ADJUSTABLE WICKET BAGGING MACHINE CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION [0001] This application claims the benefit of provisional patent application U.S. App. No.63/402,664, filed on August 31, 2022 and entitled “Adjustable Wicket Bagging Machine”, the entire contents of which are hereby expressly incorporated by reference into the present application. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention [0002] The invention generally relates to machines for automatically bagging discrete items including foodstuff such as produce and, more particularly, to a bagging or bagger machine that can accommodate bags of different sizes that are loaded into the machine by suspending the bags on wicket pins. The invention additionally relates to a method of using such a machine. 2. Discussion of the Related Art [0003] Wicket baggers or wicket bagger machines can automatically fill bags that are loaded into the machines as bunches or stacks of bags. Those bags are inserted onto and suspended from a pair of spaced apart metal rods, known as wicket pins. During a filling procedure, a bag is opened by having a first wall of the bag held in place by a clamp. An opposite or second wall of the bag is grabbed by fingers of a grabbing mechanism, sometimes assisted with vacuum pressure through suction cups or pads. After grabbing the bag’s second wall, the grabbing mechanism moves rearwardly, pulling it away from the first wall to open the bag. After the bag is opened, a filling machine dispenses items into the bag through a chute above the bag. After a bag is filled, the clamps are released, the bag tears away from the wicket pins by gravity, and it falls into an underlying takeoff conveyor; often after having been closed using a closure-clip or closure-label type of closing mechanism. [0004] Efforts have been made to increase the efficiency and versatility of wicket baggers. In order to increase throughput and efficiency, some machines are configured as dual filler machines. Dual filler machines are essentially two adjacent machines joined to each other, side-by-side, typically as mirror images of one another. Attempts to increase versatility include

{02156190.DOCX / } 1 of 26 configuring the wicket pins to have variable spacing to receive stacks of bags with different wicket hole spacing(s). [0005] Other improvements allow for using bags of different heights and front-to-back depths. Take-off conveyors have been provided with variable heights to receive bags of different heights. Some machines have front bag clamps with variable longitudinal spacings to change the machine’s bag-opening stroke for use with bags having different front-to-back depths or opening dimensions. [0006] Despite these efforts, adapting known wicket baggers to accommodate wicketed bags of different side-to-side widths presents numerous challenges. The chute that delivers the items into the bag has a chute inlet opening shaped to correspond to an opening at an end of a delivery conveyor that moves the items toward the bag. The chute’s outlet opening musts be shaped to correspond to the bag’s upper opening that receives the items. The chute’s body must provide a structural transition from the chute inlet opening to the chute outlet opening to ensure that the items are directed from the conveyor into the bag. Additionally, the bag-engaging mechanisms that hold the bag open must be positioned with respect to each other to provide the desired size and shape of the bag’s opening. Accordingly, to convert a typical wicketed bagger machine to use bags of a different side-to-side bag width, typically, at least some of the machine’s subsystems must be disassembled, reconfigured, and then reassembled with different, e.g., transverse spacing or other characteristics to be compatible with the subsequent bag’s different side-to-side width dimension(s). [0007] Due to these challenges, different wicket bagger machines are still required for different wicketed bag size categories. Height and front-to-back depth or bag-opening stroke can only provide a limited range of practical bag opening size, shape, and volume variation. There are typically three mainly recognized wicketed bag size categories, commonly referred to as small, standard, and extra-large; each category having its own range of bag sizes. Known wicket bagger machines are typically configured to work with only one of these recognized bag size categories. Converting a machine in one of the bag size categories to accommodate bags in a different bag size category typically requires the substantial undertaking of disassembly, reconfiguration, and reassembly; noting that some bagger machines cannot be modified to accept a full range of bag sizes because of underlying dimensional and/or other constraints. The time and labor required for this changeover are undesirable, to say the least.

{02156190.DOCX / } 2 of 26 [0008] The need therefore exists to provide a wicketed bagger machine that accommodates a wider spectrum of wicketed bag sizes, including bags in different size categories; and a corresponding method for the use of such a machine. [0009] The need therefore also exists to provide a wicketed bagger machine and corresponding methods to accommodate use of wicketed bags in all of the typical bag size categories, such as bags with capacities that range between 1 pound and 25 pounds and having different side-to-side widths, with the widest bags being greater than twice the side-to-side width as the smallest bags. [0010] The need additionally exists to provide a wicketed bagger machine that is width- adjustable to accommodate different-sized wicketed bags that can be efficiently adjusted for using different sized bags. [0011] The need additionally exists to provide a wicketed bagger machine that reduces the amount of disassembly / reassembly and reconfiguration required for using wicketed bags of different widths, even between different bag width categories. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION [0012] In accordance one or more of the identified needs is met by a wicketed of wicketed bags of different sizes, including bags from different size categories. [0013] In accordance with another aspect of the invention, the wicketed bagger machine may accommodate use of wicketed bags in all the typical bag size categories. Different bags can be implemented in the wicketed bagger machine through simple adjustments, e.g., primarily toolless adjustments. The different sized bags may include bags with capacities that range between 1-pound and 25-pounds, or larger ranges, and bags that have a variety of different side- to-side widths, with the widest bags having greater than twice the side-to-side width as the smallest bags. [0014] In accordance with another aspect of the invention, one or more of the identified needs is met by a wicketed bagger machine that accommodates use of wicketed bags of different heights, front-to-back depths, and side-to-side widths. The machine may include an adjustable chute system that allows for adjustments of chute segments, which may be toolless adjustments. The chute adjustments may be performed during a switch-over event to convert the machine

{02156190.DOCX / } 3 of 26 from filling a first type of wicketed bag with a first opening shape to a second type of wicketed bag with a second opening shape. [0015] In accordance with another aspect of the invention, adjusting the chute segment(s) reshapes the chute to provide a configuration that can direct items from a machine feed mechanism, such as a conveyor, to a wicketed bag that has an opening shape that is different from that of a previously-used wicketed bag of a different style. [0016] In accordance with another aspect of the invention, an intake system may include an adjustable chute with an upper chute segment and a lower chute segment, which are independently adjustable. An adjustable funnel may define the upper chute segment and provide funnel walls with variable angles of inclination to direct items toward the lower chute segment. An adjustable chute may define the lower chute segment and provide chute walls that are separated with a variable spacing. An adjustable bag opening system may include retainer assemblies and opener assemblies that are adjustably positioned with respect to each other to change their bag-engagement positions to correspond to different sized bags and their respective opening configurations. [0017] Various other features, embodiments and alternatives of the present invention will be made apparent from the following detailed description taken together with the drawings. It should be understood, however, that the detailed description and specific examples, while indicating preferred embodiments of the invention, are given by way of illustration and not limitation. Many changes and modifications could be made within the scope of the present invention without departing from the spirit thereof, and the invention includes all such modifications. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0018] Preferred exemplary embodiments of the invention are illustrated in the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals represent like parts throughout, and in which: [0019] FIG.1 is a partially schematic isometric view of an adjustable wicket bagger machine in accordance with an aspect of the invention; [0020] FIG.2 is a partially schematic front elevation view of the adjustable wicket bagger machine of FIG.1;

{02156190.DOCX / } 4 of 26 [0021] FIG.3 is a partially schematic side elevation view of the adjustable wicket bagger machine of FIG.1; [0022] FIG.4 is a top plan view of a portion of the adjustable wicketed bagger machine of FIG.1; [0023] FIG.5 is a partially cutaway isometric view from below of a portion of the adjustable wicket bagger machine of FIG.1; [0024] FIG.6 is a front elevation view of the adjustable wicketed bagger machine of FIG.1 in a first state for use with a bag of a first size; [0025] FIG.7 is a top plan view of a portion of the adjustable wicketed bagger machine of FIG.6; [0026] FIG.8 is a front elevation view of the adjustable wicketed bagger machine of FIG.1 in a second state for use with a bag of a second size; [0027] FIG.9 is a top plan view of a portion of the adjustable wicketed bagger machine of FIG.8; [0028] FIG.10 is partially exploded isometric view of an opening length adjuster system; [0029] FIG.11 is a front elevation view of the opening length adjuster system of FIG.10; [0030] FIG.12 is a side elevation view of the opening length adjuster system of FIG.10 in a first state to accommodate a bag of a first size; [0031] FIG.13 is a side elevation view of the opening length adjuster system of FIG.10 in a second state to accommodate a bag of a second size; [0032] FIG.14 is a top plan view of the opening length adjuster system of FIG.10 in a first state to accommodate a bag of a first size; [0033] FIG.15 is a side elevation view of the opening length adjuster system of FIG.10 in a second state to accommodate a bag of a second size; [0034] FIG.16 is a side elevation view of portions of an adjustable bag opening system with bag engaging mechanisms in lowered positions;

{02156190.DOCX / } 5 of 26 [0035] FIG.17 is a side elevation view of portions of the adjustable bag opening system of FIG.16 with bag engaging mechanisms in raised positions; [0036] FIG.18 is an isometric view from below a portion of the adjustable bag opening system of FIG.16; [0037] FIG.19 is close-up side elevation view of portions of an opener assembly of FIG.16; [0038] FIG.20 is close-up cross-sectional view of portions of the opener assembly of FIG.19; [0039] FIG.21 is a front elevation view of a portion of the adjustable bag opening system of FIG.16 in a first state for use with a bag of a first size; [0040] FIG.22 is a front elevation view of a portion of the adjustable bag opening system of FIG.16 in a second state for use with a bag of a second size; [0041] FIG.23 is an isometric view of an opening width adjuster system; [0042] FIG.24 is close-up cross-sectional view of a portion of the opening width adjuster system of FIG.23; [0043] FIG.25 is a front elevation view of a portion of an adjustable chute in a first state for use with a bag of a first size; [0044] FIG.26 is a front elevation view of a portion of an adjustable chute in a second state for use with a bag of a second size; [0045] FIG.27 is a top plan view of a portion of an adjustable chute in a first state for use with a bag of a first size; [0046] FIG.28 is a top plan view of a portion of an adjustable chute in a second state for use with a bag of a second size; [0047] FIG.29 is a front elevation view of an adjustable funnel as an upper segment of an adjustable chute; [0048] FIG.30 is a close-up cross-sectional view of an adjustable funnel wall in a first position;

{02156190.DOCX / } 6 of 26 [0049] FIG.31 is a close-up cross-sectional view of an adjustable funnel wall in a second position; [0050] FIG.32 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of an adjustable funnel; [0051] FIG.33 is a front elevation view of an adjustable funnel in a first state for use with a bag of a first size; and [0052] FIG.34 is a front elevation view of an adjustable funnel in a second state for use with a bag of a second size. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS [0053] Referring generally to the drawings, a packaging system 5 is shown with an adjustable wicket bagger machine or machine 10, which includes frame 12 that supports the machine’s 10 various systems, subsystems, and components. Machine 10 is configured for rapid, typically toolless, adjustability to accommodate use of wicketed bags 14 of different sizes; including those in different size categories and weight capacity ratings for bagging-type packaging of items 16. Machine 10 is shown here configured as a dual filler machine, with first and second or left and right machine segments or fillings stations 10A, 10B. The left and right machine segments 10A, 10B are typically identical or mirror images or each other. Accordingly, various systems, subsystems, and components of the left and right machine segments 10A, 10B may be generally described with respect to machine 10. Descriptions of only one of the left and right machine segments 10A, 10B may be provided as applying equally to corresponding components of the other fill station or machine segment 10A, 10B. It also should be noted that many of the concepts discussed herein, particularly those relating to the ability to adjust the machine to accommodate different bag sizes, apply equally to machines having more or less than two fill stations. [0054] Still referring to FIG.1, packaging system 5 typically includes various product or item receiving-type pieces of equipment, such as storage bunkers and washers; and complementary pieces of primary packaging equipment, such as, e.g., a weigher 18 for weighing the items 16 to be bagged in the machine 10. Weigher 18 is configured to weigh items 16 and form groups of weighed items 16 that correspond to the bag’s 14 rated weight capacity and to dispense those items into the underlying bagger machine 10. Examples of such complimentary pieces of primary packaging equipment include various weighers 18 in the Volmpack® series

{02156190.DOCX / } 7 of 26 available from Volm Companies, Inc. of Antigo Wisconsin. The items 16 may be discrete foodstuff items such as snack foods or produce items. Typical produce items include various citrous fruits, such as limes, lemons, oranges, and grapefruits; and various vegetables, such as onions, carrots and potatoes. [0055] Still referring to FIG.1, the particular item(s) 16 and the desired mass or quantity of items to store in a bag influence the size and type of bag 14 that is used during a bagging session. The bags 14 are shown as bundles or packs of folded or flattened larger bags 14A and smaller bags 14B that can be loaded into the machine 10 at its bag storage station 15. The particular sized bag 14A, 14B is selected, depending on the item(s) 16 that will be bagged. Wicket pins 17 are supported by the frame 12 at the bag storage station 15. The wicket pins 17 are inserted through wicket holes 17A in the packs of bags 14 when the bags are loaded into the machine 10. The wicket pins 17 are typically side-to-side adjustable to change their spacing to match a spacing of the wicket holes 17A, for example, by way of setscrew and slot(s) arrangements. The folded / flattened empty bags 14 are stored suspended by the wicket pins 17 until they are individually opened to receive the items 16 during a bagging session. The same size bags 14A, 14B may be loaded into the left and right machine segments 10A, 10B, and the machine 10 or different sized bags 14A, 14B may be used at the different machine segments 10A, 10B during the bagging session. [0056] Still referring to FIG.1, examples of wicketed bags 14 of different materials, weight capacities, and size categories such as sizes 14A, 14B, are also available from Volm Companies, Inc. of Antigo Wisconsin in its flexible packaging product lines. Categories within the flexible packaging product lines include wicketed and pre-made poly bags, wicketed leno mesh, and other wicketed mesh bags. Different wicketed mesh bag types include CLAF, CLAF Bio Fabric™, and Ultratech® mesh materials. The weight capacities of bags 14 are typically in a range of 0.75 lb. (0.34 kg) to 50 lbs. (22.68 kg) , more typically between 1 lb. (0.45 kg) and 25 lbs. (11.34 kg), and most typically between 1 lb. (0.45 kg) and 20 lbs. (9.07 kg). The height dimension of bags 14 is typically in a range of 11.8 inches (300 mm) and 29.5 inches (750mm), more typically between 13.8 inches (350 mm) and 27.6 inches (700 mm), and most typically between 15.75 inches (400 mm) and 27.2 inches (690 mm). The width dimension of bags 14 is typically in a range of 5.9 inches (150 mm) and 19.7 inches (500 mm), and most typically

{02156190.DOCX / } 8 of 26 between 7.9 inches (200 mm) and 16.9 inches (430 mm), and most typically between 8.7 inches (220 mm) and 14.96 inches (380 mm). [0057] Still referring to FIG.1, machine 10 is configured to be adjustable, more specifically toollessly adjustable, to accommodate the different-size bags 14 for different bagging sessions. Toolless adjustability typically includes manipulating, e.g., a handle, knob, or other feature by hand to loosen, adjust, and retighten. This allows, for example, rapidly switching between using machine 10 with larger bags 14A and using the machine 10 with smaller bags 14B. Such a changeover event may allow for bagging the same type of item in different weights, e.g., switching from bagging potatoes in large 25 lbs. bags to bagging potatoes in smaller 15 lbs. bags in a subsequent bagging session. The adjustability further allows for changing between bagging of different sizes or types of items 16 into different sized bags 14 during different bagging sessions, if desired. The smaller bags 14B may be less than about 2/3 of both the width dimension and height dimension of the larger bags. [0058] Still referring to FIG.1, regardless of the particular size of the bag 14 or type of items 16 to be received in each bag 14, the items 16 are moved in a downstream direction from the weigher 18 to the machine 10. This downstream movement of the items may be done by way of a conveyance system, such as conveyors 20. Conveyors 20 are shown here as v-belt conveyors that may singulate and move the items 16 from weigher 18 through the packing system 5, toward the machine’s 10 intake system 22. Intake system 22 may include a vibration system 11 to assist with singulating the items 16. Gates 24 may be arranged along the conveyors 20 to selectively pivot or otherwise move to release the items 18 from the conveyors 20 further into the intake system 22. [0059] Referring now to FIGS.1 and 2, stop plates 26 are configured to provide a resilient wall against which the items 16 (FIG.1) may collide to stop their forward momentum when released from the conveyors 20 (FIG.1). After colliding with the stop plates 26, the items 16 (FIG.1) fall into a passage of an adjustable chute 30 of the intake system 22. The adjustable chute 30 guides the items 16 into the bag(s) 14, with each bag 14 held open by an adjustable bag opening system 31 at the machine’s 10 bag fill station 32. [0060] Referring now to FIG.2, adjustable chute 30 surrounds an adjustable chute passage 34 that defines different shapes, including relative dimensions and aspect ratios, based on adjustments made to the chute 30. One passage 34 configuration or shape may provide a

{02156190.DOCX / } 9 of 26 relatively wide and straight passage, represented by the solid-line rectangular outline. A narrower passage 34 configuration or shape with an upper tapering segment is represented by the dashed- line passage profile. The adjustability of chute 30 and its passage 34 may be provided by independently adjustable segments of the chute 30. A first chute segment is shown as an upper chute segment or adjustable funnel 36 that includes funnel walls 37A, 37B that can pivot to adjust the funnel’s dimensions and the cross-sectional shape of a funnel passage defined through it. A second chute segment is shown as a lower chute segment 38 that includes chute walls 39A, 39B that can move transversely to adjust the chute’s dimensions and the cross-sectional shape of a chute passage defined through it. In some implementations, the upper chute segment or adjustable funnel 36 is mounted to receive vibrations from a vibration system 11 (FIG.1) and the lower chute segment or lower chute segment 38 is isolated from the vibration system’s 11 vibrations. [0061] Referring now to FIG.3, the filled bags 14 are removed from the bag fill station 32 and toward the machine’s 10 outlet or discharge system 40. Discharge system 40 includes support conveyors 42 that move the filled bags 14 further downstream in the packaging system 5 while supporting the bags 14 from below. A grabber system 44 of discharge system 40 includes a reciprocating grabber arm 46 with a pivoting grabber finger 48. After a bag 14 is filled with the items 16, the grabber finger 48 pivots over and grips an upper end of bag 14, which may be supplemented by vacuum pressure from a suction pad at an end of the grabber arm 46. While the support conveyer 42 moves the filled bag 14 out of the bag fill station 32, the upper end of bag 14 is supported and pulled by the grabber arm 46 and finger 48 to move in unison with the lower end of bag 14 away from the fill station 32. [0062] Still referring to FIG.3, control system 50 is configured to control various other automated tasks such as delivering items 16 to fill station 32, opening bag 14, filling bag 14, and moving the filled bag 14 through machine 10 to exit through discharge system 40. Control system 50 may include a PLC (programmable logic controller) or other computer that executes various stored programs while receiving inputs from and sending commands to the subsystems of or components of packaging system 5. An HMI (human machine interface) 52 may be implemented as a touchscreen that allows a user to provide information that may be needed to modify various operating parameters or performance characteristics of the packaging system 5

{02156190.DOCX / } 10 of 26 when the machine 10 is adjusted to use different sized bags 14 for bagging different items 16 in a subsequent bagging session following a changeover event. [0063] Referring generally to FIGS.4, 5, and 6, during a changeover event, adjustments are made to machine 10 to accommodate bags 14 (FIG.1) of a different size than what was used in a previous bagging session. Various features of the adjustable chute 30, the adjustable bag opening system 31, and the discharge system 40 are configured to be toollessly adjustable to accommodate the different size bags 14. The toolless adjustments include changing, for example, spacing between various components or features to modify how machine 10 directs the items 16 (FIG.1) into the bags 14 as well as how machine 10 engages the bags 14. Modifying how the items 16 are directed into the bags 14 is achieved by adjusting the features and overall geometry of adjustable chute 30. Modifying how the machine 10 engages with the bags 14 is achieved by changing the positions of bag engaging-mechanisms of the adjustable bag opening system 31 for opening the bags 14 to receive the items 16 and to support the bags 14 during the filling procedure. [0064] Referring now to FIGS.4-5 and with background reference to FIG.1, adjustable chute 30 surrounds and adjustable chute passage 34 directs the items 16 (FIG.1) into the bag 14 (FIG.1) that is held open at the bag fill station 32 (FIG.1). Bag-engaging mechanisms 60 (FIG. 4) open each bag 14 to define the perimeter shape of the bag’s 14 upper end opening and hold it open to receive the items 16 (FIG.1). A pair of retainer assemblies 62 define a first pair of bag- engaging mechanisms 60 (FIG.4) toward the bag storage station 15 (FIG.4) and hold a front wall or panel of the bag 14 fixed during the bag opening and filling procedures. A pair of opener assemblies 66 define a second pair of bag-engaging mechanisms 60 (FIG.4) away from the bag storage station 15 (FIG.4) and are configured to reciprocate to grab a back wall or panel of the bag 14, pull it away from the front panel to open the bag, and hold the bag in the open position during the bag filling procedure. [0065] Referring generally to FIGS.6-9, machine 10 is shown in two different adjusted configurations or bag states to use two different sized bags 14. In FIGS.6 and 7, the machine 10 is in a first bag state to use the larger bags 14A. In FIGS.8 and 9, the machine 10 is in a second bag state to use the smaller bags 14B. [0066] Comparing the machine 10 configurations in FIGS.6 and 8, support conveyor adjuster 70 is configured to change the height of the discharge system’s 40 support conveyor 42

{02156190.DOCX / } 11 of 26 within the bag fill station 32. Support conveyor adjuster 70 includes a linear actuator, such as a ball-and-screw type mechanism that converts rotation of handle 72 into vertical movement of a support conveyor’s 42 frame 74. In FIG.6, by way of support conveyor adjuster 70, the support conveyor 42 is positioned to engage a bottom wall of a full bag 14A that has a bag height of H1 to correspond to the machine’s 10 first bag state. In FIG.8, by way of support conveyor adjuster 70, the support conveyor 42 is positioned to engage a bottom wall of a full bag 14B that has a bag height of H2 to correspond to the machine’s 10 second bag state. [0067] Comparing the machine 10 configurations of FIGS.7 and 9, adjustable bag opening system 31 is configured to change the positions of the bag-engaging mechanisms 60 (FIG.4), such as the retainer assemblies 62 and opener assemblies 66, to open and hold the bags 14 with different opening sizes and shapes or aspect ratios. To adjust for different bag opening widths defined between the bags’ 14 sides or left and right walls 76, 78 when open, retainer assemblies 62 can be moved closer to or further from each other, toward a bag’s 14 front panel 80. Opener assemblies 66 can be moved closer to or further from each other, independent of the spacing between the retainer assemblies 62, toward the bag’s 14 back panel 82. In FIG.7, the spacing between the retainer assemblies 62 and opener assemblies 66 provide engagements with bag 14A to hold it open with a bag opening width of W1 and a bag opening length of L1 to correspond to the machine’s 10 first bag state. In FIG.9, the spacing between the retainer assemblies 62 and opener assemblies 66 provide engagements with bag 14B to hold it open with a bag opening width of W2 and a bag opening length of L2 to correspond to the machine’s 10 second bag state. [0068] Still referring to FIGS.7 and 9, the spacing between the pair of opener assemblies 66 and the pair of retainer assemblies 62 can be changed to adjust for different bag opening lengths defined between the bag’s 14 front and back panels 80, 82 when the bag is fully open. Referring generally to FIGS.10-15, an opening length adjuster system 84 is configured to move the retainer assemblies 62 toward or away from the opener assemblies 66. This changes the effective stroke of the opener assemblies 66 during use, which correspondingly changes the bag’s 14 opening length. [0069] Referring now to FIGS.10 and 11, opening length adjuster system 84 includes a chute support 86 that is an L-shaped assemblage with an upright post 88 and a horizontal bar 90 that is supported in a cantilevered fashion from an upper end of the upright post 88. The chute

{02156190.DOCX / } 12 of 26 walls 39A, 39B extend parallel to each other, rearwardly and cantilevered from the horizontal bar 90. An actuator 92 of the opening length adjuster system 84 is typically a linear actuator, such as a ball-and-screw type mechanism, that converts rotation of a handle 94 into horizontal movement of the chute support 86. A guide rod 96 extends parallel to the actuator’s 92 screw and supports a linear bearing 98 for sliding support of the chute support 86 at a bottom end of the upright post 88. As shown in FIG.11, wicket pins 17 and stop plate 26 are also mounted to horizontal bar 90 so that the horizontal bar generally provides a boundary between the bag support station 15 (FIG. 1) and the bag fill station 32 (FIG.1). Each wicket pin 17 is attached to a pin support 93 that has an upright wall 95 and a horizontal flange 97 that engages a bottom surface of horizontal bar 90. Set screws 99 extend through slots in the horizontal flange and can be loosened to allow side to side adjustment of a pair of wicket pins 17 and tightened to secure the pins 17 in a particular position to match the spacing of wicket holes 17A (FIG.1). The wicket pins 17, stop plate 26, and lower chute segment 38 move in unison with each other during movement of the chute support 86. [0070] FIGS.12 and 13 show the unitary translation of the assemblage of wicket pins 17, stop plate 26, and lower chute segment 38. In FIG.12, the chute support 86 is in a forward position. This spaces the stop plate 26 further from an opposite or back end of adjustable chute 30. In FIG.13, the chute support 86 is in a rearward position, which positions the stop plate 26 closer to the back end of adjustable chute 30. [0071] Referring now to FIGS.14 and 15, these top plan views correspond to the respective side elevation views of FIGS.12 and 13. In FIG.14, the lower chute segment 38 provides a relatively longer opening. An open bag 14A is shown with a bag opening length L1. The lower chute segment 38 in FIG.15 provides a relatively shorter opening length. This is represented by a bag opening length L2 of bag 14B. [0072] Referring now to FIGS.16 and 17, retainer assembly 62 includes a retainer finger 100 with a hook 102 at its lower end and a pivot mount 103 at its upper end. Retainer finger 100 pivots down (FIG.16) to selectively engage and hold a bag’s front panel 80 (FIGS.7 and 9) during the bag opening and filling procedures. Pivoting the retainer finger 100 upwardly (FIG. 17) disengages it from the bag 14, which allows a full bag 14 to be removed from the bag fill station 32 (FIG.3). Pivot movement of the retainer finger 100 is driven by a retainer actuator 106, which is shown here as a pneumatic cylinder-type linear actuator.

{02156190.DOCX / } 13 of 26 [0073] Still referring to FIGS.16 and 17, opener assembly 66 includes a suction pad 112 that is configured to connect to the back panel of the bag 14 by suction or vacuum pressure. The vacuum connection between suction pad 112 and the bag’s 14 back panel helps establish a space between the back and front panels of the bag during a partial opening procedure, during which the bag’s back panel is initially separated from its front panel. After the initial separation between the bag’s 14 front and back panels, a lower portion of an opener lug 114 inserts in the space between the panels. An upper portion of the opener lug 114 includes a pivot mount 116 that allows the opener lug 114 to pivot down (FIG.16) and engage with bag 14 or pivot up (FIG. 17) and disengage the bag. A lug actuator 118 drives the pivot movement of the opener lug 114. Lug actuator 118 is shown here as a pneumatic cylinder-type linear actuator that cooperates with a rack and pinion system 120. The rack and pinion system 120 has a rack that is driven to reciprocate by the lug actuator’s 118 piston. Linear movement of the rack is translated into rotational movement of a pinion gear that is connected to the opener lug’s 114 pivot mount 116 so that the opener lug 114 pivots in unison with rotation of the rack and pinion system’s 120 pinion gear. [0074] Referring now to FIG.18, the opener assemblies 66 are moveably mounted in an opener frame 124 that is supported by the machine’s frame 12 (FIG.1). Opener frame 124 has a pair of fixed support plates 126 that engage with opener sliding plates 128 through a dovetail- type slide connection 130. Each opener assembly 66 is mounted to a respective opener sliding plate 128. Within the opener assembly 66, lug actuator 118 is mounted to the bottom surface of and suspended from the opener sliding plate 128. At a top surface of sliding plate 128, the plate supports suction pad 112 and a pair of plates that define upright supports 132, 134. The upright supports 132, 134 provide support for the rack and pinion system 120, pivot mount 116, and therefore also the opener lug 114. In this way, each opener assembly 66 and its cooperating sliding plate 128 defines a unit that can be toollessly adjusted and moved independently of the retainer assemblies 62 (FIG.4). Moving the opener assemblies 66 and sliding plates 128 toward or away from each other changes the lateral spacing between them, with the spacing selected to correspond to a desired width dimension of the bag’s 14 opening. [0075] Referring now to FIG.19, an opener adjuster lock 136 permits or prevents movement of the opener assemblies 66 with respect to each other. When the opener adjuster lock 136 is released, the sliding plate 128 is free to move with respect to the fixed support plate 126.

{02156190.DOCX / } 14 of 26 When the opener adjuster lock 136 is locked, the sliding plate 128 is locked with respect to the fixed support plate 126, preventing movement of the opener assembly 66 through the slide connection 130. [0076] Referring now to FIG.20, opener adjuster lock 136 includes a handle 138 with a threaded stem 140. The threaded stem 140 engages threads of a wedge block 142. Tightening the handle 138 advances the wedge block 142 along the threaded stem 140. This wedges respective angled surfaces of the wedge block 142 and sliding plate 128 against each other, which clamps the sliding plate 128 between the fixed support plate 126 and wedge block 142 and locks the opener assembly 66 in place. Loosening the handle 138 releases the engagement of the wedge block 142 and sliding plate 128, which permits the sliding plate 128 to move with respect to the fixed support plate 126 to allow movement and positional adjustment of the opener assembly 66. Comparing the spacing of the opener assemblies 66 in FIG.21 to those of FIG.22, the opener assemblies 66 in FIG.21 are spaced further from each other than those in FIG.22. [0077] Referring now to FIGS.23 and 24, opening width adjuster system 150 includes rail couplers 152 that interconnect the chute walls 39A, 39B to the chute support 86. As shown in FIG.24, the rail coupler 152 included a fixed rail 154 that is secured to a rearwardly-facing wall of the chute support’s 86 horizontal bar 90. Front ends of each chute wall 39A, 39B are secured to a vertically oriented mount plate 156. Still referring to FIG.24, a mount rail 158, which has an open C-type configuration, is secured to the mount plate 156. In this way, each chute wall 39A, 38B and its respective mount plate 156 and mount rail 158 provide an assemblage that are fixed with respect to each other. A bearing 160, such as a cassette-type linear bearing, is mounted in the mount rail’s 158 channel and provides a sliding interface between the mount rail 158 and fixed rail 154. The sliding interaction between the fixed rail 154 and mount rail 158 allow each of the chute walls 39A, 39B to move along the length of the chute support’s 86 horizontal bar 90 while remaining perpendicular to it. Moving the chute walls 39A, 39B along the length of horizontal bar correspondingly increases or decreases a distance between the chute walls 39A, 39B. [0078] Still referring to FIGS.23 and 24, chute wall clamps 162 selectively lock or unlock the chute walls 39A, 39B in a fixed position by user rotation of handles 164. As shown in FIG.24, handle 164 includes a threaded stem 166 that extends through a slot 168 in a front wall of the chute support’s 86 horizontal bar 90. Clamping nut 170 is arranged inside the horizontal

{02156190.DOCX / } 15 of 26 bar 90 and receives the threaded stem 166. When handle 164 is tightened, the threaded stem 166 and nut 170 advance toward each other, which clamps the front wall of horizontal bar 90 between the nut 170 and handle 164. This locks the chute wall 39A, 39B in place. Loosening the handle 164 releases the clamping force and allows movement of the chute walls 39A, 39B for adjusting a width or spacing between the chute walls 39A, 39B. [0079] Referring now to FIGS.25 and 26, two different spacings between the chute walls 39A, 39B are shown. Comparing the spacings, the chute walls 39A, 39B are spaced further from each other in FIG.25 than they are in FIG.26. Referring now to FIGS.27 and 28, these top plan views correspond to the respective front elevation views of FIGS.25 and 26. In FIG.27, the lower chute segment 38 provides a relatively wider opening as represented by bag opening width W1 of bag 14A. The lower chute segment 38 in FIG.28 provides a relatively narrower opening width or chute outlet width, as represented by bag opening width W2 of bag 14B. [0080] Still referring to FIGS.27 and 28, the chute walls 39A, 39B and/or their mounting structures may support the bag-engaging hooks 100. In this arrangement, the opening width adjusters 150 of lower chute segment 38 are also used to adjust the width between the retainer assemblies 62, which allows for simultaneous adjustment of the chute width and a bag opening width for the front of the bag 14. [0081] Referring now to FIGS.29-32, funnel adjuster system 180 is configured to adjust the shape and dimension of the adjustable chute’s 30 upper segment or adjustable funnel 36. Each funnel wall 37A, 37B has a planar main wall panel 182. A tab 184 is connected to and extends perpendicularly with respect to a front end of the main wall panel 182, toward the panel’s lower edge. Funnel wall clamps 186 selectively lock or unlock the funnel walls 37A, 37B in a fixed position by user rotation of handles or knobs 190. As shown in FIG.32, each funnel wall clamp 186 may include two knobs 190A, 190B that are coaxially aligned with each other. A threaded rod 192 extends axially away from the outer knob 190A and axially through the inner knob 190B. An outer end 194 of threaded rod 192 is supported by a funnel frame 200. As shown in FIG.32, the threaded rod’s 192 outer end 194 may extend through a bore of a crossmember 202 of the funnel frame 200. Nut(s) 204, shown as jam nuts, are threaded to the outer end 194 of the threaded rod 192, and locate the threaded rod 192 with respect to the crossmember 202. Nut 208, which is shown as a wingnut, is threaded to an inner end 206 of threaded rod 192. A front wall 210 of the funnel frame 200 is arranged between the inner knob 190B and the funnel wall

{02156190.DOCX / } 16 of 26 tab 184. In this arrangement, when knob 190B is tightened, the funnel wall tab 184 is clamped between the funnel frame front wall 210 and nut 208, which locks the funnel wall 37A, 37B in place. Loosening the knob 190B releases the clamping force and allows movement of the funnel wall 37A, 37. [0082] Referring now to FIGS.30 and 31, movement of the funnel wall 37A, 37B provides reshaping of a tapering aspect of the adjustable funnel 36. A pivot mount 212 connects each funnel wall 37A, 37B to the funnel frame 200. Referring again to FIG.32, each pivot mount 212 includes a pivot pin 214 that is connected to a pivot barrel 216 that is attached to an upper edge or segment of the funnel wall 37A, 37B. End blocks 218, 220 are attached to funnel frame 200 and support opposite ends of the pivot pin 214. The pivot pin 214 defines a pivot axis about which the funnel wall 37A, 37B pivots during adjustment. The lower end of the funnel wall 37A, 37B is guided through a sweeping movement by the threaded rod’s 192 movement through an arcuate groove 222 that extend through the funnel frame’s front wall 210. Comparing the wall angles of the adjustable funnel 36 in FIG.33 to that of FIG.34, the adjustable funnel 36 in FIG. 33 provides a substantially non-tapered passage compared to the tapered passage shown in FIG. 34. In FIG.33, the funnel walls 37A, 37B are substantially vertical and parallel to each other. In FIG.34, the funnel walls 37A, 37B are angled toward each other, with their bottom segments closer to each other than their upper segments and providing a narrower funnel outlet width than that shown in FIG.33. [0083] Accordingly, and referring again generally to FIGS.1-3, machine 10 can be toollessly adjusted to accommodate different sized wicketed bags 14by modifying aspects of its intake system 22 by way of adjusting features of its adjustable chute 30. This may include modifying shapes and/or dimensional characteristics of adjustable chutes passage(s) and their respective openings by changing the configuration of components or features that define the passages. An adjustable funnel 36 and a lower chute segment 38 may be adjusted independently of each other to provide desired item delivery characteristics. Bag-holding features such as retainer assemblies 62 and opener assemblies 66 may also be adjusted independently of each other to provide the desired bag holding characteristics, including those that define dimensions and shapes of a bag’s opening during bag opening and filling procedures. [0084] Although the best mode contemplated by the inventor of carrying out the present invention is disclosed above, practice of the present invention is not limited thereto. It will be

{02156190.DOCX / } 17 of 26 manifest that various additions, modifications and rearrangements of the aspects and features of the present invention may be made in addition to those described above without deviating from the spirit and scope of the underlying inventive concept. The scope of some of these changes is discussed above. The scope of other changes to the described embodiments that fall within the present invention but that are not specifically discussed above will become apparent from the appended claims and other attachments.

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