Method and apparatus for positioning deformable pots in a predetermined array

Abstract

A method and apparatus for rapidly arranging a plurality of distortable pots of generally frustoconical shape in a predetermined pattern and holding the pots in that pattern for filling. The method includes the steps of positioning a plurality of pots in a predetermined pattern with the pots inverted; the walls of the pots are distorted so that the rim of each pot engages a substantial length of the rim of each adjacent pot. An inverted flat or similar container is placed over the pots and tightly engages and confines them. The pots and flat are turned upright and then filled while still maintained in the pattern by the flat. The apparatus for performing this method includes a frame having a plurality of individual pot supporting members arranged in a predetermined pattern on the frame. The apparatus also includes a release grate having grate elements positioned between the frame and the pots positioned on the pot supporting members. The grate elements engage the pots upon movement of the grate away from the frame, releasing the pots in unison from the pot supporting members. The grate also functions to hold the pots in position in the flat during filling operations.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.