Method and apparatus for making block bottom pillow top bags

Abstract

Methods and apparatus for automated manufacture of block bottom pillow top bags. One method includes the following steps: (a) forming a web of bag making material into a tube; (b) joining respective confronting portions of the tube along a transverse line to form a first transverse zone of joinder having a length approximately equal to one half of a perimeter of the tube; (c) forming mutually opposing first and second gussets in the tube, the first and second gussets being separated from each other in the transverse direction by a minimum distance at a predetermined distance from the first transverse zone of joinder, (d) placing product in a portion of an interior volume of the tube disposed above the first transverse zone of joinder; (e) joining confronting portions of the tube along a transverse line to form a second transverse zone of joinder that fixes portions of the first and second gussets that are separated by the minimum distance; (f) cutting the web along a first transverse cut line located below the first transverse zone of joinder; and (g) cutting the web along a second transverse cut line located above the second transverse zone of joinder, the second transverse cut line intersecting the portions of the first and second gussets that are separated by the minimum distance.