Case tab-lock slitting and flap sealer in combination with a continuous radial motion case packing apparatus and method

Abstract

A case packing and case flap separation apparatus is disclosed for packing articles into cases and closing the cases. The cases typically have first and second major and minor flaps interconnected by tab-locks and held in folded positions adjacent vertical ends and sides of the cases. The apparatus includes a conveyor having a radial transport path adapted to transport successive cases through an article insertion section, first and second tab slitting sections, and a case exit section. Tab slitters are associated with the first and second slitting sections adapted to sever the tab-locks so that the major and minor flaps can be separated. First and second flap guides are associated with the first and second slitting section adapted to engage and elevate the separated major flaps away from the vertical walls after the tab-locks have been severed. Preferably, the case packing station and first and second tab slitting sections are located in proximity along the transport path so that the tab-locks are severed while the articles are inserted and gripped in the cases. By gripping the articles with the pickup heads, the articles and their cases can be guided by the pickup heads through the slitting sections as well as weighted down. A pickup head motion converter is operatively connected to the pickup heads to move the pickup heads in a compound motion to effect a first generally linear path at the pickup station for reliable article pick up and a secondary generally linear path at the flap separation station for reliable flap separation.