AN APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR PROCESSING PALLETIZED CONTAINERS

摘要

An apparatus for processing a palletized container (411), the palletized container (411) including a container (413) affixed to a pallet (415). The apparatus includes a receptacle (412) arranged and configured for receiving the palletized container (411). A shearing mechanism is incorporated within the receptacle (412). The shearing mechanism is constructed and arranged for generating relative movement between the container (413) and the pallet (415) such that the container (413) is sheared from the pallet (415). The shearing mechanism includes support structure (428) for supporting the palletized container (411) within the receptacle (412) by engaging the pallet (415) of the palletized container (411). The shearing mechanism also includes a shearing member (440) having an edge (456) spaced a predetermined distance (D1) from the support structure (428). The predetermined distance (D1) is slightly greater than a thickness (D2) of the pallet (415) such that the edge (456) of the shearing member (440) is adapted to align substantially with the interface between the pallet (415) and the container (413).