Automatic packaging machine replenishing method and apparatus

Abstract

An apparatus and method for loading a stack of blanks into a packaging machine. A supply stack of blanks is decased and placed into a prime stack lane of the packaging machine magazine. A flowing stack lane of blanks parallel to the prime stack lane of blanks is provided from which blanks are picked for processing. The prime stack lane and the flowing stack lane are parallel with a retractable pusher plate actuated on demand to move blanks from the prime stack lane to the flowing stack lane. The blanks in the prime stack lane and the flowing stack lane are supported on a low friction support plate to allow the flowing stack lane items to be gravity fed to the packaging machine. The support plate is oriented at an adjustable angle of inclination, optimally selected for the size and weight of the blanks being processed. As blanks are picked and processed by the packaging machine and the flowing stack becomes depleted, a sensor triggers, the movement of blanks from the prime stack lane into the flowing stack lane without interrupting the packaging machine operation

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.