Package wrapping method and machine

A method for wrapping a package in film using a package wrapping apparatus, the method comprising the steps of:

• measuring a width of a package to be wrapped;
• gripping a film for wrapping said package from a continuous roll using a gripper having a central jaw element and first and second lateral jaw elements;
• moving the gripper in a direction to pay-out a length of film from said continuous roll;
• raising the package upward through said length of film;
• selectively releasing said first and second lateral jaw elements while said central jaw element remains in a closed gripping position based upon said width of said package being smaller than a predetermined parameter;
• folding lateral sections of said film under said package;
• cutting said film from said continuous roll;
• and
• folding ends of said film under said package.

A method for wrapping a package in film using a package wrapping apparatus, the method comprising the steps of:

• measuring a size parameter of a package to be wrapped;
• gripping an end of a continuous roll of film using a gripper having a central jaw element and first and second lateral jaw elements, the jaw elements arranged across a width of the film;
• moving the gripper in a direction to pay-out a length of film from said continuous roll;
• raising the package upward through said length of film;
• prior to folding lateral sections of said film under said package, selectively releasing said first and second lateral jaw elements while said central jaw element remains in a closed gripping position based at least in part upon said size parameter of said package being smaller than a certain size.