Patent ID: 7716902

Claim:
A method for controlling a transfer device in a packaging machine, the transfer device comprising a first conveying device which is moved in cycles to transport a product to a transfer location, a second conveying device which is moved in cycles, the second conveying device extending parallel to the first conveying device at the transfer location, and a pushing device disposed at the transfer location to exercise a pushing motion which is substantially perpendicular to a transport direction of the first and second conveying devices at the transfer location, the method comprising the steps of: a) stopping the first and second conveying devices; b) moving the pushing device to urge the product from the first conveying device onto the second conveying device; c) retracting the pushing device following transfer of the product to the second conveying device; and d) initiating motion of the second conveying device during step c) while the first conveying device is still stationary.