Stretching and covering machine with retractable reverse roller

Abstract

Various embodiments of this disclosure provide a stretch capping machine including a package holder supporting a take-up device. The take-up device includes a take-up finger having a film-bonding surface, a reverse roller supported by the take-up finger, and a drive roller. The reverse roller is movable between an extended position and a retracted position, in which a first portion of the reverse roller is positioned in front of the film-bonding surface, and in the retracted position, at least a portion of the first portion of the reverse roller is positioned behind the film-bonding surface. With the reverse roller in the extended position, a controller drives the drive roller to take a tubular film segment onto the film-bonding surface. After take-up, the controller moves the reverse roller to the retracted position and drives the drive roller to release the tubular film segment from the take-up finger as the package holder descends.

Description

[0001] priority This application claims priority and benefit to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 627,941, filed February 1, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This disclosure relates to a stretch wrapping machine for wrapping cargo loads with tubular stretch film. Background Technology

[0003] Stretch wrapping machines utilize tubular plastic stretch film to wrap cargo loads. These machines include a frame supporting a film supply assembly, a film opening assembly, and a reefing-and-wrapping assembly. The reefing-and-wrapping assembly includes a wrapping bracket supporting four reefing units. Each reefing unit includes a support member supporting a drive roller and a vertically extending reefing finger supporting a freely rotatable reverse roller. The drive roller is movable toward and away from the reverse roller and is driven by a motor.

[0004] To wrap a cargo load, the film supply assembly pulls a tubular film from the film roll, cuts the film to the desired length to form tubular film segments, and in some cases heat-seals the top of the tubular film segments. The film opening assembly opens the bottom portion of the tubular film segment so that its perimeter is substantially rectangular. The take-up device moves laterally inward to the corresponding insertion position, where it forms an insertion configuration. The wrapping tray then rises until the take-up fingers of the take-up device enter the open bottom portion of the tubular film segment near the four corners. The take-up device moves laterally outward to the corresponding take-up position, where it forms a take-up configuration, thus preparing to take the tubular film segment onto the take-up fingers. The drive roller of the take-up device moves toward its corresponding reverse roller to contact the outer surface of the tubular film segment and force the inner surface of the tubular film segment against the reverse roller, thereby clamping the film between the roller pairs. The motor drives its corresponding drive roller in the direction of rotation to bring the tubular film segment into (or gather) the curved film bonding surface of the infeed finger.

[0005] After taking in, the taking-in device moves laterally outward to the corresponding wrapping position, where it forms a wrapping configuration. Because the film is elastic, it stretches during this movement. The wrapping configuration (and therefore the wrapping position) is determined based on the size and shape of the load, so the perimeter of the tubular film segment is sized to surround the load once the taking-in device reaches the wrapping configuration. After the taking-in device reaches the wrapping configuration, the wrapping tray descends. During this descent, a motor drives the drive roller of the taking-in device in the release rotation direction to release the film from the taking-in fingers. As this occurs, the film attempts to return to its unstretched size and shape and laterally contracts onto the load, which integrates the load and / or secures it to the tray. This completes the wrapping process, and the conveyor transports the load from the stretching and covering machine.

[0006] In some stretch wrapping machines, each reverse roller is mounted to its corresponding take-up finger, such that a portion of the reverse roller is positioned in front of the film engagement surface of the take-up finger. This positioning allows for the formation of orderly folds in the film during take-up, thereby improving wrapping quality. A disadvantage of this positioning of the reverse roller is that during release, the film stretches and thins as it passes the reverse roller. This can create visible marks in the film and may result in less stable wrapping loads because the thinned portion of the film is weaker than the rest. Summary of the Invention

[0007] Various embodiments of this disclosure provide a stretch capping machine including a package holder supporting a take-up device. The take-up device includes a take-up finger having a film-bonding surface, a reverse roller supported by the take-up finger, and a drive roller. The reverse roller is movable between an extended position and a retracted position, in which a first portion of the reverse roller is positioned in front of the film-bonding surface, and in the retracted position, at least a portion of the first portion of the reverse roller is positioned behind the film-bonding surface. With the reverse roller in the extended position, a controller drives the drive roller to take a tubular film segment onto the film-bonding surface. After take-up, the controller moves the reverse roller to the retracted position and drives the drive roller to release the tubular film segment from the take-up finger as the package holder descends.

[0008] Various embodiments of this disclosure provide a method of operating a stretch wrapping machine, the method comprising: retracting a tubular film segment onto a film bonding surface of the retracting finger while a reverse roller is supported in an extended position by a retracting finger of a retracting device, wherein in the extended position a first portion of the reverse roller is positioned in front of the film bonding surface; and after the tubular film segment has been retracted onto the film bonding surface: moving the reverse roller to a retracted position, wherein in the retracted position at least a portion of the first portion of the reverse roller is positioned behind the film bonding surface; and simultaneously releasing the tubular film segment from the retracting finger while lowering a wrapping bracket supporting the retracting device. Attached Figure Description

[0009] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of one embodiment of the stretch sleeve machine disclosed herein.

[0010] Figure 2 It is shown Figure 1 A block diagram of some components of a stretch sleeve machine.

[0011] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A side view of the take-up device in the take-up unit of the stretching sleeve machine, wherein the take-up bracket is in the original position and the reverse roller is in the extended position.

[0012] Figure 4A and Figure 4B yes Figure 3 An assembly and disassembly perspective view of the finger component assembly of the receiving device.

[0013] Figure 4C and Figure 4D It is along Figure 3 The line 4-4 was cut Figure 4A and Figure 4B A top-view cross-section of a portion of the finger assembly. The reverse roller is... Figure 4C In the extended position, and Figure 4D It is in a retracted position.

[0014] Figure 5 This occurs after the membrane opening device has opened the bottom of the tubular membrane section and before the retracting fingers of the retracting device have been inserted into the bottom of the tubular membrane section. Figure 1 A perspective view of the membrane opening and receiving devices of a stretching sleeve machine.

[0015] Figure 6 It corresponds to Figure 5 A simplified top-down plan.

[0016] Figure 7 It is similar to Figure 5A perspective view, but after the retracting fingers of the retracting device have been inserted into the bottom of the tubular membrane section and after the retracting bracket of the retracting device has moved to its corresponding retracting position.

[0017] Figure 8 It corresponds to Figure 7 A simplified top-down plan.

[0018] Figure 9 yes Figure 3 A side view of the take-up device, wherein the take-up bracket is in the take-up position and the reverse roller is in the extendable position.

[0019] Figure 10 It is similar to Figure 5 A perspective view, but after the receiving device has received the tubular membrane segment onto its receiving fingers.

[0020] Figure 11 It corresponds to Figure 10 of Figure 3 A side view of the receiving device.

[0021] Figure 12 yes Figure 3 A side view of the take-up device, wherein the take-up bracket is in the extended position and the reverse roller is in the retracted position.

[0022] Figure 13 It is similar to Figure 5 A perspective view, but after the receiving device has been lowered just above the load in preparation for releasing the tubular membrane segment from the receiving fingers and placing it on the load.

[0023] Figure 14 This is a flowchart of a sample package process disclosed herein.

[0024] Figure 15A and Figure 15B This is an assembled and exploded perspective view of another embodiment of the finger component of this disclosure.

[0025] Figure 15C and Figure 15D It is along Figure 15A The line cut at 15C-15C Figure 15A and Figure 15B A cross-sectional side view of the finger-shaped component assembly. The reverse roller is... Figure 15C In the middle, it is in the retracted position, and Figure 15D It is in the extended position. Detailed Implementation

[0026] While the systems, apparatuses, and methods described herein can be implemented in various forms, the accompanying drawings and the specification describe certain exemplary and non-limiting embodiments. Not all components shown in the drawings and described in the specification may be necessary, and some implementations may include additional, different, or fewer components. The arrangement and type of components; the shape, size, and material of components; and the manner in which components are connected may vary without departing from the spirit or scope of the claims. Unless otherwise stated, any orientation mentioned in the specification reflects the orientation of the corresponding component shown in the drawings and does not limit the scope of this disclosure. Furthermore, terms relating to installation methods such as mounting and connecting are not intended to be limited to direct installation methods but should be broadly interpreted to include indirect and operatively mounted, connected, etc. This specification is intended to be considered as a whole and interpreted in accordance with the principles of this disclosure and as understood by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0027] Figures 1 to 13 An embodiment of the stretch wrapping machine 10 of this disclosure is shown, along with its components and parts. The stretch wrapping machine 10 includes a machine frame 100, a film supply assembly 200 supported by the machine frame 100, a film opening assembly 300 supported by the machine frame 100, a take-in and wrapping assembly 400 supported by the machine frame 100, an operator interface 900, and a controller C. Figure 1 The coordinate system CS shown herein is used as a reference for the directional movement of the various components of the stretching sleeve machine 10 in the X, Y, and Z directions, which in this example embodiment are perpendicular to each other.

[0028] The machine frame 100 is formed of a plurality of tubular and / or solid components and other elements (not individually labeled) and is configured to support other components and parts of the stretch hooding machine 10. The machine frame 100 defines a wrapping area internally and has an infeed area (not labeled) and an outlet area (not labeled), in which palletized loads (e.g., load L on pallet P) are conveyed into the wrapping area for wrapping, and in the outlet area, the palletized loads are conveyed out of the wrapping area after wrapping. The illustrated machine frame 100 is merely an example configuration, and any suitable configuration may be used.

[0029] The membrane supply assembly 200 includes suitable components configured to form a tubular membrane segment F, which the stretching and covering machine 10 then uses to wrap a load L. More specifically, the membrane supply assembly 200 includes components adapted to draw a length of tubular membrane from a tubular membrane roll R rotatably mounted near the machine frame 100, cut the length of the tubular membrane from the roll R to form the tubular membrane segment F, and seal the upper end of the tubular membrane segment (e.g., via a heat-sealing mechanism). The controller C determines the length of the tubular membrane segment F in part based on the height of the load L.

[0030] The membrane opening assembly 300 includes suitable components configured to open the bottom portion of the tubular membrane segment F, forming a generally rectangular periphery, thereby preparing it for reception by the receiving and wrapping assembly 400. More specifically, the membrane opening assembly 300 includes four suction boxes and four corresponding holding devices (not labeled) movable laterally inward and outward relative to the tubular membrane segment F in the X and Y directions and substantially parallel to the XY plane. To open the bottom portion of the tubular membrane segment F, the suction boxes are moved laterally inward in the X and Y directions, thus positioning them near the outer surface of the bottom portion of the tubular membrane segment F. A vacuum is generated to pull the bottom portion of the tubular membrane segment F onto the suction boxes, thereby partially opening the bottom portion. The holding devices then clamp the tubular membrane segment, and the suction boxes and holding devices are moved laterally outward in the X and Y directions and substantially parallel to the XY plane to open the bottom portion of the tubular membrane segment F, thereby preparing it for reception. At this point, the periphery of the bottom portion of the tubular membrane segment F forms a substantially rectangular shape. This is merely one example of the membrane opening assembly 300, and other embodiments of the membrane opening assembly 300 may include any other suitable components.

[0031] The receiving and wrapping assembly 400 includes a wrapping tray (not shown for clarity); a wrapping tray actuator 410; a first receiving device 500, a second receiving device 600, a third receiving device 700, and a fourth receiving device 800; and a first set of receiving device actuators 420 and a second set of receiving device actuators 440. The wrapping tray includes a suitable frame and is vertically movable relative to the machine frame 100 in the Z direction between an upper position and a lower position. The wrapping tray actuator 410 is operatively connected to the wrapping tray to move the wrapping tray between its upper and lower positions, and the wrapping tray actuator may include any suitable actuator (such as an electric motor or a hydraulic motor).

[0032] Figures 3 to 4D , Figure 9 , Figure 11 and Figure 12A first retracting device 500 is shown, comprising: a first support 505; a first track 510 supported by the first support 505; and a first bracket 515 slidably mounted to the first track 510 and configured to move along the first track 510 in its original position. Figure 3 ), receiving location ( Figure 9 and Figure 11 ) and release position ( Figure 12 The first support member 505 moves laterally (generally parallel to the XY plane) between the following components: a first bracket actuator 515a, operably connected to the first bracket 515 and configured to move the first bracket 515 between an initial position, a retracted position, and an extended position; a first drive roller 520 supported by the first bracket 515; a first drive roller actuator 520a supported by the first bracket 515 and operably connected to the first drive roller 520 and configured to rotate the first drive roller 520 in opposite retracted and extended rotational directions; and a first finger assembly 550 extending substantially vertically in the Z direction from one end of the first support member 505.

[0033] like Figures 4A to 4D As best shown, the first finger assembly 550 includes a first base 551, a first retractable finger 552, a first reverse roller 554, first bearings 556a and 556b, a first reverse roller mounting shaft 558, first retainers 559a and 559b, first mounting pins 560a and 560b, first reverse roller biasing elements 562a and 562b, a first retaining plate 564, and a first fastener 566. The first base 551 is connected to the first support 505, for example, via suitable fasteners. The first retractable finger 552 is connected to the first base 551 and extends substantially vertically from the first base, and includes a curved first membrane engagement surface 552s facing the first bracket 515. In this example embodiment, the first base 551 and the first retractable finger 552 are integrally formed from a single piece of material; however, in other embodiments, they may be separate components connected to each other.

[0034] The first reverse roller 554 is mounted to the first retractable finger 552 via other components of the finger assembly 550, such that the first reverse roller 554 can rotate freely and can be in the extended position. Figure 3 , Figure 4C , Figure 9 and Figure 11 ) and retraction position ( Figure 4D and Figure 12The first reverse roller 554 moves between (and in this example embodiment, translates) positions, with a first portion of the first reverse roller 554 positioned in front of the membrane bonding surface 552s in the extended position and at least a portion of the first portion of the first reverse roller 554 positioned behind the membrane bonding surface 552s in the retracted position. In this example embodiment, when the first reverse roller 554 is in the extended position, a first surface area of ​​the first reverse roller 554 is positioned in front of the membrane bonding surface 552s, while when the first reverse roller 554 is in the retracted position, a second surface area of ​​the first reverse roller 554 is positioned in front of the membrane bonding surface 552s. The second surface area is smaller than the first surface area.

[0035] Specifically, the outer races of the first bearings 556a and 556b are press-fitted into appropriately sized holes defined on opposite sides of the first reverse roller 554, and the first reverse roller mounting shaft 558 extends through the holes defined by the inner races of the first bearings 556a and 556b and through a hole at the center of the first reverse roller 554. First retainers 559a and 559b are mounted on the ends of the reverse roller mounting shaft 558 to hold the bearings 556a and 556b in place. Therefore, the first reverse roller 554 is rotatable about the first reverse roller mounting shaft 558. The first reverse roller mounting shaft 558 is slidably mounted to first mounting pins 560a and 560b at opposite ends, respectively. First reverse roller biasing elements 562a and 562b (compression springs in this example embodiment) are externally connected to the first mounting pins 560a and 560b, respectively. The first retaining plate 564 is attached to the first retracting finger 552 via fastener 566 to hold the first mounting pins 560a and 560b in a substantially horizontal orientation (substantially parallel to the XY plane and transverse to the retracting finger 552). In other embodiments, the reverse roller biasing element may be any other suitable biasing element, such as a pneumatic or hydraulic cylinder.

[0036] The first reverse roller 554 can be Figure 3 , Figure 4C , Figure 9 and Figure 11 The extended position shown is the same as Figure 4D and Figure 12 The movement is between the retracted positions shown, and in this example embodiment, it is capable of translation substantially parallel to the XY plane. First reverse roller biasing elements 562a and 562b bias the first reverse roller 554 to the extended position. When in the extended position, as... Figure 3 As best shown, a first portion of the first reverse roller 554 is positioned in front of the first film bonding surface 552s (in the direction toward the first drive roller 520). In this example embodiment, when the first reverse roller 554 is in the extended position, it extends a first distance D1 in front of the first film bonding surface 552s. When in the retracted position, as... Figure 12 As best shown, at least a portion of the first portion of the first reverse roller 554 is positioned behind the first film bonding surface 552s (in a direction away from the first drive roller 520). In this example embodiment, when the first reverse roller 554 is in the retracted position, it extends a second distance D2 in front of the first film bonding surface 552s, wherein the second distance D2 is less than the first distance D1. In other embodiments, when the first reverse roller is in the retracted position, it retracts behind the first film bonding surface such that no portion of the first reverse roller extends in front of the first film bonding surface.

[0037] The position of the first bracket 515 controls the position of the first reverse roller 554. When the first bracket 515 is in Figure 3 In the initial position shown, the first drive roller 520 is spaced apart from the first reverse roller 554, and the first reverse roller biasing elements 562a and 562b bias the first reverse roller to the extended position. When the first bracket 515 moves laterally inward... Figure 9 and Figure 11 In the retracted position shown, the first drive roller 520 is adjacent to the first reverse roller 554 to force the tubular film segment F against the first reverse roller 554 for retracting. When the first bracket 515 moves further laterally inward... Figure 12 When in the extended position shown, the first drive roller 520 resists the biasing force exerted on the first reverse roller 554 by the first reverse roller biasing elements 562a and 562b, forcing the first reverse roller 554 to the retracted position.

[0038] The second retractor 600 is similar to the first retractor 500 and therefore is not shown separately in detail. The second retractor 600 includes: a second support 605; a second track (not labeled) supported by the second support 605; and a second bracket (not labeled) slidably mounted to the second track and configured to move along the second track in its original position. Figure 6 ), receiving location ( Figure 8The second support member 605 moves laterally (generally parallel to the XY plane) between its initial position and its release position (not shown); a second bracket actuator 615a, operatively connected to the second bracket and configured to move the second bracket between its initial position, its retracted position, and its release position; a second drive roller 620, supported by the second bracket; a second drive roller actuator 620a, supported by the second bracket and operatively connected to the second drive roller 620 and configured to rotate the second drive roller 620 in opposite retracted and release rotation directions; and a second finger assembly 650, extending substantially vertically in the Z direction from one end of the second support member 605. The second finger assembly 650 is similar to the first finger assembly 550 and therefore is not shown separately in detail. The second finger assembly 650 includes a second retractable finger 652 and a second reverse roller 654, which is mounted to the second retractable finger 652 via other components of the finger assembly 650 such that the second reverse roller 654 is freely rotatable and movable between an extended position and a retracted position (and, in this example embodiment, translation). In the extended position, a first portion of the second reverse roller 654 is positioned in front of the film bonding surface of the second retractable finger 652, and in the retracted position, at least a portion of the first portion of the second reverse roller 654 is positioned behind the film bonding surface.

[0039] The third retractor 700 is similar to the first retractor 500 and therefore is not shown separately in detail. The third retractor 700 includes: a third support 705; a third track (unmarked) supported by the third support 705; and a third bracket (unmarked) slidably mounted to the third track and configured to move along the third track in its original position. Figure 6 ), receiving location ( Figure 8The third support member 705 moves laterally (generally parallel to the XY plane) between its initial position and its release position (not shown); a third support member 715a, operatively connected to the third support member 715a and configured to move the third support member 715a between its initial position, its retracted position, and its release position; a third drive roller 720, supported by the third support member; a third drive roller actuator 720a, supported by the third support member and operatively connected to the third drive roller 720 and configured to rotate the third drive roller 720 in opposite retracted and release rotation directions; and a third finger assembly 750, extending substantially vertically in the Z direction from one end of the third support member 705. The third finger assembly 750 is similar to the first finger assembly 550 and therefore is not shown separately in detail. The third finger assembly 750 includes a third retractable finger 752 and a third reverse roller 754, which is mounted to the third retractable finger 752 via other components of the finger assembly 750 such that the third reverse roller 754 is freely rotatable and movable between an extended position and a retracted position (and, in this example embodiment, translation). In the extended position, a first portion of the third reverse roller 754 is positioned in front of the film bonding surface of the third retractable finger 752, and in the retracted position, at least a portion of the first portion of the third reverse roller 754 is positioned behind the film bonding surface.

[0040] The fourth retractor 800 is similar to the first retractor 500 and therefore is not shown separately in detail. The fourth retractor 800 includes: a fourth support 805; a fourth track (unmarked) supported by the fourth support 805; and a fourth bracket (unmarked) slidably mounted to the fourth track and configured to move along the fourth track in its original position. Figure 6 ), receiving location ( Figure 8The fourth support member 805 moves laterally (generally parallel to the XY plane) between its initial position and its release position (not shown); a fourth support actuator 815a, operatively connected to the fourth support and configured to move the fourth support between its initial position, its retracted position, and its release position; a fourth drive roller 820, supported by the fourth support; a fourth drive roller actuator 820a, supported by the fourth support and operatively connected to the fourth drive roller 820, configured to rotate the fourth drive roller 820 in opposite retracted and release rotation directions; and a fourth finger assembly 850, extending substantially vertically in the Z direction from one end of the fourth support member 805. The fourth finger assembly 850 is similar to the first finger assembly 550 and therefore is not shown separately in detail. The fourth finger assembly 850 includes a fourth retractable finger 852 and a fourth reverse roller 854, which is mounted to the fourth retractable finger 852 via other components of the finger assembly 850 such that the fourth reverse roller 854 is freely rotatable and movable between an extended position and a retracted position (and, in this example embodiment, translation). In the extended position, a first portion of the fourth reverse roller 854 is positioned in front of the film bonding surface of the fourth retractable finger 852, and in the retracted position, at least a portion of the first portion of the fourth reverse roller 854 is positioned behind the film bonding surface.

[0041] The first receiving device 500, the second receiving device 600, the third receiving device 700, and the fourth receiving device 800 are mounted to the frame of the parcel holder in a substantially rectangular arrangement. A first set of receiving device actuators 420 is operatively connected to the first receiving device 500 and the second receiving device 600 and is configured to move laterally inward and outward relative to the parcel holder (and the load L and the tubular film segment F) in the X and Y directions and substantially parallel to the XY plane. A second set of receiving device actuators 440 is operatively connected to the third receiving device 700 and the fourth receiving device 800 and is configured to move laterally inward and outward relative to the parcel holder (and the load L and the tubular film segment F) in the X and Y directions and substantially parallel to the XY plane.

[0042] The first set of take-up device actuators 420 includes a first X actuator and a first Y actuator, which are controlled independently of each other. The first X actuator is operatively connected to the first take-up device 500 and the second take-up device 600 and is configured to move the first take-up device 500 and the second take-up device 600 relative to the parcel carrier in the X direction. The first Y actuator is operatively connected to the first take-up device 500 and the second take-up device 600 and is configured to move the first take-up device 500 and the second take-up device 600 relative to the parcel carrier in the Y direction. In this example embodiment, the first X actuator and the first Y actuator include electric motors controlled by separate variable frequency drives; however, in other embodiments, these actuators can be any suitable actuator (such as a hydraulic motor controlled by a proportional solenoid valve). In this example embodiment, the first X actuator causes the first take-up device and the second take-up device to move simultaneously and at the same rate toward and away from the load in the X direction. Similarly, the first Y actuator causes the first and second take-up devices to move simultaneously and at the same rate toward and away from the load in the Y direction.

[0043] The second set of take-up device actuators 440 includes a second X actuator and a second Y actuator that are controlled independently of each other. The second X actuator is operatively connected to the third take-up device 700 and the fourth take-up device 800 and is configured to move the third take-up device 700 and the fourth take-up device 800 relative to the parcel carrier in the X direction. The second Y actuator is operatively connected to the third take-up device 700 and the fourth take-up device 800 and is configured to move the third take-up device 700 and the fourth take-up device 800 relative to the parcel carrier in the Y direction. In this example embodiment, the second X actuator and the second Y actuator include electric motors controlled by separate variable frequency drives; however, in other embodiments, the actuators can be any suitable actuator (e.g., a hydraulic motor controlled by a proportional solenoid valve). In this example embodiment, the second X actuator causes the third and fourth take-up devices to move simultaneously and at the same rate toward and away from the load in the X direction. Similarly, the second Y actuator causes the third and fourth receiving devices to move simultaneously and at the same rate toward and away from the load in the Y direction.

[0044] In other embodiments, the stretch sleeve machine includes a separate set of one or more retractable device actuators for each individual retractable device. In some of these embodiments, each set of retractable device actuators includes independently controlled X and Y actuators similar to those described above.

[0045] Operator interface 900 is configured to receive input from an operator and, in some embodiments, to output information to the operator. The operator interface includes one or more input devices configured to receive input from the operator. In various embodiments, the one or more input devices include one or more buttons (such as hard keys or soft keys), one or more switches, and / or a touch panel. In various embodiments, operator interface 900 includes a display device configured to display information to the operator, such as information about pallet load, the status of wrapping operations, or parameters of the stretch wrapping machine 10. The operator interface may include other output devices, such as one or more speakers and / or one or more lights, instead of or attached to the display device. In some embodiments, operator interface 900 is formed as part of the stretch wrapping machine 10 and, for example, mounted to machine frame 100. In other embodiments, the operator interface is located away from the stretch wrapping machine 10.

[0046] The controller C includes a processing device communicatively connected to the memory device. The processing device may include any suitable processing device, such as, but not limited to, a general-purpose processor, a special-purpose processor, a digital signal processor, one or more microprocessors, one or more microprocessors associated with a digital signal processor core, one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), one or more field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), one or more integrated circuits, and / or state machines. The memory device may include any suitable memory device, such as, but not limited to, read-only memory, random access memory, one or more digital registers, cache memory, one or more semiconductor memory devices, magnetic media such as integrated hard disks and / or removable memory, magneto-optical media, and / or optical media. The memory device stores instructions executable by the processing device to control the operation of the stretching and covering machine 10 (such as performing the wrapping process described below).

[0047] Controller C is communicatively and operably connected to the following components: membrane supply assembly 200; membrane opening assembly 300; wrapping tray actuator 410; first set of take-up device actuators 420 and second set of take-up device actuators 440; first tray actuator 515a, second tray actuator 615a, third tray actuator 715a and fourth tray actuator 815a; and first set of drive roller actuators 520a, second set of drive roller actuators 620a, third set of drive roller actuators 720a and fourth set of drive roller actuators 820a, to control the operation of these components to perform the wrapping process 1000, as described below. Controller C is communicatively connected to operator interface 900 to: (1) receive signals from operator interface 900 representing inputs received by operator interface 900; and (2) send signals to operator interface 900 to cause operator interface 900 to output (e.g., display) information.

[0048] Figure 14 This is a flowchart of an example wrapping process 1000 disclosed herein. Examples of each step of the wrapping process 1000 are provided with reference to the stretch sleeve machine 10 described above and shown in the figure.

[0049] As indicated by box 1002, when the wrapping process 1000 is initiated, the load is moved to the wrapping area of ​​the stretch wrapping machine. In this example embodiment, the conveyor moves the load L to the wrapping area of ​​the machine frame 100 of the stretch wrapping machine 10. As indicated by box 1004, a tubular film segment is then created. In this example embodiment, the controller C controls the film supply assembly 200 to pull the tubular film from the film roll R, cut the film to the desired length to form the tubular film segment F, and heat-seal the top of the tubular film segment F. As indicated by box 1006, the bottom portion of the tubular film segment is then opened. In this example embodiment, the controller C controls the film opening assembly 300 (and more specifically, the suction box and holding device) to open the bottom portion of the tubular film segment F such that its perimeter is substantially rectangular, as explained above.

[0050] As indicated in box 1008, the parcel holder is then raised such that at least a portion of the receiving fingers of the receiving device is received in the open bottom portion of the tubular membrane section. In this example embodiment, controller C controls parcel holder actuator 410 to raise the parcel holder such that the receiving fingers 552, 652, 752, and 852 of the respective receiving devices 500, 600, 700, and 800 are received in the open bottom portion of the tubular membrane section F, as shown. Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown in box 1010, the take-up device is then moved laterally outward to the corresponding take-up position. In this example embodiment, controller C controls the first set of take-up device actuators 420 and the second set of take-up device actuators 440 to move the respective take-up devices 500, 600, 700 and 800 laterally outward relative to the tubular membrane segment F (in the X and Y directions and substantially parallel to the XY plane) to their respective take-up positions, in which the take-up devices form a take-up configuration, thereby preparing for the take-up of the tubular membrane segment F.

[0051] As indicated by box 1012, the drive roller of the take-up device moves to contact the outer surface of the tubular film segment, forcing the inner surface of the tubular film segment against the reverse roller on the take-up finger. As indicated by box 1012, the reverse roller is in the corresponding extended position, wherein a first portion of the reverse roller is positioned in front of the film engagement surface of the corresponding take-up finger. In this example embodiment, controller C controls the first bracket actuator 515a, the second bracket actuator 615a, the third bracket actuator 715a, and the fourth bracket actuator 815a to move the brackets of the corresponding take-up devices 500, 600, 700, and 800 from their respective original positions to their respective take-up positions. This causes the drive rollers 520, 620, 720, and 820 of the take-up devices 500, 600, 700, and 800 to contact the inner surface F of the tubular film segment F. IN And force the outer surface F of the tubular membrane segment F to... OUT It abuts against the corresponding reverse rollers 554, 654, 754 and 854. Figures 7 to 9 The diagram shows the retractable devices 500, 600, 700, and 800 in their retracted positions after the trays of these devices have been moved to their respective retracted positions. In some embodiments, the trays move to their retracted positions as the retractable devices move to their retracted positions.

[0052] As indicated in box 1014, the drive rollers are driven to retract the tubular film segment onto the film bonding surface of the retraction fingers. In this example embodiment, the controller C then controls the first drive roller actuator 520a, the second drive roller actuator 620a, the third drive roller actuator 720a, and the fourth drive roller actuator 820a to drive the first drive roller 520, the second drive roller 620a, the third drive roller 720a, and the fourth drive roller 820a in the retraction rotation direction, thereby retracting the tubular film segment F onto the retraction fingers 552, 652, 752, and 852. Figure 10 and Figure 11 The take-up devices 500, 600, 700, and 800 are shown after take-up. As indicated in box 1016, the take-up devices move laterally outward to their respective wrapping positions. During this movement, the tubular film segment is stretched. In this example embodiment, controller C controls a first set of take-up device actuators 420 and a second set of take-up device actuators 440 to move the take-up devices 500, 600, 700, and 800 from their respective take-up positions to their respective wrapping positions. In some embodiments, as the take-up device moves from its take-up position to its wrapping position, a drive roller is actuated to release a portion of the tubular film segment.

[0053] As indicated by box 1018, the reverse roller on the retractable finger moves to the corresponding retracted position, wherein at least a portion of the first part of the reverse roller is positioned behind the film-bonding surface of the corresponding retractable finger. In this example embodiment, controller C controls the first bracket actuator 515a, the second bracket actuator 615a, the third bracket actuator 715a, and the fourth bracket actuator 815a to move the brackets of the corresponding retractable devices 500, 600, 700, and 800 from their respective retracted positions to their respective deployed positions, as shown in box 1018. Figure 12 As shown in the diagram. This causes the drive rollers 520, 620, 720, and 820 of the take-up devices 500, 600, 700, and 800 to force their corresponding reverse rollers 554, 654, 754, and 854 to move to their retracted positions, as illustrated. Figure 12 As shown. In other embodiments, before the take-up device moves from its respective take-up position to its respective package position, the reverse roller on the take-up finger moves to its respective retracted position. In yet another embodiment, when the take-up device moves from its respective take-up position to its respective package position, the reverse roller on the take-up finger moves to its respective retracted position.

[0054] As indicated by box 1020, the wrapping tray lowers as the tubular film segment is released from the receiving fingers, allowing the tubular film segment to retract onto the load. In this example embodiment, controller C controls the wrapping tray actuator 410 to lower the wrapping tray, while simultaneously controlling the first drive roller actuator 520a, the second drive roller actuator 620a, the third drive roller actuator 720a, and the fourth drive roller actuator 820a to drive the first drive roller 520, the second drive roller 620, the third drive roller 720a, and the fourth drive roller 820 in the release rotation direction opposite to the receiving rotation direction, thereby releasing the remainder of the tubular film segment F from the receiving fingers 552, 652, 752, and 852. Figure 13 The take-up devices 500, 600, 700, and 800 are shown just before the tubular film segment F is released onto the load. As the tubular film segment F is released, it attempts to return to its unstretched size and shape and laterally retracts onto the load L, thus integrating the load and / or securing it to the tray. As indicated by box 1022, the wrapped load is then removed from the wrapping area of ​​the stretch capping machine, thereby ending the wrapping process 1000. In this example embodiment, a conveyor removes the load L from the wrapping area of ​​the machine frame 100 of the stretch capping machine 10.

[0055] The ability of the reverse rollers to move between extended and retracted positions improves upon known stretch wrapping machines. This allows stretch wrapping machines to form orderly folds in the film during retraction when the reverse rollers are in their extended position (which improves wrapping quality), and then retract the reverse rollers so that they do not mark, thin, or weaken the film during release.

[0056] Figures 15A to 15D An alternative finger assembly 1550 is shown, which includes a reverse roller actuator operably connected to and configured to move the reverse roller. The finger assembly 1550 includes a base 1551 and retractable fingers 1552 connected to and extending substantially vertically from the base 1551, and including curved film bonding surfaces 1552s. The finger assembly 1550 includes a reverse roller 1554 movably mounted to the retractable fingers 1552, such that the reverse roller 1554 is freely rotatable and can be in an extended position (…). Figure 15D ) and retraction position ( Figure 15C The roller 1554 moves between (and in this example embodiment, pivots), with a first portion of the reverse roller 1554 positioned in front of the membrane bonding surface 1552s in the extended position, and at least a portion of the first portion of the reverse roller 1554 positioned behind the membrane bonding surface 1552s in the retracted position.

[0057] Specifically, the outer races of bearings 1556a and 1556b are press-fitted into appropriately sized holes defined on opposite sides of the reverse roller 1554, and the reverse roller mounting shaft 1558 extends through the holes defined by the inner races of bearings 1556a and 1556b and through a hole passing through the center of the reverse roller 1554. Therefore, the reverse roller 1554 is capable of rotating about the reverse roller mounting shaft 1558. Retainers 1559a and 1559b are mounted on the ends of the reverse roller mounting shaft 1558 to hold bearings 1556a and 1556b in place.

[0058] A reverse roller mounting shaft 1558 is fixedly mounted (e.g., via suitable fasteners) to two spaced-apart, substantially parallel arms 1574 and 1576 of a reverse roller mount 1570. The body 1572 of the reverse roller mount 1570 is pivotally connected to the retractable finger 1552 via a pivot shaft 1580. The pivot shaft 1580 extends through two collars 1581 and 1583, which press-fit into holes passing through the respective arms 1574 and 1576 and through a spacer 1585 positioned between the arms 1576 and 1576. Once installed, the reverse roller mount 1570 is capable of pivoting about the pivot shaft to allow the reverse roller 1554 to... Figure 15D The extended position shown is the same as Figure 15CThe roller moves between the retracted positions shown. When in the extended position, a first portion of the reverse roller 1554 is positioned in front of the first film bonding surface 1552s. When in the retracted position, at least a portion of the first portion of the reverse roller 1554 is positioned behind the first film bonding surface 1552s.

[0059] In this example embodiment, a biasing element (not shown) biases the reverse roller 1554 to the retracted position, and a reverse roller actuator 1590 is operatively connected to the reverse roller mount 1570 and configured to pivot the reverse roller mount to move the reverse roller 1554 from the retracted position to the extended position. In this example embodiment, the reverse roller actuator 1590 includes a solenoid actuator, but any suitable actuator may be used. In other embodiments, the biasing element biases the reverse roller to the extended position, and the reverse roller actuator is operatively connected to the reverse roller mount and configured to pivot the reverse roller mount to move the reverse roller from the extended position to the retracted position. In other embodiments, the reverse roller actuator is operatively connected to the reverse roller mount and configured to pivot the reverse roller mount to move the reverse roller from the retracted position to the extended position and from the extended position to the retracted position. In various embodiments, the reverse roller actuator is operatively connected to the reverse roller and configured to translate the reverse roller.

Claims

1. A stretching and sleeve-making machine, the stretching and sleeve-making machine comprising: Parcel holder; A package tray actuator, operably connected to the package tray and configured to move the package tray between an upper position and a lower position; A receiving device, supported by the parcel holder and comprising: A retractable finger, the retractable finger including a membrane bonding surface; A reverse roller, supported by the retractable fingers and movable between an extended position and a retracted position, wherein in the extended position a first portion of the reverse roller is positioned in front of the film bonding surface, and in the retracted position at least a portion of the first portion of the reverse roller is positioned behind the film bonding surface. Drive rollers; and A drive roller actuator, operably connected to and configured to drive the drive roller; and The controller is configured to: With the reverse roller in the extended position, the drive roller actuator is controlled to drive the drive roller to retract the tubular film segment onto the film bonding surface; and After the tubular membrane section has been retracted onto the membrane bonding surface: Move the reverse roller to the retracted position; and The package holder actuator is controlled to move the package holder toward the lower position, while the drive roller actuator is controlled to drive the drive roller to release the tubular film section from the receiving finger.

2. The stretching and covering machine as claimed in claim 1, wherein the taking-in device further includes a reverse roller biasing element, the reverse roller biasing element biasing the reverse roller to the extended position.

3. The stretching and sleeve-making machine as described in claim 2, further comprising: The bracket supports the drive roller; as well as A bracket actuator operatively connected to and configured to move the bracket, wherein the controller is configured to control the bracket actuator to move the drive roller, thereby moving the reverse roller to the retracted position.

4. The stretching and covering machine of claim 3, wherein the controller is configured to control the bracket actuator to move the drive roller laterally inward, thereby moving the reverse roller to the retracted position.

5. The stretching and covering machine of claim 4, wherein the controller is further configured to control the bracket actuator to move the drive roller laterally outward after the tubular film section has been released from the take-up finger, thereby enabling the reverse roller biasing element to force the reverse roller to move back to the extended position.

6. The stretching and covering machine of claim 1, wherein when the reverse roller is in the retracted position, a second portion of the reverse roller is positioned in front of the film bonding surface of the retracted finger, wherein the second portion is smaller than the first portion.

7. The stretching and covering machine of claim 1, wherein when the reverse roller is in the retracted position, no part of the reverse roller is positioned in front of the film bonding surface of the retracted finger.

8. The stretch capping machine of claim 1, further comprising one or more take-up device actuators operably connected to the take-up device and configured to move the take-up device between a take-up position and a wrapping position, wherein the controller is further configured to: The drive roller actuator is controlled to drive the drive roller, thereby retracting the tubular membrane segment onto the membrane bonding surface when the take-up device is in the take-up position. as well as After the tubular membrane section has been retracted into the membrane engagement surface of the retracted finger: Control the one or more take-up device actuators to move the take-up device from the take-up position to the wrapping position, such that the tubular membrane section is stretched; as well as After the receiving device has reached the package position, the reverse roller is moved to the retracted position.

9. The stretch capping machine of claim 1, further comprising one or more take-up device actuators operably connected to the take-up device and configured to move the take-up device between a take-up position and a wrapping position, wherein the controller is further configured to: Controlling the drive roller actuator to drive the drive roller, thereby retracting the tubular film segment onto the film bonding surface when the retracting device is in the retracting position; and After the tubular film section has been retracted onto the film bonding surface of the retracting finger and after the reverse roller has reached the retracted position, the one or more retracting device actuators are controlled to move the retracting device from the retracted position to the wrapping position, so that the tubular film section is stretched.

10. The stretching cover machine of claim 1, wherein the take-up device further comprises a reverse roller actuator operatively connected to and configured to move the reverse roller, wherein the controller is configured to control the reverse roller actuator to move the reverse roller to the retracted position.

11. The stretching and covering machine of claim 10, wherein the reverse roller actuator is configured to move the reverse roller from the extended position to the retracted position, wherein the take-up device further includes a reverse roller biasing element for biasing the reverse roller to the extended position.

12. The stretching and covering machine of claim 10, wherein the reverse roller actuator is configured to move the reverse roller from the retracted position to the extended position, wherein the take-up device further includes a reverse roller biasing element for biasing the reverse roller to the retracted position.

13. The stretching and covering machine of claim 10, wherein the reverse roller actuator is configured to move the reverse roller from the extended position to the retracted position and from the retracted position to the extended position.

14. A method of operating a stretch sleeve machine, the method comprising: With the reverse roller supported in the extended position by the take-up fingers of the take-up device, the tubular film section is taken into the film bonding surface of the take-up fingers, and in the extended position, the first portion of the reverse roller is positioned in front of the film bonding surface. as well as After the tubular membrane section has been retracted onto the membrane bonding surface: The reverse roller is moved to the retracted position, in which at least a portion of the first part of the reverse roller is positioned behind the film bonding surface. as well as While releasing the tubular membrane section from the receiving finger, the package support bracket of the receiving device is lowered.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein retracting the tubular membrane segment onto the membrane bonding surface comprises driving a drive roller to retract the tubular membrane segment onto the membrane bonding surface, wherein moving the reverse roller to the retracted position comprises moving the drive roller against a biasing force applied to the reverse roller by a reverse roller biasing element that biases the reverse roller to the extended position.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein moving the reverse roller to the retracted position comprises moving the reverse roller laterally inward.

17. The method of claim 16, further comprising, after the tubular membrane section has been released from the receiving finger, moving the drive roller laterally outward so that the reverse roller biasing element can force the reverse roller to move back to the extended position.

18. The method of claim 14, further comprising: While the receiving device is in the receiving position, the tubular membrane section is received onto the membrane bonding surface; as well as After the tubular membrane section has been retracted into the membrane engagement surface of the retracted finger: The receiving device is moved from the receiving position to the wrapping position, so that the tubular membrane section is stretched; as well as After the receiving device has reached the package position, the reverse roller is moved to the retracted position.

19. The method of claim 14, further comprising: While the receiving device is in the receiving position, the tubular membrane section is received onto the membrane bonding surface; as well as After the tubular film section has been retracted onto the film bonding surface of the retracting finger and after the reverse roller has reached the retracted position, the retracting device is moved from the retracted position to the wrapping position, so that the tubular film section is stretched.

20. The method of claim 14, wherein moving the reverse roller to the retracted position comprises controlling a reverse roller actuator to move the reverse roller to the retracted position.

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