US 6,478,065 B1 · Strapping machine with improved access doors

Abstract

A strap path guide cover, comprising part of the outer housing cover of a strapping machine, is pivotally mounted such that it may be rotated away from the housing of the strapping machine to expose a strap path. The cover defines parts of numerous elements of the strap path created through the head of the strapping machine. The cover defines a number of openings for cooperatively engaging corresponding alignment pins extending from the head, such that alignment of the cover, and thus the strap path, is made accurately and easily. The cover may be rotated down for cleaning of jams and debris from the strap path, and may be rotated to a first position, aligning the strap path, for a rapid return to use. The present invention further defines an upper strap path guide cover which also pivotally opens to allow for cleaning of the upper path and pivotally closes in alignment.

Claims9

Dependent claims

A strapping machine, allowing easy access to a strap path, comprising:

a strapping head having a strap path;
at least one alignment pin extending outwardly from a face of said head;
a cover, pivotally mounted to said strapping machine, such that in a first closed position, said cover comprises a protective exterior element of said strapping machine and an outer guiding surface for said strap path, and in a second, pivoted open position, sid cover allows access to said strap path, said cover including at least one alignment pin opening cooperating with said at least one alignment pin to position said cover over said strap path when said cover is in said closed position;
and
a hinge pivotally mounting said cover to said strapping machine at a non-structural member.

2 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Strapping machine with improved access doors

Life of this patent

Strapping machine with improved access doors

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims9