Filling and lidding machine and method

US6073422A · kind A · utility

Assignee

• Osceola Foods, Inc. · US

Inventors

• Samuel M. Massey · Joiner, US
• Richard Phillips · Berea, US
• David A. Thompson · Wilson, US
• Paul H. Ballentine · Cazenovia, US
• Jim Garner · Heber Springs, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Aug 11, 1998
• Grant date: Jun 13, 2000
• Expiry date: Aug 11, 2018

Classification

• Technology area (CPC B): Performing Operations; Transporting
• CPC primary: B29C2793/0036
• WIPO field: Handling
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

A lidding machine and method for filling containers with a flowable food product is disclosed. Extraneous tabs extending from the container lids after the lids are cut apart are trimmed closely using knives with a blade curvature that matches the curvature of the edge of the containers. One or more "feet" are used to hold the lids in place during the cutting process. A two-layer lid may be used for such containers, the inner lid having openings through which the food product may be dispensed, and the outer lid being removable. The outer lid may be designed so that it partially covers the inner lid, and has a tab that does not extend beyond the edge of the container. The consumer may open the container by pulling this tab back across the inner lid.