Strapping system and method of use

Abstract

A strapping device (100) that includes a frame (110), a mount (120) coupled to the frame and sized to receive a strap coil (10), a first guide (130) and a second guide (150) coupled to the frame, an actuator (160), a positioner (140), a flexible transmitter (170) disposed in the first guide, a strap grip (174) coupled to the transmitter, a retractor (180) coupled to the transmitter, and a strap roller (190) shaped to drive a length of strap. The positioner includes an arm coupled to the first guide, where the positioner controls a position of the first guide. The actuator couples the first guide to the second guide such that the second guide moves with the first guide. The transmitter can move in a first direction by pushing movement of the length of strap, and the transmitter can move in a second direction by pulling movement of the retractor.

Description

STRAPPING SYSTEM AND METHOD OF USE CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No.63 / 680,053, filed August 6, 2024, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to devices, systems, and methods for positioning a strap around a load. BACKGROUND

[0003] Goods are often stacked on a pallet for ease of transportation from one location to another. The stack of goods on the pallet is typically unitized before transportation to secure the stack as a single unit, reducing a likelihood of some of the goods falling off the stack during transportation. A variety of securing mechanisms can be used to unitize the stack of goods, including straps, cordage, and plastic stretch film.

[0004] Manually strapping the stack of goods often requires an operator to feed a length of strap around a vertical perimeter of the stack of goods and the pallet by hand to form a loop. Manually feeding the length of strap around the stack of goods on the pallet can be physically challenging and time consuming. The operator is often required to place the strap over the stack, bend to ground level to feed the strap through a bottom of the pallet, and then move to the other side of the pallet to pick the strap from the ground and form the loop, which poses difficulties for the operator. SUMMARY

[0005] Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide a strapping device, a strapping system, and a method for positioning a strap around a load. The disclosed systems, devices, and methods reduce cycle time and reduce physical demands on an operator by assisting the operator in positioning a strap around a load.

[0006] In one embodiment, a strapping device includes a frame; a mount; a first guide; a positioner; a second guide; an actuator; a flexible transmitter; a strap grip; a retractor; and a strap roller. The frame has a first end and a second end opposite the first end. The mount is coupled to the frame and is sized and shaped to receive a strap coil. The first guide is coupled to the first end of the frame. The positioner includes an arm and a handle coupled to the arm, where the arm is coupled to the first guide, and where the positioner controls a position of the first guide. The second guide is coupled to the second end of the frame. The actuator couples the first guide to the second guide, such that the second guide moves with the first guide. Theflexible transmitter is disposed in the first guide, where the flexible transmitter is configured to extend from the first guide to the second guide. The strap grip is coupled to the flexible transmitter. The retractor is coupled to the frame and to the flexible transmitter. The strap roller is coupled to the frame and is sized and shaped to drive a length of strap. The flexible transmitter is configured to move in a first direction by pushing movement of the length of strap, and configured to move in a second direction opposite the first direction by pulling movement of the retractor.

[0007] In one embodiment, a strapping system includes a length of strap disposed on a strap coil; and a strapping device. The strapping device includes a frame; a mount; a first guide; a positioner; a second guide; an actuator; a flexible transmitter; a strap grip; a retractor; and a strap roller. The frame has a first end and a second end opposite the first end. The mount is coupled to the frame and the strap coil is coupled to the mount. The first guide is coupled to the first end of the frame. The positioner includes an arm and a handle coupled to the arm, where the arm is coupled to the first guide, and where the positioner controls a position of the first guide. The second guide is coupled to the second end of the frame. The actuator is coupled to the first guide to the second guide, such that the second guide moves with the first guide. The flexible transmitter is disposed in the first guide, where the flexible transmitter is configured to extend from the first guide to the second guide. The strap grip is coupled to the flexible transmitter, where a portion of the length of strap is coupled to the strap grip. The retractor is coupled to the frame and to the flexible transmitter. The strap roller is coupled to the frame and is sized and shaped to drive the length of strap. The flexible transmitter is configured to move in a first direction by pushing movement of the length of strap, and configured to move in a second direction by pulling movement of the retractor.

[0008] In one embodiment, a method for positioning a strap around a load, where the load includes a top, a bottom opposite the top and defining a through channel, and a first and a second side disposed between the top and the bottom, where the second side is opposite the first side, is provided. The method includes positioning a strapping device near the first side, where the strapping device includes a first guide and a second guide. The method also includes extending, using a positioner coupled to the first guide, the first guide over the top of the load. The method also includes extending the second guide to the second side through the through channel. The method also includes deploying a flexible transmitter, along the second side, from the first guide to the second guide. The method also includes feeding, using a strap roller, a length of strap coupled to the flexible transmitter through the first and second guides such that the length of strap at least partially encircles the load.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0009] Figure 1 is a perspective view of one example embodiment of a strapping device.

[0010] Figure 2A is a perspective view of a length of strap coupled to a strap grip.

[0011] Figure 2B is a perspective view of a flexible transmitter coupled to a strap grip.

[0012] Figure 2C is a perspective view of a retractor coupled to a strap grip.

[0013] Figure 3A is a perspective view of a portion of the strapping device of Figure 1 having a flexible transmitter disposed in a first guide.

[0014] Figure 3B is a perspective view of a portion of the strapping device of Figure 1 showing a flexible transmitter extending from a first guide to a second guide.

[0015] Figure 3C is a perspective view of a portion of the strapping device of Figure 1 showing a flexible transmitter engaged with a second guide and a length of strap disposed in the second guide.

[0016] Figure 4 is a block diagram showing certain components of the strapping device of Figure 1.

[0017] Figure 5 is a side view of a strapping system positioned near a load.

[0018] Figure 6 is a side view of the strapping system of Figure 5 in which the first guide is extended over the load and the second guide is extended through a through channel.

[0019] Figure 7 is a side view of the strapping system of Figure 5 in which the flexible transmitter is deployed through the first guide.

[0020] Figure 8 is a side view of the strapping system of Figure 5 in which the flexible transmitter is extended along a second side of the load and a length of strap is extended through the through channel.

[0021] Figure 9 is a side view of the strapping system of Figure 5 in which the length of strap is brought upwards along a first side to encircle the load.

[0022] Figure 10 is a side view of the strapping system of Figure 5 in which the length of strap is secured to the load using a strapping tool. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] While the systems, devices, and methods described herein may be embodied in various forms, the drawings show and the specification describes certain exemplary and non- limiting embodiments. Not all of the components shown in the drawings and described in the specification may be required, and certain implementations may include additional, different, or fewer components. Variations in the arrangement and type of the components; the shapes, sizes, and materials of the components; and the manners of connections of the components may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the claims. Unless otherwiseindicated, any directions referred to in the specification reflect the orientations of the components shown in the corresponding drawings and do not limit the scope of the present disclosure. Further, terms that refer to mounting methods, such as mounted, connected, etc., are not intended to be limited to direct mounting methods but should be interpreted broadly to include indirect and operably mounted, connected, and like mounting methods. This specification is intended to be taken as a whole and interpreted in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure and as understood by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0024] Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide a strapping device, a strapping system, and a method for positioning a strap around a load. The strapping system of the present disclosure aids an operator in encircling strap drawn from a strap supply around a load and, specifically, eliminates the need for the operator to manually feed the strap beneath the load.

[0025] Figures 1 through 4 show one embodiment of a strapping device 100. The strapping device 100 includes a frame 110, a mount 120, a first guide 130, a positioner 140, a second guide 150, an actuator 160, a flexible transmitter 170, a strap grip 174, a retractor 180, and a strap roller 190.

[0026] The frame 110 includes a first end 112 and a second end 114 opposite the first end 112. The mount 120 is coupled to the frame 110 and is sized and shaped to receive a strap coil 10. The first guide 130 is coupled to the first end 112 of the frame 110. The positioner 140 includes an arm 142 coupled to the first guide 130 and a handle 144 coupled to the arm 142. The positioner 140 is configured to control a position of the first guide 130, such as from a retracted position to an extended position. The second guide 150 is coupled to the second end 114 of the frame 110. The actuator 160 is coupled to the first guide 130 and the second guide 150. In certain embodiments, the actuator 160 couples the first guide 130 to the second guide 150 such that the second guide 150 moves with the first guide 130. In various embodiments, the second guide 150 moves synchronously with movement of the first guide 130.

[0027] The flexible transmitter 170 is disposed in the first guide 130 and configured to extend from the first guide 130 to the second guide 150. The strap grip 174 is coupled to the flexible transmitter 170, such as coupled at an end 172 of the flexible transmitter 170. The retractor 180 is coupled to the frame 110 and the flexible transmitter 170. In some embodiments, the retractor 180 is configured to retract the flexible transmitter 170, such as from an extended position (e.g., from the first guide 130 to the second guide 150) to a retracted position (e.g., within the first guide 130). The strap roller 190 is coupled to theframe 110 and is sized and shaped to drive a length of strap, such as a length of the strap 12. In various embodiments, the flexible transmitter 170 is configured to move in a first direction by pushing movement of the length of strap 12, such as by way of the strap roller 190. In such embodiments, the flexible transmitter 170 is configured to move in a second direction opposite the first direction by pulling movement of the retractor 180. In some embodiments, the flexible transmitter 170 is a chain, a belt, a rope, or a chord.

[0028] The frame 110 is configured to attach to the mount 120. In some embodiments, the frame 110 includes one or more attachment points, such as one or more apertures, that couple to the mount 120 using fasteners. However, in other embodiments, the frame 110 includes another attachment means, such as a latch, a clamp, or corresponding male and / or female couplings. In some embodiments, the mount 120 is coupled to a cart. In such embodiments, the frame 110 is configured to attach to a frame of the cart.

[0029] In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the first guide 130 is coupled to the first end 112 of the frame 110. For example, the first guide is coupled along an upper portion of the frame 110. An end of the first guide 130, such as a terminal portion 134, is extendable in relation to the portion of the first guide 130 coupled to the frame 110. For example, the terminal portion 134 is extendable along a longitudinal axis of the first guide 130. Thus, in various embodiments, the first guide 130 is a telescopic guide. In some embodiments, the terminal portion 134 is extendable from a first position to a second position. Further, in some embodiments, the terminal portion 134 is retractable from the second position to the first position. In such embodiments, actuation of the positioner 140 facilitates extension and / or retraction of the first guide 130, such as by way of movement of the handle 144. In various embodiments, the arm 142 is a boom that includes a first arm portion 142A rotatably coupled to a second arm portion 142B. Extension of the first arm portion 142A and the second arm portion 142B causes extension of the first guide 130, and retraction of the first arm portion 142A and the second arm portion 142B causes retraction of the first guide 130.

[0030] The positioner 140 adjusts a vertical position of the first guide 130. For example, the first guide 130 is configured to move vertically along the frame 110. However, in other embodiments, the frame 110 is configured to extend and / or retract to adjust a vertical position of the first guide 130. Thus, in some embodiments, the first guide 130 is extendable from a first position to a second position where the positioner 140 controls the position of the first guide 130.

[0031] In various embodiments, the first guide 130 is sized and shaped to receive the flexible transmitter 170. For example, the first guide 130 is configured such that the flexibletransmitter 170 is disposed along an internal length of the first guide 130 such that the flexible transmitter 170 is at least partially retained by the first guide 130 prior to exiting the terminal portion 134. Thus, the first guide 130 partially defines a path of travel for the flexible transmitter 170. In some embodiments, the first guide 130 defines an internal cavity within which the flexible transmitter 170 is disposed. However, in other embodiments, the first guide 130 defines a channel, such as an open channel, within which the flexible transmitter 170 is disposed.

[0032] In various embodiments, the terminal portion 134 of the first guide 130 defines a curved profile. In such embodiments, the terminal portion 134 directs an orientation of the flexible transmitter 170. For example, as best shown in Figure 3A, the terminal portion 134 directs the orientation of the flexible transmitter 170 at an angle, such as a downward angle, to the first guide 130. In such embodiments, the terminal portion 134 directs the flexible transmitter 170 towards the second guide 150, such that as the flexible transmitter 170 and the strap grip 174 continue in the first direction the strap guide 174 continues towards the second guide 150, eventually contacting the end 152. Thus, the terminal portion 134 directs the orientation of the flexible transmitter 170 towards the second guide 150. In such embodiments, the flexible transmitter 170 is rotatable and / or flexible in a first direction. In such embodiments, rotation of the flexible transmitter 170 in the first direction allows the terminal portion 134 to orient the flexible transmitter 170 towards the second guide 150.

[0033] In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the second guide 150 is coupled to the second end 114 of the frame 110. For example, the second guide 150 is coupled along a lower portion of the frame 110. An end 152 of the second guide 150 is extendable in relation to the portion of the second guide 150 coupled to the frame 110. For example, the end 152 is extendable along a longitudinal axis of the second guide 150. Thus, in various embodiments, the second guide 150 is a telescopic guide. In some embodiments, the end 152 is extendable from a first position to a second position. In such embodiments, the end 152 is retractable from the second position to the first position. In some such embodiments, extension of the second guide 150 is coupled to extension of the first guide 130, and / or retraction of the second guide 150 is coupled to retraction of the first guide 130.

[0034] The actuator 160 couples the first guide 130 to the second guide 150 such that the second guide 150 moves, by way of the actuator, with movement of the first guide 130. In one example, extension of the first guide 130 causes extension of the second guide 150, such as by way of the actuator 160. In another example, retraction of the first guide 130 causes retraction of the second guide 150, such as by way of the actuator 160. In such embodiments,the actuator 160 is a pulley system that includes a first pulley 160A coupled to a second pulley 160B by way of linkage 160C. However, in other embodiments, another mechanical linkage is used to facilitate movement of the second guide 150 with the first guide 130. In various embodiments, the second guide 150 moves synchronously with the first guide 130.

[0035] In various embodiments, the second guide 150 is sized and shaped to receive the length of strap 12. As shown in Figure 3C, the second guide 150 is configured such that the length of strap 12 continues past the flexible transmitter 170 along a length of the second guide 150 such that the length of strap 12 is at least partially retained by the first guide 130 after feeding the length of strap 12 through the flexible transmitter 170. Thus, the second guide 150 partially defines a path of travel for the length of strap 12. In some embodiments, the second guide 150 defines an internal cavity within which the length of strap 12 is disposed. However, in other embodiments, the second guide 150 defines a channel, such as an open channel, within which the length of strap 12 is disposed.

[0036] A ramp 154 is coupled to the end 152 of the second guide 150. In such embodiments, the ramp 154 engages with the strap grip 174 to reduce or restrict movement of the flexible transmitter 170 in the first direction while permitting movement of the length of strap 12 through the second guide. As best shown in Figures 3B and 3C, the ramp 154 engages with the flexible transmitter 170 to reduce or restrict movement of the flexible transmitter 170 in the first direction while permitting the length of strap 12 to continue traveling along the second guide 150. In some embodiments, the ramp 154 includes an angled or curved profile that facilitates directing the length of strap 12 through the second guide 150.

[0037] The second guide 150 includes a second ramp 156. As best shown in Figure 8, the second ramp 156 is coupled at an opposite end to the end 152 of the second ramp 150. For example, the end 152 is a first end and the ramp 156 is coupled to a second end opposite the first end. In such embodiments, the second ramp 156 directs movement of the length of strap 12 in a direction at an angle relative to the second guide 150. For example, the second ramp 156 directs upward movement of the length of strap 12 relative to the second guide 150. In some embodiments, the second ramp 156 includes an angled and / or curved profile to facilitate direction of the length of strap 12 in the upward direction relative to the second guide 150.

[0038] As shown in Figures 2A-2C, the length of strap 12 is coupled to the strap grip 174. The strap grip 174 is configured to retain a portion of the length of strap 12. In some embodiments, the strap grip 174 retains the portion of the length of strap 12 during performance of a first operation and permits movement of the portion of the length of strap12 during performance of a second operation. For example, the strap grip 174 retains the portion of the length of strap 12 during extension of the flexible transmitter 170 in the first direction from the first guide 130 to the second guide 150. In such embodiments, the strap grip 174 permits movement (e.g., continued feeding) of the portion of the length of strap 12 relative to the strap grip 174 after the strap grip 174 engages with the second guide 150, such as after the strap grip 174 engages with the ramp 154. In various embodiments, the strap grip 174 is configured to retain the portion of the length of strap 12 using frictional force, where such frictional force is overcome through pushing force of the length of strap 12 when the strap grip 174 engages with the ramp 154. Thus, in such embodiments, the strap grip 174 is configured to restrain or reduce movement of the portion of the length of strap 12 during a first operation and permit movement of the portion of the length of strap 12 during a second operation.

[0039] The length of strap 12 is disposed within the flexible transmitter 170. In such embodiments, the length of strap 12 travels from the strap coil 10 through the flexible transmitter 170 and is retained, temporarily, by the strap grip 174. In such embodiments, as the length of strap 12 travels along the second guide 150, the length of strap 12 separates from the flexible transmitter 170 and / or the strap grip 174. For example, the strap grip 174 and / or the flexible transmitter 170 include a partially open cavity that permits the length of strap 12 to disengage from the strap grip 174 and / or the flexible transmitter 170 when the strap grip 174 engages with the ramp 154 and / or while the length of strap 12 travels through the second guide 150.

[0040] The strap roller 190 is configured to drive the length of strap 12. For example, the strap roller 190 is configured to drive the length of strap 12 through the first guide 130 and through the second guide 150. In some embodiments, a driving force (e.g., a pushing force) of the length of strap 12 facilitates movement of the flexible transmitter 170 and the strap grip 174 in the first direction, such that the flexible transmitter 170 and the strap grip 174 are extended from the first guide 130 to the second guide 150. In such embodiments, driving force of the length of strap 12 facilitates movement of the length of strap 12 through the strap grip 174 and along the second guide 150 when the strap grip 174 is engaged with the ramp 154. Thus, in some embodiments, actuation of the flexible transmitter 170 and / or the strap grip 174 in the first direction is based on driving force of the length of strap 12. In such embodiments, the strap roller 190 engages with the length of strap 12 to exert the driving force.

[0041] As best shown in Figure 2C, the retractor 180 is coupled at a first end 182 to the flexible transmitter 170, such as coupled to the strap grip 174. However, in other embodiments, the retractor is coupled to another part of the flexible transmitter 170, such as an end of the flexible transmitter 170 opposite the strap grip 174. The retractor 180 is configured to move the flexible transmitter 170 in a second direction opposite the first direction. For example, the retractor 180 is configured to move the flexible transmitter 170 from the second guide 150 to at least partially within the first guide 130. The retractor 180 causes the flexible transmitter 170 to move in the second direction by pulling movement, such as through retraction of the retractor 180. In some embodiments, the retractor 180 is a flexible metal band. However, in other embodiments, the retractor 180 is another tether, such as a chain, a rope, or a chord. Coupling the retractor 180 to the strap grip 174 provides more control during movement of the flexible transmitter 170 in the second direction, while coupling the retractor 180 to the end of the flexible transmitter 170 opposite the strap grip 174 reduces a length of material needed for the retractor 180.

[0042] Figure 4 shows a block diagram of certain components of the strapping device 100. As shown in Figure 4, the retractor 180 and the strap roller 190 are coupled to a motor 400 and a controller 500. In various embodiments, the controller 500 is configured to control the motor 400 to facilitate operation of the retractor 180 and / or the strap roller 190. For example, the controller 500 includes buttons and / or switches for controlling the motor 400 to engage the retractor 180 and / or the strap roller 190.

[0043] The controller 500 is configured to control the motor 400 to cause the strap roller 190 to drive the length of strap 12 through the strapping device 100 in the first direction. In such embodiments, driving of the length of strap 12 by the strap roller 190 causes the flexible transmitter 170 to extend from the first guide 130 to the second guide 150. In such embodiments, the controller 500 is configured to control the motor 400 to cause the retractor 180 to retract, by way of pulling force, the flexible transmitter 170 in the second direction from the second guide 150 to within the first guide 130.

[0044] In various embodiments, the motor 400 is an electric motor. However, in other embodiments, a manually driven crank is used to drive either the retractor 180 and / or the strap roller 190. In various other embodiments, each of the retractor 180 and / or the strap roller 190 is coupled to a separate motor and / or controller. Thus, in such embodiments, the retractor 180 is coupled to a first motor and the strap roller 190 is coupled to a second motor.

[0045] In some embodiments, a strapping system 200 is configured to facilitate positioning of the length of strap 12 around a load L. In such embodiments, the strapping system 200includes the strapping device 100 and the length of strap 12 disposed on the strap coil 10. In some embodiments, the strapping system 200 is portable. For example, the strapping system 200 includes one or more wheels, which allows the strapping system 200 to be positioned near the load L to assist an operator in encircling the load L with the length of strap 12. The strapping system 200 may include any embodiments of the strapping device 100 described above.

[0046] Figures 5 and 10 illustrate an example of the strapping system 200 positioning a strap around a load L. The load L includes a top T, a bottom B opposite the top T, a first side S1, and a second side S2opposite the first side S1, where the first and second sides S1and S2are disposed between the top T and the bottom B. The load L is disposed on a pallet P that includes one or more through channels TC. The load L on the pallet P may be referred to as a palletized load.

[0047] As best shown in Figures 5 and 6, the strapping system 200 is positioned near the first side S1 of the load L such that the first guide 130 is vertically above the top T of the load L and the second guide 150 is near the through channel TC. The first guide 130 is extended over the top T of the load L using the positioner 140, such that the first guide 130 extends over the top T from the first side S1 to the second side S2. In some embodiments, the terminal portion 134 is positioned on the second side S2.

[0048] The second guide 150 is extended from the first side S1to the second side S2through the through channel TC. The end 152 and the ramp 154 is disposed on the second side S2of the load L. In some embodiments, the second guide 150 is coupled to the first guide 130 such that extension of the first guide 130 facilitates extension of the second guide 150. For example, as best shown in Figure 6, the first pulley 160A is coupled to the second pulley 160B by way of the linkage 160C such that movement of the first guide 130, by way of the positioner 140, is translated through the first and second pulleys 160A and 160B to corresponding movement of the second guide 150. In such embodiments, the second guide 150 moves synchronously with the first guide 130.

[0049] As best shown in Figures 7 and 8, the strapping system 200 deploys the flexible transmitter 170 through the first guide 130. The flexible transmitter 170 is deployed through the first guide 130 and down the second side S2 towards the second guide 150. Thus, in some embodiments, the flexible transmitter 170 is deployed along the second side S2 from the first guide 130 to the second guide 150. In such embodiments, the terminal portion 134 directs the orientation of the flexible transmitter 170 from the first guide 130 downwards towards the second guide 150.

[0050] As best shown in Figures 7 and 8, the length of strap 12 is coupled to the strap grip 174. The length of strap 12 is disposed within the first guide 130 and the flexible transmitter 170. In some embodiments, driving of the length of strap 12, such as through driving by the strap roller 190, facilitates movement of the flexible transmitter 170 in the first direction from the first guide 130 to the second guide 150. Thus, in such embodiments, the strap roller 190 feeds the length of strap 12 coupled to the strap grip 174 through the first guide 130 and along the second side S2towards the second guide 150.

[0051] As best shown in Figure 8, the strap grip 174 is engaged with the end 152 (e.g., the ramp 154) of the second guide 150. In some embodiments, the ramp 154 reduces or restrains further movement of the strap grip 174. Upon engagement of the strap grip 174 with the ramp 154, the length of strap 12 continues feeding through the strap grip 174 and the second guide 150. The length of strap 12 continues feeding through the second guide 150 from the second side S2 to the first side S1 through the through channel TC. On the first side S1, The length of strap 12 is directed at an angle (e.g., upwards) relative to the second guide 150 by the second ramp 156. In some embodiments, the length of strap 12 at least partially encircles the load L. Directing the length of strap 12 upwards allows the operator to grab the length of strap 12 for subsequent securing to the load L.

[0052] As best shown in Figures 9 and 10, the length of strap 12 is brought upwards along the first side S1and over a portion of the top T, such that the length of strap 12 encircles the load L. In some embodiments, the length of strap 12 is disengaged from, such as falls freely from, the first guide 130, the flexible transmitter 170, and / or the strap grip 174 during feeding the length of strap 12 from the first guide 130 through the second guide 150 to the first side S1. In such embodiments, the length of straps 12 is disengaged from the first guide 130, the flexible transmitter 170, and / or the strap grip 174 upon bringing the length of strap 12 upwards along the first side S1to encircle the load L. The length of strap 12 is then secured to the load L using a strapping tool 50.

[0053] In some embodiments, flexible transmitter 170 is retracted from the second guide 150 to the first guide 130 such that the flexible transmitter 170 is disposed within the first guide 130. In such embodiments, the retractor 180, coupled to the flexible transmitter 170, facilitates retraction of the flexible transmitter 170 through pulling force. In some embodiments, the first guide 130 is retracted, such as by way of the positioner 140, from an extended position to a retracted position. For example, the first guide 130 is retracted from the second side S2 over the top T. In some embodiments, the second guide 150 is retractedfrom the second side S2 through the through channel TC to the first side S1. In such embodiments, retraction of the first guide 130 causes retraction of the second guide 150.

[0054] Thus, in various embodiments, the disclosure provides a strapping device. The strapping device includes a frame; a mount; a first guide; a positioner; a second guide; an actuator; a flexible transmitter; a strap grip; a retractor; and a strap roller. The frame has a first end and a second end opposite the first end. The mount is coupled to the frame and is sized and shaped to receive a strap coil. The first guide is coupled to the first end of the frame. The positioner includes an arm and a handle coupled to the arm, where the arm is coupled to the first guide, and where the positioner controls a position of the first guide. The second guide is coupled to the second end of the frame. The actuator couples the first guide to the second guide, such that the second guide moves with the first guide. The flexible transmitter is disposed in the first guide, where the flexible transmitter is configured to extend from the first guide to the second guide. The strap grip is coupled to the flexible transmitter. The retractor is coupled to the frame and to the flexible transmitter. The strap roller is coupled to the frame and is sized and shaped to drive a length of strap. The flexible transmitter is configured to move in a first direction by pushing movement of the length of strap, and configured to move in a second direction opposite the first direction by pulling movement of the retractor.

[0055] In various such embodiments, the strapping device further includes a ramp coupled to a first end of the second guide, where the ramp engages with the strap grip to stop movement of the flexible transmitter in the first direction while permitting movement of the length of strap through the second guide.

[0056] In various such embodiments, the strapping device further includes a second ramp coupled to a second end of the second guide, where the second ramp directs movement of the strap in a direction at an angle relative to the second guide.

[0057] In various such embodiments of the strapping device, a terminal portion of the first guide defines a curved profile to direct an orientation of the flexible transmitter.

[0058] In various such embodiments of the strapping device, the curved profile directs the orientation of the flexible transmitter towards the second guide.

[0059] In various such embodiments of the strapping device, actuation of the positioner extends the first guide from a retracted position to an extended position.

[0060] In various such embodiments of the strapping device, the positioner is configured to adjust the first guide from a first vertical position to a second vertical position.

[0061] In various such embodiments of the strapping device, the arm is a boom comprising a first arm portion rotatably coupled to a second arm portion.

[0062] In various such embodiments of the strapping device, the flexible transmitter is rotatable in a first direction.

[0063] In various such embodiments of the strapping device, the retractor is a tether comprising a length of flexible metal band.

[0064] In various such embodiments, the strapping device the first guide is extendable over a top of a palletized load from a first side of the palletized load to a second side of the palletized load, and the second guide is extendable through a through channel of the palletized load defined by the first side of the palletized load to the second side of the palletized load.

[0065] In various such embodiments of the strapping device, the strap roller is configured to drive the length of strap over the top of the palletized load, down the second side of the palletized load, and through the through channel to the first side of the palletized load.

[0066] In various such embodiments, the strapping device further includes a wheel coupled to the frame.

[0067] In various such embodiments, the strapping device further includes a motor coupled to the strap roller.

[0068] In various such embodiments of the strapping device, the second guide includes an open channel sized and shaped to receive the length of strap.

[0069] In various such embodiments of the strapping device, the first and second guides are telescopic.

[0070] In various such embodiments of the strapping device, the second guide moves synchronously with the first guide.

[0071] In various embodiments, the disclosure provides a strapping system. The strapping system includes a length of strap disposed on a strap coil; and a strapping device. The strapping device includes a frame; a mount; a first guide; a positioner; a second guide; an actuator; a flexible transmitter; a strap grip; a retractor; and a strap roller. The frame has a first end and a second end opposite the first end. The mount is coupled to the frame and the strap coil is coupled to the mount. The first guide is coupled to the first end of the frame. The positioner includes an arm and a handle coupled to the arm, where the arm is coupled to the first guide, and where the positioner controls a position of the first guide. The second guide is coupled to the second end of the frame. The actuator is couples the first guide to the second guide, such that the second guide moves with the first guide. The flexible transmitter isdisposed in the first guide, where the flexible transmitter is configured to extend from the first guide to the second guide. The strap grip is coupled to the flexible transmitter, where a portion of the length of strap is coupled to the strap grip. The retractor is coupled to the frame and to the flexible transmitter. The strap roller is coupled to the frame and is sized and shaped to drive the length of strap. The flexible transmitter is configured to move in a first direction by pushing movement of the length of strap, and configured to move in a second direction by pulling movement of the retractor.

[0072] In various embodiments, the disclosure provides a method for positioning a strap around a load, where the load includes a top, a bottom opposite the top and defining a through channel, and a first and a second side disposed between the top and the bottom, where the second side is opposite the first side, is provided. The method includes positioning a strapping device near the first side, where the strapping device includes a first guide and a second guide. The method also includes extending, using a positioner coupled to the first guide, the first guide over the top of the load. The method also includes extending the second guide to the second side through the through channel. The method also includes deploying a flexible transmitter, along the second side, from the first guide to the second guide. The method also includes feeding, using a strap roller, a length of strap coupled to the flexible transmitter through the first and second guides such that the length of strap at least partially encircles the load.

[0073] In various such embodiments, the method further includes retracting, using a retractable tether coupled to the flexible transmitter, the flexible transmitter from the second guide to the first guide such that the flexible transmitter is disposed within the first guide.

[0074] In various such embodiments of the method, an actuator couples the first guide to the second guide, such that the second guide extends synchronously with extension of the first guide.

[0075] In various such embodiments of the method, feeding the length of strap deploys the flexible transmitter from the first guide to engage with a ramp coupled to the second guide.

[0076] In various such embodiments, the method further includes removing the length of strap from the strapping device.

[0077] In various such embodiments, the method further includes securing the strap to the load using a strapping tool.

[0078] Various changes and modifications to the above-described embodiments described herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art. These changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of this present subject matter and withoutdiminishing its intended advantages. Not all of the depicted components described in this disclosure may be required, and some implementations may include additional, different, or fewer components from those expressly described in this disclosure. Variations in the arrangement and type of the components; the shapes, sizes, and materials of the components; and the manners of attachment and connections of the components may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the claims as set forth herein. Also, unless otherwise indicated, any directions referred to herein reflect the orientations of the components shown in the corresponding drawings and do not limit the scope of the present disclosure. This specification is intended to be taken as a whole and interpreted in accordance with the principles of the invention as taught herein and understood by one of ordinary skill in the art.

Claims

CLAIMS 1. A strapping device comprising: a frame having a first end and a second end opposite the first end; a mount coupled to the frame, wherein the mount is sized and shaped to receive a strap coil; a first guide coupled to the first end of the frame; a positioner comprising an arm and a handle coupled to the arm, wherein the arm is coupled to the first guide, and wherein the positioner controls a position of the first guide; a second guide coupled to the second end of the frame; an actuator coupling the first guide to the second guide, such that the second guide moves with the first guide; a flexible transmitter disposed in the first guide, wherein the flexible transmitter is configured to extend from the first guide to the second guide; a strap grip coupled to the flexible transmitter; a retractor coupled to the frame and to the flexible transmitter; and a strap roller coupled to the frame, the strap roller being sized and shaped to drive a length of strap; wherein the flexible transmitter is configured to move in a first direction by pushing movement of the length of strap, and wherein the flexible transmitter is configured to move in a second direction opposite the first direction by pulling movement of the retractor.

2. The strapping device of claim 1, further comprising a ramp coupled to a first end of the second guide, wherein the ramp engages with the strap grip to stop movement of the flexible transmitter in the first direction while permitting movement of the length of strap through the second guide.

3. The strapping device of claim 2, further comprising a second ramp coupled to a second end of the second guide, wherein the second ramp directs movement of the strap in a direction at an angle relative to the second guide.

4. The strapping device of claim 1, wherein a terminal portion of the first guide defines a curved profile to direct an orientation of the flexible transmitter.

5. The strapping device of claim 4, wherein the curved profile directs the orientation of the flexible transmitter towards the second guide.

6. The strapping device of claim 1, wherein actuation of the positioner extends the first guide from a retracted position to an extended position.

7. The strapping device of claim 6, wherein the positioner is configured to adjust the first guide from a first vertical position to a second vertical position.

8. The strapping device of claim 1, wherein the arm is a boom comprising a first arm portion rotatably coupled to a second arm portion.

9. The strapping device of claim 1, wherein the flexible transmitter is rotatable in a first direction.

10. The strapping device of claim 1, wherein the retractor is a tether comprising a length of flexible metal band.

11. The strapping device of claim 1, wherein the first guide is extendable over a top of a palletized load from a first side of the palletized load to a second side of the palletized load, and wherein the second guide is extendable through a through channel of the palletized load defined by the first side of the palletized load to the second side of the palletized load.

12. The strapping device of claim 11, wherein the strap roller is configured to drive the length of strap over the top of the palletized load, down the second side of the palletized load, and through the through channel to the first side of the palletized load.

13. The strapping device of claim 1, further comprising a wheel coupled to the frame.

14. The strapping device of claim 1, further comprising a motor coupled to the strap roller.

15. The strapping device of claim 1, wherein the second guide comprises an open channel sized and shaped to receive the length of strap.

16. The strapping device of claim 1, wherein the first and second guides are telescopic.

17. The strapping device of claim 1, wherein the second guide moves synchronously with the first guide.

18. A strapping system comprising: a length of strap disposed on a strap coil; and a strapping device, wherein the strapping device comprises: a frame having a first end and a second end opposite the first end; a mount coupled to the frame, wherein the strap coil is coupled to the mount; a first guide coupled to the first end of the frame; a positioner comprising an arm and a handle coupled to the arm, wherein the arm is coupled to the first guide, wherein the positioner controls a position of the first guide; a second guide coupled to the second end of the frame; an actuator coupling the first guide to the second guide, such that the second guide moves with the first guide; a flexible transmitter disposed in the first guide, wherein the flexible transmitter is configured to extend from the first guide to the second guide; a strap grip coupled to the flexible transmitter, wherein a portion of the length of strap is coupled to the strap grip; a retractor coupled to the frame and to the flexible transmitter; and a strap roller coupled to the frame, the strap roller being sized and shaped to drive the length of strap; wherein the flexible transmitter is configured to move in a first direction by pushing movement of the length of strap, and wherein the flexible transmitter is configured move in a second direction by pulling movement of the retractor.

19. A method for positioning a strap around a load, wherein the load comprises a top, a bottom opposite the top and defining a through channel, and a first and second side disposed between the top and the bottom, wherein the second side is opposite the first side, the method comprising: positioning a strapping device near the first side, wherein the strapping device comprises a first guide and a second guide;extending, using a positioner coupled to the first guide, the first guide over the top of the load; extending the second guide to the second side through the through channel; deploying a flexible transmitter, along the second side, from the first guide to the second guide; and feeding, using a strap roller, a length of strap coupled to the flexible transmitter through the first and second guides such that the length of strap at least partially encircles the load.

20. The method for positioning the strap around the load of claim 19, further comprising: retracting, using a retractable tether coupled to the flexible transmitter, the flexible transmitter from the second guide to the first guide such that the flexible transmitter is disposed within the first guide.

21. The method for positioning the strap around the load of claim 19, wherein an actuator couples the first guide to the second guide, such that the second guide extends synchronously with extension of the first guide.

22. The method for positioning the strap around the load of claim 19, wherein feeding the length of strap deploys the flexible transmitter from the first guide to engage with a ramp coupled to the second guide.

23. The method for positioning the strap around the load of claim 19, further comprising removing the length of strap from the strapping device.

24. The method for positioning the strap around the load of claim 19, further comprising securing the strap to the load using a strapping tool.

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