Importance

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Abstract

A method and apparatus for packaging flat or stacked cylindrical article groups into a packaging unit such as a paperboard carton wherein at least one stream of cylindrical articles are conveyed single file in parallel lanes into a staging area where the lanes terminate, thereby directing the articles into a closest packing formation. Articles are moved in closest packing formation through the staging area over a deadplate toward one of a plurality of containers moving in a generally linear direction parallel to a carton line. An angle of approximately 60.degree. between the staging area and a container in position for receiving articles orients a row of articles in closest packing formation parallel with the open front end of that container. As articles enter the container, each row of articles rolls over the previous row, causing articles to be arranged in a rectangular array in the container. When the container is filled with articles, flow of articles stops and a bar is engaged to clamp a row of articles adjacent to the filled container between the bar and the deadplate. The back of the container is moved away from the articles therein to allow the last row of articles in the full container to pass by articles constrained by the bar without scratching or otherwise damaging the articles when the filled container is moved. The filled container is moved away from the clamped articles, an empty container is moved into position to receive articles, and the bar is disengaged to allow articles to flow into the container. Articles in the container are subsequently loaded into a carton on the carton line.

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First Claim