Paper wrapping methods and packaging machines

Abstract

Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide a method for wrapping an item. The method includes drawing tubular paper from a roll of paper. The tubular paper is folded to include first and second seams. The method also includes securing a first end of the roll corresponding to a length of the tubular paper, and drawing a second end of the roll over the item. The second end is an open end formed by the cooperation of the first and second seams of the tubular paper. The method also includes positioning a first end of the tubular paper over a top surface of the item and securing a first and second vertical edges of the first and second seams to a first side of the tubular paper.

Description

PAPER WRAPPING METHODS AND PACKAGING MACHINESPRIORITY

[0001] This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 729,803, filed December 9, 2024, the entire contents of which is incorporated by reference.FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to wrapping of loads, and more particularly to methods for wrapping loads with paper and packaging machines configured to perform the methods.BACKGROUND

[0003] Several types of known stretch-hood machines use tubular plastic stretch film to wrap loads for transport and protection from the environment. An example stretch-hood machine includes a machine frame, a film-supply assembly supported by the machine frame, a film -opening assembly supported by the machine frame, a reefing-and-wrapping assembly supported by the machine frame, and an operator interface cooperating with a controller. The stretch-hood machine operates to envelope a load carried on a pallet with a segment of a tubular film removed from a roll.

[0004] These stretch-hood machines provide effective protection of loads against environmental conditions but may be unsuitable in certain applications. For example, when a utilizing tubular plastic film to wrap the load may not be a suitable option to protect the load. As another example, when a load is exposed to environmental waste, utilizing plastics or other non-biodegradable materials to wrap the load may not be a suitable option to protect the load. Reducing waste and environmental impacts without plastic film results in material handling issues that cannot be addressed using a stretch-hood machine.SUMMARY

[0005] Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide methods for wrapping a load with paper and packaging machines configured to perform the methods. In some embodiments, a paper layer is arranged, folded, and sealed to protect the load carried on a pallet.

[0006] In one embodiment, a method for wrapping an item with tubular paper comprises drawing tubular paper from a roll of paper. The tubular paper is folded to include a first seam and a second seam. The method also includes securing a first end of the roll. The first end corresponds to a length of the tubular paper. The method also includes drawing a second endof the roll over the item. The second end is an open end formed by the cooperation of the first seam and the second seam of the tubular paper sized to encompass the item. The method also includes positioning a first end of the tubular paper over a top surface of the item. The positioning further includes securing a first vertical edge of the first seam to a first side of the tubular paper, and securing a first vertical edge of the second seam to the first side of the tubular paper.

[0007] In one embodiment, a method for wrapping an item with paper comprises drawing paper from a roll of paper. The paper includes a length defined between a first end and a second end, and the length corresponds to the perimeter distance of the item. The method also includes forming a lap seam between the first end and the second end of the length of the paper. The lap seam is formed by wrapping the paper around the perimeter distance of the item. The method also includes sealing the length of paper adjacent to a top surface of the item, wherein a first edge of the length of paper adjacent to a first side of the pallet is secured to the first edge of the length of paper adjacent to a second side of the pallet.

[0008] In one embodiment, a method for wrapping an item with paper comprises aligning a roll of paper substantially parallel to a first side of the item. The roll includes a first end and a second end cooperating to define a paper length. The method also includes securing the paper length over a top surface of the item. Securing the paper length includes attaching the first end of the paper length to a second side of the item adjacent to a base, and attaching the second end of the paper length to the first side of the item adjacent to the base. The method also includes folding the paper length to enclose the item adjacent to a third side and a fourth side of the item. Folding the paper length includes for each side of the item folding a first edge of the paper length down from the top surface of the item towards the base, and folding a second edge of the paper length to engage a third edge of the paper length. The method also includes securing the second edge of the paper length along the third edge of the paper length.

[0009] In one embodiment, a packaging machine for wrapping an item with tubular paper, the packaging machine includes a roll including tubular paper carried about a centerline; a paper handling assembly configured to receive the tubular paper; a load supporter configured to support the load, wherein the load includes a pallet and the item supported by the pallet; and a controller, wherein the controller is operably connected to the paper handling assembly. The controller is configured to: draw the tubular paper from the roll of paper, wherein the tubular paper is folded to include a first seam and a second seam; secure a first end of the roll, wherein the first end corresponds to a length of the tubular paper; draw a second end of theroll over the item, wherein the second end is an open end formed by the cooperation of the first seam and the second seam of the tubular paper sized to encompass the item; position a first end of the tubular paper over a top surface of the item. The controller is further configured to: secure a first vertical edge of the first seam to a first side of the tubular paper; and secure a first vertical edge of the second seam to the first side of the tubular paper.

[0010] In one embodiment, a packaging machine for wrapping an item with tubular paper, the packaging machine includes a roll including tubular paper carried about a centerline; a paper handling assembly configured to receive the tubular paper; a load supporter configured to support the load, wherein the load includes a pallet and the item supported by the pallet; a controller, wherein the controller is operably connected to the paper handling assembly. The controller is configured to draw paper from a roll of paper, wherein the paper includes a length defined between a first end and a second end, and wherein the length corresponds to a perimeter distance of the item; form a lap seam between the first end and the second end of the length of the paper, wherein the lap seam is formed by wrapping the paper around the perimeter distance of the item; and seal the length of paper adjacent to a top surface of the item, wherein a first edge of the length of paper adjacent to a first side of the pallet is secured to the first edge of the length of paper adjacent to a second side of the pallet.

[0011] In one embodiment, a packaging machine for wrapping an item with tubular paper, the packaging machine includes a roll including tubular paper carried about a centerline; a paper handling assembly configured to receive the tubular paper; a load supporter configured to support the load, wherein the load includes a pallet and the item supported by the pallet; a controller, wherein the controller is operably connected to the paper handling assembly. The controller is configured to: align a roll of paper substantially parallel to a first side of the item, wherein the roll includes a first end and a second end cooperating to define a paper length; secure the paper length over a top surface of the item. Securing the paper length includes: attach the first end of the paper length to a second side of the item adjacent to a base; and attach the second end of the paper length to the first side of the item adjacent to the base; fold the paper length to enclose the item adjacent to a third side and a fourth side of the item, wherein folding the paper length includes for each side of the item: fold a first edge of the paper length down from the top surface of the item towards the base; and fold a second edge of the paper length to engage a third edge of the paper length; and secure the second edge of the paper length along the third edge of the paper length.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] Figure 1 A is a side view of one embodiment of a packaging machine of the present disclosure in a first configuration.

[0013] Figure IB is a cross-section view of tubular paper flattened to define a first seam and a second seam.

[0014] Figure 1C is a cross-section view of tubular paper flattened to define a first pleat and a second pleat.

[0015] Figure 2 is a side view of the packaging machine of Figure 1 in a second configuration.

[0016] Figure 3 is a side view of the packaging machine of Figure 1 in a third configuration.

[0017] Figure 4A is a top view of tubular paper opened around a load.

[0018] Figure 4B is a top view of the tubular paper of Figure 4A opened around the load along a first pleat and a second pleat.

[0019] Figure 4C is a top view of the tubular paper of Figure 4A in which a first vertical edge of the tubular paper is formed, and a second vertical edge of the tubular paper is formed.

[0020] Figure 4D is a top view one example of securing the first vertical edge and second vertical edge of the tubular paper of Figure 4A.

[0021] Figure 4E is a top view of another example of securing the first vertical edge and second vertical edge of the tubular paper of Figure 4A.

[0022] Figure 4F is top view of another example of securing the first vertical edge and second vertical edge of the tubular paper of Figure 4A.

[0023] Figure 5 is a side view of another embodiment of a packaging machine of the present disclosure in a first configuration.

[0024] Figure 6A is a side view of the packaging machine of Figure 5 in a second configuration.

[0025] Figure 6B is a side view of the packaging machine of Figure 5 in an alternative to the second configuration.

[0026] Figure 7 is a side view of the packaging machine of Figure 5 in a third configuration.

[0027] Figures 8A is a side view of a load wrapped with a sheet of paper.

[0028] Figure 8B is a side view of the sheet of paper of Figure 8A folded to enclose an outer surface of the load.

[0029] Figure 8C is a side view of the sheet of paper of Figure 8A folded down to seal and close the sheet of paper around the outer surface of the load.

[0030] Figure 9 is side view of another embodiment of a packaging machine of the present disclosure in a first configuration.

[0031] Figure 10A is a side view of a sheet of paper over a load.

[0032] Figure 10B is a side view of the sheet of paper of Figure 10A wrapped around a perimeter of the load.

[0033] Figure 10C is a side view of the sheet of paper of Figure 10A wrapped around the perimeter of the load at an edge to form a seal.

[0034] Figure 11A is a side view of a sheet of paper over a load.

[0035] Figure 1 IB is a side view of the sheet of paper of Figure 11 A in which the load has completed one revolution about its vertical axis.

[0036] Figure 11C is a side view of the sheet of paper of Figure 11A wrapped around a perimeter of the load to an edge to form a seal.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0037] Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide methods of wrapping a load with paper and packaging machines configured to perform the methods.

[0038] Figures 1A, 2, and 3 illustrate one embodiment of a packaging machine 100. Figures 1A, 2, and 3 are all of a side view of the packaging machine 100 and illustrate various configurations of the packing machine 100. The packaging machine 100 includes a machine frame 110 and a paper handing assembly 200 supported by the machine frame 110. The paper handling assembly 200 operates and translates linearly along the machine frame 110 as indicated by the arrow T. The movement of paper handling assembly 200 relative to a load L carried on a pallet P is used to position a segment of paper tubing 300 carried by a roll R. The roll R is horizontally aligned and positioned to provide the paper tubing 300 to the paper handling assembly 200 in a flat or rolled format.

[0039] Figure 2 shows a continuous edge of the paper tubing 300 being fed from the roll R to the paper handing assembly 200. The paper handling assembly 200 is configured to expand or otherwise open a first end of the paper tubing 300 to enclose the load L. In some embodiments, the paper tubing 300 is a kraft paper. For example, the kraft paper is an environmentally friendly paper, in some applications the kraft paper includes a polyethylene film to facilitate joining via a heat or sonic process. In some embodiments, the kraft paper includes at least one layer of: an aluminum foil, a polyethylene film, a wax paper, or a graphic logo. In some embodiments, the kraft paper is reinforced by a fiber or woven material along at least one surface of the kraft paper.

[0040] In some embodiments, the expansion of the paper tubing 300 is accomplished mechanically using movable grippers, guides, rollers or directed elements such as fans for air flow and pressure. The paper handling assembly 200 is further configured to close or seal a second end of the paper tubing 300. In some embodiments, the paper handling assembly 200 is configured to sew, heat seal, weld or otherwise bond the second end of the paper tubing 300 to enclose the load L. In some embodiments, the paper handling assembly 200 is configured to utilize a taping cartridge mounting to a moving arm. In operation the taping cartridge and moving arm travels along a seem of the paper tubing 300 to seal and secure the material to itself to form a tight seal. In some embodiments, the operation of the packaging machine 100 is monitored and directed by a controller 400, which is schematically show in Figure 1 A. The controller 400 includes sensors 402 positioned to monitor a physical location and status of each of the assemblies and components of the packaging machine 100.

[0041] The controller 400 is for carrying out the operation of the packaging machine 100. The controller 400 includes a processing device communicatively connected to a memory device. The processing device may include any suitable processing device such as, but not limited to, a general-purpose processor, a special-purpose processor, a digital-signal processor, one or more microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in association with a digital-signal processor core, one or more application-specific integrated circuits, one or more field-programmable gate array circuits, one or more integrated circuits, and / or a state machine. The memory device may be a non-transitory computer readable medium. For example, the memory device may include any suitable memory device such as, but not limited to, read-only memory, random-access memory, one or more digital registers, cache memory, one or more semiconductor memory devices, magnetic media such as integrated hard disks and / or removable memory, magneto-optical media, and / or optical media. The memory device stores instructions executable by the processing device to control operation of the packaging machine 100.

[0042] While the controller 400 of the packaging machine 100 may be physically disposed with the rest of the machine, for example on the machine frame 110, in other embodiments, at least some portion of the controller 400 is physically separated from the rest of the packaging machine 100. For example, in some embodiments, one or more parts of the controller 400 are remote from the packaging machine and communicate with the rest of the machine via a communication device or network interface.

[0043] The controller 400 is also associated with an operator interface 402, which is also schematically shown in Figure 1A. The operator interface 402 is configured to receive inputsfrom an operator and, in certain embodiments, to output information to the operator. The operator interface 402 includes one or more input devices configured to receive inputs from the operator. In various embodiments, the one or more input devices include one or more buttons (such as hard or soft keys), one or more switches, and / or a touch panel. In various embodiments, the operator interface 402 includes a display device configured to display information to the operator, such as information about the size or types of containers being lined, the status or type of the roll or tubular material, or the settings of the bag-insertion machine. The operator interface 402 may include other output devices instead of or in addition to the display device, such as one or more speakers and / or one or more lights. In certain embodiments, the operator interface 402 is formed as part of the packaging machine 100 and is, for instance, mounted to the machine frame 110. In other embodiments, the operator interface is remote from the packaging machine 100.

[0044] Figures 1A, 2, and 3 show an example of the packaging machine 100 enclosing the load L. The packaging machine 100 encloses the load L utilizing an example method for wrapping the load L with the tubular paper 300. The packaging machine 100 draws the tubular paper 300 from a storage location such as the roll R positioned adjacent to the paper handling assembly 200. In some embodiments, the tubular paper 300 is folded flat to include a first seam 320 and a second seam 322 when stored on the roll R.

[0045] The paper handling assembly 200 is configured to determine a length of the tubular paper 300 to encompass the load L. The paper handling assembly 200 secures a first end 302 of the tubular paper 300 where the first end 302 corresponds to a length of the tubular paper 300 determined by the controller 400. The controller 400 utilizes an item parameter corresponding to at least a length of items making up the load L.

[0046] In some embodiments, the item parameter is a height of the load L or a volume of the load L. The paper handling assembly 200 includes elements that move along the machine frame 110 as indicated by the arrow T to draw a second end 304 of the tubular paper 300 over the load L. The second end 304 is an open end formed by the cooperation of the first seam 320 and the second seam 322 of the tubular paper 300 sized to encompass load L.

[0047] Figures IB and 1C show cross-section views of the tubular paper 300. Figure IB shows cross-section A-A of the tubular paper 300 flattened to define the first seam 320 and the second seam 322, and Figure 1C shows a cross-section A’-A’ of the tubular paper 300 flattened to define a first pleat 324 including the first seam 320 and a second pleat 326 including the second seam 322. In some embodiments, a first gripper engages a first side 306 of the tubular paper 300, and a second gripper engages a second side 308 of the tubular paper300. The first side 306 and the second side 308 are moved apart to open and expand the tubular paper 300 to a shape and size that accepts the load L in the second end 304.

[0048] Figure 2 shows the paper handling assembly 200 positioning the first end 302 of the tubular paper 300 over a top surface 310 of the load L. The tubular paper 300 encompasses the load L such that the second end 304 including the first side 306 and the second side 308 is position adjacent to the pallet P. In the example illustrated in Figure 2, the tubular paper 300 is loosely covers the load L, which allows the material of the tubular paper 300 to be adjusted and positioned relative to the load L.

[0049] Figure 3 illustrates positioning operations of the paper handling assembly 200 when the tubular paper 300 is deployed over the top surface 310 of the load L.

[0050] Figures 4A though 4F show top views of the tubular paper 300 around the load L. Figure 4A shows the tubular paper 300 opened via the first side 306 and the second side 308 and the cooperation of the first seam 320 and the second seam 322. Figure 4B shows the tubular paper 300 opened along the first pleat 324 and the second pleat 326 and expanding with the cooperation of the first seam 320 and the second seam 322. Figure 4C shows a first vertical edge 500 and a second vertical edge 502 formed by gathering the excess material or slack within the tubular paper 300.

[0051] Figures 4D though 4F show example positioning operations performed by the paper handling assembly 200. Figure 4D shows an example of the paper handling assembly 200 securing the first vertical edge 500 of the first seam to a first side 504 of the tubular paper 300, and a first vertical edge 502 of the second seam to the first side 504 of the tubular paper 300. In some embodiments, the material from the tubular paper 300 is secured using mechanical bonding such as contact glue, heat sealing, taping, sonic welding, and sewing.

[0052] Figure 4E shows another example of the paper handling assembly 200 securing the first and second vertical edges 500, 502 to the first side 504 of the tubular paper 300. In the example illustrated in Figure 4E, the first vertical edge 500 is rolled and secured to the first side 504 of the tubular paper 300, and the second vertical edge 502 is rolled and secured to the first side 504 of the tubular paper 300. Figure 4F shows another example of the paper handling assembly 200 securing the tubular paper 300 to the load L using horizontal strapping to secure the excess material of the tubular paper 300. In some embodiments, the tubular paper 300 is folded or smoothed prior to being secured by strapping 506.

[0053] Figures 5, 6A-6B, and 7 show other embodiments of a packaging machine 600. Figures 5, 6A-6B, and 7 are all of a side view of the packaging machine 600 and illustrate various configurations of the packing machine 600. As shown in Figure 5, the packagingmachine 600 is configured to enclose the load L utilizing a sheet of paper 700 drawn from a storage location such as a roll R positioned adjacent to the paper handling assembly 200. In some embodiments, the sheet of paper 700 is a continuous sheet of paper, or a segment of the roll of paper removable via a perforation. The paper handling assembly 200 is configured to determine a length of the sheet of paper 700 to encompass the load L. In some embodiments, a first end 702 of the sheet of paper 700 is secured at a base 602 of the load L adjacent to the pallet P.

[0054] Figures 6A and 6B show the paper handling assembly 200 includes a pivotable arm 610. As shown in Figure 6A, the pivot arm 610 engages with and stretches the sheet of paper 700 from the secured first end 702 to define a second end 704 as the pivot arm 610 moves along the arc indicated by arrow B. The movement of the pivot arm 610 draws paper from underneath the roll R of paper into an overhead 706 arranged to direct the second end 704 to the pivot arm 610. In some embodiments, the paper includes a length defined between a first end and a second end, and the length corresponds to the perimeter distance of the load L. The pivot arm 610 moves or translates over a predefined arc that encompasses the load L. In some embodiments the pivot arm 610 is configured to extend and retract relative to the length of the pivot arm and the encompassed load L.

[0055] Figure 6B shows an example of the paper assembly 200 arranged in a low-profile configuration that incorporates the pivotable arm. As shown in Figure 6B, the pivot arm 610 receives and stretches a sheet of paper 720 drawn from a top of the roll R. The sheet of paper 720 extends from the roll R in a direction in indicated by arrow A and is secured to load L at the first end 702. The sheet of paper 720 extends from the secured first end 702 to a second end 704 directed by the pivot arm 610 along the arc indicated by arrow B. The movement of the pivot arm 610 draws paper over the roll R of paper directly to a roller 722 adjacent to the load L. The roller 722 is in contact with the load L to secure the sheet of paper 720 at the first end 702.

[0056] Figure 7 shows the second end 704 of the sheet of paper 700 moved towards the base 602 of the second side 706 of the load L. The pivot arm 610 retracts in the direction indicated by the closing arrow C to secure the second end 704 of the sheet of paper 700 to the second side 706 of the load L. As shown in Figure 7, the sheet of paper 700 is secured to the second side 706 allowing the pivot arm 610 to disengage and return to a storage position adjacent to the machine frame 110. In some embodiments, the pivot arm 610 swings away from the load L in the direction indicated by the arrow B’ .

[0057] Figures 8A through 8C show side views of the sheet of paper 700 wrapped around the load L. Figure 8A shows a side view of the load L wrapped with the sheet of paper 700 about an outer surface of the load L adjacent to the top surface 310 and secured at the first and second ends 702, 704. Figure 8B shows the sheet of paper 700 folded in the directions indicated by the arrows Fl and F2 to enclose about the outer surface of the load L adjacent to the top surface 310 and secured at the first and second ends 702, 704. Figure 8C shows the sheet of paper 700 folded down in the directions indicated by the arrow F3 to seal and close the sheet of paper 700 around the outer surface of the load L. The folded top and sides of the sheet of paper 700 may be secured together by tape 712 or another fastener.

[0058] Figure 9 illustrates another embodiment of a packaging machine 1000. The packaging machine 1000 is configured to enclose the load L utilizing a sheet of paper 800 drawn from a vertically-aligned roll R positioned in a storage location adjacent to the paper handling assembly 200. The vertically aligned roll R rotates about a centerline CL such that a leading edge 802 of the sheet of paper 800 is extended to the load L carried by the pallet P. The sheet of paper 800 is dispensed as the roll R rotates on a base 804.

[0059] In some embodiments, the packaging machine 1000 is configured to preform wrapping operations shown in Figures 10A through 10C. Figure 10A shows the leading edge 802 of the sheet of paper 800 extending beyond the load L in a continuous sheet of material dispensed from the roll R. In some embodiments, the sheet of paper 800 is cut or otherwise separated by perforations from the roll R. Figure 10B shows the sheet of paper 800 wrapped around the perimeter of the load L. In some embodiments, the sheet of paper 800 folds at each of an edge 808-812 of the load L as it is positioned about a perimeter of the load L. In some embodiments, a reefing-and-wrapping assembly or other material handling device wraps the sheet of paper 800. Figure 10C shows the sheet of paper 800 wrapped around the perimeter of the load L at and an edge 814 to form a seal 816.

[0060] In some embodiments, the packaging machine is configured to perform wrapping operations shown in Figures 11A through 11C. Figure 11A shows the leading edge 802 of the sheet of paper 800 extending and being affixed to the edge 808 of the load L as dispensed from the roll R. Figure 1 IB shows the sheet of paper 800 after the load L has completed one revolution about its vertical axis. The rotation of the load L while the leading edge 80 of the sheet of paper 800 is affixed to the edge 808 causes the material to wrap and bend around the perimeter of the load L. In some embodiments, the wrapping of the sheet of paper 800 is assisted by bumpers, guides, a reefing-and-wrapping assembly, or other material handlingdevice. Figure 11C shows the sheet of paper 800 wrapped around the perimeter of the load L to and the edge 808 to form a seal 816.

[0061] Although embodiments described above use paper, other embodiments use other non-stretchable material such as a flexible weave.

[0062] Thus, in various embodiments, the present disclosure provides a method for wrapping an item with tubular paper, the method includes drawing tubular paper from a roll of paper, wherein the tubular paper is folded to include a first seam and a second seam; securing a first end of the roll, wherein the first end corresponds to a length of the tubular paper; drawing a second end of the roll over the item, wherein the second end is an open end formed by the cooperation of the first seam and the second seam of the tubular paper sized to encompass the item. The method further includes positioning a first end of the tubular paper over a top surface of the item, wherein positioning further includes: securing a first vertical edge of the first seam to a first side of the tubular paper; and securing a first vertical edge of the second seam to the first side of the tubular paper.

[0063] In various such embodiments of the method, the method further comprises receiving, by a controller, at least one item parameter related to the item that corresponds to the length of the tubular paper.

[0064] In various such embodiments of the method, the at least one item parameter reflects a volume of the item.

[0065] In various such embodiments of the method, the at least one item parameter reflects an item height corresponding to the length of the tubular paper.

[0066] In various such embodiments of the method, the tubular paper is kraft paper including at least one layer of: an aluminum foil, a polyethylene film, a wax paper, or a graphic logo.

[0067] In various such embodiments of the method, the secured first vertical edges are rolled edges reflecting a mechanical engagement.

[0068] In various such embodiments of the method, the rolled edges are bonded to the first side.

[0069] In various such embodiments of the method, the first seam of tubular paper includes a first pleat, and the second seam of the tubular paper includes a second pleat.

[0070] In various other embodiments, the disclosure further provides a method for wrapping an item with paper, the method includes determining, by a controller, an item parameter that reflects a perimeter distance of the item; drawing paper from a roll of paper, wherein the paper includes a length defined between a first end and a second end, andwherein the length corresponds to the perimeter distance of the item; forming a lap seam between the first end and the second end of the length of the paper, wherein the lap seam is formed by wrapping the paper around the perimeter distance of the item; and sealing the length of paper adjacent to a top surface of the item, wherein a first edge of the length of paper adjacent to a first side of the pallet is secured to the first edge of the length of paper adjacent to a second side of the pallet.

[0071] In various such embodiments of the method, the method further comprises determining, by a controller, an item parameter that reflects a perimeter distance of the item.

[0072] In various such embodiments of the method, the length of paper is provided by a controller.

[0073] In various such embodiments of the method, forming the lap seam includes mechanically securing the first end adjacent to the second end.

[0074] In various such embodiments of the method, sealing the length of paper adjacent to the top surface of the item includes mechanically securing the first edge to the second edge.

[0075] In various such embodiments of the method, mechanically securing the first edge to the second edge including at least one of: taping the first edge to the second edge, gluing the first edge to the second edge, sewing the first edge to the second edge, folding the first edge relative to the second edge, or heat sealing the first edge to the second edge.

[0076] In various such embodiments of the method, the controller comprises at least one of a camera system, a user input device, or a reader in communication with a database.

[0077] In various other embodiments, the disclosure further provides a method for wrapping an item with paper, the method includes aligning a roll of paper substantially parallel to a first side of the item, wherein the roll includes a first end and a second end cooperating to define a paper length; securing the paper length over a top surface of the item. In some embodiments, securing the paper length includes: attaching the first end of the paper length to a second side of the item adjacent to a base; and attaching the second end of the paper length to the first side of the item adjacent to the base; folding the paper length to enclose the item adjacent to a third side and a fourth side of the item. Folding the paper length includes for each side of the item: folding a first edge of the paper length down from the top surface of the item towards the base; and folding a second edge of the paper length to engage a third edge of the paper length; and securing the second edge of the paper length along the third edge of the paper length.

[0078] In various such embodiments of the method, the paper length corresponds to a perimeter distance of the item.

[0079] In various such embodiments of the method, securing the paper comprises taping the paper.

[0080] In various such embodiments of the method, securing the paper includes taping along the paper length over the top surface of the item.

[0081] In various such embodiments of the method, securing the second edge of the paper length includes taping the second edge of the paper length along the third edge of the paper length.

[0082] In various other embodiments, the disclosure further provides a packaging machine for wrapping an item with tubular paper, the packaging machine includes a roll including tubular paper carried about a centerline; a paper handling assembly configured to receive the tubular paper; a load supporter configured to support the load, wherein the load includes a pallet and the item supported by the pallet; and a controller, wherein the controller is operably connected to the paper handling assembly. The controller is configured to: draw the tubular paper from the roll of paper, wherein the tubular paper is folded to include a first seam and a second seam; receive at least one item parameter related to the item that corresponds to a length of the tubular paper; secure a first end of the roll, wherein the first end corresponds to the length of the tubular paper; draw a second end of the roll over the item, wherein the second end is an open end formed by the cooperation of the first seam and the second seam of the tubular paper sized to encompass the item; position a first end of the tubular paper over a top surface of the item. The positioning further includes: secure a first vertical edge of the first seam to a first side of the tubular paper; and secure a first vertical edge of the second seam to the first side of the tubular paper.

[0083] In various other embodiments, the disclosure further provides a packaging machine for wrapping an item with tubular paper, the packaging machine comprising: a roll including tubular paper carried about a centerline; a paper handling assembly configured to receive the tubular paper; a load supporter configured to support the load, wherein the load includes a pallet and the item supported by the pallet; a controller, wherein the controller is operably connected to the paper handling assembly. The controller is configured to determine an item parameter that reflects a perimeter distance of the item; draw paper from a roll of paper, wherein the paper includes a length defined between a first end and a second end, and wherein the length corresponds to the perimeter distance of the item; form a lap seam between the first end and the second end of the length of the paper, wherein the lap seam is formed by wrapping the paper around the perimeter distance of the item; and seal the length of paper adjacent to a top surface of the item, wherein a first edge of the length of paperadjacent to a first side of the pallet is secured to the first edge of the length of paper adjacent to a second side of the pallet.

[0084] In various other embodiments, the disclosure further provides a packaging machine for wrapping an item with tubular paper, the packaging machine comprising: a roll including tubular paper carried about a centerline; a paper handling assembly configured to receive the tubular paper; a load supporter configured to support the load, wherein the load includes a pallet and the item supported by the pallet; a controller, wherein the controller is operably connected to the paper handling assembly. The controller is configured to: align a roll of paper substantially parallel to a first side of the item, wherein the roll includes a first end and a second end cooperating to define a paper length; secure the paper length over a top surface of the item. Securing the paper length includes: attach the first end of the paper length to a second side of the item adjacent to a base; and attach the second end of the paper length to the first side of the item adjacent to the base; fold the paper length to enclose the item adjacent to a third side and a fourth side of the item, wherein folding the paper length includes for each side of the item: fold a first edge of the paper length down from the top surface of the item towards the base; and fold a second edge of the paper length to engage a third edge of the paper length; and secure the second edge of the paper length along the third edge of the paper length.

[0085] 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 without diminishing 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

CLAIMS1. A method for wrapping an item with tubular paper, the method comprising: drawing tubular paper from a roll of paper, wherein the tubular paper is folded to include a first seam and a second seam; securing a first end of the roll, wherein the first end corresponds to a length of the tubular paper; drawing a second end of the roll over the item, wherein the second end is an open end formed by the cooperation of the first seam and the second seam of the tubular paper sized to encompass the item; and positioning a first end of the tubular paper over a top surface of the item, wherein positioning further includes: securing a first vertical edge of the first seam to a first side of the tubular paper; and securing a first vertical edge of the second seam to the first side of the tubular paper.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the method further comprises receiving, by a controller, at least one item parameter related to the item that corresponds to the length of the tubular paper.

3. The method of claim 2, wherein the at least one item parameter reflects a volume of the item.

4. The method of claim 2, wherein the at least one item parameter reflects an item height corresponding to the length of the tubular paper.

5. The method of claim 1, wherein the tubular paper is kraft paper including at least one layer of: a fiber reinforcement, an aluminum foil, a polyethylene film, a wax paper, or a graphic logo.

6. The method of claim 1, wherein the secured first vertical edges are rolled edges reflecting a mechanical engagement.

7. The method of claim 6, wherein the rolled edges are bonded to the first side.

8. The method of claim 1, wherein the first seam of tubular paper includes a first pleat, and the second seam of the tubular paper includes a second pleat.

9. A method for wrapping an item with paper, the method comprising: drawing paper from a roll of paper, wherein the paper includes a length defined between a first end and a second end, and wherein the length corresponds to a perimeter distance of the item; forming a lap seam between the first end and the second end of the length of the paper, wherein the lap seam is formed by wrapping the paper around the perimeter distance of the item; and sealing the length of paper adjacent to a top surface of the item, wherein a first edge of the length of paper adjacent to a first side of the pallet is secured to the first edge of the length of paper adjacent to a second side of the pallet.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein the method further comprises determining, by a controller, an item parameter that reflects a perimeter distance of the item.

11. The method of claim 9, wherein the length of paper is provided by a controller.

12. The method of claim 9, wherein forming the lap seam includes mechanically securing the first end adjacent to the second end.

13. The method of claim 9, wherein sealing the length of paper adjacent to the top surface of the item includes mechanically securing the first edge to the second edge.

14. The method of claim 9, wherein mechanically securing the first edge to the second edge including at least one of: taping the first edge to the second edge, gluing the first edge to the second edge, sewing the first edge to the second edge, folding the first edge relative to the second edge, or heat sealing the first edge to the second edge.

15. The method of claim 9, wherein the controller comprises at least one of a camera system, a user input device, or a reader in communication with a database.

16. A method for wrapping an item with paper, the method comprising:aligning a roll of paper substantially parallel to a first side of the item, wherein the roll includes a first end and a second end cooperating to define a paper length; securing the paper length over a top surface of the item, wherein securing the paper length includes: attaching the first end of the paper length to a second side of the item adjacent to a base; and attaching the second end of the paper length to the first side of the item adjacent to the base; folding the paper length to enclose the item adjacent to a third side and a fourth side of the item, wherein folding the paper length includes for each side of the item: folding a first edge of the paper length down from the top surface of the item towards the base; and folding a second edge of the paper length to engage a third edge of the paper length; and securing the second edge of the paper length along the third edge of the paper length.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein the paper length corresponds to a perimeter distance of the item.

18. The method of claim 16, wherein securing the paper comprises taping the paper.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein securing the paper includes taping along the paper length over the top surface of the item.

20. The method of claim 18, wherein securing the second edge of the paper length includes taping the second edge of the paper length along the third edge of the paper length.

Images