Production apparatus and production method for infusion-type capsules

Abstract

In a device and a production method for capsules, in particular for infusion-type products, to continuously convey filters into the capsules, independently of both the feeding rate of the flow of filters and the cup-shaped containers of the capsules, there are provided: a plurality of filter-conveying devices; a first transport system for the conveying devices, which moves the conveying devices continuously along a first closed path; and a second transport system of support devices, which moves the support devices continuously along a second closed path, each support device receiving a respective cup-shaped container, wherein the first closed path comprises a filter-insertion section, which is superimposed on the second closed path, so as to mutually synchronize the conveying devices of the cup-shaped containers and the respective support devices, so as to continuously transfer the filters to the target cup-shaped containers.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an apparatus and method for producing foamed capsules in equipment and packaging processes.

[0002] The present invention is preferably, but not exclusively, applied in the field of packaging emulsified capsules of emulsified products to obtain emulsified products, such as coffee, particularly beverages obtained by emulsification methods and with the addition of edible liquids such as water or milk, and this field may be referred to hereinafter without loss of generality. Background Technology

[0003] Specifically, in the relevant technical field, there are known production apparatuses that connect cup-shaped elements and filters together, wherein the filters can be specially transported or obtained simultaneously through a forming process.

[0004] Therefore, filters need to be distributed, or may need to be individually formed and inserted from a large number of discrete elements. This means that filters need to be coupled to their respective cup elements when both cup elements and filters or discrete elements are fed into the packaging equipment at high flow rates that must be synchronized.

[0005] In this specification and the appended claims, certain terms and expressions are to be understood in the following sense, unless otherwise expressly stated.

[0006] Here and below, discrete components are defined as components formed from individual parts that must be processed at high speeds, with the ultimate goal of connecting them to corresponding discrete target components.

[0007] In particular, it is envisioned that these discrete components are fed to a discrete component line downstream of any machining or extraction process or even preforming, through which a predetermined spacing between the discrete components is achieved, thereby allowing tool intervention without them interfering with discrete components that are outside their capabilities.

[0008] For example, discrete components can consist of parts designed to be connected to cup-shaped components supplied in this form to the packaging process.

[0009] Therefore, the discrete element constitutes a semi-finished product for obtaining the filter, which must then be connected to the cup-shaped element to form a brewing capsule, which is prepared to be filled with a brewing product for the product to be obtained, such as coffee powder or instant coffee.

[0010] In the case of filters, discrete elements can be layered elements, such as disc-shaped elements made of paper material, to be used to make brewing filters, which then allow water-based brewing liquids to be filtered through while preventing brewing materials such as coffee powder or tea leaves from passing through.

[0011] After being fed, these discrete components must be placed on their respective receiving components, and the target cup-shaped container must be quickly and synchronously shaped and applied to it in a synchronized manner with the feeding of the cup-shaped component itself. Then, when the target cup-shaped container is shaped, the filter itself can be received.

[0012] It should be understood that the discrete components and receiving components are transported continuously as they move at a predetermined speed, which may be variable, i.e., experiencing acceleration and deceleration, but never disappearing. Therefore, continuous feeding and transport differs from step feeding and transport, in which the corresponding discrete components and / or receiving components move step by step.

[0013] "Cup-shaped container" refers to a round or cylindrical hollow element designed to form a sac-like structure that functions as a container to enclose, cover, protect, cover, or close the product contained therein, thereby having a predetermined shape in which the head and bottom are identified and arranged in an upright, vertical configuration with the head facing upwards, and the sac-like structure has an opening that can be sealed by a lid.

[0014] Conversely, the sac-like part will have a substantially truncated conical or truncated pyramidal shape, or an equivalent shape.

[0015] "Line feed" or transport refers to the supply of discrete components in the form of a sequence of discrete components aligned with each other, which is the result of extraction or processing.

[0016] It should be understood that in this row, each discrete element is separated from the elements before and after it by a constant spacing, which is the result of the extraction and / or processing steps.

[0017] "Release device" refers to a device that provides the discrete element in the manner described above.

[0018] "Feed section" refers to the segment along which the release device conveys the discrete element to the subsequent transport path. In particular, even if the discrete element is continuously fed, the release of the discrete element will occur at the release point belonging to the feed section, so the feed section can be defined as a linear segment in which the possible release points of the release device fall.

[0019] The term "transportation system" or "transportation device" refers to any system designed to transport discrete components while maintaining their respective singularities, meaning they do not interfere with each other in any way. The same concept also applies to cup-shaped containers.

[0020] "Transportation path" is understood as the path taken by the receiving element and the support device, which are designed to individually accommodate the respective discrete element and the respective cup-shaped container.

[0021] The term “closed transport path” refers to a transport path in which the receiving element unfolds along a closed line on a basic horizontal plane, while the term “turntable structure” refers to a transport device that runs on a closed transport path, allowing the article and the corresponding clamping device, or in any case the movable device provided therein, to undergo so-called rotation. Therefore, it should not be confused with the typical alternating reciprocating motion of a belt conveyor.

[0022] "Conveying device" refers to a device that provides a filter, which is formed and ready for insertion into a cup-shaped element. The conveying device may include a forming device that produces the filter from a semi-finished product supplied to it, as in the case of the discrete elements described above. Alternatively, it may be supplied with a filter that needs to be correctly positioned relative to the cup-shaped element to achieve its insertion.

[0023] "Forming apparatus" refers to the following device: when receiving discrete elements for forming filters, the device permanently deforms the discrete elements into the shape of a trumpet-shaped cup container, the discrete elements matching the cavity of the cup container, and the discrete elements being inserted into the cup container through the upper opening of the cup container.

[0024] It should also be understood that the forming device can be an integral part of the conveying device.

[0025] The term "piston" refers to a linearly actuated reciprocating motion member having a drive bar and a movable head within a cylindrical cavity. In the following description, the term "piston" is associated with the forming stamp of the forming apparatus described above, which is operated from a piston head in a generally cylindrical forming cavity.

[0026] The applicant points out that the speed at which the items to be packaged are conveyed and inserted into the target package during the packaging process is crucial to the overall economics of the process, as high output can be achieved with less packaging equipment.

[0027] In addition, the applicant observed that, besides the need for expedited processing, another important and unavoidable requirement was the flexibility required for such equipment, particularly in terms of different production specifications, which necessitated the ability to operate filters and discrete components of different shapes and sizes using the same equipment.

[0028] This requirement becomes particularly acute at high speeds when the precise and correct positioning of the filter in its target location and the corresponding cup-shaped element is crucial to the economics of the production process.

[0029] Furthermore, this need is amplified when packaging machines require increased processing speeds and must be managed without any inconvenience or errors.

[0030] In addition, the equipment must be able to handle bladders of different sizes, where filters and cup-shaped containers of different sizes must be assembled together without intervention from packaging equipment.

[0031] The applicant also verified that continuous feeding of the two filters, particularly the discrete elements for the relevant forming process, and continuous feeding of the cup-shaped container, can achieve the productivity required for such equipment in packaging facilities, resulting in reduced feed and throughput times.

[0032] The applicant found that, in general, synchronization between the flow of the filter or discrete element and the cup-shaped container represents a promising starting point for realizing apparatus and processes for inserting filters in the production of foamed capsules.

[0033] The applicant also recognized that this requirement manifested itself in both continuous and stepwise feeds, especially in high-speed feeds, and that appropriate measures needed to be taken to achieve the required flexibility.

[0034] Therefore, the applicant recognizes that, for the flow of discrete components and the flow of cup-shaped components, the use of appropriate closed forming and insertion paths can allow for optimization of the use of a given number of forming and insertion devices, while also allowing for effective management of process speed.

[0035] The applicant ultimately discovered that the process could be optimized by synchronizing the transport of the filter element and the path of filter forming, at least in the filter insertion section, i.e., the channel through which the filter enters the container, thereby allowing all the necessary flexibility. Summary of the Invention

[0036] In particular, in a first aspect of the invention, the invention relates to an apparatus for producing foam-type capsules, i.e., for conveying filters into various cup-shaped containers.

[0037] Preferably, the production apparatus includes multiple filter conveying devices.

[0038] Preferably, the production apparatus includes a first transport system for transporting the device, the first transport system enabling the transport device to move continuously along a first closed path.

[0039] Preferably, the production apparatus includes a second transport system with a support device that is continuously moved along a second closed path.

[0040] Preferably, each support device receives the corresponding cup-shaped container.

[0041] Preferably, the first closed path includes a filter insertion section that overlaps with the second closed path, thereby synchronizing the conveying device and the corresponding support device of the cup-shaped container to continuously convey the filter to the target cup-shaped container.

[0042] Because of these characteristics, an apparatus for producing foamed capsules can be created, in which two streams of a filter and a cup-shaped container allow the filter to be continuously inserted to form foamed capsules, regardless of the feed rate of these streams and the specifications of the filter and the cup-shaped container.

[0043] Furthermore, due to these characteristics, the same insertion moving components are reused continuously, i.e., the same transport and support devices move along a closed path but are synchronized in the insertion step.

[0044] This allows them to change their cycle speed without causing any inconvenience during production.

[0045] In a second aspect, the present invention relates to a method for producing foam-type capsules, wherein a filter is conveyed into a corresponding cup-shaped container.

[0046] Preferably, in the production method for foam-type capsules, multiple conveying devices move along a first closed path.

[0047] Furthermore, in the production method of foamed capsule-shaped parts, multiple corresponding transport devices move along a second closed path, and each transport device holds the corresponding cup-shaped container.

[0048] Preferably, the above production method includes an insertion step, in which the first closed path and the second closed path are superimposed at the insertion segment.

[0049] Preferably, in the insertion section, the filters are placed in their respective cup-shaped containers.

[0050] In other words, this stacking allows for the synchronization of filter transport and cup container transport on a single production line, and then the corresponding filters can be seamlessly inserted into the cup containers.

[0051] Furthermore, the method is insensitive to the size of the filter and the starting cup-shaped container, which can be synchronized and centered with each other in any case for filter formation and insertion, and at any throughput speed.

[0052] In a third aspect, the present invention relates to a packaging apparatus comprising means for producing blister-shaped capsules according to the first aspect of the invention as described above.

[0053] In other words, the equipment includes a device for producing continuously supplied foamed capsules, and the device provides a continuous output of capsules regardless of capsule size and the flow rate of the starting semi-finished product.

[0054] In at least one aspect described above, the present invention may further include at least one of the following preferred features.

[0055] Preferably, the first transportation system and the second transportation system are implemented on the same annular turntable.

[0056] Furthermore, the first transportation system and the second transportation system are completely superimposed on each other.

[0057] Preferably, each forming device and its corresponding support device are associated with each other in the same moving member that is moved by the turntable.

[0058] This feature can greatly simplify the structure and reduce space, and also allows for the use of many reusable transport and fixed support devices.

[0059] It should be noted that, due to this feature, regardless of the number of moving components, productivity can be increased by increasing the speed of the moving components along their closed paths.

[0060] To ensure sufficient flow capacity for the cup-shaped elements and filters, at least 16 conveying and supporting devices will be arranged equidistantly along the corresponding transport paths.

[0061] In this respect, the production apparatus preferably includes a transport device with a rotating drum, on which both the first transport system and the second transport system are formed, thereby defining the first closed path and the second closed path, thereby achieving greater structural simplification.

[0062] Because of this feature, the transport speed of movable forming components can be increased simply by increasing the rotational speed of the rotating roller.

[0063] With a predetermined rotating drum configuration, the rotational speed of the rotating drum can be varied to ensure that the flow rate of the filter and cup-shaped elements is at least 600 pieces per minute, or even more preferably at least 1,000 pieces per minute.

[0064] Preferably, the conveying device includes a forming device for forming a filter from discrete elements, which are fed in a first closed path at a receiving segment of the first closed path.

[0065] Furthermore, the first closed path includes a filter forming section between the receiving section and the filter insertion section of the discrete element.

[0066] This allows closed paths to be used not only for the insertion of filters but also for their shaping from semi-finished products, which can undergo a shaping process during their transport.

[0067] Preferably, each forming device is provided with a through cavity with an upper opening through which discrete elements are released.

[0068] In addition, each forming device is equipped with a stamping part that is driven through the opening to push discrete elements into the through cavity.

[0069] Thus, the shape of the inner wall of the through cavity and the surface of the stamped part, as well as the mutual interference between the shape of the inner wall of the through cavity and the surface of the stamped part, determine the cup-shaped filter.

[0070] Furthermore, the stamping part of the forming device is held at least at the receiving section of the first closed path to a predetermined distance from the upper opening of the through cavity.

[0071] Furthermore, the forming device is driven in the forming section by lowering the corresponding stamping part of the forming device.

[0072] Due to the above structure, discrete elements can be continuously supplied to the conveying device, and discrete elements can be continuously formed in the section between the receiving section and the insertion section by a single piston action.

[0073] Preferably, the insertion of the filter into the corresponding cup-shaped container is determined by a piston associated with the stamping element, which pushes the filter through the through-cavity, causing the filter to fall into the cup-shaped container.

[0074] This aspect makes it possible to optimize the synchronization between the forming step and the insertion step, both of which are performed as the piston travels to the bottom dead center and returns.

[0075] Preferably, in the production method, the forming apparatus includes a through cavity and a stamping element, such that during the forming step, the opening of the receiving element is positioned such that the stamping element is allowed to pass through the opening of the receiving element and the through cavity.

[0076] Furthermore, the shape of the walls inside the cavity and the surface of the stamped parts, as well as their mutual interference, result in the cup-shaped shape of the filter obtained from the discrete elements.

[0077] Preferably, the drive of all forming devices is determined by the same drive shaft that causes the rotating drum to rotate via a specific kinematic chain, so that the drive is automatically synchronized with the rotation of the turntable itself.

[0078] Furthermore, this type of drive allows for a single motor to be used for all drives.

[0079] Preferably, each movable forming member includes a corresponding forming device and a corresponding support device that are coaxially positioned with each other to facilitate the passage of the filter from one to the other.

[0080] Preferably, each movable component includes a corresponding receiving element that is movable relative to the through cavity, the upper opening being formed on the through cavity, and wherein, in the first closed path, each receiving element receives a corresponding discrete element in the receiving segment.

[0081] In this way, the feed of discrete components is spatially disengaged from the forming device, thereby facilitating the possible feed of discrete components of different sizes, which can be released at different points in the receiving section.

[0082] Preferably, the drive of all forming devices is determined by the same drive shaft that causes the rotating drum to rotate via a specific kinematic chain, so that the drive is automatically synchronized with the rotation of the turntable itself.

[0083] Furthermore, this type of drive allows for a single motor to be used for all drives.

[0084] In this way, the filter is formed by a single stroke of a stamping element due to the overlap between the receiving element and the through cavity.

[0085] Preferably, in the insertion step of the production method, the stamped part continues its stroke through the through cavity, causing the filter to emerge from one end and be inserted into the corresponding cup-shaped container.

[0086] In this way, the aforementioned single stroke of the stamping also allows the filter to be inserted to its final destination.

[0087] Preferably, the transport device includes a synchronization mechanism that acts on the receiving element by moving the receiving element relative to the transport device.

[0088] Thus, their positions in the receiving section always correspond to the positions of the discrete elements in the feeding section.

[0089] Preferably, the receiving elements are aligned with each other at the receiving segment.

[0090] Preferably, for each receiving element, the synchronization mechanism includes a rotatable hinge driven by a transport device to facilitate its movement and actuation, which can be achieved, for example, by an electric motor that adjusts the position of the hinge rod, by an electronic cam, or by a mechanical cam structure associated with the rod itself.

[0091] Preferably, each receiving element is plate-shaped, with an upper opening formed in the center of the receiving element, and the receiving element has a horizontal flat surface, on which the discrete elements are released to facilitate placement of the discrete elements.

[0092] Preferably, in order to hold the discrete components in a fixed reference position, the receiving element for receiving the discrete components includes a vacuum forming suction system between the receiving surface of the receiving element and the discrete components.

[0093] This allows discrete components to be associated with receiving components at predetermined locations.

[0094] Preferably, the receiving element receives a movable pressure element synchronized with the corresponding stamping part, the movable pressure element clamping and squeezing the discrete element before it is inserted into the stamping part.

[0095] In this way, the contact between the stamped part and the discrete component will not cause unnecessary displacement of the discrete component.

[0096] Preferably, the receiving surface of the receiving element has knurling, which has shaped ribs that help activate the surface pleats in the filter.

[0097] Preferably, the through cavity has a cylindrical tubular structure with a funnel-shaped inlet end and an outlet end.

[0098] Preferably, the inlet end cooperates with the upper opening of the receiving element, and when the upper opening of the receiving element and the tubular structure of the through cavity are arranged on the axis, they are connected to each other and form a single sliding surface for discrete elements.

[0099] Preferably, the through cavity has an annular wall connected to the end of the inlet, the annular wall having a first vertical rib extending from the end of the inlet inside.

[0100] Furthermore, the stamped part has a corresponding second vertical rib that is complementary to the first vertical rib and is fitted into a groove between the first vertical ribs.

[0101] Their interference then causes the filter surface to wrinkle, increasing the filter surface area of ​​the same filter size by forming pleats.

[0102] Preferably, the through cavity, particularly the through cavity wall, and / or the stamping is equipped with a heating device, such as one or more thermistors, to produce a stretching effect, thereby creating wrinkles, i.e., creases, on the sidewall of the filter.

[0103] Preferably, the support device is shaped like a clamp, which laterally clamps the corresponding cup-shaped container, so that the cup-shaped container has an upward-facing sac-like opening. Attached Figure Description

[0104] The present invention will now be described with reference to preferred embodiments thereof, which are provided for illustrative purposes and not for limitation, and in which:

[0105] · Figure 1 A plan view of an embodiment of a packaging apparatus including a discrete component conveying device manufactured according to the present invention is shown;

[0106] · Figure 2 A side view of a conveying device manufactured according to the present invention is shown;

[0107] · Figure 3 It shows Figure 2 A side perspective view of the second detail of the conveyor device in the image;

[0108] · Figure 4 It shows Figure 2 An enlarged sectional view of the production equipment;

[0109] · Figure 5 A perspective view of a production apparatus for foam-type capsules manufactured according to the present invention is shown.

[0110] · Figure 6 The visible part in box R is shown. Figure 5 An enlarged partial perspective view of the second detail of the production unit; and

[0111] · Figures 7A to 7J Perspective views of the forming apparatus for foam-type capsules are shown, illustrating the various stages of the filter forming process. Detailed Implementation

[0112] See appendix Figure 1 Packaging equipment for capsules used in brewing beverages, such as coffee, is designated by 100. The capsules used in brewing beverages, such as coffee, are hereinafter referred to as brewing capsules.

[0113] These blister-shaped capsules are formed from generally rigid cup-shaped containers, with filters arranged inside. In the subsequent packaging step, a coffee-based formulation is added to the blister-shaped capsules, which are then capped and sealed, and sent to subsequent equipment for packing for distribution and sale.

[0114] Typically, cup-shaped containers—hereinafter referred to as 10—are supplied by feed station 110, and after being removed from a set of cup-shaped containers provided by the supplier, the cup-shaped containers move in a continuous motion from feed station 110.

[0115] Packaging equipment 100 includes a release station 120 for discrete elements, which will be indicated by 1 in the following figures. In this example, the discrete element includes a flat plate made of a material suitable for shaping a filter for use in effervescent products, particularly beverages.

[0116] Therefore, the release station 120 includes a release device 121, which in this example is a device for cutting the disc from a continuous strip of filter material.

[0117] The release device 120 thus provides discrete elements 1 in the form of a disc, which are fed individually, i.e., one after another after the cutting step, with a predetermined interval between a discrete element and the subsequent discrete element in a single row.

[0118] Therefore, the packaging equipment includes a filter forming station, designated 130, which includes a rotary device 131 for producing blister-shaped capsules, which will be described in more detail later.

[0119] Production device 131 is part of a more complex station in which the discrete element 1 undergoes a process for shaping the filter after being transferred from release device 121 to transport device 131, and then the filter is inserted into the interior of the target cup-shaped container, the bottom of which may contain a spacer element inserted in feed station 110.

[0120] In this way, the filter is conveyed directly to the target cup-shaped container. The purpose is that the apparatus 131 for producing foam-type capsules can be at least partially fed with the pre-formed filter.

[0121] At the end of the step of inserting the filter into the corresponding cup-shaped container, the filter is fixed to the inner wall of the cup-shaped container by means of, for example, welding, thereby forming a foam-shaped capsule.

[0122] In this respect, the transport device 131 conveys the cup-shaped container with the filter to the first conveyor wheel 132, from where the cup-shaped container with the filter is conveyed to the filter fixing wheel 133, and then to the second conveyor wheel 134, which conveys the cup-shaped container to the filling station 140, where the cup-shaped container is filled with a predetermined dose of coffee powder.

[0123] In this respect, the filling station includes a rotary filling device 145, through which cup-shaped containers are conveyed from the rotary filling device 145 to a rotary weighing device 147 via a third conveyor wheel 146, thereby checking the amount of powder supplied to each container.

[0124] Upon exiting the weighing device 147, the container is conveyed to the sealing station 150 by the fourth conveyor wheel 158. The device 100 therefore includes a cutting station 160 for a cap, which is formed by a continuous strip passing through a cutting device 162.

[0125] The disc-shaped cap is conveyed to the sealing device 159 via the fifth conveyor wheel 161. The sealing device 159 is also configured as a turntable. The sealing device 159 receives the blister-shaped capsule to be sealed via the fourth wheel 158. The sealing device 159 is provided to extract gas from the capsule and seal it by applying a disc-shaped cap made of continuous strips to the upper opening of the capsule.

[0126] After sealing, the capsule is advanced to exit station 170, which is equipped with a linear transport device 173.

[0127] See forward Figure 2 The production apparatus for foam-type capsules, which embodies the invention, is described herein and is indicated by 200 as a whole, includes the release device 121 and the transport device 131, which in this example has a turntable structure.

[0128] Release device 121 Figure 2 and Figure 3 It includes a first roller 122 that receives a continuous strip 123 from a feed reel, which is not shown and is generally of a conventional type.

[0129] The second roller 124 receives the strip 123 from the first roller 122: a cutting element 125 is formed on the second roller 124, the cutting element 125 being shaped into a disc that acts on the strip 123.

[0130] Specifically, two rollers 122 and 124 are arranged side by side and rotate around a parallel axis of rotation; the two rollers roll to form a contact area, through which the strip 123 passes.

[0131] The first roller 122 serves as a contrasting element for the cutting element 125, which, protruding from the cylindrical surface of the second roller 124 in the contact area, scribbles the strip 123 and thus produces discrete elements 1.

[0132] They remain attached to the second roller 124, for which the second roller is incorporated with a suction device, the suction opening 126 being arranged on its cylindrical surface.

[0133] The suction stops in the downward-facing region of the second roller 124: along the feed section 127, which has a linear expansion portion and is part of the release path defined by the flat strip 123, the discrete element 1 is cut from the flat strip 123.

[0134] Therefore, the second roller 124 serves as a cylindrical feeder that rotates at the feed section 127 about an axis parallel to the plane of the released discrete element 1, and the cylindrical feeder has a means on its surface for holding and then releasing the discrete layered elements, which is implemented by the suction device.

[0135] In this example, it is considered that while the above-mentioned cutting operation is being performed, the roller is rotating at a predetermined speed and then the discrete element 1 is being continuously fed.

[0136] However, it should be understood that the aforementioned discrete element release device 1 is only one of the possible alternatives for providing the discrete element 1 to be formed on the feed section 127.

[0137] In particular, discrete components can be pre-cut and stacked for supply, and can be directly extracted into production apparatus 200 with any type of feeder forming a substantially linear feed segment 127.

[0138] It should also be understood that the diameter of the second roller 124 can be changed, for example, because it is necessary to cut flat discs of different sizes, but the flat discs are still as close to each other as possible on the strips cut from the flat discs.

[0139] Otherwise, it may be necessary to change the feed pitch from one discrete element 1 to the next discrete element.

[0140] The change in the diameter of the second roller results in different release points for discrete element 1, and also different release speeds.

[0141] The transport device 131 is a turntable type with a rotating drum 3, on which multiple movable forming members 7 are mounted. Each movable forming member is arranged to form a bubble-shaped capsule. Each of the multiple movable forming members includes a corresponding receiving element 2.

[0142] To ensure sufficient flow capacity for the cup-shaped element and filter, the number of transport and support devices, i.e., moving components, should be at least 16, equidistantly arranged along the transport paths around the periphery of the rotating drum 3. In this embodiment, there are 32 such moving components.

[0143] The receiving element 2 is therefore movable, moving at a predetermined speed and in a continuous manner along the first transport path.

[0144] Specifically, the rotating drum 3 includes a wheel body 31 that rotates about a vertical axis defined by a hub 30 supported by a base 32, and the receiving element 2 moves in a rotational manner in a substantially horizontal plane, the transport path being located in this substantially horizontal plane.

[0145] For the rotary drum configuration described herein, the rotational speed of the rotary hub can be varied to ensure that the flow of the filter and cup-shaped elements has a capacity of at least 600 pieces per minute, or even more preferably at least 1,000 pieces per minute or more, such as 1,500 pieces per minute.

[0146] Each receiving element 2 includes a horizontal flat surface on which the discrete element 1 is released. The horizontal flat surface has surface knurling 4 to increase friction between the discrete element 1 and the receiving surface, thereby promoting the formation of pleats in the sidewall of the filter, which will be formed in the manner described below.

[0147] An annular through hole 11 is formed in the center of the receiving element 2, and the discrete element 1 is placed on the through hole 11. In particular, the center of the hole 11 and the center of the discrete element 1 must be perfectly aligned.

[0148] In order to keep the discrete component 1 in a fixed reference position, the receiving component 2 may include a vacuum forming suction system between the receiving surface and the discrete component.

[0149] In this embodiment, the first transport path of the receiving element 2 unfolds along a closed line, wherein the receiving element 2 circulates on the transport path, and specifically, the transport path is substantially circular because it is formed on the periphery of the rotating roller 3.

[0150] In view of the foregoing, the release path of the discrete element 1, in particular the feed section 127, intersects the first transport path of the receiving element 2 at the receiving section located near the release device 121.

[0151] The feed section 127 includes different release points of discrete element 1, which can be determined by second rollers 124 of different diameters, or by discrete elements 1 of different specifications and / or with different feed intervals.

[0152] Therefore, the transport device 131 includes a mechanism for adjusting the position of the receiving element 2, which acts on the receiving element 2 by moving the receiving element 2 relative to the transport path determined by the rotation of the rotating drum 30, the rotation speed of which remains constant for discrete elements 1 of different specifications and / or with different feed pitches.

[0153] For this purpose, the synchronization mechanism moves the receiving element 2 such that the position of the receiving element 2 in the receiving section and / or the release speed of the receiving element 2 to the discrete element 1 in the receiving section precisely corresponds to the release point (one or more) of the discrete element 1 and the release speed of the discrete element 1, the release speed of the discrete element 1 corresponding to the peripheral speed of the second roller 124.

[0154] In this embodiment, a possible preferred non-limiting solution is described, wherein the synchronization mechanism is located in the receiving segment ( Figure 4 The receiving elements 2 are aligned with each other at the receiving section, which can be subdivided into portions of the receiving elements 2 with different translational speeds, which remain unchanged in order to properly receive the discrete elements 1 from the second roller 124.

[0155] These different speeds are determined by the distance between the rotation center of the receiving element 2 and the rotating drum 3, and the relative speed of the receiving element 2 with respect to the rotating drum, and they are continuously changed by a synchronization mechanism.

[0156] Thus, the feed section 127 overlaps with the first transport path at the receiving section, and overlaps with the feed section along its entire length.

[0157] Therefore, the receiving element 2 is movable, and for each receiving element 2, the synchronization mechanism includes a rotatable hinge driven by the transport device 131, as it is integral with the rotating roller 3.

[0158] The hinge includes a system of interlocking rods capable of moving the receiving element in three degrees of freedom: raising and lowering the receiving element relative to the rotating drum, rotating about an axis perpendicular to the receiving element, and rotating and translating the receiving element due to the main rod 5 movable about a fulcrum 6, the main rod 5 being connected to a rotation mechanism of the rod 5 about its fulcrum 6.

[0159] The rotating mechanism can be implemented in a variety of ways, such as by using an electric motor to adjust the position of lever 5, which is called an electronic cam.

[0160] Alternatively, this mechanism can be implemented using only mechanical components. For example, a rotating mechanism includes a cam follower connected to the lever 5 at its fulcrum 6.

[0161] The aforementioned cam follower is thus dragged by the rotating roller but interacts with the cam, which is integral with the base 31 and moves on the base 31.

[0162] The shape of the cam determines the rotation of the rod 5, thereby determining the correspondence between the receiving element 2 in the receiving section and the release section 127 of the release device 121.

[0163] Other cams can dominate the motion of the remaining two degrees of freedom.

[0164] The correspondence between the receiving element 2 and the release point of the discrete element 1 ensures that the transmission of the discrete element 1 is successful regardless of the release point in the feed section 127.

[0165] The aforementioned movable component 7, which is formed by moving and molding, all include a filter delivery device, which typically provides a filter to the target cup-shaped element.

[0166] In this embodiment, the conveying device includes the receiving element 2 and a corresponding forming device 8, the forming device 8 being provided for forming a filter from the discrete element 1.

[0167] In addition, each movable forming member 7 includes a support device 9 for the cup-shaped element 10.

[0168] The forming device 8 moves continuously along a first closed path on the rotating drum 3, while the support device 9 associated with the forming device 8 moves continuously along a second closed path.

[0169] Therefore, the forming device 8 implements a first transport system, which is specifically for the discrete element 1 and the filter 20 to be formed from the discrete element 1, while the support device implements a second transport system for the cup-shaped container 10.

[0170] In this example, both the first and second closed paths are circular and overlap each other over the entire periphery of the roller 3.

[0171] It is understood that the first closed path and the second closed path can still be implemented in different ways, and they only partially overlap.

[0172] The support device 9 is in the shape of a clamp, with a pair of pivoting claws 17 laterally abutting against the corresponding cup-shaped container 10, the arc-shaped contour ends of the pivoting claws closely adhering to the truncated cone surface of the container 10.

[0173] The container 10 may include a protruding shoulder near the upper ribs, which rests against the outline of the claw 17.

[0174] In this way, the cup-shaped container 10 remains upright with its upper opening facing upwards.

[0175] As described above, the conveying device includes a receiving element 2 that is integral with the conveying device, and the through hole 11 constitutes the upper inlet of the through cavity 12 of the forming device 8.

[0176] The through cavity 12 has a cylindrical tubular structure, which is arranged vertically. The cylindrical tubular structure has a generally funnel-shaped inlet end 21 and an outlet end 22, and the inlet end is connected to the hole 11 of the receiving member. When the through cavity is arranged in a tubular structure on the axis, it is connected to form a single sliding surface for the discrete element 1.

[0177] This arrangement is achieved through positioning determined by a synchronizing mechanism that operates in the path following the receiving section to return the receiving element 2 to the annular path, which the through cavities 12 follow as they are constrained to the roller 3.

[0178] The through cavity 12 has an annular wall, which is connected to the inlet end 21 via an arc-shaped connector; the through cavity has internal knurling formed by a first vertical rib extending vertically on the inlet end 21.

[0179] In use, the knurling formed by the first rib can preferably be designed to create pleats on the side surface of the filter as the filter travels along the rib.

[0180] Each forming device 8 includes a stamping part 13 forming the distal end or head of a piston, which also includes vertically arranged strips 14.

[0181] Preferably, the stamped part 13 also has a second rib, which cooperates with the first rib of the through cavity 12 to pleat the side surface of the filter during use.

[0182] In particular, when the filter slides in the groove between the first and second ribs as the first and second ribs cooperate, pleating occurs: the interference and possible friction between the ribs, as well as the associated heat, cause a stretching effect on the filter material constituting discrete element 1, resulting in permanent deformation.

[0183] Preferably, in order to increase or obtain the above-mentioned stretching effect, the through cavity 12, especially its walls, and / or the stamping part 13 may be equipped with a heating device (of a known type not shown), for example, one or more electric thermistors during the forming step, to determine the above-mentioned stretching effect on the pleated portion that produces the pleats, or to produce pleats that are usually on the sidewalls of the filter.

[0184] The strip 14 extends to a corresponding proximal end, where the strip is hinged to a corresponding actuating arm 15; thus, the actuating arm 15 of the device 200 is arranged radially, the ring formed by the projection of the proximal end of the strip corresponds to the periphery of the rotating drum 3, and the actuating arm 15 branches off from the strip 14 in the radial direction relative to the drum 3, i.e. in the direction of the vertical projection of the hub 30 connected to the drive shaft.

[0185] Near the center of the roller 3, the drive arm is connected to a corresponding drive rod 16, which can be raised and lowered in response to the drive equipment.

[0186] For example, such a drive unit may include an additional cam integrated with the fixed frame of the roller 3, which determines the raising and lowering of the rod 16 and thus the stamping 13.

[0187] Therefore, the drive of all moving forming equipment 7 is determined by the same drive shaft that causes the rotating drum 3 to rotate through a specific kinematic chain, so that the drive is automatically synchronized with the rotation of the turntable itself.

[0188] Therefore, the transport device 131 can be roughly divided into two areas: release area A, such as... Figure 5 As shown, the stamped part 13 is lowered; and the extraction area B is also as shown. Figure 5 As shown, stamping part 13 is raised; two regions A and B are separated by a diagonal dashed line in the figure.

[0189] Therefore, a forming section exists in the release area A, in which movable forming members 7 lower their respective stamping parts 13.

[0190] The feed section 127 also corresponds to the release area, and above the feed section, the stamping member 13 of the forming device 7 is raised at a predetermined distance from the upper opening 11 of the through cavity 12, that is, from the hole 11 where the receiving element of the discrete element 1 is placed. Figure 6 ).

[0191] The forming device 8 has a pressure element 18, which is associated with the strip 14 and thus can move synchronously with the corresponding stamp 13 and descend together with the corresponding stamp 13.

[0192] The pressure element is positioned at a certain distance from the stamping part 13, but due to the cylinder element 19 which is concentric with the strip 14 and arranged outside the strip 14, the lifting control of the pressure element is independent of the strip 14, and the cylinder element 19 is also controlled in a manner similar to that of the strip 14 and the stamping part 13.

[0193] The pressure element 18 includes an annular plate positioned to contact the support surface of the receiving element 2, resting on the hole 11 of the receiving element and on the discrete element 1 placed thereon.

[0194] In this way, before the stamping part 13 begins its forming stroke within the through cavity 12, the pressure element 18 blocks and crushes the discrete element 1: the knurling on the surfaces of the receiving element 2 and the pressure element 18 cooperates to this end and promotes the formation of pleats, which will be described in more detail below.

[0195] However, before the stamping part 13 can tear the material of the discrete element 1, the pressure element is slightly lifted to release the discrete element 1, which can then be formed and dragged into the cup-shaped element 10 in the through cavity 12.

[0196] Following the receiving section, the first closed path includes a forming section in which the stamped part 13 passes through the corresponding upper opening 11 of the receiving element 2. In this section, the receiving element 2 must be exactly on the axis with the through cavity 12. Figure 7A and Figure 7B ).

[0197] The penetration of the opening in the stamped part 13 allows the discrete elements to be pushed into the through cavity. The shape of the wall inside the through cavity, the shape of the surface of the stamped part, and their mutual interference determine the cup shape of the filter 20. Figure 7C and Figure 7D ).

[0198] The stamped part 13 has a corresponding second vertical rib that complements the first vertical rib. The second vertical rib is inserted into a groove between the first ribs to cooperate with the first ribs to give the filter 20 a cup-shaped shape with curved, pleated, i.e., pleated sidewalls.

[0199] When the stamping part 13 has reached the distal end of the through cavity 12, the forming of the filter 20 is complete; however, the stamping part continues to its lower stop and, in doing so, pushes the filter 20 further into the insertion section of the first closed path. This further advancement thus causes the filter 20 to be inserted into the cup-shaped container 10, thereby forming the bladder-like part before the filter 20 is fixed, which will occur at a later stage.

[0200] In this example, the stamped part 13 continues to advance until the filter 20 is completely withdrawn from the through cavity 12. Figure 7E ), and is no longer retained by it and therefore falls into the cup-shaped container 10 ( Figure 7F and Figure 7G ).

[0201] After the insertion segment is completed, the now formed sac-like member reaches the extraction segment: here the support device 9 releases the sac-like member, and thus the claws 17 of the clamp-like member of the support device 9 open to allow the sac-like member to be passed to the next wheel 132. Figure 5 and Figure 7F ).

[0202] At the same time, the stamped part 13 rises, and it should be understood that at this stage the hole 11 of the receiving element 2 and the through cavity 12 are also on the axis ( Figure 7H ).

[0203] For the above-described production apparatus for foamed capsules, those skilled in the art may make many further modifications and variations to meet additional and possible needs; however, all such modifications and variations are within the scope of protection of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A capsule-shaped component manufacturing apparatus (200) for conveying filters (20) into various cup-shaped containers (10), the capsule-shaped component manufacturing apparatus (200) comprising: • Multiple filter delivery devices; • A first transport system for the filter transport device, wherein the first transport system causes the filter transport device to move continuously along a first closed path; as well as • A second transport system for the support device (9), which is continuously moved along a second closed path, wherein each support device (9) receives a corresponding cup-shaped container (10). The first transport system and the second transport system are both mounted on the same annular turntable. The first transport system and the second transport system have annular shapes and are completely superimposed on each other. The first closed path includes a filter insertion section that is superimposed on the second closed path. Each filter delivery device and its corresponding support device (9) are associated with each other within the same movable member (7) which is moved by the turntable. Thus, the filter delivery devices and their corresponding support devices (9) of the cup-shaped container (10) are synchronized with each other to achieve continuous delivery of the filter (20) to the target cup-shaped container (10).

2. The apparatus for producing a capsule-shaped component according to claim 1, wherein, The capsule is a capsule used for foamed products.

3. The apparatus for producing a capsule-shaped component according to claim 2, wherein, The production apparatus (200) for the capsule-shaped component includes a transport device (131) having a rotating drum (3), on which both the first transport system and the second transport system are formed, thereby defining the first closed path and the second closed path.

4. The apparatus for producing a capsule-shaped component according to claim 3, wherein, The filter conveying device includes a forming device (8) for forming the filter from a discrete element (1) fed at a receiving section of a first closed path, the first closed path including a section for forming the filter (20) between the receiving section of the discrete element (1) and the filter insertion section.

5. The apparatus for producing a capsule-shaped component according to claim 4, wherein, Each forming device (8) is provided with: a through cavity (12) having an upper opening (11) through which a discrete element (1) is released; and a stamping element (13) operated to penetrate the upper opening (11) to push the discrete element (1) into the through cavity (12), wherein the shape of the inner wall of the through cavity (12) and the surface of the stamping element (13) and the mutual interference between the shape of the inner wall of the through cavity (12) and the surface of the stamping element (13) produce a cup-shaped filter (20), wherein the stamping element (13) of the forming device (8) is raised at least at the receiving section to a predetermined distance from the upper opening (11) of the through cavity (12), and the forming device (8) operates at the section for forming the filter (20) by lowering the corresponding stamping element (13).

6. The apparatus for producing a capsule-shaped component according to claim 5, wherein, Insertion of the filter (20) into the corresponding cup-shaped container (10) is performed by a piston associated with the stamping part (13), and the piston pushes the filter (20) into the through cavity (12), whereby the filter (20) falls into the cup-shaped container (10).

7. The apparatus for producing a capsule-shaped component according to claim 6, wherein, The actuation of all the forming devices (8) is determined by the same drive shaft that rotates the rotating drum (3) via a suitable kinematic chain, thereby automatically synchronizing the actuation with the rotation of the turntable itself.

8. The apparatus for producing a capsule-shaped component according to claim 7, wherein, Each movable component (7) includes a corresponding forming device (8) and a corresponding supporting device (9), both of which are positioned in a row.

9. The apparatus for producing a capsule-shaped component according to claim 5, wherein, Each movable component (7) includes a corresponding receiving component (2) which is movable relative to the through cavity (12) having the upper opening (11) formed thereon, and wherein, in the first closed path, the receiving component (2) receives the corresponding discrete element (1) in the receiving segment.

10. The apparatus for producing a capsule-shaped component according to claim 9, wherein, The transport device (131) includes a synchronization mechanism that acts on the receiving member (2) by moving the receiving member (2) relative to the transport device (131), thereby the position of the receiving member in the receiving section corresponds to the position of the discrete element (1) in the corresponding feed section (127).

11. The apparatus for producing a capsule-shaped component according to claim 9, wherein, The receiving components (2) are aligned with each other at the receiving section.

12. The apparatus for producing a capsule-shaped component according to claim 10, wherein, For each receiving component (2), the synchronization mechanism includes a rotatable hinge actuated by the transport device (131).

13. The apparatus for producing a capsule-shaped component according to claim 9, wherein, Each receiving member (2) is plate-shaped, wherein the upper opening (11) is formed in the center of the receiving member, and the receiving member has a horizontal flat surface on which the discrete element (1) is released.

14. The apparatus (200) for producing a capsule-shaped component according to claim 13, wherein, The receiving member (2) receives the movable pressure member (18) synchronized with the corresponding stamping member (13), thereby locking and pressing the discrete element (1) before the stamping member (13) is inserted.

15. The apparatus for producing a capsule-shaped component according to claim 5, wherein, The through cavity (12) has a cylindrical tubular structure, which has a funnel-shaped inlet end (21) and an outlet end (22).

16. The apparatus (200) for producing a capsule-shaped component according to claim 15, wherein, The through cavity (12) has an annular wall edged at the inlet end (21), and inside the annular wall is a first vertical rib extending at the inlet end (21). The stamped part has a corresponding second vertical rib that cooperates with the first vertical rib inserted in a groove between the second vertical ribs.

17. The apparatus for producing a capsule-shaped component according to claim 5, wherein, The through cavity (12) and / or the stamped part (13) are provided with a heating device.

18. A method for producing foamed capsule-shaped parts, the method comprising conveying a filter (20) into a corresponding cup-shaped container (10), wherein, Multiple filter transport devices move along a first closed path having an annular shape, and a corresponding multiple support devices (9) move along a second closed path having an annular shape, each support device (9) holding a corresponding cup-shaped container (10). The production method includes an insertion step in which the first closed path and the second closed path are stacked at an insertion section, in which the filter (20) is inserted into the corresponding cup-shaped container (10), wherein the movement of the filter transport device and the movement of the support device (9) are synchronized at least in the insertion section by associating each filter transport device and the corresponding support device (9) with each other within the same movable member (7).

19. The production method according to claim 18, wherein, The filter conveying device includes a corresponding forming device (8) for forming the filter from discrete elements (1), and the production method includes: • The step of releasing a discrete element (1) onto a receiving member (2) having an upper opening (11), the discrete element being positioned on the upper opening (11), the upper opening (11) cooperating with a corresponding forming device (8); and • Forming step, in which the filter is formed by deforming the discrete elements in the forming device (8).

20. The production method according to claim 19, wherein, The forming device (8) includes a through cavity (12) and a stamping part (13), wherein, in the forming step, the upper opening (11) of the receiving member (2) is provided, thereby the stamping part (13) passes through the upper opening (11) of the receiving member (2) and the through cavity (12), and the mutual interference between the shape of the inner wall of the through cavity (12) and the surface of the stamping part (13) and the shape of the inner wall of the through cavity (12) and the surface of the stamping part (13) produces a cup-shaped filter (20) obtained by the discrete element (1).

21. The production method according to claim 20, wherein, In the insertion step, the stamping element (13) is held through the through cavity (12) so that the filter (20) is discharged from the outlet end (22) of the through cavity (12) and the filter (20) is inserted into the corresponding cup-shaped container (10).

22. A packaging device (100), wherein, The packaging equipment (100) includes a production apparatus (200) for a capsule as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 17.

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