Method and means for producing, conveying, storing and utilizing air pillows
US6453644B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 14, 1999 |
| Grant date | Sep 24, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 14, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB31D2205/007
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Apparatus for producing and conveying air pillows comprises an air pillow production machine which produces a continuous web of air filled pillows, ductwork extending away from the air pillow production machine and through which the web of air pillows is conveyed, and a blower which conveys the web of air pillows from the air pillow production machine and through the ductwork. The web of air pillows are conveyed into a hopper for storage. A sensor senses a condition of at least one of the air pillows in the web of air pillows being deflated or a stall condition of the web of air pillows in the event the web of air pillows stops moving through the ductwork. A controller controls the air pillow production machine in response to signals from the sensor. The sensor and controller are a whisker trigger connected to a micro switch. The hopper has an open top through which the web of air pillows are conveyed, and an opening near a bottom thereof through which air pillows may be pulled by an operator for insertion into a box.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.