Apparatus and methods for applying a strap around a bundle of objects

A method for applying an adhesive-coated strap around a bundle of objects comprising the steps of:

• guiding the strap around the bundle of objects;
• securing the strap about the bundle of objects;
• gripping at least one end of the strap to maintain tension in the strap during a bundling operation;
• cutting the strap to produce two overlapping strap ends;
• inserting a heater blade between the overlapping strap ends;
• dry sealing the overlapping strap ends through a mechanically timed dwell means while pressing the strap ends against the heater blade, the heater blade being in contact with the bonding surfaces of the strap;
• removing the heater blade;
• pressing the adhesive-coated portions of the strap ends together;
• applying pressure to the sealed strap to cure and cool the adhesive;
• and
• releasing the strap to produce a strapped bundle of objects.

A strapping machine for bundling objects, comprising:

• a first means for dispensing a strap from at least one strap coil;
• a second means for receiving the strap from the first means during a strap feeding operation and for accumulating excess strap during a tensioning operation;
• a third means for releasably retaining the strap around a bundle of objects and subsequently releasing the strap through a plurality of biased covers during the tensioning operation;
• a fourth means for receiving the strap from the second means and applying a sufficient force to the strap to direct the strap around the bundle of objects as defined by the third means, the fourth means further configured to retract excess strap during the tensioning operation;
• a fifth means for mechanically controlling the gripping, cutting, and dry sealing of the strap once the strap is sufficiently located about the bundle of objects, the fifth means defining where the strap enters and exits the third means;
• and
• a sixth means for providing power to at least some of the major components of the machine.