Steve C Campbell

US Patent:

54428980, Aug 22, 1995

Filed:

Oct 5, 1993

Appl. No.:

8/131715

Inventors:

Joseph P. Gabree - Duluth GA
Steve W. Campbell - Tucker GA
Charles Hood - Lilburn GA

Assignee:

A.P.M. Distributing, Inc. - Norcross GA

International Classification:

B65B 122
B65B 4336

US Classification:

53459

Abstract:

An automated bagging system with a device that performs the dual functions of opening a bag and then supporting the bag as the bag is filled with a product. A supply of air is guided into a wicketed bag by a pivotable plate in a first position. After the plate guides the air into the bag, thus fully opening the bag, the plate moves into a second position. In this second position, the plate clamps a side of the bag opposite the wicket between the plate and a stop plate. The plate and the stop plate, in combination with a clamp on the wicket side of the bag, effectively keep the bag open after the initial supply of air ends to allow the bag to receive a dispensed product. Additionally, the plate, stop plate and clamp support the bag. This support prevents the bag from being torn away from the wicket from the force of the product on the sides and bottom of the bag as the product falls into the bag. Once the bag is filled with the product, a process slide with a jaw-like grip grasps the side of the bag that is clamped between the plate and the stop plate.