Roll-up compressive packaging apparatus

Abstract

Apparatus is provided for packaging compressible material in strip form, such as building insulation. The compressible strip is wound into a roll and held under compression during rolling to provide a compact package. The compressed package can then be held by two tapes, without additional overwrap, which tapes are automatically fed onto an end portion of the compressible strip as it is being rolled up, with the package then being automatically ejected. The apparatus includes an endless belt carried on a frame and positioned and driven in a manner to form a loop in itself which is in the path of the compressible strip being lineally moved toward the belt. The belt is driven to roll the strip as it is moved into the loop and means are provided for maintaining the belt under tension to place the strip in compression. The tension means for the belt also can increase pressure on the strip during rolling, and as the loop and roll enlarge, although the tension means can be arranged to reduce the pressure, if desired. The tape is fed from underneath to a trailing end portion of the strip and is wrapped around the roll after entering the loop. When the roll is completed, part of the frame for the belt is moved away from a stationary part to open the loop and automatically eject the compressed, packaged roll. The apparatus includes a multi-zone, suction conveyor to aid in feeding the compressible strip into the loop. The apparatus also includes facilities for relatively easily removing and replacing the endless belt, when needed.