Bernard J Carlton

US Patent:

48212032, Apr 11, 1989

Filed:

May 12, 1987

Appl. No.:

7/049285

Inventors:

Bernard J. Carlton - Moxee WA
David R. Downs - Yakima WA

Assignee:

Marq Packaging Systems, Inc. - Yakima WA

International Classification:

G06F 1546
B31B 302

US Classification:

364478

Abstract:

A case handling machine including a programmable controller, i. e. , a controller that includes a programmable CPU, for controlling the position of movable elements of the machine based on the size of cases to be handled is disclosed. The CPU is first programmed with the position of each movable element based on the size of each of the cases to be handled. Thereafter, when a box number related to the size of a particular case is inputted to the controller by an operator, the movable elements are automatically moved to the correct position. Since the movable elements are moved along interrelated axes, that could result in a conflict if the movable elements are moved in the wrong order, the controller program includes a subroutine that sets the sequence of axes movement such that conflicts are avoided. Further, movement of the movable machine elements is monitored as they are moved in a manner that senses jams, i. e. , the inability of an element to move at the command of speed.