Machine for applying transfers

Abstract

A machine for automatically applying transfers such as tax stamps to multiple packages contained in a carton is disclosed. The transfer applying machine comprises a conveyor for intermittently and sequentially advancing cartons through an opening station, where the carton is opened to expose the packages therein, through a stamping station, where tax stamps in the form of heat or water transfers or ink printing are applied to each of the packages, and through a closing station where the carton is closed and resealed. The machine is adjustable to accommodate a variety of carton and package sizes and to apply the transfers to each package in the carton accurately while using stock rolls of transfers on which the transfers are mounted with a predetermined spacing that does not necessarily correspond to the spacing of packages within the carton. The various sizes are accommodated by placing each carton on its side for passage through the machine, by providing a variable stop for each carton as it reaches the stamping station, and by shifting the transfer platen to correspond with the location of the carton and the transfer to be applied to the packages. The operating mechanism is simple in structure and function to provide an inexpensive and reliable machine.