Modular shrink-wrap machine

Abstract

Selectively reconfigurable shrink-wrap machine ( 30 ) for use with a loading device ( 34 ) for individually wrapping products ( 58 ) sequentially with shrink-wrap material ( 92 ) as delivered in sequence to the machine. It includes a sensor ( 62 ) sensing product position on the loading device. Shrink-wrap material is delivered from a roll at a wrapping station ( 40 ). A first conveyor ( 42 ) carries wrapped products between the wrapping station and a film sealing and cutting apparatus ( 44 ). First conveyor delivers products sequentially in synchronized velocity with the loading device in response to sensor signals. Film sealing and cutting apparatus has upper and lower heads ( 156, 164 ), at least one of which is driven into and out of engagement with the other between adjacent wrapped products received by the first conveyor for effecting a sealed cut between them. Heads are each maintained at a fixed angle of orientation. A second conveyor ( 43 ) receives wrapped products sequentially from the sealing and cutting apparatus. A microprocessor-driven touch screen ( 48 ) and a method controls the shrink-wrap machine and is described.

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       21 . A method for controlling a shrink-wrap machine having a sealing head and vacuum conveyor axes, drive motors having drive axes, and machine input/output ports, comprising: 
 a) initializing variables;    b) setting scaling for the sealing head and the vacuum conveyor axes;    c) setting error checking bits;    d) selectively locating a film clamping zone and calculating a top dead center position for the sealing head;    e) controlling normal operations of all motor axes;    f) calculating ratios for web matching and cam following;    g) monitoring all machine input/output ports by continuously scanning same;    h) monitoring continuously all machine fault bits;    i) executing commands based on error bits;    j) repeating steps a)-c) and steps e)-i) upon user re-initialization of package size or other modes as long as the machine is not turned off.