GB1455628A - Method and aparatus for handling stackable bodies - Google Patents

Abstract

1455628 Packaging machine OWENSCORNING FIBERGLAS CORP 17 May 1974 22168/74 Heading B8C Apparatus for handling a plurality of stackable bodies, e.g. batts B of glass fibre insulation, comprises means for supporting a plurality of the bodies on top of one another in a stack, stationary means engageable with one outer face of the stack, movable means engageable with the opposite outer face of the stack, and means for raising the movable means from a first position spaced from the stationary means to a second position nearer said means but still spaced therefrom. Apparatus is described for packaging batts B. In operation batts B are stacked on a table 16 which includes fingers 20, and end and side locating panels 22, 24, 26, 28. When the stack reaches a predetermined height a movable member 42 is moved up guides 32, 34 so that fingers 46 thereon raise the stack and compress it against the fingers 40 of a stationary member. A second stack of batts is then formed on the table 16 until the predetermined height is again reached. A second movable member 48 is then raised so that fingers 52 thereof compress the second stack against the fingers 46 of the first movable member. The unit comprising the guides 32, 34 and members 36, 42 and 48 is then located vertically by a hydraulic device and is retracted by a rod 56 moved by a hydraulic cylinder. The rod is then swung through 90 degrees and again advanced so as to place the stacks of batts within the compression chamber 80 of a packaging device. During this time the members 42 and 48 are lowered to allow the stacks to expand. The stacks are held in the chamber 80 by suction applied via perforations 100 in a back plate 86 while the members 36, 42 and 48 are withdrawn and returned to their starting positions. The batts in chamber 80 are compressed by a plate 90 and then pushed by a hydraulic ram 94 through a hole 96 in a side wall of the chamber into a bag or container 98.