having an open position and a closed position, an actuator mechanism for moving the shield between open and closed positions, and a switch for detecting whether the shield is in the open or closed position or an improper position indicating the presence of a foreign object in the chute in addition to the cushioning product.
In accordance with a still further aspect of the invention, a safety output chute for a cushioning conversion machine includes a chute having an input end including an opening for receiving a cushioning product from an outlet of the cushioning conversion machine, the chute including a hinged cover, and a sliding door for selectively blocking the opening when the cover is open and permitting passage through the opening when the cover is closed.
In accordancewith an even further aspect of the invention, a safety output chute for a cushioning conversion machine includes a chute having an input end and an output end, the input end including an opening for receiving a flexible cushioning product from an outlet of the cushioning conversion machine; and a plurality of axially spaced hinged elements substantially preventing ingress though the chute from the output end towards the input end.
In accordance with another aspect of the invention, a safety output chute for a cushioning conversion machine includes a chute having an input end and an output end, the input end including an opening for receiving a cushioning product from an outlet of the cushioning conversion machine; a shield partially within the chute having an open position and a