Box making machine

Abstract

The invention relates to a box-making machine comprising: a storage unit for cardboard blanks; means for picking up the blanks from the storage unit; an unfolding station for forming the blank into a box; the conveyor is used for conveying the blanks to the unfolding station; the feeding station provides the box with the product; an insertion station in which the product is inserted into the cassette; an exit station for the filled cartridges; wherein, between the insertion station and the withdrawal station, there is a paddle conveyor, which moves downstream filled cartridges (C). The paddle conveyor is provided with a plurality of paddles connected to mutually independently controlled mobile devices, where the paddles are mounted on three pairs of mutually independently motorized flexible members.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a box making machine.

[0002] A box-making machine, also called a "box packer", is known, intended to package products in cardboard boxes. Typically, the box-making machine comprises: a station into which the products enter; a storage unit in which the cartons are stacked in an "extended" or flattened form; a device for picking up flat cartons from the storage unit and placing them in a formed or "unfolded" form, the device being suitable for picking up individual flat cartons from the storage unit or arranging them in an open configuration allowing the introduction of products inside them; a device for folding the lateral, upper and lower flaps of the open carton after or before inserting the product inside the carton; a device for gluing the flaps to close the carton; and a device for conveying the closed carton along a predetermined exit path. Since the size of the flat cartons varies according to the package to be manufactured, the box-making machine must be reconfigured or rearranged each time to allow a change of form.

[0003] The machine according to the invention is a box-making machine constructed generally as described above, which implements a technical solution aimed at increasing its production through a more efficient management of flat and open cartons as their formats vary.

[0004] This result has been achieved according to the invention by adopting the idea of ​​producing a machine having the features of claim 1. Other features of the invention are the subject of the dependent claims.

[0005] Thanks to the invention, it is possible to increase the output of a box-making machine, i.e. the number of complete packages per minute, without impairing the quality of the packages thus made. Furthermore, it is possible to implement a mechanism for reconfiguring the device for moving the processed material, which is particularly advantageous in terms of mechanical and structural simplicity and operating precision.

[0006] These and other advantages and features of the present invention will be more easily and better understood by those skilled in the art through the following description and accompanying drawings, which are provided by way of example and should not be considered limiting, wherein:

[0007] - Figure 1 A block diagram showing an operating station of a box-making machine according to the present invention as seen in a top view;

[0008] - Figure 2 Schematically represents a plan view of a cardboard blank (F);

[0009] - Figure 3 Schematically illustrates the Figure 2 A cardboard box obtained from the blank;

[0010] - Figures 4 to 27A possible embodiment of a mechanism for picking up blanks in a box-making machine according to the invention is shown;

[0011] - Figures 28 to 50 A possible embodiment of the system according to the invention for adjusting the position of the unfolding means and the folding means of the rear vertical flap of a box in a box-making machine is shown;

[0012] - Figure 51 to Figure 59 A possible embodiment of a product guiding system in a product insertion station in a box-making machine according to the invention is shown;

[0013] - Figures 60 to 72 A possible embodiment of a system according to the invention for handling boxes in a box-making machine between a product insertion station and an output station is shown.

[0014] Simplifying its basic structure and referring to the accompanying drawings, the box-making machine according to the present invention comprises:

[0015] a storage unit (M) configured to store a stack (P) of flat cartons (F), also called "blanks" in the jargon;

[0016] a station (E) for supplying individual blanks, arranged downstream of the storage unit (M);

[0017] - an unfolding station (SR) in which the blank (F) is formed, presenting the configuration of an open box (C) of substantially parallelepipedal defined by an upper base (CU), a lower base (CL), two lateral bases (CS), a front base (CF) and a rear base (CR), wherein the front and rear bases are open but intended to be closed by flaps constituted by attachments to the upper and lower bases (PU, PL) and to the lateral bases (PS, PSL, PSR): said lateral, upper and lower bases being defined by corresponding parts of the blank (F);

[0018] - a product feeding station (A) into which products (RC) intended to be packaged in boxes (C) obtained from blanks (F) are fed;

[0019] - an insertion station (N) in which the product (RC) is inserted into the open box (C);

[0020] - a station (G) for gluing the aforementioned flaps, ie for closing the box (C);

[0021] - An unloading station (U) for the finished packages.

[0022] In the figures, the flaps (PSL, PSR) are part of the front side of the box (C) through which the product (RC) is introduced, while the flap (PS) is part of the back side of the box. Furthermore, in the figures, the line "FFS" represents the plane in the middle of the spreading station (S), while the line "FIP" represents the ideal plane through which the product (RC) passes as it enters the insertion station (N). The line "CAL" represents the vertical plane in the middle of the product feeding station (A).

[0023] exist Figure 1 In the figure, the arrow "AP" indicates the direction followed by the product (RC) in the feeding station (A). For example, the product (RC) is a toilet paper roll or a kitchen towel roll packaged in a plastic or paper package. For example, using a method known per se, the product (RC) is transferred to the feeding station (A) by means of a conveyor (indicated by the arrow "AP"), and a pusher (SP) is arranged in the feeding station (A) for pushing the product toward the insertion station (N) along the direction (AP) to insert the product into the open box (C). The "FM" arrow indicates the direction followed by the blank guided to the unfolding station (S), and the "FS" arrow indicates the direction followed by the open blank from the unfolding station (S) to the insertion station (N). The arrow "FN" indicates the direction followed by the open and filled box from the insertion station (N) to the gluing station (G). The arrow "FG" indicates the direction followed by the box from the gluing station (G) to the exit station (U). The "DP" arrow indicates the direction along which the blank is removed from the storage unit (M).

[0024] The group consisting of the storage unit (M), the blank feeding station (E), the unwinding station (S) and the product insertion station (N), the gluing station (G) and the withdrawal station (U) constitutes the so-called "machine body" (CM).

[0025] The functioning of a box-making machine constructed according to the above-described figures and of the individual devices arranged and acting in the above-described operating stations is known.

[0026] Preferably, the machine body (CM) is developed according to a layout which provides for arranging the aforementioned stations in such a way that the movement of the blanks (F) and the cartons (C) between the station for supplying individual blanks (E), the unfolding station (S), the product insertion station (N) and the exit station (U) follows a "U" or "C" path, thereby providing a particular compactness of the machine body, facilitating its placement even in spaces that are not particularly extended.

[0027] Between the storage unit (M) and the development station (S) there is a system (W) for feeding the blanks (F), which is configured to take out the individual blanks from the storage unit (M) and feed them to the development station (S). In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the gluing station (G) may not be provided. In this case, the boxes filled with the products (RC) will be closed by gluing or by means of adhesive tape at a position separated from the machine body (CM).

[0028] The following describes the process of taking out a blank (F) from a storage unit (M) and conveying the same to a development station.

[0029] In the figures, the storage unit (M) comprises a base roller unit (M1) on which the piles (P) of blanks are stacked and a lift (M2) provided with a fork. The lift (M2) is of a type known per se, provided with a fork (M3) protruding from one side of the lift itself and connected to two chains (M4) driven by a gear motor (M5) which allows the fork (M3) to be raised and lowered so that the fork (M3) moves between the rollers of the base roller unit (M1) when the lift moves from an inactive waiting position to an active working position. More specifically, when loading the stack (P) onto the roller unit, the forks (M3) are under the rollers so as not to interfere with the transport of the stack (P) during loading, i.e. they are in an inactive waiting position; since the highest blank (F) in the stack is required to always be at a predetermined height (H) relative to the base of the machine, as the blanks are taken out of the stack as described below, the forks (M3) are raised to an active working position corresponding to the value of the thickness of the blanks; in the transition from the inactive position to the working position, the forks (M3) pass through the rollers of the roller base (M1). For example, the stack (P) of blanks can be loaded onto the roller unit (M1) with the aid of a forklift (not shown in the drawings). Fig.18 , reference symbol "MTR" denotes a motor that controls the rotation of the roller (M1) in the storage unit (M).

[0030] Above the storage unit (M) there is a blank picker (K), which is a device configured to separate the highest blank in the stack (P) from the blanks below and move it upward along a predetermined picking direction "DP" to a towing unit (T), which is arranged downstream of the same blank picker (K) relative to the picking direction (DP).

[0031] The picker (K) comprises a plurality of pneumatic suction cups (K1) supported by a rod (K2) oriented transversely to the picking direction (DP) and connected to an electric actuator (K3) controlling its movement in the picking direction (DP). The rod (K2) is mounted on a pneumatic cylinder (K5) which can be moved vertically to and from the lower area of ​​the storage unit (M) occupied by the stack (P). In the operating phase, the picker engages with the pneumatic suction cup (K1) the front edge (AF) of the highest blank in the stack (P), i.e. the edge of the blank closest to the towing unit (T). The rod (K2) is then lifted and transported in the direction (DP) so as to introduce the front edge (AF) of the blank (F) into the towing group (T). It goes without saying that the travel of the strip (K2) in the direction (DP) has a value that allows the front edge (AF) of the blank (F) to be introduced into the towing unit (T). After the blank (F) has been inserted into the pulling unit (T), the pneumatic suction cup releases the blank and brings it back to its initial position to engage another blank.

[0032] The traction unit (T) is configured to engage the blanks (F) and move them in a direction (DP) so as to place them in a position suitable for transferring them to a collecting compartment (VR) below, as further described below.

[0033] According to the example shown in the accompanying drawings, the traction unit (T) comprises a plurality of motorized rollers (T1) above which are arranged corresponding counter rollers (T2), which counter rollers facilitate the engagement of the blanks (F) fed by the picker (K). In particular, the motorized rollers (T1) and the corresponding counter rollers (T2) are mounted on two opposite sides of the corresponding supporting structure (T3), i.e. on the right and left sides of the structure (T3) relative to the direction (DP). The orientation of the driven rollers (T1) and the counter rollers (T2) is such that their respective axes are orthogonal to the direction (DP). The motorized rollers (T1) are synchronized with each other. The counter rollers (T2) are rubber-coated rollers, each of which is idlingly mounted on a supporting arm (RB2) which in turn is connected to the respective side of the structure (T3), for example as further described below. The counter rollers (T2) are pushed downwards by respective springs (8). In practice, the motorized rollers (T1) define a guide on which the blank (F) moves in direction (DP), and the counter rollers (T2) assist the action of the motorized rollers by exerting pressure on the same blank.

[0034] Construction of the assembly consisting of a motorized roller (T1) and a counter roller (T2).

[0035] In particular, the extension of the blank engaging means (F) can be adjusted in direction (DP) according to the form of the same blank.

[0036] For example, a roller (T1) and a corresponding counter roller (T2) are arranged between two supporting flanks (1L, 1R) arranged on either side of the path followed by the blank in direction (DP). The flank (1L) is fixed, while the flank (1R) can be moved closer to or further away from the fixed flank. For example, the flank (1R) is constrained to a slide (2) which slides along a structure (3) oriented transversely to said direction (DP) and is controlled by an electric actuator (4) which moves the slide (2) along the structure (3) by means of a worm (5). In fact, in a possible embodiment, the worm (5) can engage a corresponding threaded seat presented by the slide (2) so as to move the flank (1R) (which is integral with the slide 2) bidirectionally relative to the rotation of the same screw (5) in one direction or the other. In this way, the value of the distance between the two flanks (1R) and (1L) can vary according to the different sizes of the blanks.

[0037] According to the example shown in the accompanying drawings, in the inlet section of the traction unit (T) there is a motorized roller (T1A) which extends transversely between the flanks (1R, 1L) and to which a corresponding counter roller is not associated. Immediately downstream of the roller (T1A) there are two other motorized rollers (T1B, T1C) which also extend transversely between the flanks (1R, 1L) and to which a corresponding opposite counter roller (T2B, T2C) is associated. The assembly formed by the roller (T1A) and the rollers (T1B, T1C) with the corresponding counter rollers (T2B, T2C) forms a traction mechanism for introducing the blanks. A belt (CL, CR) with external and internal teeth is mounted on each flank (1L, 1R). The internal teeth of the belt engage with a toothed pulley (PL, PR) keyed to the shaft of the corresponding motor (ML, MR). In the attached drawings, the motor (MR) is integral with the wing (1R) and therefore follows the movements controlled by the actuator (4). On each wing (1R, 1L) are also mounted several pairs of rollers and corresponding counter rollers (T1, T2). In each of said pairs (T1, T2), a motorized roller (T1) is mounted on a first end of a first arm (RB1) and, at the other end, is pivoted at (6) to the corresponding wing (1R, 1L). A counter roller (T2) is mounted on a first end of a second arm (RB2) and, at the other end, is pivotally mounted at (7) on the same wing (1R, 1L). The arms (RB1, RB2) are connected to each other by an elastic member (8) which keeps the counter roller (T2) pushed towards the motorized roller (T1). In this example, each driven roller (T1) is oriented orthogonally to the respective flank (1R, 1L) without extending to the opposite flank (1L, 1R). Furthermore, each driven roller has an initial part (part facing the respective flank 1R1L) on which a toothed pulley (RD) is arranged, which is suitable for engaging with the external teeth of the respective toothed belt (CR, CL). Each motorized roller (T1) downstream of the input drive mechanism (T1A, T1B, T1C, T2B, T2C) can be placed in an engaged position with the respective toothed belt (CL, CR) and respectively in a disengaged position. For example, each motorized roller (T1) has an axial pin (P1) having an end (P11) which can be inserted into one of two holes (9, 90) formed in the corresponding flank (1R, 1L), and the axial pin also has an opposite end which is provided with a knob (P12), the pin (P1) being connected to the inner surface of the motorized roller (T1) by means of an elastic member (P13), which usually keeps the pin (P1) pushed toward the corresponding flank (1R, 1L).The holes (9, 90) are at a predetermined distance from each other so that when the end (P11) of the pin (P1) is inserted into the hole (90), the motorized roller (T1) is spaced from the corresponding belt (CL, CR); and when the end (P11) is inserted into the other hole (9), the motorized roller (T1) approaches the corresponding belt (CL, CR) and the corresponding toothed belt pulley (RD) engages with the external teeth of the belt. The positioning of the roller (T1) and the corresponding counter roller (T2) in the active engagement position and the inactive disengagement position of the toothed belt (CL, CR) can be carried out manually during the setting phase of the machine according to the form of the blank. The knob (P12) facilitates the manual positioning of the coupling (T1, T2) in the described active and inactive configurations. During the process of the coupling (T1, T2) from the working position to the inactive position and vice versa, the rollers (T1) and (T2) rotate around the fulcrums (6) and (7).

[0038] In fact, the towing unit (T) is a conveyor with a variable structure, the structure of which can be adjusted according to the form of the blank (F). In other words, the towing unit (T) has an active area (TY) and an inactive area (TX), and the extension of the two areas (TY, TX) along the direction (DP) can be modified according to the form of the blank. The "active area" refers to a part of the towing unit (T) that engages the blank that is gradually introduced into the same unit and towed along the direction (DP); the "inactive" area refers to a part of the towing unit (T) that does not engage with the blank (F) when the blank (F) is engaged in the active area. For example, in Figure 4 In the embodiment, the active zone (TY) of the towing unit (T) is formed by the first three motorized rollers (T1) and the corresponding three counter rollers (T2) closest to the storage unit (M), i.e., by the first three motorized rollers (T1) and the corresponding three counter rollers (T2) of the entry section of the blanks entering the towing unit (T). This configuration can be suitable for towing larger blanks (F). On the contrary, in Fig.11 In the embodiment, the active area of ​​the traction unit (T) is composed of all motorized rollers (T1) and corresponding counter rollers (T2). This configuration is suitable for traction of smaller blanks (F).

[0039] It should be noted that the towing unit (T) is able to engage several blanks simultaneously: Fig.11 In the example of , while a blank (F) is inserted into the towing group (T), three other blanks (F) are engaged by the same unit and another blank is unloaded into the collecting compartment (VR) below.

[0040] When the blanks (F) leave the towing group, when they are no longer supported by the towing unit itself, the blanks (F) gradually towed by the towing unit (T) in the direction (DP) fall into the collecting compartment (VR).

[0041] The collecting compartment (VR) arranged below the towing unit (T) is a containing structure suitable for receiving and containing a predetermined number of overlapping blanks (F) coming individually from the towing group (T). The containing structure is a structure with an open mouth at the top and comprises two containing walls (VRA, VRB) oriented transversely to the aforementioned direction (DP) and a corresponding separator device (VR2) arranged in the lower part of the walls (VRA, VRB), the function of which is to control the discharge of one blank from the collecting compartment (VR) at a time using a rhythm related to the production of the machine, as further described below. The walls (VRA, VRB) are the front and rear walls of the collecting compartment (VR) relative to the direction (DP). Preferably, the collecting compartment (VR) has two interception bars (VR3) controlled by corresponding actuators (VR4) at a predetermined distance from the upper mouth, so as to intercept the blanks coming from above before they reach the area where the separator devices (VR2) are arranged. In practice, the upper pre-collection area is preferably formed inside a collecting compartment (VR) in which a predetermined number of overlapping blanks (e.g. five) from the hauling unit (T) are collected: when the predetermined number of blanks is reached in the pre-collection area, the rod (VR3) releases the overlapping blanks, causing them to fall under the effect of gravity. The greater weight determined by the group of pre-collected blanks, compared to the weight of a single blank, determines a more stable fall of the same blank towards the lower part of the collecting compartment.

[0042] The blanks present in the collecting compartment (VR) constitute a buffer which avoids having to stop the machine when the stacks (P) present in the storage unit (M) are exhausted.

[0043] The lower part of the collecting compartment (VR) is formed by a discharge opening delimited by two shelves (VMA, VMB), each integral with a respective wall (VRA, VRB), the lower part of which is oriented transversely to the walls (VAR, VRB) and both facing the interior of the collecting compartment (VR). In fact, the shelves (VMA, VMB) define a lower bottleneck of the collecting compartment (VR) which prevents the blanks from falling freely through the lower discharge opening.

[0044] The divider (VR2) arranged at the lower side of the collecting compartment (VR) comprises two blades (VLA, VLB), namely a front blade (VLA) and a rear blade (VLB) relative to the direction (DP), each blade being arranged above a corresponding shelf (VMA, VMB) and each blade being subordinate to a corresponding actuator which controls its movement to and from the other blade. In order to obtain the unloading of one blank at a time through the lower discharge opening of the loading compartment (VR), firstly, the blade (VLA) pushes on the corresponding edge (front edge relative to the DP direction) of the blank, which is now resting on the shelf (VMA), so that the edge of the blank completely exceeds the shelf (VMA), but the blank (even if it is tilted at this moment so as not to be supported by the shelf (VMA)) has not yet completely fallen freely because it still partially rests on the other shelf (VMB). Subsequently, the leading blade (VLA) is brought back and the trailing blade (VLB) is advanced to exert a push on the corresponding edge (the trailing edge relative to the DP direction) of the same blank, so that the trailing edge of the blank is pushed toward the front side of the load compartment (VR) and beyond the shelf (VMB). At this point, the blank falls freely and the trailing blade (VLB) also returns to its starting position. Thus, the position of the unloaded blank is replaced by the blank immediately above it, and the process of unloading the blank from the load compartment (VR) is repeated cyclically.

[0045] In the drawings, arrow "FD" indicates the movement of the blanks through the loading compartment.

[0046] Advantageously, the position of each of the aforementioned walls (VRA, VRB) can be adjusted according to the form of the blank. Figure 4 In the middle, the wall (VRA, VRB) ratio Fig.11 Since the position of the two walls (VRA, VRB) can be adjusted relative to the form of the blank in use, the distance (d) between the center line (VRM) of the collecting compartment (VR) and the front side (M7) of the storage unit (the side of the storage unit M facing the towing unit T) can be adjusted accordingly.

[0047] For example, each of said walls (VRA, VRB) is connected to a respective actuator (MRA, MRB) which controls its movement in a direction parallel to the direction of origin (DP) of the blank. For example, each actuator (MRA, MRB) is connected to the respective wall (VRA, VRB) by means of a worm (SCA, SCB) which engages a respective nut formed in the lower appendage (LRA, LRB) of the wall itself.

[0048] Below the collecting compartment (VR) there is a conveyor (CB) which receives the blanks released one by one from the collecting compartment (VR) and transports them towards the unfolding station (S).

[0049] The conveyor (CB) comprises two transverse supports (CB1) oriented in a direction (FM) for conveying the unloaded blanks from the collecting compartment (VR) and destined to arrive at the unfolding station (S). Two conveyor belts (CB2, CB3) are mounted on each transverse support (CB1) so as to form a pair of outermost belts (CB2) and a pair of innermost belts (CB3). On each belt (CB2, CB3) there is an attachment (CB4, CB5) facing the outside of the same belt, which attachment forms each pusher for the unloaded blanks from the collecting compartment (VR). The transverse supports (CB1) are each integral with a corresponding wall (VRA, VRB) of the collecting compartment (VR). This solution makes it possible to adjust the mutual distance of the supports (CB1) according to the form of the blanks while adjusting the position of the walls (VRA, VRB). It is therefore also possible to adjust the mutual distance between the pairs of belts mounted on the two transverse supports (CB1). The conveyor belts (CB2; CB3) mounted on each transverse support (CB1) can be operated independently of each other. Thus, the pushers (CB4, CB5) can be arranged side by side (e.g. Fig. 22 for larger blanks) or staggered according to a predetermined value (e.g. Fig.21 for smaller forms of blanks) in order to always ensure correct pushing on the blank, regardless of the form of the latter.

[0050] The blanks arriving at the unfolding station are then unfolded. The unfolding can be carried out using methods known per se, using unfolding devices known per se to those skilled in the art. Similarly, the subsequent filling operation of the boxes obtained by unfolding the blanks and the closing operation of the filled boxes can also be carried out by methods known per se to those skilled in the art.

[0051] Preferably, in the unfolding station there are two independent upper unfolding units (R1, R2), each of which comprises a support (B1, B2) on which are mounted more pneumatic suction cups (V1, V2) and which is mounted on vertical guide elements (G1, G2) which are moved vertically to or from the conveyor (CB) by means of respective actuators (W1, W2). Each vertical guide element (G1, G2) is in turn constrained to a respective horizontal guide element (X1, X2) so as to be moved horizontally by means of respective actuators (Y1, Y2). The horizontal guide elements (X1, X2) are arranged at a predetermined distance from each other in the unfolding station (S) and are oriented parallel to the aforementioned direction (DP), i.e. orthogonally with respect to the conveyor (CB). Each upper unfolding unit (R1, R2) is controlled in such a way that it unfolds one blank in cooperation with the lower unfolding base (BS) described below, while the other unfolding unit holds the upper side of the box (C), i.e. the unfolded blank, in the product insertion station. In practice, the upper unfolding units (R1, R2) alternate with each other in a cycle of unfolding the blank and conveying the unfolded blank to the product insertion station.

[0052] The lower spreading base (BS) is a unit comprising a plurality of pneumatic suction cups (V3) mounted on a support (B3) constrained to a guide element (G3) oriented parallel to the conveyor (CB) and arranged in correspondence with the outlet section of the conveyor. The support (B3) is in turn mounted on a base structure (B4) below. During the spreading phase, each blank is engaged at the bottom by the suction cups (V3) of the spreading base (BS), and the support (B3) is moved along the guide (G3) by a respective actuator, while the suction cups (V1) or (V2) engage the upper side of the same blank and are lifted. The spreading method is known per se to the person skilled in the art by a set of suction cups (V3) acting on the lower side of the blank and a set of suction cups (V1; V2) acting on the upper side of the same blank.

[0053] In the station (N) for filling the boxes (C) there is a vane conveyor (TRP), constructed for example as described below, which transfers the boxes (C) from the same station (N) to the outlet section of the machine.

[0054] Furthermore, there is a mechanism for closing or folding the vertical flaps (PS) on the rear side of the box (C) between the unfolding station (S) and the filling station (N). For example, the closing mechanism comprises a support (Y1) extending a predetermined length along a direction (FN) behind the station (N). Two folders (Y2, Y3) are mounted on the upper side of the support (Y1), each folder being intended to fold a corresponding flap (PS). The folders (Y2, Y3) are mounted on corresponding independent slides that slide in opposite directions along guides formed on the upper side of the support (Y1). In practice, when one folder (Y2) moves towards the exit of the machine, the other folder (Y3) moves in the opposite direction, and vice versa. With reference to the attached figures, the folder (Y2) is intended to close or fold the vertical flap (PS) of the box (C) which is further from the exit section in the station (N), while the folder (Y3) is intended to close or fold the vertical flap (PS) of the box (C) which is closest to the exit section of the machine in the same station (N). When the box (C) arrives at the station (N), synchronized with the insertion of the product into the box, the first folder (Y2) moves towards the exit (U), thereby folding the corresponding flap (PS) by approximately 90° and stops in the folded position. Always synchronized with the insertion of the product into the box, the other folder (Y2) moves towards the first folder (Y1), causing the other vertical flap (PS) to be folded by approximately 90°. The folders (Y2, Y3) are also elements that temporarily keep the flap (PS) locked in the folded position during the insertion of the product into the box (C). The folders (Y2, Y3) are driven by a motor (MY) via a belt (BE) and are provided with pads (Z2, Z3) that slide on a guide (Z1) formed on the upper side of a support (Y1).

[0055] Preferably, the base structure (B4) of the unfolding base and / or the support (Y1) of the aforementioned folding mechanism are slidably mounted along the direction (FS) so that the position of the structure (B4) and / or the position of the support (Y1) can be adjusted along the direction (FS) to optimize their distance from the arrival point of the product according to the format of the blank. Preferably, both the structure (B4) and the support (Y1) are slidably mounted along the direction (FS). For example, corresponding pads (B5; Y11) can be provided on the lower side of the structure (B4) and the support (Y1) to slide on guides (GY) oriented along the direction (FS). The adjustment can be controlled by means of corresponding actuators (BM, YM) through corresponding actuating screws (3Z, 3M) which engage the lower side of the structure (B4) and the support (Y1). As Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the distance (DDF) between the planes (FFS) and (FIP) is adjusted according to the form of the blank.

[0056] As previously mentioned, the boxes (C) are filled in a filling station (N) situated downstream of the unwinding station (S) in the operating path followed by the blanks (F) and therefore by the boxes (C).

[0057] In fact, in the filling station (N), the blank (F) is already unfolded in the form of a box (C) which is in an open configuration, ie in a configuration suitable for receiving a product (RC).

[0058] In the filling station there is a pushing element (SP) which pushes the product (RC) inside the waiting box (C).

[0059] In the configuration shown in the drawings, the box (C) is placed so that its opening is defined by four flaps formed by the attachments of the upper, lower and lateral bases on the front side of the box and facing the pusher (SP). In fact, the opening of the box (C) intended for the passage of the product (RC) has an upper flap formed by the attachment (PU), a lower flap formed by the attachment (PL), a left flap formed by the attachment (PSL) and a right flap formed by the attachment (PSR).

[0060] At least two guide blades (202L, 202R) are provided for introducing the product (RC). Figure 52-55 In the example of FIG. 4 , the number of blades is four, two on the right side of the insertion station and two on the left side. The left side of the insertion station (N) is the side farthest from the outlet (U).

[0061] The blades (202L, 202R) are formed of a body having a substantially laminar shape mounted on shafts (203L, 203R) having a vertical axis, which shafts are connected to at least one respective motor (205) via a belt drive (204) for rotation as further described below. Depending on the actuation of the motor (205), the blades (202L, 202R) can be arranged in an "open" configuration (in Fig.53 and 55 ) and a "closed" construction (in Fig.54), in this "open" configuration, they allow the passage and guidance of the product (RC) towards the inside of the box (C), in this "closed" configuration, they are rotated about 90° relative to the open configuration and thus "close" the passage towards the box (C). Preferably, the blades (202L, 202R) are mounted on the corresponding shafts (203L, 203R) by means of screw fastening members (V22), which allow their position to be adjusted along the shaft itself. Preferably, in order to facilitate the assembly and adjustment of the position of the blades (202L, 202R) along the shaft (203L, 203R), the shaft (203L, 203R) has a square or rectangular cross-section and has longitudinal grooves (S22) on its inner side (the side on which the blades are mounted) and on the outer side (the side opposite to the side on which the blades are mounted).

[0062] The shafts (203L, 203R) are supported by respective plates (209L, 209R) connected to a screw drive member (231) on which a respective motor (230) acts. The activation of the motor (230) determines the rotation of the screw drive member (231) engaged by the plates (209L, 209R) in one direction or the other: this determines the possibility of varying the distance between the same shafts (203L, 203R) according to the size of the box (C) to be filled. In practice, the gap defined between the two shafts (203L, 203R) can be varied according to the operating needs of the box-making machine.

[0063] The filling station (N) also comprises a folding device (206) and a gluing device (207), which in the example shown in the figure are respectively arranged on the left and on the right relative to the insertion station (N).

[0064] The folding device (206) comprises a motor (206M) connected to an inverted "L"-shaped bracket (206S) and acting thereon to move the same bracket in a direction parallel to the advancement of the box, as indicated by the arrow (FN). In particular, the bracket (206S) can be moved in a forward direction (FN) (from left to right in the accompanying drawing) after the movement of the left flap (PSL) to keep it closed, i.e. adhered to the rest of the box (C). The bracket (206S) moves in the direction (FN) in the insertion station (N) in the space between the flap and the front side of the box (C). It goes without saying that the folding device cyclically moves first in the direction (FN) to perform the above-mentioned operations, and then moves in the opposite direction to return to its initial position (a position that does not interfere with the insertion of the product RC).

[0065] When the pusher (SP) pushes the product (RC) toward the box (C), the blades (202L, 202R) are in an open position and provide corresponding vertical guiding planes to facilitate the product (RC) to enter the box (C).

[0066] After the product (RC) is introduced into the box (C), the box moves downstream, ie towards the outlet (U). Simultaneously, the downstream movement determines the interaction of the advancing flap with the gluing device (207) for releasing the glue to subsequently close the box (C).

[0067] When moving downstream, the box (C) is followed by the folding device (206) which keeps the left vertical flap (PSL) close to the same box (C). When, in the downstream movement of the box (C), the folding device (206) is no longer in contact with the left vertical flap (PSL), the latter begins to engage with the right blade (202R), which continues in a pushing action on the flap to keep the flap pushed towards the inside of the box (C).

[0068] Therefore, the blades (202L, 202R) of the filling station (N) are shaped, dimensioned and motorized so as to perform two functions: the guidance of the product (RC) during the operation of insertion into the box (C) and the containment of the left vertical flap (PSL) avoiding its reopening during the translation towards the outlet (U). In fact, the travel of the carriage (206S) does not extend along the entire width of the box, so that once the flap (PSL) has passed the end of its travel, the same carriage (206S) cannot perform a containment action on the flap (PSL).

[0069] In practice, the blades (202L, 202R) are connected to respective moving means which control their positioning in an open position in which the strips define a guide surface for the product (RC) during their insertion into the box (C), which guide surface engages the inner surface of the two flaps (PSL, PSR) of each box (C) and is respectively in a disengaged closed arrangement of the inner surface of the flaps (PSL, PSR). The blade moving means control the positioning of the blades so that after the product has been inserted into the box, the blades are placed in a closed position and subsequently, when the box moves towards the outlet (U), the blades are again arranged in an open position for a predetermined time, thereby forming a surface that keeps the flap (PSL) folded towards the inside of the box. It is understood that in this final stage, the opening of the flaps (202L, 202R) can also be partial, i.e. not completely occurring during the stage of inserting the product, since the partial opening of the flaps may be sufficient to keep the flap (PSL) folded towards the inside of the box.

[0070] At least one of the blades (202L, 202R) may be provided with an appendage (220) intended to engage the upper flap (PU) when the box (C) moves downstream.

[0071] The closing of the box (C) is also substantially completed thanks to the intervention of a fixed folding element (210) (also called a "spiral"), which is arranged and shaped in such a way that, when intercepted by the upper (PU) and lower (PL) flaps during the downstream movement of the box, it defines guides which determine their complete closure by their gluing with the flaps (PSL, PSR) which receive glue on their outer surfaces by means of a gluing device (207).

[0072] The blades (202L, 202R) can be removed from the shafts (203L, 203R) to allow their replacement. In the case of a small form box, the blades whose mutual distance can be adjusted as described above can have inner edges (212) that are discontinuous and different between the left blade (202L) and the right blade (202R) to allow overlapping of the blades and mutual penetration of the corresponding inner edges (212). In this way, it is possible to arrange the blades (202L, 202R) in a "closed" configuration even when the sum of the lengths of the blades (202L, 202R) is greater than the gap between the two shafts (203L, 203R) supporting them. Fig.51 This configuration of blades (202L, 202R) is shown.

[0073] A paddle conveyor device (TRP) is arranged and acts between the filling station (N) and the outlet section (U) of the cassettes (C).

[0074] As will be better described below, for example, a paddle conveyor apparatus (TRP) is provided with a plurality of blades (in the example two groups of three pairs each) which begin to engage a box (C) being filled in a station (N) to convey it downstream to an exit conveyor.

[0075] The paddles (110) may be arranged in pairs to engage respective edges of the box at two points (as in the example shown), or they may be singular to engage the box at its centerline.

[0076] As will be better described below, paddles (110) may be connected and movable by moving members that are independently controlled from one another.

[0077] In the embodiment shown in the drawings, the conveyor apparatus (TRP) comprises three pairs of motorized belts which move a respective pair of paddles (110) which are fixed and move in unison with the respective belts. Fig.64Only an embodiment is shown in which the conveyor paddle installation (TRP) is provided with only two pairs of belts.

[0078] Specifically, refer to Figures 65-70 In the example shown, the conveyor device (TRP) comprises a left side (100L) and a right side (100R) in which, in symmetrical positions relative to a center line (TRX), three pairs of belts (101L, 101R), (102L, 102R) and (103L, 103R) are arranged, which move around respective pulleys (101P) with horizontal axes by means of respective motors (101M) which can be operated independently for each pair of belts. In practice, the belts (101-103) move along an annular path, the upper side of which is arranged horizontally along the direction followed by the boxes (C) as they advance towards the exit section (U).

[0079] The first pair of belts (101L, 101R) or a pair of outer belts are arranged on the outside, that is, one belt (101L) is close to the left side (100L) and the other belt (101R) is close to the right side (100R); the second pair of belts (103L, 103R) or a pair of inner belts are arranged on the inside on both sides of the center line (TRX) relative to the first pair of belts (101L, 101R); the belts (102L, 102R) of the third pair of belts or middle belts are placed in the middle position between the corresponding outer belts (101L, 101R) and the inner belts (103L, 103R).

[0080] As previously mentioned, the movement of the box (C) is obtained through the intervention of suitable paddles (110) moved by the belts (101-103).

[0081] Each paddle (110) is formed by a supporting base (111) which can be fixed to one of the belts (101-103) and at least one contact portion (112) intended to interact with the box (C). The supporting base (111) is provided with two appendages (113) equipped with idle pins that slide in corresponding grooved guides (114) formed in the inner surface of the side (100L, 100R). In the example shown in the accompanying drawings, each paddle (110) is provided with two contact portions (112) intended to engage the box (C), defining in practice a pusher and / or sealing member for holding the box (C) during its filling and subsequently moving it downstream. The value of the distance between the two contact portions (112) can vary. In the non-limiting example shown, a first contact portion (112) is integral with the supporting base (111) of the paddle (110), while another contact portion (112) can be moved away from or toward the first portion in a direction transverse to the direction of movement (direction of the belts 101-103) so as to adapt the conveyor to the corresponding size of the box (C) to be transported.

[0082] If the supporting base (111) of the paddle (110) extends by an amount corresponding to the distance between the two sides (100L, 100R), the accessory (113) will slide in guides formed in the sides themselves; on the other hand, in the case where the supporting base (111) of the paddle (110) extends by an amount less than the distance between the two sides (100L, 100R), or is dimensioned to extend over only three of the six bands (101-103), the accessory (113) will slide in two guides, one of which will be formed in one of the sides (100L, 100R) and the other will be presented by a central side located near or corresponding to the line centerline (TRX) (this last example is not shown in the accompanying drawings).

[0083] In the example of the attached figures, the support base (111) has six through seats (115) which, in the example shown, have a substantially parallelepipedal shape. These six seats (115) can be divided into two groups and are spaced apart by values ​​corresponding to the distances between the three strips (101L, 102L, 103L; 101R, 102R, 103R) situated between the respective side faces (100L; 100R) and the centre line (TRX).

[0084] On the outer surface of each belt (101-103), at least one coupling element (116) is provided, which is shaped so as to be stably coupled to one of the seats (115) provided on the supporting base (111) so as to make the base and therefore the entire paddle (110) integral with the belt on which the coupling element (116) is provided. Since the motorization of the three pairs of belts (101L, 101R), (102L, 102R), (103L, 103R) is carried out in such a way that each pair of belts is independent of the other two pairs of belts, the paddle (110) can be moved independently of each other according to the machine operation. In this regard, by way of example, in the case of combining belt (101L) with belt (101R), belt (102L) with belt (102R) and belt (103L) with belt (103R), three motors can be used or six motors can be used, one for each of the six belts.

[0085] In a preferred but not exclusive embodiment, each belt (101-103) is provided with two engagement elements (116) so that each belt supports two pairs of paddles (110) diametrically opposite each other. In this way, there are a total of six pairs of paddles, which can be divided into two groups of three pairs in order to define a plurality of operating cycles that can be interchanged with each other according to the movement of the belts. In other words, the paddles supported and moved by each pair of belts (101L, 101R), (102L, 102R) and (103L, 103R) will be able to interact with the box (C) without interruption, since when one group of three pairs of paddles (110) is in the non-operating position, another group of three pairs of paddles will be able to engage and move the box (C).

[0086] As can be seen from Figures 67 to 70, the paddle conveyor device (TRP) arranges the pairs of paddles (110) in the most suitable position according to the size of the box (C) to be transported. Fig.67 In the figure, the first box (C1) in the filling phase is shown on the left, the second box (C2) is located downstream on the right, and the third box (C3) is located further downstream; in this operating configuration, the first box (C) is held by two pairs of paddles (110) of the first group, one pair upstream and one pair downstream, while the third paddle of the first group is in contact with the upstream face of the third box (C3); the second box (C2) is immediately downstream of the paddle (110), which is in contact with the downstream face of the first box (C1). The three paddles (110) of the second group are all in the lower part of the device (TRP), supported by part of the belt (101-103) currently passing underneath. In the next configuration, as Fig.68As shown, the paddle (110) previously in contact with the first box (C1) at the surface situated downstream has come into contact with the second box (C2) at the surface situated upstream to accompany it downstream in the direction of the exit section (U), while the third box is now in the exit station (U). In this configuration, the three paddles (110) of the second group placed in the lower part of the device (TRP) advance, i.e. they move to the left in this figure. Fig.69 In the configuration shown, the second set of paddles (110) previously waiting in the leftmost part of the lower part of the apparatus (TRP) moves downstream, thus defining the paddles placed upstream of the filling station. In other words, there is a "preliminary" configuration in which there are two paddles (110) waiting for the next box from the unrolling station to be filled and then moving downstream following the previously filled box. Then one obtains Fig.70 The construction shown in (which corresponds to Fig.67 ), but the fourth box (C) is filled.

[0087] Downstream of the filling station (N), a final conveyor (300) is arranged in the withdrawal station (U). The final conveyor (300) is formed by a pair of conveyor belts (301) closed into a loop on both sides of the path followed by the boxes (C). In particular, each belt (301) is wound around a roller with a vertical axis (302), at least one of which is driven by a corresponding motor (303). In order to complete the conveyor, a plurality of guide planes (304) supporting the belts (301) are also provided.

[0088] The boxes (C) leaving the filling station (U) and the gluing station (G) are engaged on two opposite sides by conveyor belts (301) which move the boxes (C) towards the machine outlet by exerting pressure on opposite sides thereof.

[0089] Therefore, the box-making machine according to the present invention is a machine comprising the following components:

[0090] - a storage unit (M) configured for storing flat cartons (F) or stacks (P) of blanks (F);

[0091] - a station (E) for feeding the individual blanks, which is arranged downstream of the storage unit (M);

[0092] - an unfolding station (SR) in which the blank (F) is formed, presenting the configuration of an open box (C) of substantially parallelepiped defined by an upper base (CU), a lower base (CL), two lateral bases (CS), a front base (CF) and a rear base (CR), wherein said front base and said rear base are open but intended to be closed by flaps constituted by attachments to the upper and lower bases (PU, PL) and to the lateral bases (PSL, PSR): said lateral, upper and lower bases being defined by corresponding portions of the blank (F);

[0093] - a product feeding station (A) into which the products (RC) to be packaged in boxes (C) obtained from blanks (F) are fed;

[0094] - an insertion station (N) in which said product (RC) is inserted into the open box (C) by means of a pusher (SP) which pushes the product (RC) through said front base (CF);

[0095] - An unloading station (U) for the finished packages.

[0096] in,

[0097] - a paddle conveyor (TRP) is arranged between the insertion station (N) and the withdrawal station (U) and acts to move the filled boxes (C) downstream;

[0098] And among them,

[0099] - The conveyor paddle (TRP) is provided with a plurality of paddle elements (110) connected to processing members which are controlled independently of each other.

[0100] Specifically, the paddle conveyor (TRP) is provided with a plurality of paddles (110) connected to moving members that are independently controlled from each other; the paddles (110) are preferably mounted on three pairs of flexible members (101L, 101R, 102L, 102R, 103L, 103R) that are independently motorized from each other.

[0101] The motorized flexible member (101L, 101R, 102L, 102R, 103L, 103R) may be a belt or chain or other equivalent device.

[0102] Furthermore, the cartoning machine according to the invention may include one or more of the following features or even combine them:

[0103] - The paddle-shaped members (110) are a pair of paddle-shaped members (110).

[0104] - The paddles (110) are mounted on belts (101-103) that are motorized independently of each other.

[0105] - each paddle (110) is formed by a supporting base (111) that can be fixed to one of the belts (101-103), and by at least one contact portion (112) intended to interact with a box (C), the supporting base (111) being provided with two appendages (113) equipped with idle pins that slide in corresponding grooved guides (114) provided by corresponding sides (100L, 100R) of the device (TRP);

[0106] - Each paddle (110) has two contact portions (112), the reciprocating distance of which is adjustable.

[0107] - Each supporting base (111) has a plurality of seats (115) corresponding to a corresponding number of belts (101-103), each of said belts being provided with at least one engaging element (116) shaped to be securely connectable with one of the seats (115) provided on said supporting base (111), so that the paddle (110) is integral with the corresponding belt (101-103).

[0108] - The belts (101-103) are formed by three pairs of motorized belts (101L, 101R), (102L, 102R) and (103L, 103R), each pair being connected to and moved by a corresponding motor (101M).

[0109] - Each pair of motorized belts (101L, 101R), (102L, 102R) and (103L, 103R) supports two groups of pairs of paddles (110) arranged radially opposite relative to the development of the belts supporting them.

[0110] In fact, in any case, with regard to the various elements described and illustrated, the execution details may vary in an equivalent way without thereby abandoning the idea of ​​the solution adopted and thus remaining within the limits of the protection conferred by this patent according to the accompanying claims.

Claims

1. Box making machine, include: - a storage unit (M) configured for storing flat cartons (F) or stacks (P) of blanks (F); - a station (E) for feeding the individual blanks, said station being arranged downstream of said storage unit (M); - an unfolding station (SR) in which the blank (F) is formed, presenting the configuration of an open box (C) of substantially parallelepiped defined by an upper base (CU), a lower base (CL), two lateral bases (CS), a front base (CF) and a rear base (CR), wherein said front base and said rear base are open but intended to be closed by flaps constituted by attachments (PU, PL) to said upper and lower bases and to said lateral bases (PSL, PSR): said lateral, upper and lower bases being defined by respective portions of the blank (F); - a product feeding station (A) into which the products (RC) to be packaged in boxes (C) obtained from blanks (F) are fed; - an insertion station (N) in which said product (RC) is inserted into said open box (C) by means of a pusher (SP) which pushes said product (RC) through said front base (CF); - an unloading station (U) for the finished packages; - a paddle conveyor (TRP) is arranged between the insertion station (N) and the withdrawal station (U) and acts to move the filled boxes (C) downstream; The box-making machine is characterized in that the paddle conveyor (TRP) is provided with a plurality of paddles (110) connected to processing members that are controlled independently of one another, and wherein the paddles (110) are preferably mounted on three pairs of flexible members (101L, 101R, 102L, 102R, 103L, 103R) that are motorized independently of one another.

2. The box-making machine according to claim 1, It is characterized in that The paddle-shaped members (110) are a pair of paddle-shaped members (110).

3. The box-making machine according to claim 1 and / or 2, It is characterized in that The flexible members (101L, 101R, 102L, 102R, 103L, 103R) are belts or chains that are motorized independently of each other.

4. A box-making machine according to any one of the preceding claims, It is characterized in that Each paddle (110) is formed by a supporting base (111) that can be fixed to one of the belts (101-103) and at least one contact portion (112) intended to interact with a box (C), the supporting base (111) being provided with two appendages (113) equipped with idle pins that slide in corresponding grooved guides (114) provided by corresponding sides (100L, 100R) of the device (TRP).

5. A box-making machine according to any one of the preceding claims, It is characterized in that Each blade (110) has two contact portions (112), and the reciprocating distance of the two contact portions is adjustable.

6. Cartoning machine according to claim 4 and / or 5, It is characterized in that Each supporting base (111) has a plurality of seats (115) corresponding to a corresponding number of flexible members (101-103), each of the flexible members being provided with at least one engaging element (116) shaped to be securely connectable with one of the seats (115) provided on the supporting base (111), thereby integrating the paddle-shaped member (110) with the corresponding flexible member (101-103).

7. A box-making machine according to claims 3 to 6, It is characterized in that Each pair of flexible members (101L, 101R), (102L, 102R) and (103L, 103R) supports two sets of paddle pairs (110) which are arranged radially opposite relative to the deployment of the flexible members supporting them.

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