Machine and methods for the manufacture of air-filled cushions

摘要

A device and method are disclosed for forming air filled cushions. The device includes a drive mechanism to move inflatable tubing through the apparatus, and an injector, optionally including an outlet, located continuously within, or within a portion of, the tubing. This arrangement can permit the formation of air filled cushions in a continuous stream. Also disclosed is a roll of plastic tubing that is sealed transversely at a succession of intervals, with each pair of seals stopping just short of a longitudinal center line of the tubing. Such tubing might be used in conjunction with the apparatus, the central gap between the seals allowing passage of the injector.

主权项

1. A machine for the production of air filled cushions, comprising:
an injector having an outlet located adjacent to a predefined path that injects air between layers of plastic; a driving and sealing mechanism that moves the layers of plastic through the machine along the path, and seals the layers together to trap the injected air therebetween, the driving and sealing mechanism including first and second opposing portions on opposite sides of the path, the first opposing portion including a heating element to heat seal the plastic; wherein the first opposing portion moves between an operating position, in which the first and second opposing portions are disposed on opposite sides of the layers of plastic in the path, and a standby position, in which the first and second opposing portions are separated from each other.