Batten feeder

Abstract

The present invention is a batten feeding system and method for automatically dispensing and transporting battens from a remote location to a banding machine or similar machine. The batten feeding system includes a batten dispensing system and a first transport section configured to move battens into the batten dispensing system. Additionally, the system includes a second transports section configured to receive battens from the batten dispensing system. The system also includes a control system that is configured to control operation of at least one of a batten dispensing system, first transport section and second transport section.

1 . A batten feeding system comprising: 
 a batten dispensing system;    a first transport section configured to move battens into the batten dispensing system;    a second transports section configured to receive battens from the batten dispensing system;    a control system configured to control operation of at least one of a batten dispensing system, first transport section and second transport section.    
   
   
       2 . A method of forming a bundled shipping unit, comprising: 
 depositing a batten onto a transport section by operation of a automatic batten dispensing system; and,    controlling the transport section to transport the batten into a banding machine.