System and method for packaging items in cartons

Abstract

The system includes a feeder device that transfers blanks to each of the groups as the articles move along the conveying path, and an applicator device that applies the blanks to each of the groups. The feeder device includes a plurality of grippers for engaging the blanks. The feeder device includes guides for positioning the grippers along the orbital path during rotation, the grippers having at least two radial positions along the orbital path, such that the orbital motion of each of the grippers is momentarily paused at a first radial position for engaging the blanks. The applicator device includes a first applicator tool for pressing the blanks onto alternating first ones of the groups as the articles move along the conveying path, and a second applicator tool for pressing the blanks onto alternating second ones of the groups.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE The present disclosure relates to article packaging, and more particularly to systems and methods for packaging articles in cartons formed from blanks. [Background technology]

[0002] In the field of packaging, cartons are often used to transport multiple items. Cartons are useful for allowing consumers to transport, store, and access groups of items for consumption. Due to cost and environmental considerations, such cartons or carriers need to be formed from as little material as possible and require as little waste as possible in the materials from which they are formed. A further consideration is the strength of the carton and its suitability for holding and transporting the items. For example, it is desirable for the items to remain securely secured within the carton. Additional considerations include the level of automation available for transferring and applying the carton to the items and forming the carton around the items. For example, it is desirable for a blank of sheet material to be fed into a packaging machine and automatically transferred to, applied onto, and formed around the items being packaged to form the carton. However, due to blank design and / or carton configuration that address the above-mentioned considerations, automating the formation of a carton from the blank using a machine can be difficult. Accordingly, those skilled in the art continue research and development efforts in the field of item packaging. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0003] Disclosed are a system for packaging articles, a feeder apparatus for transferring blanks to a group of articles, an applicator apparatus for applying blanks to a group of articles, a method for packaging articles, a method for transferring blanks to a group of articles, and a method for applying blanks to a group of articles. The following is a non-exhaustive list of examples of subject matter according to the present disclosure, which may or may not be claimed.

[0004] In one example, a disclosed system includes a conveyor configured to transport groups of articles along a conveyance path. The system also includes a feeder device configured to transfer blanks to each one of the groups as the articles move along the conveyance path. The system further includes an applicator device configured to apply blanks to each one of the groups as the articles move along the conveyance path. The feeder device includes a plurality of grippers configured to engage the blanks. The feeder device also includes a feeder drive device configured to rotate the grippers about an axis. The feeder device further includes a guide configured to position each one of the grippers along an orbital path during rotation about the axis, each one of the grippers having at least two radial positions along the orbital path, and the orbital motion of each one of the grippers along the orbital path is momentarily paused at a first radial position for engaging the blanks. The applicator device includes a plurality of first applicator tools. The first applicator tool is configured to press blanks onto alternating first ones of the groups as the articles move along the conveying path. The applicator device also includes a plurality of second applicator tools. The second applicator tool is configured to press blanks onto alternating second ones of the groups as the articles move along the conveying path. The applicator device further includes an applicator drive device. The applicator drive device is configured to rotate the first applicator tool about a first axis and rotate the second applicator tool about a second axis.

[0005] In one example, a disclosed feeder apparatus includes a gripper configured to engage and hold a blank. The feeder apparatus also includes a feeder drive configured to rotate the gripper about an axis. The feeder apparatus further includes a guide configured to position the gripper along an orbital path during rotation about the axis, such that the gripper has at least two radial positions along the orbital path. The orbital movement of the gripper along the orbital path is momentarily paused at one of the radial positions for engaging the blank. The gripper disengages the blank at another of the radial positions for placing the blank on a group.

[0006] In one example, a disclosed applicator apparatus includes a plurality of first applicator tools configured to press a blank onto alternating first groups of the groups of articles. The applicator apparatus also includes a plurality of second applicator tools configured to press a blank onto alternating second groups of the groups. The applicator apparatus further includes an applicator drive configured to rotate the first applicator tools about a first axis and the second applicator tools about a second axis.

[0007] In one example, a disclosed method for packaging includes (1) conveying a group of articles along a conveyance path; and (2) transferring a blank to each one of the groups as the articles move along the conveyance path, the transferring step comprising removing the blank by rotating the gripper about an axis and engaging the blank with the gripper at one of at least two radial positions of the gripper along the orbital path of the gripper where the orbital motion of the gripper along the orbital path is momentarily paused, and further rotating the gripper about the axis and transferring the blank to each one of the groups as the articles move along the conveyance path. (3) a transferring step performed by placing a blank on each one of the groups by disengaging the blank from the gripper at another one of the at least two radial positions of the ripper; and (4) a applying step performed by rotating a first applicator tool about a first axis and pressing a blank onto alternating first ones of the groups as the article moves along the conveying path, the applying step being performed by rotating a second applicator tool about a second axis and pressing a blank onto alternating second ones of the groups.

[0008] In one example, a disclosed method for transferring includes (1) removing a blank, the removing step being performed by (2) rotating the gripper about an axis and (3) engaging the blank with the gripper at one of at least two radial positions of the gripper along the orbital path of the gripper, where the orbital motion of the gripper along the orbital path is momentarily paused; and (4) placing a blank on each one of the groups, the placing step being performed by (5) further rotating the gripper about the axis and (6) disengaging the blank from the gripper at another one of the at least two radial positions of the gripper along the orbital path of the gripper.

[0009] In one example, a disclosed method for applying includes the steps of: (1) rotating a first applicator tool about a first axis; (2) pressing a blank onto alternating first ones of the groups of articles; (3) rotating a second applicator tool about a second axis; and (4) pressing a blank onto alternating second ones of the groups.

[0010] Other examples of the disclosed systems, feeder devices, applicator devices, packaging methods, feeding methods, and applying methods will become apparent from the following detailed description, the accompanying drawings, and the appended claims. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic perspective view of an example blank and a group of articles for forming a carton. FIG. [Figure 2] 1 is a schematic perspective view of an example carton formed from a blank and applied to a group of articles. FIG. [Figure 3] 1 is a schematic block diagram of an example system for packaging an item. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a schematic elevation view of an example of a portion of a system. [Figure 5] 1 is a schematic elevation view of an example of a portion of a feeder apparatus of the system shown in a first rotational position. [Figure 6] 1 is a schematic elevational view of an example of a portion of a feeder apparatus shown in a second rotational position. [Figure 7] 1 is a schematic perspective view of an example of a portion of a feeder apparatus shown in a first rotational position. [Figure 8] 1 is a schematic perspective view of an example of a portion of a feeder apparatus shown in a second rotational position. [Figure 9] FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of an example of a feeder device. [Figure 10] 1 is a schematic perspective view of an example of a portion of a feeder apparatus. [Figure 11] 1 is a schematic elevation view of an example of a portion of a feeder apparatus. FIG. [Figure 12] 1 is a schematic perspective view of an example of a portion of an applicator device of the system. [Figure 13] 1 is a schematic perspective view of an example of a portion of an applicator device. [Figure 14] 1 is a schematic perspective view of an example of a portion of an applicator device. [Figure 15] 1A-1C are schematic diagrams of an example applicator device at various stages of a blank application operation. [Figure 16] 1A-1C are schematic diagrams of an example applicator device at various stages of a blank application operation. [Figure 17] 1A-1C are schematic diagrams of an example applicator device at various stages of a blank application operation. [Figure 18] 1A-1C are schematic diagrams of an example applicator device at various stages of a blank application operation. [Figure 19] 1A-1C are schematic diagrams of an example applicator device at various stages of a blank application operation. [Figure 20] 1A-1C are schematic diagrams of an example applicator device at various stages of a blank application operation. [Figure 21] 1A-1C are schematic diagrams of an example applicator device at various stages of a blank application operation. [Figure 22] 1A-1C are schematic diagrams of an example applicator device at various stages of a blank application operation. [Figure 23] 1A-1C are schematic diagrams of an example applicator device at various stages of a blank application operation. [Figure 24] FIG. 1 is a flow diagram of an example method for packaging an item. [Figure 25] FIG. 1 is a flow diagram of an example method for transferring blanks to a group of articles. [Figure 26] FIG. 1 is a flow diagram of an example method for applying blanks to a group of articles. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] 1 and 2, FIGS. 1 and 2 schematically illustrate an example of a blank 100 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 2) configured and used to form a carton 102 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 2). Generally, the blank 100 is configured to be applied to and formed (e.g., folded) around a plurality of articles 104 to form the carton 102, such that at least a portion of each one of the articles 104 is packaged within and / or retained by the carton 102. As such, in one or more examples, the carton 102 is configured to contain and / or carry the articles 104. The carton 102 may also be referred to as an article carrier or carrier.

[0013] Generally, blanks 100, and thus cartons 102, are associated with and correspond to groupings of items 104 (referred to herein as groups 106 of items 104) (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2). Groups 106 can include any suitable number of items 104 (e.g., two items, four items, six items, etc.). The items 104 can be arranged in any suitable arrangement or configuration (e.g., two rows of two items, two rows of three items, two rows of four items, two rows of six items, etc.). The number of items 104 and / or the arrangement of the items 104 within groups 106 may depend on the type of items 104 (e.g., cans, bottles, boxes, etc.), the size and / or weight of the items 104, the style and / or configuration of the blank 100, and thus the style and / or configuration of the carton 102, etc.

[0014] Generally, the article 104 refers to primary packaging for a product. The carton 102 forms secondary packaging for packaging the article 104 (e.g., at least one primary product container or package). In the examples described herein, the terms “carton,” “carrier,” and similar terms refer to a container for engaging and carrying an article, such as a primary product container. It is contemplated that the examples described herein may apply to a variety of product containers, which may, but need not, be tapered and / or cylindrical in shape. Exemplary articles 104 (e.g., primary product containers) include, but are not limited to, bottles (e.g., metal, glass, or plastic bottles), cans (e.g., aluminum cans), tin cans, pouches, packets, and other similar product containers.

[0015] In one or more examples, the blank 100 is configured to form a carton 102 for packaging an arrangement (e.g., a group 106) of items 104. The items 104 can be arranged and packaged in the carton 102 in any suitable packaging configuration, such as in a two-pack, four-pack, six-pack, eight-pack, twelve-pack, etc. In the example illustrated herein, the arrangement is a 2x3 matrix or array (e.g., a six-pack). In the example illustrated herein, the items 104 are beverage bottles, such as 355 ml (12 ounce) plastic beverage bottles, e.g., polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic beverage bottles. However, other types of items 104 and / or other packaging configurations are also contemplated. As such, the blank 100 can be configured to form a carton 102 for packaging other types, numbers, and / or sizes of items 104 and / or for packaging the items 104 in different arrangements or configurations.

[0016] 1 , in one or more examples, the blank 100 includes multiple panels 134 connected to one another by multiple fold lines 136. Any one of the fold lines 136 and / or hinge lines described herein can include any suitable predefined or preformed lines of weakness and / or separation, such as, for example, creases, scores, perforations, or relief cuts, known to those skilled in the art and guided by the teachings provided herein. Generally, the fold lines 136 transform the blank 100 into multiple separate but integral panels and flaps that form the carton 102. The preformed lines of weakness allow for easier folding during assembly of the carton 102.

[0017] In one or more examples, the blank 100 includes a main panel 108. In one or more examples, the main panel 108 of the blank 100 is a bottom panel, a base panel, or an engagement panel, thereby forming at least a portion of a main wall of the carton 102 (e.g., a bottom wall, a base wall, or an engagement wall of the carton 102, etc.).

[0018] In one or more examples, the blank 100 includes a first side panel 110. The first side panel 110 is hingedly connected to a first side of the main panel 108, such as by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 112. In one or more examples, the first side panel 110 forms at least a portion of a first side wall or first side closure structure of the carton 102.

[0019] In one or more examples, the blank 100 includes a second side panel 114. The second side panel 114 is hingedly connected to a second side of the main panel 108 opposite the first side panel 110, such as by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 116. In one or more examples, the second side panel 114 forms at least a portion of a second side wall or second side closure structure of the carton 102.

[0020] In one or more examples, the blank 100 includes a first end panel 118. The first end panel 118 is hingedly connected to a first end of the main panel 108, such as by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 120. In one or more examples, the first end panel 118 forms at least a portion of a first end wall or first end closure structure of the carton 102.

[0021] In one or more examples, the blank 100 includes a second end panel 122. The second end panel 122 is hingedly connected to a second end of the main panel 108 opposite the first end panel 118, such as by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 124. In one or more examples, the second end panel 122 forms at least a portion of a second end wall or second end closure structure of the carton 102.

[0022] In one or more examples, the main panel 108 of the blank 100 includes at least one retention structure 126. The retention structure 126 is configured to retain (e.g., receive, contain, and hold) a portion of the item 104. In one or more examples, the main panel 108 includes a plurality of retention structures 126, such as six retention structures 126 arranged in a 2x3 matrix or array.

[0023] In one or more examples, the retention structures 126 (e.g., each one of the retention structures 126) include a retention aperture 128. By way of example, the retention aperture 128 is or takes the form of an article-receiving opening. The retention aperture 128 forms at least a portion of the article-retaining opening of the carton 102 and is configured to receive and engage a portion of the article 104.

[0024] In one or more examples, the retention structures 126 (e.g., each one of the retention structures 126) include a plurality of retention tabs 130. In one or more examples, the retention tabs 130 include or take the form of teeth. In one or more examples, at least the retention tabs 130 oppose each other with respect to the retention aperture 128. In one or more examples, the plurality of retention tabs 130 are arranged in an annular series around the retention aperture 128. In one or more examples, the retention tabs 130 form a portion of the article retention opening of the carton 102.

[0025] In one or more examples, the retention tabs 130 are provided by (e.g., formed by) the main panel 108. In one or more examples, each one of the retention tabs 130 is hingedly connected to the main panel 108, such as by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line. In one or more examples, the hinged connection is defined by a plurality of cut lines. In one or more examples, the cut lines are arranged as an annular series of cuts around the retention aperture 128.

[0026] In one or more examples, each one of the retention tabs 130 includes an engagement edge and a hinged edge opposite the engagement edge. In one or more examples, the engagement edge is defined by a linear portion of the cut line that defines the retention aperture 128. In one or more examples, each engagement edge defines a portion of a polygon. The blank 100 can include any suitable number of retention tabs 130.

[0027] In one or more examples, each one of the retention tabs 130 includes a pair of side edges. In one or more examples, the side edges are defined by cuts extending radially outward from respective vertices of a polygon, e.g., from respective vertices between a pair of adjacent linear portions of the cuts defining a portion of the polygon. In one or more examples, the cuts are divergently disposed relative to one another and define an angle therebetween.

[0028] In one or more examples, the plurality of cut lines may define or approximate a portion of a circle. In one or more examples, each one of the plurality of cut lines may be linear in shape. In one or more examples, each one of the plurality of cut lines may be arcuate or curved. In one or more examples, the cut line may have a radius of curvature equal to half the diameter of the retention aperture 128 (e.g., item retention opening). In one or more examples, the cut line may have a radius of curvature greater than half the diameter of the retention aperture 128 (e.g., item retention opening).

[0029] In other examples, the retaining structure 126 can take a different form, such as, but not limited to, a pair of spaced apart opposing cuts that define a displaceable area that forms a cover over the article and provides a pair of opposing engaging edges for engaging opposing sides of the article below a flange, chime, or other protrusion.

[0030] In one or more examples, the main panel 108 forms at least a portion of a handle structure for the carton 102. In one or more examples, the blank 100 includes at least one handle aperture 132 (e.g., shown in FIG. 2). The handle aperture 132 defines or forms at least a portion of a handle opening of the handle structure of the carton 102. In one or more examples, the blank 100 includes a plurality of handle apertures 132. In one or more examples, each one of the handle apertures 132 is defined in, cut from, or punched out of an area of ​​the main panel 108, such as being centrally disposed or positioned between the retaining structures 126.

[0031] In one or more examples, blank 100 includes at least one alignment aperture 138 (e.g., shown in FIG. 1 ). In one or more examples, alignment aperture 138 is formed through main panel 108 and / or one of the end panels (e.g., first end panel 118 and / or second end panel 122).

[0032] In other examples, the blank 100 includes one or more additional panels, flaps, and / or components that form one or more additional walls and / or components of the carton 102. As an example, the blank 100 includes one or more cover panels hingedly connected to another portion of the blank 100 (e.g., another one of the panels 134) by one or more additional fold lines 136. In one or more examples, the cover panel forms at least a portion of the handle structure of the carton 102. As another example, the blank 100 includes one or more locking structures (e.g., interlocking openings and tabs) that are configured to cooperate with one another to secure one or more of the panels 134 of the blank 100 together to form the carton 102. In other examples, one or more of the panels 134 or other components of the blank 100 are additionally or alternatively secured together using an adhesive. As another example, the blank 100 may include one or more additional connecting panels, flaps, anchors, gussets, etc., which are hingedly connected to another panel 134 by a fold line 136, which in turn form another portion of the carton 102.

[0033] Referring to Figure 2, carton 102 is constructed from blank 100. Figure 2 illustrates an example of blank 100 being applied to a group 106 of articles 104 and formed around articles 104 to form carton 102 (e.g., articles 104 packaged within carton 102).

[0034] Generally, in one or more examples, each one of the plurality of blanks 100 is transferred from a stock or supply 204 of blanks 100 (e.g., shown in FIG. 3 ). The blank 100 is aligned with and placed on a group 106 of articles 104. During placement of the blank 100, each one of the holding structures 126 of the blank 100 is aligned with a respective one of the articles 104 in the group 106.

[0035] Once aligned and placed, the blank 100 is then applied to the group 106 of articles 104 such that a portion (e.g., an upper portion) of each one of the articles 104 passes through a corresponding (or respective) retention aperture 128 in the main panel 108. In one or more examples, during application, the retention tabs 130 of the retention structure 126 are folded out of the plane of the main panel 108 around a respective one of the retention apertures 128.

[0036] In one or more examples, each retention tab 130 folds out of the plane of the main panel 108 (e.g., upward) around the article 104 as the article 104 is received within a respective one of the retention structures 126. In one or more examples, the retention tab 130 can conform to the article 104 or can partially return (e.g., spring back) toward the plane of the main panel 108 relative to the article 104 such that an engaging edge of the retention structure 126 (e.g., the retention tab 130) engages or fits under a shoulder portion of the article 104. As shown in FIG. 2 , in examples where the article 104 is a bottle (e.g., a plastic bottle), the shoulder portion can be provided by the neck, neck ring, and / or cap of the bottle. In examples where the article 104 is a can, the shoulder portion can be provided by the neck-in and / or rim of the can.

[0037] Once the blank 100 is sufficiently applied to the group 106 of articles 104 such that portions of the articles 104 are received and retained by the retaining structure 126, the blank 100 is folded about each fold line to bring the panels of the blank 100 into a desired (e.g., non-coplanar) relationship with the main panels 108 and form the wall structure of the carton 102 around the articles 104. In one or more examples, forming the carton 102 (e.g., folding the blank 100) is performed simultaneously with applying the blank 100 to the group 106 of articles 104. In one or more examples, forming the carton 102 (e.g., folding the blank 100) is performed partially simultaneously with applying the blank 100 to the group 106 of articles 104. In one or more examples, forming the carton 102 (e.g., folding the blank 100) is performed after applying the blank 100 to the group 106 of articles 104.

[0038] 3 and 4, the present disclosure is directed to a system 200 for packaging an item 104. The present disclosure is also directed to portions, subsystems, stages, apparatus, and / or machines of the system 200.

[0039] 3 schematically illustrates an example system 200 for packaging groups 106 of items 104. In one or more examples, the system 200 is configured to perform one or more of the following operations: (1) moving the items 104 along a conveyance path 202 (e.g., a packaging path), (2) arranging and grouping the items 104 into groups 106, (3) transferring blanks 100 to the groups 106, (4) applying the blanks 100 to the groups 106, and (5) forming cartons 102 around the groups 106.

[0040] In one or more examples, the system 200 is configured to package the items 104 in the carton 102 by placing, applying, and forming the blank 100 around the items 104. The carton 102 is formed from the blank 100. The blank 100 is folded or formed around the items 104. The items 104 are packaged in the carton 102. The carton 102 when filled with the group 106 of items 104 may also be referred to herein as a completed package.

[0041] In one or more examples, the system 200 is a continuous motion packaging system for continuously packaging groups 106 of articles 104 into respective cartons 102. In one or more examples, the system 200 is configured to continuously process a plurality of blanks 100 to form (e.g., build or assemble) a plurality of finished cartons 102 filled with a plurality of groups 106 of articles 104.

[0042] While the examples generally illustrated herein show the articles 104 packaged within the carton 102 as plastic bottles, one skilled in the art will recognize that a variety of other products or articles 104 (e.g., bottles, cans, or other similar product container types) can be packaged within the carton 102 using a corresponding style or configuration of blanks 100 moving through the system 200. In one or more examples, the carton 102 includes or is formed from a flat, wrap-around-style blank 100 that is designed to be folded or otherwise wrapped around at least a portion of the articles 104 in the group 106 that are received through a main panel 108 of the blank 100 (e.g., a base panel of the carton 102).

[0043] In one or more examples, system 200 includes multiple stations, stages, modules, subsystems, devices, and / or machines. Each one of the stations is configured to perform one or more processing or packaging operations (e.g., automatically or semi-automatically). In one or more examples, as illustrated in FIG. 3 , packaging system 200 includes first station 206, second station 208, third station 210, and fourth station 212. However, in other examples, packaging system 200 can include other numbers and / or types of stations (e.g., fewer than four stations, more than four stations, etc.).

[0044] In one or more examples, one or more packaging operations described in association with any one of the stations may be associated with or combined with a different one of the stations, or may be associated with additional stations configured to perform that respective operation. Furthermore, not all operations associated with packaging articles 104 and / or forming cartons 102 from blanks 100 are necessarily described in detail herein or associated with a particular station of system 200. As such, particular packaging operations, components, and / or materials (e.g., those that are well-known or common in the industry) may not necessarily be described in detail. Accordingly, illustrative examples of system 200, any one of the stations, and / or any one of the operations associated with any one of the stations are not meant to imply structural or operational limitations with respect to the illustrative examples.

[0045] In one or more examples, the first station 206 is configured to transport (e.g., continuously transport) multiple articles 104 for packaging. As an example, the input stream of articles 104 is provided in a non-uniform, rapid manner, for example, from a filling line, canning line, or bottling line (not shown). As another example, the input stream of articles 104 is provided in a metered or controlled manner, for example, from a filling line, canning line, or bottling line (not shown). In one or more examples, the first station 206 receives the stream of articles 104 along the transport path 202, which are delivered on or via a mass conveyor (not shown).

[0046] In one or more examples, the second station 208 is connected to the first station 206, e.g., connected in series with the first station 206. In one or more examples, the second station 208 is configured to receive a stream of articles 104 from the first station 206. In one or more examples, the second station 208 is further configured to arrange or group the articles 104 into groups 106 as the articles 104 move along the transport path 202. In one or more examples, the second station 208 includes one or more transfer devices or bypass mechanisms that transfer the articles 104 between different conveyors of the conveyor system 214 for grouping.

[0047] In one or more examples, after the items 104 are grouped into groups 106, the blanks 100 associated with the groups 106 are removed and placed on the groups 106. In one or more examples, the second station 208 is also configured to remove and place the blanks 100 on the groups 106 of the items 104.

[0048] In one or more examples, after the blanks 100 are placed on the group 106 of articles 104, the blanks 100 associated with the group 106 are applied to the articles 104. In one or more examples, the second station 208 is also configured to apply the blanks 100 to the group 106 of articles 104 as the articles 104 move along the conveyance path 202.

[0049] In one or more examples, the third station 210 is connected to the second station 208, e.g., connected in series with the second station 208. In one or more examples, the third station 210 is configured to receive the group 106 of articles 104 and the blank 100 (applied to the articles 104) from the second station 208. In one or more examples, the third station 210 is further configured to fold or otherwise form the blank 100 around the group 106 of articles 104 to form the carton 102 as the articles 104 move along the conveyance path 202.

[0050] In one or more examples, at least a portion of the folding or forming operation performed on blank 100 is performed at or associated with second station 208. By way of example, one or more portions of blank 100 can be folded during or immediately after blank 100 is applied to group 106 of articles 104 to partially form carton 102.

[0051] In one or more examples, the fourth station 212 is connected to the third station 210, e.g., connected in series with the third station 210. In one or more examples, the fourth station 212 is configured to receive completed packages (e.g., fully formed cartons 102 and groups 106 of articles 104 packaged within the cartons 102) from the third station 210. In one or more examples, the fourth station 212 is further configured to transport and discharge the completed packages.

[0052] In one or more examples, the packaging system 200 includes a conveyor system 214. The conveyor system 214 is configured to transport (e.g., continuously transport) the articles 104 (and the blanks 100 when applied to the articles 104) along a conveyance path 202 (e.g., a packaging path). The conveyance path 202 defines a direction of transport of the articles 104 and the blanks 100 during formation of the cartons 102 (e.g., as indicated by the directional arrows 216 shown in FIG. 4 ).

[0053] In one or more examples, conveyor system 214 includes at least one conveyor 218, such as a plurality of conveyors 218 associated with a particular packaging operation performed by system 200. In one or more examples, conveyor system 214 includes an input conveyor 220 (e.g., a first conveyor), a grouping conveyor 222 (e.g., a second conveyor), an applying conveyor 224 (e.g., a third conveyor), an assembling conveyor 226 (e.g., a fourth conveyor), and a discharge conveyor 228 (e.g., a fifth conveyor). In one or more examples, each one of the conveyors forms a portion or section of a conveyor 218 of system 200. Conveyors 218, such as one or more of input conveyor 220, grouping conveyor 222, applying conveyor 224, assembling conveyor 226, and discharge conveyor 228, include any suitable features and / or components (e.g., rollers, belts, endless chains, side lugs, front lugs, rear lugs, drive mechanisms, etc.) common to automated conveyor lines and configured to transport articles along their upper surfaces.

[0054] In one or more examples, the input conveyor 220 forms a portion of the first station 206. The input conveyor 220 may also be referred to as an article infeed conveyor or a first conveyor. The input conveyor 220 is configured to transport a series or stream of articles 104 along an article infeed path (e.g., a portion of the transport path 202), such as in individual lines or lanes defined by lane guides, as the articles 104 enter the system 200 at its upstream end. The lane guides are configured to maintain the articles 104 in their respective lanes and redirect the line of articles 104 toward placement and loading locations.

[0055] In one or more examples, the system 200 includes a machine or other mechanism for processing the incoming mass of articles 104. In one or more examples, this machine or mechanism includes or takes the form of a processing device 234 (also shown in FIG. 4 ). The processing device 234 is configured to receive the incoming mass of articles 104 and feed it into one or more lanes to generate an incoming stream of articles 104 (e.g., one or two article widths, etc.). In one or more examples, the incoming mass of articles 104 is transported on an input conveyor 220. In one or more examples, the processing device 234 machine forms part of the first station 206 and / or the second station 208.

[0056] In one or more examples, the grouping conveyor 222 forms part of the second station 208. The grouping conveyor 222 may also be referred to as an article grouping conveyor or a second conveyor. In one or more examples, the grouping conveyor 222 is in communication with the input conveyor 220. A stream of articles 104 is transferred from the input conveyor 220 to the grouping conveyor 222.

[0057] In one or more examples, the grouping conveyor 222 is configured to arrange a series of articles 104 (e.g., from a stream of articles 104) in an appropriate packaging configuration, such as groups 106 of articles 104 (e.g., in a 2x3 matrix or array). For example, the grouping conveyor 222 is configured to separate a series of articles 104 into groups 106 of the correct number of articles 104 for each corresponding instance of a blank 100. In one or more examples, the grouping conveyor 222 is configured so that the articles 104 enter the grouping conveyor 222 at its upstream end (e.g., from the input conveyor 220) and transport the series of articles 104 along one or more article grouping paths, such as in individual lines or lanes defined by lane guides, as they move along the grouping conveyor 222. The lane guides are configured to maintain the articles 104 in their respective lanes and redirect the line of articles 104 for placement into groups 106 and application of blanks 100.

[0058] In one or more examples, the system 200 includes a machine or other mechanism for arranging, grouping, or otherwise processing the incoming stream of articles 104. In one or more examples, this machine or mechanism includes or takes the form of a grouper 230 (also shown in FIG. 4 ). In one or more examples, the grouper 230 is configured to receive the stream of articles 104 and arrange or group portions of the stream of articles 104 into groups 106. In one or more examples, the incoming stream of articles 104 is transported to the grouper 230 on a grouping conveyor 222. In one or more examples, the grouper 230 includes any suitable mechanical assembly configured to separate and group individual ones of the articles 104, such as, but not limited to, lugs or blocks that move continuously along a loop by a drive mechanism (e.g., via a chain or belt), star wheels, etc. In one or more examples, the grouper 230 forms part of the first station 206 and / or the second station 208. In one or more examples, the grouping device 230 is configured to maintain, hold, or otherwise guide the articles 104 in the groups 106 for placement and application of the blanks 100 as the articles 104 move along the conveying path 202. In one or more examples, the grouping device 230 forms a portion of the first station 206 and / or the second station 208.

[0059] In one or more examples, the system 200 includes a machine or other mechanism for feeding the blanks 100 into the processing path as the articles 104 move along the conveyance path 202. In one or more examples, the machine or mechanism includes or takes the form of a feeder apparatus 300 (also shown in FIG. 4). In one or more examples, the feeder apparatus 300 is configured to remove (e.g., pick up) the blanks 100 from a supply 204 of blanks 100 stored, for example, in a hopper 232 (also shown in FIG. 4). In one or more examples, the feeder apparatus 300 is configured to transfer the blanks 100 to the groups 106 of articles 104 as the articles 104 move along the conveyance path 202. In one or more examples, the feeder apparatus 300 is configured to place the blanks 100 on (e.g., position) the blanks 100 on) the groups 106 of articles 104 as the articles 104 move along the conveyance path 202. The feeder apparatus 300 may also be referred to as a feeder machine or a blank feeder machine. In one or more examples, the feeder apparatus 300 forms part of the second station 208.

[0060] In one or more examples, the feeder apparatus 300 includes or takes the form of a rotary vacuum feeder. In one or more examples, the rotary vacuum feeder includes a plurality of grippers (e.g., suction cups coupled to a vacuum system). The grippers are connected to a rotary wheel unit driven by a drive shaft. A drive mechanism (e.g., a servo motor, etc.) is used to rotate the drive shaft.

[0061] In other examples, feeder apparatus 300 includes additional or alternative components and / or operates in a different manner. In one or more examples, feeder apparatus 300 includes or takes the form of any one of a variety of other machines or tool heads configured to retrieve blanks 100 and position blanks 100 relative to groups 106 of articles 104 prior to application of blanks 100 to groups 106 of articles 104.

[0062] In one or more examples, the system 200 includes a hopper 232. In one or more examples, a plurality of blanks 100 (e.g., a supply 204 of blanks 100) are held by the hopper 232, e.g., in a flat condition ready for processing. In one or more examples, the hopper 232 forms a portion of the second station 208. In one or more examples, the blanks 100 are continuously removed (e.g., picked and / or removed) from the hopper 232 by a feeder apparatus 300.

[0063] In one or more examples, the system 200 includes a machine or other mechanism for applying the blanks 100 to the groups 106 of articles 104 as the articles 104 move along the conveyance path 202. In one or more examples, the machine or mechanism includes or takes the form of an applicator device 400 (also shown in FIG. 4 ). In one or more examples, the applicator device 400 is configured to apply the blanks 100 to the groups 106 of articles 104 as they are positioned. The applicator device 400 may also be referred to as an applicator machine or a blank applicator machine. In one or more examples, the applicator device 400 forms part of the second station 208.

[0064] In one or more examples, the applicator device 400 is configured to apply the blank 100 to the group 106 of articles 104 such that the upper ends of the articles 104 extend through the blank 100 and are retained by the retaining structure 126 of the blank 100. For example, the upper ends of the articles extend through the main panel 108 of the blank 100, pass through the retaining aperture 128, and are retained by the retaining tab 130. In one or more examples, the applicator device 400 is configured to press the blank 100 downward onto the group 106 of articles 104 to load the group 106 of articles 104 into the blank 100 (e.g., the main panel 108 and retaining structure 126 of the blank 100).

[0065] In one or more examples, the applicator apparatus 400 includes or takes the form of a rotary tooling assembly. In one or more examples, the rotary tooling assembly includes a plurality of blank applicator tools. The blank applicator tools are connected to a rotary wheel unit driven by a drive shaft. A drive mechanism (e.g., a servo motor, etc.) is used to rotate the drive shaft.

[0066] In other examples, applicator device 400 includes additional or alternative components and / or operates in a different manner. In one or more examples, applicator device 400 includes or takes the form of any one of a variety of other machines or tool heads configured to apply blanks 100 to groups 106 of articles 104.

[0067] In one or more examples, the assembly conveyor 226 forms part of the third station 210. The assembly conveyor 226 may also be referred to as a carton assembly conveyor or a third conveyor. In one or more examples, the assembly conveyor 226 is in communication with the grouping conveyor 222. In one or more examples, the groups 106 of articles 104 (with blanks 100 applied thereto) are transferred from the grouping conveyor 222 to the assembly conveyor 226.

[0068] In one or more examples, the assembly conveyor 226 is configured to transport the groups 106 of articles 104 (with the blanks 100 secured to the articles 104) along a carton assembly path, such as in individual lines or lanes defined by lane guides, as the groups 106 of articles 104 and the blanks 100 enter the assembly conveyor 226 at its upstream end (e.g., from the grouping conveyor 222) and move along the assembly conveyor 226. The lane guides are configured to maintain the groups 106 of articles 104 and the blanks 100 in their respective lanes for folding the blanks 100 around the groups 106 of articles 104 to assemble the cartons 102.

[0069] In one or more examples, the system 200 includes a machine or other mechanism for folding or otherwise forming the blank 100 around the group 106 of articles 104. In one or more examples, the machine or mechanism includes or takes the form of a folding apparatus 236. The folding apparatus 236 may also be referred to as a folding machine or a blank folding machine. In one or more examples, the folding apparatus 236 forms part of the third station 210.

[0070] In one or more examples, the folding device 236 is configured to fold a portion of the blank 100 (e.g., one or more of the panels 134 of the blank 100) around the group 106 of articles 104 to partially or completely form the carton 102. In one or more examples, the folding device 236 includes any combination of forming tools, guide rails, folding wheels, folding arms, and the like, which cooperate to sequentially fold one or more of the panels 134 against another one or more of the panels 134 of the blank 100 to form the carton 102 as the articles 104 and blank 100 move along the conveyance path 202. In one or more examples, a portion of the folding device 236 can be included in or associated with another machine or mechanism of the system 200. For example, at least a portion of the folding operation can be performed during or immediately after application of the blank 100 to the group 106 of articles 104, such as by the applicator device 400.

[0071] In one or more examples, the system 200 includes a machine or mechanism for aligning the blanks 100 during placement and / or application of the blanks 100 and / or during formation of the cartons 102. In one or more examples, the machine or mechanism includes or takes the form of an alignment device 238. The alignment device 238 may also be referred to as an alignment machine or a blank alignment machine. In one or more examples, the alignment device forms part of the second station 208 and / or the third station 210.

[0072] In one or more examples, the alignment device 238 is configured to properly position the blank 100 for application to the group 106 of articles 104 and / or while portions of the blank 100 are folded to form the carton 102. In one or more examples, the alignment device 238 is further configured to maintain the blank 100 in the proper position while other forming operations are performed (e.g., interlocking panels of the blank 100 together or punching portions of the blank 100).

[0073] In one or more examples, the discharge conveyor 228 forms part of the fourth station 212. The discharge conveyor 228 may also be referred to as a package discharge conveyor or a fourth conveyor. In one or more examples, the discharge conveyor 228 is in communication with the assembly conveyor 226. Completed packages are transferred from the assembly conveyor 226 to the discharge conveyor 228.

[0074] In one or more examples, the discharge conveyor 228 is configured to transport completed packages along a discharge path, such as in a discrete line or lane defined by a lane guide, as the completed packages enter the discharge conveyor 228 at its upstream end (e.g., from the assembly conveyor 226) and move along the discharge conveyor 228. In one or more examples, the discharge conveyor 228 is configured to transport the completed packages away from the system 200, such as for further packaging and / or storage.

[0075] Figure 4 illustrates an example portion of the system 200. In particular, Figure 4 illustrates an example grouper device 230, feeder device 300, and applicator device 400 as the group 106 of articles 104 moves along the conveyance path 202 for application of blanks 100.

[0076] In one or more examples, the incoming flow of articles 104 is transported by conveyor 218. In one or more examples, processing equipment 234 meters the incoming flow of articles 104. In one or more examples, processing equipment 234 includes a star wheel. Processing equipment 234 meters the pitch between articles 104 and / or adjusts the infeed flow of articles 104.

[0077] In one or more examples, the articles 104 are grouped by a grouping device 230 into groups 106 of articles 104 as the articles 104 move along the conveying path 202. In one or more examples, the grouping device 230 includes a series of lugs 242 that are positioned and movable relative to the conveyor 218. By way of example, the lugs 242 engage the groups 106 of articles 104 from both opposing sides. The grouping device 230 is configured to engage the articles 104 as the articles 104 move along the conveying path 202 (e.g., directional arrow 216) and place and / or maintain the articles 104 in the groups 106. In one or more examples, the grouping device 230 continues to engage the articles 104 as the group 106 moves along the transport path 202, providing lateral support to the articles 104 and / or preventing (or at least limiting) movement of the articles 104 when the blank 100 is placed on and / or applied to the group 106 of articles 104.

[0078] In one or more examples, the feeder apparatus 300 continuously feeds the blanks 100 one at a time to the group 106 of articles 104. In one or more examples, the feeder apparatus 300 removes the blanks 100 from the hopper 232. The feeder apparatus 300 also places or positions the blanks 100 on the group 106 of articles 104 as the group 106 moves along the conveyance path 202.

[0079] In one or more examples, the applicator device 400 sequentially applies the blank 100 to each one of the groups 106 of articles 104 as the groups 106 move along the conveyance path 202. In one or more examples, the applicator device 400 presses the blank 100 onto the articles 104 of the group 106 or otherwise clips the blank 100 to the articles 104 of the group 106.

[0080] In one or more examples, the system 200 includes an inspection apparatus 240. The inspection apparatus 240 is configured to visually inspect the blanks 100 after they are applied to the group 106 of articles 104. The inspection apparatus 240 includes any suitable visual inspection machine or device (e.g., a camera, machine vision system, etc.).

[0081] With reference to FIGS. 5-11 , the present disclosure is also directed to a feeder apparatus 300 for transferring blanks 100 to groups 106 of articles 104. In one or more examples, system 200 includes feeder apparatus 300. FIGS. 5-8 illustrate an example portion of feeder apparatus 300. FIGS. 5 and 7 illustrate feeder apparatus 300 in a first rotational position of a plurality of rotational positions, and FIGS. 6 and 8 illustrate feeder apparatus 300 in a second rotational position of a plurality of rotational positions. FIG. 9 illustrates an example feeder apparatus 300. FIG. 10 illustrates a portion of feeder apparatus 300 shown in FIG. 9. FIG. 11 illustrates a portion of feeder apparatus 300. In FIGS. 5-8 and 11 , certain portions of feeder apparatus 300 (e.g., shown in FIG. 9 ) have been removed for purposes of clarity of illustration.

[0082] 5-8 , in one or more examples, a feeder apparatus 300 includes a plurality of grippers 302. The grippers 302 are configured to engage the blanks 100. The feeder apparatus 300 also includes a feeder drive 304. The feeder drive 304 is configured to rotate the grippers 302 about an axis 306. The feeder apparatus 300 further includes a guide 308. The guide 308 is configured to position each one of the grippers 302 along an orbital path 310 during rotation about the axis 306. During the rotation, each one of the grippers 302 has at least two radial positions 312 along the orbital path 310. The orbital motion of each one of the grippers 302 along the orbital path 310 is momentarily paused at a first radial position 314 (e.g., a first of the radial positions 312). When the gripper 302 is at a first radial position 314 along the orbital path 310 and the orbital motion is momentarily paused, the gripper 302 engages and removes the blank 100. Therefore, the first radial position 314 can also be referred to as the removal or pick-up position of the gripper 302.

[0083] In one or more examples, each one of the grippers 302 follows an orbital path 310 as it is rotated about the axis 306. In other words, each one of the grippers 302 orbits or pivots about the axis 306. In one or more examples, during the rotation, each one of the grippers 302 has a plurality of different radial positions 312 along the orbital path 310. Generally, the radial position 312 of the gripper 302 refers to the orbital location of the gripper 302 along the orbital path 310, the radial location of the gripper 302 relative to the axis 306, and / or the radial distance of the gripper 302 from (e.g., outward from) the axis 306 along the orbital path 310.

[0084] In one or more examples, during rotation, the radial position 312 of the gripper 302 changes along the orbital path 310. By way of example, during rotation, the radial position 312 of the gripper 302 gradually increases (e.g., to a relatively more radially outward position) along one or more portions of the orbital path 310 and gradually decreases (e.g., to a relatively less radially outward position) along one or more other portions of the orbital path 310. In one or more examples, the gripper 302 oscillates along the orbital path 310 between a relatively more radially outward position and a relatively less radially outward position.

[0085] In one or more examples, the orbital path 310 is non-circular. In one or more examples, the orbital path 310 resembles or approximates a heart shape, e.g., has two curved lobes that intersect at a point at each end. In one or more examples, the orbital path 310 is approximately symmetrical. In one or more examples, the orbital path 310 is asymmetrical. In one or more examples, the orbital path 310 includes a first portion 318 (e.g., a first half) and a second portion 320 (e.g., a second half). In one or more examples, the first portion 318 and the second portion 320 of the orbital path 310 are approximately mirror images of each other. In one or more examples, each one of the first portion 318 and the second portion 320 of the orbital path 310 has a compound curvature.

[0086] In one or more examples, the first portion 318 of the orbital path 310 moves the gripper 302 toward the first radial position 314 and away from the second radial position 316. In one or more examples, the second portion 320 of the orbital path 310 moves the gripper away from the first radial position 314 and toward the second radial position 316. In one or more examples, the first radial position 314 and the second radial position 316 are diametrically opposed to one another.

[0087] In one or more examples, at the first radial location 314, the first portion 318 of the orbital path 310 ends and the second portion 320 of the orbital path 310 begins. In one or more examples, at the second radial location 316, the end second portion 320 of the orbital path 310 ends and the first portion 318 of the orbital path 310 begins.

[0088] In one or more examples, the first radial position 314 is at a first intersection or transition between a first portion 318 and a second portion 320 of the orbital path 310, where the gripper 302 changes direction from a radially outward direction (e.g., radially outward motion) to a radially inward direction (e.g., radially inward motion). It is this change in direction along the orbital path 310 between the first portion 318 and the second portion 320 that causes or results in a (e.g., first) momentary pause in the orbital motion of the gripper 302 at the first radial position 314.

[0089] In one or more examples, the second radial position 316 is at a second intersection or transition between the first portion 318 and the second portion 320 of the orbital path 310, where the gripper 302 changes direction from a radially inward direction (e.g., radially inward motion) to a radially outward direction (e.g., radially outward motion). It is this change in direction along the orbital path 310 between the second portion 320 and the first portion 318 that causes or results in a (e.g., second) momentary pause in the orbital motion of the gripper 302 at the second radial position 316.

[0090] In one or more examples, the orbital path 310 includes a first loop 322 at a first intersection or transition between a first portion 318 and a second portion 320 of the orbital path 310. The first loop 322 of the orbital path 310 is configured to smoothly redirect the gripper 302 from radially outward motion to radially inward motion. The orbital path 310 includes a second loop 324 at a second intersection or transition between the first portion 318 and the second portion 320 of the orbital path 310. The second loop 324 of the orbital path 310 is configured to smoothly redirect the gripper 302 from radially inward motion to radially outward motion.

[0091] In one or more examples, at the beginning of the first portion 318 of the orbital path 310, the gripper 302 is at the second radial position 316 (e.g., a radially inner position, e.g., the radially innermost position, etc.). As the gripper 302 moves along the first portion 318 (e.g., the second portion of the second loop 324, etc.), the gripper 302 moves radially outward along a first section of the first portion 318. As the gripper 302 moves further along the first portion 318, the gripper 302 moves radially inward along a second section of the first portion 318. As the gripper 302 moves further along the first portion 318 (e.g., along the first portion of the first loop 322, etc.), the gripper 302 again moves radially outward to the first radial position 314 (e.g., a radially outer position, e.g., the radially outermost position, etc.).

[0092] In one or more examples, at the beginning of the second portion 320 of the orbital path 310, the gripper 302 is at a first radial position 314 (e.g., a radially outer position, e.g., a radially outermost position, etc.). As the gripper 302 moves along the second portion 320 (e.g., along the second portion of the first loop 322, etc.), the gripper 302 moves radially inward along a first section of the second portion 320. As the gripper 302 moves further along the second portion 320, the gripper 302 moves radially outward along the second section of the second portion 320. As the gripper 302 moves further along the second portion 318 (e.g., along the first portion of the second loop 324, etc.), the gripper 302 again moves radially inward to a second radial position 316 (e.g., a radially inner position, e.g., a radially innermost position, etc.).

[0093] In one or more examples, during rotation of the grippers 302, each one of the grippers 302 is configured to disengage and release the blank 100 at a third radial position 326 along the orbital path 310 to deposit the blank 100 onto the group 106 of articles 104. Accordingly, the third radial position 326 may also be referred to as a release position or a deposit position of the grippers 302. In one or more examples, the third radial position 326 is a radially outward position along the second portion 320 of the orbital path 310 at which the grippers 302 (and thus the blank 100) are positioned above the group 106 of articles 104.

[0094] As such, in one or more examples, the gripper 302 follows a first portion 318 of the orbital path 310 for proper positioning to engage and remove the blank 100 at the first radial position 314. The gripper 302 follows a second portion 320 of the orbital path 310 for proper positioning to transport the blank 100 and to deposit the blank 100 onto the group 106 of articles 104 at a third radial position 326.

[0095] Thus, the shape of the orbital path 310 and / or the curvature of different portions of the orbital path 310 are configured to selectively control the radial position 312 of the gripper 302 while the gripper 302 is continuously rotated about the axis 306. More specifically, the shape of the orbital path 310 and / or the curvature of different portions of the orbital path 310 are configured to selectively move the gripper 302 between a radially inner position (e.g., in a radially inward direction) and a radially outer position (e.g., in a radially outward direction) while the gripper 302 is continuously rotated about the axis 306. Even more specifically, the shape of the orbital path 310 and / or the curvature of different portions of the orbital path 310 are configured to momentarily pause the orbital motion of the gripper 302 at one or more locations along the orbital path 310 while the gripper 302 is continuously rotated about the axis 306.

[0096] Although examples of particular configurations and / or curvatures of orbital path 310, and more specifically, examples of first portion 318 and second portion 320 of orbital path 310, have been described above and illustrated in Figures 5-8, the shape of orbital path 310 and / or the curvatures of first portion 318 and second portion 320 are not limited to the examples illustrated herein. In other examples, orbital path 310 can have other suitable shapes and / or curvatures and / or can include additional portions having different curvatures.

[0097] In various examples, the feeder apparatus 300, and more specifically, the guide 308, includes any suitable mechanism configured to controllably move the gripper 302 along the orbital path 310 while continuously rotating the gripper 302 about the axis 306.

[0098] In one or more examples, the gripper 302 picks a blank 100 from a supply 204 of blanks 100, for example, in a hopper 232 (FIGS. 3 and 4). The gripper 302 holds or otherwise holds the blank 100 while the blank 100 is transferred to the group 106 of items 104. The gripper 302 releases the blank 100 when positioned over the group 106 of items 104.

[0099] In one or more examples, each one of the grippers 302 includes or takes the form of any suitable mechanism configured to selectively grasp, hold, and release the blank 100. In one or more examples, the grippers 302 include or take the form of a vacuum gripper. By way of example, the gripper 302 includes a vacuum or suction cup that is coupled to a vacuum source (e.g., a vacuum pump, etc.) that is in fluid communication with the vacuum source. In other examples, one or more of the grippers 302 includes or takes the form of another type of gripping mechanism, such as a mechanical grasper or manipulator, an adhesive gripper, an electrostatic gripper, etc.

[0100] In one or more examples, the grippers 302 are equally angularly spaced apart from one another. By way of example, the feeder apparatus 300 may include six grippers 302, each one of which is equally angularly offset by approximately 60 degrees from a directly adjacent one of the grippers 302. In other examples, the feeder apparatus 300 may include any suitable number of grippers 302, which are equally angularly offset from one another.

[0101] 7-9, in one or more examples, the feeder apparatus 300 includes a plurality of gripper arms 328. The gripper arms 328 support one or more grippers 302. In one or more examples, the plurality of grippers 302 are coupled to the gripper arms 328 and extend along at least a portion of the length of the gripper arms 328. The gripper arms 328 enable the use of the plurality of grippers 302 to remove respective ones of the blanks 100.

[0102] In one or more examples, the feeder drive 304 is configured to rotate the gripper arms 328 about the axis 306. In one or more examples, the guide 308 is configured to position each one of the gripper arms 328 along the orbital path 310 during rotation about the axis 306. During rotation, each one of the gripper arms 328 has at least two radial positions 312 along the orbital path 310. The orbital motion of each one of the gripper arms 328 along the orbital path 310 is momentarily paused at a first radial position 314. When the gripper arm 328 is at the first radial position 314 along the orbital path 310 and the orbital motion is momentarily paused, the gripper 302 engages and removes the blank 100.

[0103] In one or more examples, each one of the gripper arms 328 follows an orbital path 310 as it is rotated about the axis 306. In other words, each one of the gripper arms 328 orbits or pivots about the axis 306. In one or more examples, during the rotation, each one of the gripper arms 328 has a number of different radial positions 312 along the orbital path 310. Generally, the radial position 312 of the gripper arm 328 refers to the orbital location of the gripper arm 328 along the orbital path 310, the radial location of the gripper arm 328 relative to the axis 306, and / or the radial distance of the gripper arm 328 from (e.g., outward from) the axis 306 along the orbital path 310.

[0104] In one or more examples, the gripper arms 328 are equally angularly spaced apart from one another. By way of example, the feeder apparatus 300 may include six gripper arms 328, each one of which is equally angularly offset by approximately 60 degrees from the immediately adjacent one of the gripper arms 328. In other examples, the feeder apparatus 300 may include any suitable number of gripper arms 328, which are equally angularly offset from one another.

[0105] 9 , in one or more examples, feeder drive 304 includes a rotary drive 330 and a gripper hub 332. Rotary drive 330 includes or takes the form of any suitable rotary drive mechanism (e.g., a servo motor, etc.). Gripper hub 332 includes any suitable rotary support frame, such as a wheel and plate (e.g., a circular plate), etc. Gripper hub 332 is coupled to rotary drive 330. Rotary drive 330 rotates gripper hub 332 about axis 306.

[0106] In one or more examples, gripper 302 is coupled to gripper hub 332 such that gripper 302 rotates with gripper hub 332 about axis 306 and pivots about axis 306 along orbital path 310. In one or more examples, gripper 302 is coupled to gripper hub 332 via a portion of guide 308. In these examples, gripper 302 is movable relative to gripper hub 332 such that gripper 302 can follow orbital path 310.

[0107] In one or more examples, gripper arm 328 is coupled to gripper hub 332 such that gripper arm 328 rotates with gripper hub 332 about axis 306 and pivots about axis 306 along orbital path 310. In one or more examples, gripper arm 328 is coupled to gripper hub 332 via a portion of guide 308. In these examples, gripper arm 328 is movable relative to gripper hub 332 such that gripper arm 328 can follow orbital path 310.

[0108] In one or more examples, feeder drive 304 includes a drive shaft 334. Drive shaft 334 is coupled to rotary drive 330. Rotary drive 330 rotates drive shaft 334 about axis 306. Gripper hub 332 is coupled to drive shaft 334. Gripper hub 332 is rotationally fixed relative to drive shaft 334 such that gripper hub 332 rotates with drive shaft 334 and is thereby rotationally driven by rotary drive 330.

[0109] In one or more examples, feeder drive 304 includes a second gripper hub 336. Second gripper hub 336 is spaced apart from gripper hub 332 and is coupled to drive shaft 334. Second gripper hub 336 is rotationally fixed relative to drive shaft 334 such that second gripper hub 336 rotates with drive shaft 334 and gripper hub 332 and is thereby rotationally driven by rotary drive 330.

[0110] In one or more examples, the gripper 302 is also coupled to a second gripper hub 336 such that the gripper 302 rotates about the axis 306 with the second gripper hub 336 and pivots about the axis 306 along the orbital path 310. In these examples, the gripper 302 is movable relative to the second gripper hub 336 such that the gripper 302 can follow the orbital path 310.

[0111] In one or more examples, gripper arm 328 is coupled to second gripper hub 336 such that gripper arm 328 rotates with second gripper hub 336 about axis 306 and pivots about axis 306 along orbital path 310. In these examples, gripper arm 328 is movable relative to second gripper hub 336 such that gripper arm 328 can follow orbital path 310. Second gripper hub 336 provides additional support and stability to gripper arm 328 opposite gripper hub 332.

[0112] In one or more examples, the gripper 302 or the gripper arm 328 is also coupled to the drive shaft 334. In one or more examples, the feeder apparatus 300 includes a plurality of support rods 358. In one or more examples, each of the support rods 358 is coupled at a first end to a corresponding one of the grippers 302 or a corresponding one of the gripper arms 328. Each of the support rods 358 is coupled at a second end opposite the first end to the drive shaft 334. In one or more examples, the support rods 358 are coupled to a coupling 360. The coupling 360 is coupled to the drive shaft 334. The coupling 360 is rotationally fixed relative to the drive shaft 334 such that the coupling 360, and therefore the support rod 358, rotates about the axis 306 with the drive shaft 334. The support rod 358 is linearly movable relative to the coupling 360. By way of example, the support rod 358 is linearly movable relative to the coupling 360 to accommodate changes in the radial position 312 of the gripper arm 328 along the orbital path 310 as the gripper arm 328 rotates about the axis 306.

[0113] 9-11 , in one or more examples, the guide 308 includes a cam 338. The cam 338 is configured to control the orbital motion of the gripper 302 or the gripper arm 328 along the orbital path 310 during rotation about the axis 306. In various examples, the cam 338 includes a mechanical linkage of any suitable configuration.

[0114] In one or more examples, the guide 308 includes a transmission 340. The transmission 340 is coupled to the cam 338 and to the gripper 302 or the gripper arm 328. The transmission 340 transfers motion to the gripper 302 or the gripper arm 328 as controlled by the cam 338 during rotation about the axis 306.

[0115] In one or more examples, the cam 338 includes or takes the form of a face cam. By way of example, the cam 338 includes a cam track 342 formed on a cam surface 344 and a cam follower 346 that travels along the cam track 342. As illustrated in FIG. 11 , the cam track 342 is continuous (e.g., a continuous loop). The cam track 342 includes any suitable shape configured to control the orbital motion of the gripper 302 or gripper arm 328 along the orbital path 310. In one or more examples, the cam track 342 is non-circular in shape. By way of example, the cam track 342 includes one or more undulating curved portions at varying radial distances relative to the axis 306 that define the orbital motion of the gripper 302 or gripper arm 328 along the orbital path 310 as the cam follower 346 moves along the cam track 342.

[0116] In one or more examples, transmission 340 includes any suitable motion transfer mechanism configured to transfer the motion defined by cam 338 into orbital motion of gripper 302 along orbital path 310. By way of example, transmission 340 is configured to transfer motion of cam follower 346 along cam track 342 into variations in the radial position of gripper 302 along orbital path 310.

[0117] In one or more examples, the transmission 340 includes an input lever 348, a gearbox 350, and an output lever 352. The input lever 348 is coupled to a cam follower 346 at a first end. The input lever 348 is positioned between the cam 338 and the gripper hub 332. The input lever 348 is coupled to a gearbox 350 at a second end opposite the first end. The input lever 348 is rotatable relative to the cam follower 346 about an axis 354 ( FIG. 10 ) as the cam follower 346 moves along the cam track 342. The input lever 348 is rotatable relative to the gearbox 350 about an axis 356 ( FIG. 10 ) as the cam follower 346 moves along the cam track 342. The gearbox 350 is coupled to the gripper hub 332 and is fixed relative to the gripper hub 332. The gearbox 350 is configured to transfer rotational movement of the input lever 348 about an axis 356 to rotational movement of the output lever 352 about an axis 356. The output lever 352 is coupled at a first end to the gearbox 350. The gearbox 350 rotates the output lever 352 about the axis 356. The output lever 352 is coupled at a second end opposite the first end to the gripper arm 328.

[0118] 11 , in one or more examples, during operation of the feeder apparatus 300, the transmission 340 (e.g., input lever 348, gearbox 350, and output lever 352) rotates with the gripper hub 332 about axis 306. During rotation, the cam follower 346 rotates with the input lever 348 about axis 306 and advances along the cam track 342. As the cam follower 346 advances along the cam track 342, variations in the radial distance of portions of the cam track 342 relative to axis 306 cause the input lever 348 to rotate or pivot relative to the cam follower 346 about axis 354 and relative to the gearbox 350 about axis 356. The gearbox 350 transfers the rotational motion of the input lever 348 to the rotational motion of the output lever 352. Rotational or pivotal movement of the input lever about axis 356 causes the output lever 352 to rotate or pivot about axis 356 relative to the gearbox 350. Rotational or pivotal movement of the output lever 352 about axis 356 causes the gripper 302 or gripper arm 328, which is coupled to the output lever 352, to move radially inward or radially outward along the orbital path 310.

[0119] In one or more examples, the gripper 302 or gripper arm 328 moves through a small loop (e.g., first loop 322 or second loop 324 as shown in FIG. 5 ) along the orbital path 310 as the output lever 352 completes one full rotation about the axis 356. The trajectory of the gripper 302 or gripper arm 328 along the orbital path 310 is generated by precisely controlling the rotational speed of the output lever 352.

[0120] In one or more examples, the cam follower 346, the first end of the input lever 348, and / or the axis 354 are positioned rearward, remain positioned rearward, and / or are configured to follow rearward, in the direction of rotation (e.g., as indicated by directional arrow 362), the second end of the input lever 348, the gearbox 350, and / or the axis 356, to control the rotational or pivotal movement of the output lever 352 about the axis 356, and thus the radial position 312 of the gripper 302 or the gripper arm 328 along the orbital path 310.

[0121] In one or more examples, the gearbox 350 includes an overdrive gear ratio such that the output angular motion of the output lever 352 is greater than the input angular motion of the input lever 348. By way of example, the angular range of motion 364 of the input lever 348 is 90 degrees, and the corresponding angular range of motion 366 of the output lever 352 is 360 degrees. As such, as the input lever 348 rotates or pivots about the axis 356 through its angular range of motion 364, the output lever 352 rotates or pivots about the axis 356 through its angular range of motion 366, which is a multiple (e.g., four times) higher than the angular range of motion 364 of the input lever 348. In other examples, other overdrive gear ratios may be used.

[0122] In one or more examples, the gearbox 350 includes or takes the form of a planetary gearbox. In one or more examples, the gearbox 350 includes or takes the form of a spur gear.

[0123] In one or more examples, the disclosed feeder apparatus 300 provides various benefits over conventional rotary vacuum feeders. This disclosure recognizes that conventional rotary vacuum feeders suffer from guidance losses and non-optimal motion laws due to the utilization of double cam followers. These two factors, among others, can prevent conventional feeders from being able to move fast enough to enable high throughput. Examples of the disclosed feeder apparatus 300 utilize a single cam follower, which overcomes both of the above disadvantages by eliminating guidance losses and by optimizing the motion so that blank feeding action and motion are smoother and faster to enable high throughput.

[0124] 12-23, the present disclosure is further directed to an applicator apparatus 400 for applying blanks 100 to groups 106 of articles 104. In one or more examples, system 200 includes applicator apparatus 400. FIG. 12 illustrates an example of applicator apparatus 400. FIG. 13 illustrates an example of a portion of applicator apparatus 400 shown in FIG. 12. FIG. 14 illustrates an example of applicator apparatus 400. FIGS. 15-23 illustrate an example of a portion of applicator apparatus 400 at different stages of a blank application operation. In FIGS. 13 and 15-23, certain portions of applicator apparatus 400 (e.g., shown in FIGS. 12 and 14) have been removed for purposes of clarity of illustration.

[0125] 12 and 13 , in one or more examples, applicator apparatus 400 includes a plurality of first applicator tools 402. First applicator tools 402 are configured to press blanks 100 onto alternating first ones of groups 106 as articles 104 move along conveyance path 202. Applicator apparatus 400 also includes a plurality of second applicator tools 404. Second applicator tools 404 are configured to press blanks 100 onto alternating second ones of groups 106 as articles 104 move along conveyance path 202. Applicator apparatus 400 further includes an applicator driver 406. Applicator driver 406 is configured to rotate first applicator tool 402 about a first axis 408 (shown in Figures 15-23) and to rotate second applicator tool 404 about a second axis 410 (shown in Figures 15-23).

[0126] The first applicator tool 402 and the second applicator tool 404 include any suitable structure configured to engage the blank 100 and the group 106 of articles 104 (e.g., from above) and to press the blank 100 onto an upper portion of the articles 104 such that the retaining structure 126 (shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 ) of the blank 100 engages and holds the articles 104 in the group 106. Also, in one or more examples, the first applicator tool 402 and the second applicator tool 404 include suitable structure configured to fold one or more of the panels 134 of the blank 100 while applying the blank 100 to the articles 104 to at least partially form the carton 102.

[0127] In one or more examples, each one of the first applicator tool 402 and the second applicator tool 404 includes a main application panel including a plurality of application apertures formed therethrough. Generally, the number, arrangement, and location of the application apertures correspond to the number and arrangement of the articles 104 in the group 106 (e.g., a 2x6 matrix) and / or the number, arrangement, and location of the retaining structures 126 of the blank 100. During application of the blank 100, the main application panel is positioned over the blank 100 such that the application apertures are aligned with the articles 104 in the group 106 and the retaining structures 126 of the blank 100. The first applicator tool 402 and the second applicator tool 404 are rotated sequentially to press the blank 100 onto upper portions of the articles 104 in the group 106.

[0128] In one or more examples, each one of first applicator tool 402 and second applicator tool 404 includes one or more forming panels coupled to a main application panel. During application of blank 100, the forming panels are positioned over blank 100 such that the forming panels fold or otherwise form one or more of panels 134 ( FIG. 1 ) of blank 100 into an assembled condition.

[0129] In one or more examples, applicator apparatus 400 includes a first tool hub 414 and a second tool hub 416. Second tool hub 416 is not shown in FIG. 13 for clarity of illustration. First applicator tool 402 is coupled to first tool hub 414. Second applicator tool 404 is coupled to second tool hub 416. First tool hub 414 and second tool hub 416 include any suitable rotary support frame, such as a wheel and plate (e.g., a circular plate as shown in FIGS. 12 and 13 or a star-shaped plate as shown in FIG. 14).

[0130] In one or more examples, the applicator drive 406 includes a rotary drive 418. The rotary drive 418 may include or take the form of any suitable rotary drive mechanism (e.g., a servo motor, etc.). The first tool hub 414 and the second tool hub 416 are coupled to the rotary drive 418. The rotary drive 418 rotates the first tool hub 414 about the first axis 408 and the second tool hub 416 about the second axis 410. In one or more examples, the first tool hub 414 and the second tool hub 416 share and are rotated by the same rotary drive 418. In one or more examples, each one of the first tool hub 414 and the second tool hub 416 has its own dedicated rotary drive 418.

[0131] In one or more examples, the applicator drive 406 includes a drive shaft or other power transmission component (not shown) that is coupled to a rotary drive 418. The first tool hub 414 and the second tool hub 416 are coupled to the drive shaft or other power transmission component such that the first tool hub 414 and the second tool hub 416 rotate with the drive shaft or are rotated by the power transmission component, and are thereby rotationally driven by the rotary drive 418.

[0132] 12-19, in one or more examples, the first axis 408 (about which the first applicator tool 402 rotates) and the second axis 410 (about which the second applicator tool 404 rotates) are coincident with one another (e.g., coaxial). In FIGS. 13 and 15-19, the second tool hub 416 is not shown for clarity of illustration. In one or more examples, the first axis 408 and the second axis 410 are at least approximately perpendicular to the transport path 202 of the article 104.

[0133] In one or more examples, the first tool hub 414 and the second tool hub 416 (not shown in FIGS. 15-19 ) are on opposite sides of the conveyor 218 (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 12 and 14 ). In these examples, the first applicator tool 402 extends from the first tool hub 414, is positioned between the first tool hub 414 and the second tool hub 416, faces the second tool hub 416, is positioned above the conveyor 218, and moves in a rotational direction. The second applicator tool 404 extends from the second tool hub 416 in an opposite direction from the first applicator tool 402, is positioned between the first tool hub 414 and the second tool hub 416, faces the first tool hub 414, is positioned above the conveyor 218, and moves in a rotational direction. In one or more examples, the first applicator tool 402 and the second applicator tool 404 face each other.

[0134] 15-19 , in these examples, each one of the first applicator tools 402 applies the blank 100 to the group 106 of articles 104 at an application location 420 along the transport path 202 of the articles 104 (e.g., at the same location along the conveyor 218, etc.). Each one of the second applicator tools 404 applies the blank 100 to the group 106 of articles 104 at an application location 420 along the transport path 202 of the articles 104 (e.g., at the same location along the conveyor 218, etc.). In other words, the application location 420 is the same for the first applicator tool 402 and the second applicator tool 404.

[0135] 20-23, in one or more examples, the first axis 408 (about which the first applicator tool 402 rotates) and the second axis 410 (about which the second applicator tool 404 rotates) are parallel to one another. In one or more examples, the first axis 408 and the second axis 410 are at least approximately perpendicular to the transport path 202 of the article 104.

[0136] In one or more examples, the first tool hub 414 and the second tool hub 416 are adjacent to one another (e.g., side by side, next to, or nearby) along the conveyor 218. In these examples, the first applicator tool 402 extends from the first tool hub 414 and is positioned above and moves in a rotational direction on the conveyor 218. The second applicator tool 404 extends from the second tool hub 416 in the same direction as the first applicator tool 402 and is positioned above and moves in a rotational direction on the conveyor 218.

[0137] 20-23, in these examples, each one of the first applicator tools 402 applies the blank 100 to the group 106 of articles 104 at a first application location 422 along the transport path 202 of the articles 104 (e.g., at the same location along the conveyor 218, etc.). Each one of the second applicator tools 404 applies the blank 100 to the group 106 of articles 104 at a second application location 424 along the transport path 202 of the articles 104 (e.g., at the same location along the conveyor 218, etc.).

[0138] 15-23, in one or more examples, the first applicator tools 402 are equally angularly spaced apart from one another. As an example, the applicator device 400 includes three first applicator tools 402 (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 12-14). In these examples, each one of the first applicator tools 402 is equally angularly offset by approximately 120 degrees from a directly adjacent one of the first applicator tools 402. As another example, the applicator device 400 includes four first applicator tools 402 (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 15-23). ​​In these examples, each one of the first applicator tools 402 is equally angularly offset by approximately 90 degrees from a directly adjacent one of the first applicator tools 402. In other examples, applicator device 400 includes any suitable number of first applicator tools 402 that are equally angularly displaced from one another.

[0139] Similarly, in one or more examples, the second applicator tools 404 are equally angularly spaced apart from one another. As an example, the applicator device 400 includes three second applicator tools 404 (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 12-14 ). In these examples, each one of the second applicator tools 404 is equally angularly offset by approximately 120 degrees from a directly adjacent one of the second applicator tools 404. As another example, the applicator device 400 includes four second applicator tools 404 (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 15-23 ). In these examples, each one of the second applicator tools 404 is equally angularly offset by approximately 90 degrees from a directly adjacent one of the second applicator tools 404. In other examples, the applicator device 400 includes any suitable number of second applicator tools 404 that are equally angularly offset from one another.

[0140] In one or more examples, the first applicator tool 402 and the second applicator tool 404 are equally angularly displaced from each other and / or equally angularly oriented from each other so that as alternating first and second groups of groups 106 and corresponding blanks 100 move through the applicator device 400 along the transport path 202, each one of the first applicator tool 402 and the second applicator tool 404 moves sequentially and alternately through a blank application motion (referred to herein as a stroke 412).

[0141] 15-23 , in one or more examples, each one of the first applicator tool 402 and the second applicator tool 404 has or moves through a stroke 412 during rotation about a respective one of the first axis 408 and the second axis 410. The stroke 412 refers to the oscillating downward and upward movement of each one of the first applicator tool 402 and the second applicator tool 404 during application of the blank 100 to the group 106 of articles 104. By way of example, the stroke 412 includes an uppermost position of the application movement and a lowermost position of the application movement. In one or more examples, the stroke 412 of the first applicator tool 402 is achieved along a portion of the rotation of the first applicator tool 402 about the first axis 408. Similarly, the stroke 412 of the second applicator tool 404 is achieved along a portion of the rotation of the second applicator tool 404 about the second axis 410 .

[0142] In one or more examples, the first applicator tool 402 and the second applicator tool 404 are appropriately angularly oriented relative to one another such that each one of the first applicator tool 402 and the second applicator tool 404 alternately moves through its respective stroke 412. In one or more examples, the first applicator tool 402 reaches a lowermost position in the stroke 412 before the second applicator tool begins the stroke 412. In one or more examples, the second applicator tool 404 reaches a lowermost position in the stroke 412 before the first applicator tool begins the stroke 412.

[0143] Generally, the rotational speed of the first applicator tool 402 about the first axis 408 and the rotational speed of the second applicator tool 404 about the second axis 410 are appropriately synchronized so that the first applicator tool 402 and the second applicator tool 404 perform alternating strokes 412.

[0144] In one or more examples, the stroke 412 is sufficient to press the blank 100 downward a sufficient distance to ensure that the upper ends of the articles 104 are received through the retention apertures 128 of the blank 100 (FIGS. 1 and 2) and that the retention tabs 130 of the blank 100 (FIG. 2) are positioned below and / or engaged with the upper ends of the articles 104 in the group 106. In one or more examples, the stroke 412 is greater than 10 millimeters. In one or more examples, the stroke 412 is at least 30 millimeters. In one or more examples, the stroke 412 is at least 50 millimeters. In one or more examples, the stroke 412 is at least 70 millimeters.

[0145] Thus, the use of angularly displaced first applicator tool 402 (rotated about first axis 408 by first tool hub 414) and angularly displaced second applicator tool 404 (with synchronized rotation about second axis 410 by second tool hub 416) allows for a deeper stroke compared to conventional blank application machines, allowing for suitably higher processing speeds or throughput. The deeper stroke produced by the disclosed applicator apparatus 400 is particularly beneficial during packaging of plastic bottles.

[0146] Figure 15 illustrates an example of applicator apparatus 400 in a first rotational position during a blank application operation. In Figure 15, a first application tool 402 is coupled to a first tool hub 414 and rotates about a first axis 408, and a second application tool 404 is coupled to a second tool hub 416 (not shown in Figure 15) and rotates about a second axis 410, which is coincident with first axis 408. In one or more examples, in the first rotational position, one of the first applicator tools 402 (identified as first applicator tool 402A) is at an uppermost position of stroke 412, where first applicator tool 402A engages blanks 100 and alternating first ones of groups 106A of articles 104 as the articles 104 move along the transport path 202.

[0147] 16 illustrates an example of applicator apparatus 400 in a second rotational position during a blank application operation. In FIG. 16, first application tool 402 is coupled to first tool hub 414 and rotates about first axis 408, and second application tool 404 is coupled to second tool hub 416 (not shown in FIG. 16) and rotates about second axis 410, which is coincident with first axis 408. In one or more examples, in the second rotational position, first applicator tool 402A is at the bottommost position of stroke 412, where first applicator tool 402A pressed blanks 100 onto or over alternating first articles 104 of group 106A as the articles 104 moved along transport path 202.

[0148] 17 illustrates an example of applicator apparatus 400 in a third rotational position during a blank application operation. In FIG. 17, first application tool 402 is coupled to first tool hub 414 and rotates about first axis 408, and second application tool 404 is coupled to second tool hub 416 (not shown in FIG. 17) and rotates about second axis 410, which is coincident with first axis 408. In one or more examples, in the third rotational position, one of second applicator tools 404 (identified as second applicator tool 404A) is at an uppermost position of stroke 412, where second applicator tool 404A engages blanks 100 and alternating second ones of groups 106B of articles 104 as the articles 104 move along transport path 202. In the third rotational position, the first applicator tool 402A has moved upward through a stroke 412 back to its uppermost position as the article 104 moves along the transport path 202.

[0149] 18 illustrates an example of the applicator apparatus 400 in a fourth rotational position during a blank application operation. In FIG. 18, the first application tool 402 is coupled to a first tool hub 414 and rotates about a first axis 408, and the second application tool 404 is coupled to a second tool hub 416 (not shown in FIG. 18) and rotates about a second axis 410, which is coincident with the first axis 408. In one or more examples, in the fourth rotational position, the second applicator tool 404A is at the bottommost position of its stroke 412, where the second applicator tool 404A presses the blank 100 onto or over alternating second articles 104 of the group 106B as the articles 104 move along the transport path 202. In the fourth rotational position, the first applicator tool 402A has moved rotationally back to the uppermost position of the stroke 412 (eg, as shown in FIG. 15).

[0150] FIG. 19 illustrates an example of the applicator apparatus 400 in a fifth rotational position during a blank application operation. In FIG. 19, the first application tool 402 is coupled to a first tool hub 414 and rotates about a first axis 408, and the second application tool 404 is coupled to a second tool hub 416 (not shown in FIG. 19) and rotates about a second axis 410, which is coincident with the first axis 408. In one or more examples, in the fifth rotational position, the second applicator tool 404A has moved upward through the stroke 412 back to its uppermost position as the article 104 moves along the transport path 202. In the fifth rotational position, the first applicator tool 402A has moved further rotationally back to its uppermost position in the stroke 412 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 15 ).

[0151] The blank application operation described above and illustrated in Figures 15-19 is continuously repeated as the articles 104 move along the transport path 202, with each one of the first applicator tools 402 pressing a respective blank 100 onto alternating first groups of groups 106A, and each one of the second applicator tools 404 pressing a respective blank 100 onto alternating second groups of groups 106B.

[0152] Figure 20 illustrates an example of applicator apparatus 400 in a first rotational position during a blank application operation. In Figure 20, a first application tool 402 is coupled to a first tool hub 414 and rotates about a first axis 408, and a second application tool 404 is coupled to a second tool hub 416 and rotates about a second axis 410 that is parallel to and spaced apart from first axis 408 along transport path 202. In one or more examples, in the first rotational position, one of the first applicator tools 402 (identified as first applicator tool 402A) is at the uppermost position of the stroke 412, where the first applicator tool 402A engages the blanks 100 and alternating first groups 106A of the articles 104 as the articles 104 move along the conveying path 202.

[0153] 21 illustrates an example of applicator apparatus 400 in a second rotational position during a blank application operation. In FIG. 21 , first application tool 402 is coupled to first tool hub 414 and rotates about first axis 408, and second application tool 404 is coupled to second tool hub 416 and rotates about second axis 410, which is parallel to and spaced apart from first axis 408. In one or more examples, in the second rotational position, first applicator tool 402A is at the bottommost position of stroke 412, where first applicator tool 402A presses blanks 100 onto or over alternating first articles 104 of group 106A as the articles 104 move along transport path 202. In the second rotational position, one of the second applicator tools 404 (identified as second applicator tool 404A) is at the uppermost position of stroke 412, where the second applicator tool 404A engages the blanks 100 and alternating second groups of groups 106B of articles 104 as the articles 104 move along the conveying path 202.

[0154] 22 illustrates an example of applicator apparatus 400 in a third rotational position during a blank application operation. In FIG. 22, a first application tool 402 is coupled to a first tool hub 414 and rotates about a first axis 408, and a second application tool 404 is coupled to a second tool hub 416 and rotates about a second axis 410 that is parallel to and spaced apart from the first axis 408. In one or more examples, in the third rotational position, second applicator tool 404A is at the bottommost position of stroke 412, where second applicator tool 404B has pressed blanks 100 onto or over alternating second groups of articles 104 in group 106B as the articles 104 move along the transport path 202. In the third rotational position, as the article 104 moves along the transport path 202, the first applicator tool 402A moves upward through a stroke 412 back to its uppermost position.

[0155] FIG. 23 illustrates an example of the applicator apparatus 400 in a fourth rotational position during a blank application operation. In FIG. 23 , a first application tool 402 is coupled to a first tool hub 414 and rotates about a first axis 408, and a second application tool 404 is coupled to a second tool hub 416 and rotates about a second axis 410 that is parallel to and spaced away from the first axis 408. In one or more examples, in the fourth rotational position, the second applicator tool 404A has moved upward through the stroke 412 back to its uppermost position as the article 104 moves along the transport path 202. In the fourth rotational position, the first applicator tool 402A has moved rotationally back to its uppermost position in the stroke 412 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 20 ).

[0156] The blank application operation described above and illustrated in Figures 20-23 is continuously repeated as the articles 104 move along the transport path 202, with each one of the first applicator tools 402 pressing a respective blank 100 onto alternating first groups of groups 106A, and each one of the second applicator tools 404 pressing a respective blank 100 onto alternating second groups of groups 106B.

[0157] In one or more examples, the conveyor 218 moves the group 106 of articles 104 along the transport path 202 at a linear velocity. The first applicator tool 402 and the second applicator tool 404 rotate at a predetermined rotational speed. The rotational speed of the first applicator tool 402 and the second applicator tool 404 is synchronized with the linear speed of the conveyor 218 so that each one of the first applicator tool 402 and the second applicator tool 404 moves alternately through a stroke 412 of application motion as the group 106 moves along the transport path 202.

[0158] 12-14 , in one or more examples, applicator apparatus 400 includes a first leveling mechanism 426. First leveling mechanism 426 is configured to maintain first applicator tool 402 in a substantially parallel orientation relative to blank 100 throughout rotation of first applicator tool 402. Similarly, applicator apparatus 400 includes a second leveling mechanism 428. Second leveling mechanism 428 is configured to maintain second applicator tool 404 in a substantially parallel orientation relative to blank 100 throughout rotation of second applicator tool 404.

[0159] First leveling mechanism 426 and second leveling mechanism 428 include any suitable mechanism configured to maintain a desired angular orientation of first applicator tool 402 and second applicator tool 404, respectively, during rotation. In one or more examples, first leveling mechanism 426 and second leveling mechanism 428 include or take the form of a pulley and belt mechanism. In one or more examples, first leveling mechanism 426 and second leveling mechanism 428 include or take the form of a counterweight mechanism.

[0160] 12 and 13 , in one or more examples, each one of the first applicator tool 402 and the second applicator tool 404 includes an alignment device 430. The alignment device 430 is configured to engage the blank 100 during application of the blank 100 and align the blank 100 relative to the group 106 of articles 104. In one or more examples, the alignment device 430 includes or takes the form of a post that projects downwardly from the main application panel of the first applicator tool 402 and the second applicator tool 404. The alignment device 430 is configured to be at least partially inserted through the alignment aperture 138 of the blank 100 (shown in FIG. 1 ) as the first applicator tool 402 and the second applicator tool 404 move through their respective strokes 412.

[0161] 1-23 generally, and with particular reference to FIG. 24 , the present disclosure is additionally directed to a method 1000 for packaging items 104 into groups 106. FIG. 24 illustrates an example of method 1000. In one or more examples, method 1000 is performed by or implemented using system 200.

[0162] In one or more examples, the method 1000 includes conveying (block 1002) the group 106 of articles 104 along the transport path 202. In one or more examples, conveying (block 1002) the group 106 of articles 104 along the transport path 202 is performed using a conveyor system 214 (FIG. 3).

[0163] In one or more examples, the method 1000 also includes processing and / or grouping the articles 104 as they move along the transport path 202. In one or more examples, processing the articles 104 is performed using a processing device 234 (FIG. 3). In one or more examples, grouping the articles 104 into groups 106 is performed using a grouping device 230 (FIG. 3).

[0164] In one or more examples, the method 1000 includes transferring (block 1004) the blanks 100 to respective ones of the groups 106 as the articles 104 move along the conveyance path 202. In one or more examples, transferring (block 1004) the blanks 100 to respective ones of the groups 106 is performed using a feeder apparatus 300 (FIGS. 3-11).

[0165] In one or more examples, the method 1000 includes applying a blank 100 to each one of the groups 106 (block 1006) as the articles 104 move along the conveyance path 202. In one or more examples, the applying a blank 100 to each one of the groups 106 (block 1006) is performed using an applicator device 400 (FIGS. 3, 4, and 12-23).

[0166] 3-11 generally, and with particular reference to FIG. 25, the present disclosure is also directed to a method 2000 for transferring blanks 100 to groups 106 of articles 104. FIG. 25 illustrates an example of method 2000. In one or more examples, method 2000 is an implementation of the step of transferring blanks 100 to respective ones of groups 106 (block 1004) of method 1000. In one or more examples, method 2000 is performed by or implemented using feeder apparatus 300.

[0167] In one or more examples, the method 2000 includes removing (block 2002) the blank 100. In one or more examples, the removing (block 2002) the blank 100 is implemented by or includes rotating (block 2004) the gripper 302 or gripper arm 328 about the axis 306 and engaging (block 2006) the blank 100 with the gripper 302 or gripper arm 328 at one of at least two radial positions 312 of the gripper 302 or gripper arm 328 along the orbital path 310 (where the orbital motion of the gripper 302 or gripper arm 328 along the orbital path 310 is momentarily paused).

[0168] In one or more examples, method 2000 includes placing a blank 100 on a respective one of the groups 106 (block 2008). In one or more examples, placing the blank 100 (block 2008) is implemented by or includes further rotating the gripper 302 or gripper arm 328 about axis 306 (block 2010) and disengaging the blank 100 from the gripper 302 at another one of at least two radial positions 312 of the gripper 302 along the orbital path 310 of the gripper 302 (block 2012).

[0169] 3, 4, and 12-23 generally, and with particular reference to FIG. 26, the present disclosure is further directed to a method 3000 for applying a blank 100 to groups 106 of articles 104. FIG. 26 illustrates an example of method 3000. In one or more examples, method 3000 is an implementation of the step of applying a blank 100 to each one of the groups 106 (block 1006) of method 1000. In one or more examples, method 3000 is performed by or implemented using applicator device 400.

[0170] In one or more examples, the method 3000 includes rotating a first applicator tool 402 about a first axis 408 (block 3002) and pressing blanks 100 onto alternating first ones of the groups 106 (block 3004). The method 3000 also includes rotating a second applicator tool 404 about a second axis 410 (block 3006) and pressing blanks 100 onto alternating second ones of the groups 106 (block 3008).

[0171] In one or more examples, the blank 100 is formed from a sheet of suitable substrate. As used herein, the term "suitable substrate" includes all manner of foldable sheet material, such as paperboard, corrugated board, cardboard, plastic, combinations thereof, and the like. It should be recognized that any number (e.g., one or more) of the blanks 100 can be used, where appropriate, to provide and / or form one or more cartons 102 (e.g., carrier structures), for example, as described in more detail below.

[0172] In one or more examples, the blank 100, and thus the carton 102, is formed from a sheet material such as a paperboard substrate. The paperboard substrate can be, for example, a solid bleached sulfate (SBS) substrate, an uncoated natural kraft (UNC) substrate, or a coated natural kraft (CNK) substrate. The paperboard substrate can be formed from virgin fibers, recycled fibers, or a combination thereof.

[0173] In one or more examples, the blank 100, and thus the carton 102, can be formed from a sheet material (such as, for example, paperboard) that can be made from or coated with a material to increase its strength. An example of such a sheet material is tear-resistant NATRALOCK® paperboard made by WestRock Company. In one or more examples, the tear-resistant material is provided in two or more layers to help improve the tear resistance of the carton 102.

[0174] In one or more examples, the blank 100 includes at least a paperboard substrate. The paperboard substrate material can be selected from any conventional paperboard, for example, in the range of about 10 pt. up to about 28 pt. (0.028" / ~0.7 mm) weight. Examples of such substrates are 27-point (pt.) SBS board (solid bleached sulfate paperboard coated on one side, trade name PrintKote®) or CNK® board (Coated Natural Kraft® - unbleached kraft paperboard with a clay coating on one side, trade name CarrierKote™) manufactured by WestRock®. The paperboard substrate can be bleached or unbleached board. The board can be coated on at least one side, optionally on the side opposite the lamination, with a conventional coating selected for compatibility with the printing method and board composition.

[0175] In one or more examples, one surface of the sheet material has different properties than the other surface. For example, the surface of the sheet material facing outward from the finished carton 102 can be particularly smooth and can have a coating, such as a clay coating or other surface treatment to provide good printability, while the surface of the sheet material facing inward can be provided with a coating, layer, and / or treatment or otherwise prepared to provide properties such as, for example, one or more of tear resistance, good adhesive properties, heat sealability, or other desired functional properties.

[0176] In one or more examples, the blank 100 can include a tear-resistant layer laminated to the paperboard layer. It optionally includes an adhesive layer between the paperboard substrate and the tear-resistant layer. The tear-resistant layer can be disposed on the uncoated side of the paperboard substrate and can be formed from a polymeric material and secured to the substrate. The tear-resistant layer provides toughness to the laminate structure. Suitable tear-resistant materials can include, but are not limited to, tear-resistant laminated sheet materials such as NATRALOCK® (which can include a layer of n-axis oriented film), MYLAR® (which is biaxially oriented polyester, oriented nylon, cross-laminated polyolefin, or high-density polyolefin). The orientation and cross-laminated structure of these materials contribute to their tear-resistant properties. Tear resistance can also be attributed to tear-resistant material chemistries such as extruded metallocene-catalyzed polyethylene (mPE).

[0177] Alternatively, in one or more examples, the tear-resistant layer can be a layer of linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE). In examples where linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) or mPE is used, it is not necessary to incorporate an adhesive layer. Other suitable materials having a high level of tear resistance can also be used. The adhesive layer can be formed from a polyolefin material, such as low-density polyethylene (LDPE). The adhesive layer can be disposed between the substrate and the tear-resistant layer to secure the tear-resistant layer to the substrate.

[0178] The preceding detailed description refers to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate specific examples of the disclosed systems, feeder apparatuses, applicator apparatuses, packaging methods, transporting methods, and applying methods as described by the present disclosure. It will be understood that the disclosed examples are merely exemplary embodiments of how certain aspects of the disclosed systems, feeder apparatuses, applicator apparatuses, and methods may be implemented and do not represent an exhaustive list of all ways in which the disclosed systems, feeder apparatuses, applicator apparatuses, and methods may be embodied. Other examples having different structures and operations do not depart from the scope of the present disclosure. Similar reference numbers may refer to the same features, elements, or components in different drawings. The figures are not necessarily to scale, and some features may be exaggerated or minimized to show details of particular components. Throughout this disclosure, any one of multiple items may be referred to individually as an item, and multiple items may be referred to collectively as an item. Furthermore, as used herein, a feature, element, component or step preceded by the word "a" or "an" is to be understood as not excluding a plurality of features, elements, components or steps (unless such exclusion is expressly stated).

[0179] For illustrative purposes, non-exhaustive examples of the subject matter according to the present disclosure that may be claimed, but are not necessarily claimed, are provided above. Reference herein to an "example" means that one or more features, structures, elements, components, attributes, and / or operational steps described in connection with the example are included in at least one aspect, embodiment, and / or implementation of the subject matter according to the present disclosure. Thus, throughout this disclosure, the phrases "an example," "another example," "one or more examples," and similar language may, but do not necessarily, refer to the same example. Furthermore, subject matter characterizing any one example may, but does not necessarily, include subject matter characterizing any other example. Furthermore, subject matter characterizing any one example may, but does not necessarily, be combined with subject matter characterizing any other example.

[0180] It should be understood that not necessarily all objects or advantages may be achieved in accordance with any particular example described herein. Thus, for example, those skilled in the art will recognize that a particular example can be configured to operate in a manner that achieves or optimizes one advantage or group of advantages as taught herein, without necessarily achieving other objects or advantages as may be taught or suggested herein.

[0181] It should be recognized that the terms "front," "rear," "back," "bottom," "top," "left," "right," "side," "end," "upper," "lower," "inside," "outside," and similar terms or other forms of such terms, when used to modify structures, elements, items, components, or features described herein, are relative and refer to example spatial relationships between structures, elements, items, components, or features. As such, the example blanks 100 and cartons 102 described herein and illustrated in the figures are not intended to be limited by the particular relative terms used to describe any structures, elements, items, components, or features thereof.

[0182] As used herein, the terms “hinge connection” and “fold line” refer to any manner of line defining a hinge feature of a blank that facilitates folding portions of the blank relative to one another or otherwise indicates an optimal panel fold location for the blank. Reference to a “hinge connection” should not necessarily be interpreted as referring to only a single fold line. Indeed, a hinge connection can be formed from two or more fold lines, where each of the two or more fold lines can be either straight / linear or curved / curved in shape. When linear fold lines form a hinge connection, they can be disposed parallel to one another or can be slightly angled relative to one another. When curved fold lines form a hinge connection, they can intersect one another to define a shaped panel within the area encompassed by the curved fold line. A typical example of such a hinged connection may include a pair of arcuate or circular fold lines that intersect at two points to define an oval-shaped panel therebetween. A hinged connection may be formed from one or more linear fold lines and one or more curved fold lines. A typical example of such a hinged connection may include a combination of linear fold lines and arcuate or circular fold lines that intersect at two points to define a half-moon-shaped panel therebetween.

[0183] As used herein, the term "fold line" can refer to one of a scored line, an embossed line, a debossed line, a perforated line, a short slit line, a half cut line, a single half cut, an interrupted cut line, an aligned slit line, a score line, and any combination of the above options.

[0184] It should be understood that the hinged connections and fold lines can each include elements formed in the substrate of the blank, including perforations, perforation lines, short slit lines, half-cut lines, single half-cut lines, cut lines, interrupted cut lines, slits, scores, embossed lines, debossed lines, and any combination thereof. The elements can be sized and positioned to provide the desired functionality. For example, perforation lines can be sized or designed with a degree of weakness to define fold and / or cut lines. Perforation lines can be designed to facilitate folding and resist breaking, to facilitate folding and facilitate breaking with greater effort, or to facilitate breaking with little effort.

[0185] As used herein, the terms "rotate," "rotating," "rotation," and similar terms refer to movement of a body part about an axis, and include conditions in which the axis extends through the center of mass of the body part (e.g., rotate), conditions in which the axis extends through the body part but not through the center of mass of the body part (e.g., spiral or pivot), and conditions in which the axis does not extend through the body part (e.g., swivel).

[0186] Conditional language such as "can" or "may," among others, is understood in context as generally used to convey that particular examples include certain features, elements, and / or steps, while other examples do not, unless specifically stated otherwise. Thus, such conditional language is not intended to imply that features, elements, and / or steps are generally required in any manner in one or more examples, or that one or more examples necessarily include logic for determining whether those features, elements, and / or steps are included or should be performed in any particular example, with or without user input or prompting.

[0187] Unless otherwise indicated, the terms "first," "second," "third," etc. are used herein merely as labels and are not intended to impose any ordination, positional, or hierarchical requirements on the items to which these terms refer. Further, a reference to, for example, a "second" item does not require or exclude the presence of, for example, a "first" or lower-numbered item, and / or, for example, a "third" or higher-numbered item.

[0188] Those skilled in the art will understand that not all elements, features, components, and / or operational steps described and illustrated in Figures 1-26 need be included in every example, and not all elements described herein are depicted in each illustrative example. Unless expressly stated otherwise, the schematic illustrations of the examples depicted in Figures 1-26 are not meant to imply architectural limitations with respect to the illustrative example. Rather, one illustrative structure is shown, but it should be understood that the structure can be modified, where appropriate. Additionally, modifications, additions, and / or omissions can be made to the illustrated structure.

[0189] Furthermore, throughout this specification, references to features, advantages, or similar language used herein do not imply that all of the features and advantages that may be realized by the examples disclosed herein should be or are present in any single example. Rather, language referring to features and advantages is understood to mean that the particular feature, advantage, or characteristic described in connection with an example is included in at least one example. Thus, discussions of features, advantages, and similar language used throughout this disclosure may, but do not necessarily, refer to the same example.

[0190] The described features, advantages, and attributes of one example may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more other examples. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the examples described herein may be practiced without one or more of the specific features or advantages of a particular example. In other cases, additional features and advantages may be recognized in a particular example that may not be present in all examples. Furthermore, while various examples of blank 100, system 200, feeder apparatus 300, applicator apparatus 400, method for packaging 1000, method for converting 2000, and method for applying 3000 have been shown and described, modifications may occur to those skilled in the art upon reading this specification. The present application includes such modifications and is limited only by the scope of the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0191] 100 blank 102 cartons 104 Goods 106 Group 106A Group 106B Group 108 Main Panel 110 first side panel 112 Bending line 114 Second Side Panel 116 Bending line 118 first end panel 120 Folding line 122 Second End Panel 124 Folding Line 126 Holding Structure 128 Retention Aperture 130 retention tab 132 Handle Aperture 134 Panel 136 Bending line 138 Alignment Aperture 200 systems 202 Transportation Route 204 Blank Supply Section 206 First Station 208 Second Station 210 Third Station 212 Fourth Station 214 Conveyor System 216 Directional Arrows 218 Conveyor 220 Input Conveyor 222 Grouping Conveyor 224 Applicable conveyor 226 Assembly Conveyor 228 Discharge Conveyor 230 Grouping Device 232 Hopper 234 Processing equipment 236 Bending device 238 Alignment Device 240 Inspection Equipment 242 Rug 300 Feeder Device 302 Gripper 304 Feeder drive unit 306 axis 308 Guide 310 Orbital Path 312 Radial position 314 first radial position 316 Second radial position 318 First Part 320 Second Part 322 First Loop 324 Second Loop 326 Third Radial Position 328 Gripper Arm 330 Rotary Drive Unit 332 Gripper Hub 334 Drive shaft 336 Second Gripper Hub 338 Cam 340 Transmission 342 Cam Track 344 Cam surface 346 Cam Follower 348 Input Lever 350 gearbox 352 Output Lever 354 axis 356 axis 358 Support Rod 360 Coupling 362 Directional Arrows 364 Exercise 366 Exercise 400 Applicator Device 402 first applicator tool 402A First Applicator Tool 404 Second Applicator Tool 404A Second Applicator Tool 404B Second Applicator Tool 406 Applicator drive unit 408 First Axis 410 Second Axis 412 strokes 414 No. 1 Tool Hub 416 Second Tool Hub 418 Rotary Drive 420 Applicable Location 422 First Place of Application 424 Second Place of Application 426 First Leveling Mechanism 428 Second Leveling Mechanism 430 Alignment Device

Claims

1. 1. A system for packaging an item, the system comprising: a conveyor configured to transport the group of articles along a conveyance path; a feeder device configured to transfer blanks to respective ones of the groups as the articles move along the conveying path; an applicator device configured to apply the blank to each one of the groups as the articles move along the conveyance path; Equipped with The feeder device is a plurality of grippers configured to engage the blank; a feeder drive configured to rotate the gripper about an axis; a guide configured to position each one of the grippers along an orbital path during rotation about the axis, each one of the grippers having at least two radial positions along the orbital path, and wherein the orbital movement of each one of the grippers along the orbital path is momentarily paused at a first radial position for engaging the blank; and Including, The applicator device comprises: a plurality of first applicator tools configured to press the blank onto alternating first groups of the plurality of groups as the article moves along the conveyance path; a plurality of second applicator tools configured to press the blank onto alternating second ones of the plurality of groups as the article moves along the conveyance path; an applicator driver configured to rotate the first applicator tool about a first axis and to rotate the second applicator tool about a second axis; Including, the system.

2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the radial position of the gripper along the orbital path changes during rotation of the gripper about the axis.

3. The orbital path is: a first portion that directs a respective one of the grippers radially outward toward the first radial position; a second portion for directing a respective one of the grippers radially inward, away from the first radial position; and The system of claim 1 , comprising:

4. the feeder apparatus further includes a plurality of gripper arms; The gripper arm rotates about the axis; The system of claim 1 , wherein at least one of the grippers is coupled to one of the gripper arms.

5. The guide is a cam configured to control the orbital movement of the gripper along the orbital path; a transmission configured to transmit motion to the gripper as controlled by the cam; The system of claim 1 , comprising:

6. each one of the first applicator tool and the second applicator tool has a predetermined stroke; The system of claim 1 , wherein one of the first applicator tools reaches a lowermost position of the stroke before one of the second applicator tools begins the stroke.

7. The applicator device comprises: a first tool hub rotatable about the first axis; a second tool hub rotatable about the second axis; and further comprising the first applicator tool is coupled to the first tool hub; The system of claim 1 , wherein the second applicator tool is coupled to the second tool hub.

8. the first axis and the second axis are parallel to each other; The system of claim 7 , wherein the first tool hub and the second tool hub are adjacent to one another along the conveyor.

9. the first axis and the second axis are coincident with each other; 8. The system of claim 7, wherein the first tool hub and the second tool hub are on opposite sides of the conveyor such that the first applicator tool and the second applicator tool face each other.

10. 1. A feeder apparatus for transferring blanks to a group of articles as the articles move along a conveyance path, said feeder apparatus comprising: a gripper configured to engage and hold the blank; a feeder drive configured to rotate the gripper about an axis; a guide configured to position the gripper along an orbital path during rotation about the axis, the gripper having at least two radial positions along the orbital path; and Equipped with orbital motion of the gripper along the orbital path is momentarily paused at one of the radial positions for engaging the blank; The feeder apparatus wherein the gripper disengages the blank at another one of the radial positions for placing the blank onto the group.

11. 11. The feeder apparatus of claim 10, wherein the radial position of the gripper along the orbital path changes during rotation of the gripper about the axis.

12. The orbital path is: a first portion that directs the gripper radially outward toward the one of the radial positions; a second portion that directs the gripper radially inward, away from the one of the radial locations; and Including, 11. The feeder apparatus of claim 10, wherein the other one of the radial locations is along the second portion of the orbital path.

13. the feeder device further includes a gripper arm; The gripper arm rotates about the axis; The feeder apparatus of claim 10, wherein the gripper is coupled to the gripper arm.

14. The guide is a cam configured to control the orbital movement of the gripper along the orbital path; a transmission configured to transmit motion to the gripper as controlled by the cam; 11. The feeder apparatus of claim 10, comprising:

15. an applicator device for applying blanks to a group of articles as the articles move along a conveyance path, the applicator device comprising: a plurality of first applicator tools configured to press the blank onto alternating first ones of the groups; a plurality of second applicator tools configured to press the blank onto alternating second ones of the groups; an applicator driver configured to rotate the first applicator tool about a first axis and to rotate the second applicator tool about a second axis; An applicator device comprising:

16. each one of the first applicator tool and the second applicator tool has a predetermined stroke; 16. The applicator device of claim 15, wherein one of the first applicator tools reaches a lowermost position of the stroke before one of the second applicator tools begins the stroke.

17. The applicator device comprises: a first tool hub rotatable about the first axis; a second tool hub rotatable about the second axis; and Furthermore, the first applicator tool is coupled to the first tool hub; The applicator device of claim 15 , wherein the second applicator tool is coupled to the second tool hub.

18. the first axis and the second axis are parallel to each other; 20. The applicator apparatus of claim 17, wherein the first tool hub and the second tool hub are adjacent to one another along a conveyor.

19. the first axis and the second axis are coincident with each other; 20. The applicator apparatus of claim 17, wherein the first tool hub and the second tool hub are on opposite sides of a conveyor such that the first applicator tool and the second applicator tool face each other.

20. 1. A method for packaging an article, said method comprising: conveying the group of articles along a conveyance path; transferring blanks to respective ones of the groups as the article moves along the conveyance path, said transferring comprising: removing the blank by rotating a gripper about an axis to engage the blank with the gripper at one of at least two radial positions of the gripper along an orbital path of the gripper at which orbital motion of the gripper along the orbital path is momentarily paused; and by placing the blank onto a respective one of a plurality of said groups by further rotating the gripper about said axis to disengage the blank from the gripper at another one of said at least two radial positions of the gripper along said orbital path of the gripper. a transferring step, applying the blank to each one of a plurality of the groups as the article moves along the conveyance path, the applying step comprising: rotating a first applicator tool about a first axis to press the blank onto alternating first groups of the plurality of groups; and rotating a second applicator tool about a second axis to press the blank onto alternating second ones of the plurality of groups; The steps to be taken and applied A method comprising:

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