Importance

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Abstract

A packaging machine for packaging articles is provided. The packaging machine employs a source of packaging material in the form of a length of plain plastic tubing. The machine is relatively simple and maintenance free, employing but one station. In a previous cycle, the tubing is heat sealed along a strip extending transversely thereof at a leading edge. The strip is then advanced a predetermined distance between a movable jaw and a stationary jaw at the station and the movable jaw closes against the stationary one. At this time, an upper sealing wire is energized to seal a leading edge of the tubing which will form the next package. A knife severs the tubing below that seal and the upper edges of the severed section are engaged by clamps. The movable jaw then opens to enable an article to be dropped in the resulting pocket in the severed section. The movable jaw closes once again and a lower sealing wire seals the upper edges of the severed section, below the severed edges thereof. The jaws then open a second time and the clamps are released so that the resulting package with the packaged article is discharged from the machine. Before the tubing is advanced again, it is slightly retracted to separate the leading edge from the upper sealing wire if it has had a tendency to stick thereto.

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First Claim