Buffing apparatus for book-fold carton; and method

Abstract

A buffing apparatus is provided for use in association with a case sealing arrangement, to buff lead and rear depending tape tails against a tape/carton combination. The buffing apparatus includes a single buffing member moved, by means of a motive mechanism, between paths and motion. The first path of motion is defined such that the buffing member is moved against a lead tape tail, and then is retracted so that a rear tape tail can pass thereover. The second path of motion is defined such that the buffing member is brought upwardly against the rear tape tail, to buff same into position, while returning the buffing member to the first extreme position. For preferred embodiments, the first and second paths of motion are identical, but opposite, to one another. In one embodiment, the paths of motion are defined by a cam track/follower arrangement. In a second embodiment, a link mechanism is described, which accomplishes a desired motion. The preferred link mechanism illustrated and described, includes: a triangular coupler link arrangement; a follower arm arrangement; and, an acute-angle input crank arm arrangement. The combination of link members define an advantageous path of motion for an engaged buffing member. A method of buffing lead in tape tails according to the present invention is also disclosed.