APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR APPLYING FLEXIBLE STRAPS AROUND BUNDLES OF OBJECTS

摘要

Apparatus and methods for applying flexible straps around objects include a feed and tension unit (350) a feed drive wheel and a feed pinch wheel, a primary tension drive wheel (360) and a primary tension pinch wheel (352), and a secondary tension drive wheel (362) and a secondary tension pinch wheel (364), wherein at least one of the pinch wheels is controllably biased against the respective drive wheel by a solenoid (370) that is controlled in two stages: a first stage that provides a full feed or tensioning force and a second stage that provides a reduced feed or tensioning force by altering the pulse width modulation of the solenoid. In another embodiment, the three sets of wheels of the feed and tension unit are configured to provide a simplified "V-shaped" strap path that reduces bending of the strap, thereby reducing friction and consequent feeding difficulties. In another embodiment, the feed and tension unit (350) includes inner and outer guides that form a strap channel through the feed and tension unit to provide easy access to the strap path for clearing the strap path in the event of a jam. In another embodiment, a track assembly (450) includes a plurality of sections providing modularity of construction. Each section includes a backplate attached to at least one support member, and a slotted cover pivotably attached to the at least one support member proximate the backplate and moveable between an open position spaced apart from the backplate and a closed position proximate the backplate. In another embodiment, a cutting assembly for severing strap material includes a press platen and a cutter having a first cutting blade along a first edge thereof and a second cutting blade along a second edge thereof, the cutter being removably and variably engaged to the press platen.