(57) Packaging assembly characterised by using a vehicle, especially a fork-lift truck,
as power source for packaging operation. Primarily intended for wrapping loads with
plastics film, but can use any conventional materials or combinations, including those
applied using spraying (cocooning or lacquering). Power offtake from vehicle can be
hydraulic or electrical but is preferably mechanical, using vehicle's drive wheels
to engage rollers or turntable to operate the load manipulator (usually supporting
turntable or rollers) through intermediate transmission. Packaging material is preferably
supplied from dispenser mounted on the vehicle, together with optional ancillaries
(heaters, load stabilisers). Variants include making the load manipulator able to
tilt to allow wrapping in several directions, making the assembly as separate modules,
including folded stiff sheeting within packaged load as disposable strengthener (substitute
for pallet), and operating two manipulators by one vehicle. Improves vehicle utilisation
and advantageous in hazardous areas, restricted space, or remote from power sources.
|
|
