Patent attributes
The present subject matter relates generally to a system and a method for crumpling paper substrates. Specifically, the system and method provide for the crumpling of paper substrates to form fill material to be utilized in product packaging to fill void space and/or to wrap around products thereby allowing for safe transport of the products. The system comprises, generally, a paper crumpling machine having a braking mechanism for preventing uncontrolled rolling of a paper roll, a rake for effectively guiding paper sheeting into the paper crumpling machine, and a disengagement mechanism for easily disengaging the paper sheeting from the apparatus if necessary, and an automatic tensioning device for providing even distribution of tension on the paper sheeting. In addition, the apparatus comprises a cutting mechanism and/or a clamping mechanism for allowing cutting and/or clamping of the crumpled paper substrate.