Folding system

Abstract

A machine and method for welding sheets of plastic material. The machine includes a housing with a lower weld bar and an upper weld bar. A vertically-oriented gap is defined in a gripper assembly pivotally mounted to the housing beneath the work surface. A sheet of material is laid over the work surface covering the lower weld bar and gap. The upper weld bar is lowered to hold the sheet in place and a pusher plate is lowered relative to the upper weld bar to push some material into the gap, thereby creating a fold in the material. After withdrawing the upper weld bar and pusher plate, the gripper assembly is pivoted through ninety degrees and lays some of the folded material over the lower weld bar. The upper weld bar is lowered to weld a portion of the folded material and thereby create a pocket in the material.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.