An apparatus for forming packages comprising: a supply of a web of preformed bags, each bag having a first ply and a second ply; an indexing mechanism for moving the web along a path of travel; a blower positioned to sequentially blow air into the bags of the web to open the bags for loading with a product; an engagement member that is moveable from an engaged position where the engagement member engages the web and a disengaged position where the engagement member is spaced apart from the web; a sealer that seals bags loaded with said product bags to form packages; and a controller means in communication with the indexing mechanism, the engagement member, and the sealer, wherein the controller means is programmed to: actuate the sealer to seal an opening of the first bag; index a next bag such that an opening of the next bag is proximate to the engagement member; engage the web with the engagement member and reverse index the web to pre-open the next bag, wherein the engagement member is configured and controlled to pre-open the next bag by engaging the first ply while the second ply is reverse indexed.