GB989936A - Case loader - Google Patents

Abstract

989,936. Packaging-machines. JOHNS-NIGRELLI-JOHNS Inc. Dec. 31, 1963 [Jan. 10, 1963], No. 51311/63. Heading B8C. One or more pairs of articles 1, e.g. cans in open-topped containers, are loaded into trays 7 of fibre board, the articles being carried on an endless conveyer 2 and a second similar conveyer 3 to a position overlying a plate 81 where push-rods 6 of a conveyer 5 move them into contact with a tray 7 supplied on a conveyer 4. The trays are released singly by a stop 68 timed in relation to the conveyer 5. The articles are guided between rails 77 and separated by a centre bar which is continuous with a centre plate 87, Fig. 2. Under the control of the bars 6, a group of four articles 1 is moved up guide surfaces aligned with rail sections 77a so that each article is tilted outwards by a guide rail 89 continuing from one of the guide surfaces. The forward edge of the first pair of articles engages the front wall of a tray held on the conveyer 4 by spring-loaded stops 69. As they pass off the ends of the rails 89 the tilted articles fall by gravity into the tray, the tilting having ensured that they are seated within the tray side walls. The pressure exerted by the articles on the front wall of the tray tilts the rear of the tray upwards, Fig. 4 (not shown), before the loaded tray is discharged by gravity on a roller conveyer 9. The trays may be manually delivered to the loading position. The machine may be used to load containers with hinged cover flaps which are held outwards during the loading operation.