Compacting machine and device for producing ceramic products

Abstract

An apparatus (1) for manufacturing ceramic articles (T) comprises a feed assembly (9) having at least two feed devices (10, 11), where each feed device is configured to contain a respective type of powder material (CA, CB) and to feed said powder material to a conveyor assembly (5) so that it is compacted by a also claimed compactor (2). The feeding assembly (9) comprises operating means (18) configured to allow the powder material to selectively exit through first and second channel regions (16, 17) of the feeding means (10, 11) arranged consecutively transversely to the direction of movement (A) of the conveyor assembly (5) by means of an operating unit (22) vertically and independently moving the plurality of conveying slides (23). For this purpose, each operating unit (22) is connected to a respective actuator (27) comprising a movable element (39). The directions of movement (D) of the movable elements (39) are different from each other and transverse to each other in order to reduce the footprint of the actuator (27) while increasing the resolution of the distribution of the powder material.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This patent application claims the priority of Italian Patent Application No. 102022000011543 filed on May 31, 2022, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present invention relates to a compactor and an apparatus for producing ceramic products. Background Art

[0004] In the field of ceramic article production (particularly boards; more specifically tiles), machines are known for compacting semi-dry powders (ceramic powders; moisture content of about 5%-6%). These machines comprise different types of ceramic powder feed devices.

[0005] These machines are often used to produce products that mimic natural stone (eg, marble and / or granite).

[0006] These products have an internal texture that is randomly distributed within the thickness of the product.

[0007] Alternatively or additionally, it may be appropriate to use different types of powders to obtain a product with specific structural and / or physical properties.

[0008] In some cases, a mixture of powders of different colors is randomly distributed into the cavity of a steel mold and then pressed to obtain, for example, a compacted powder slab.

[0009] It is also proposed to use a continuous compactor to produce plates with randomly distributed powders of different colors, the continuous compactor comprising a conveyor assembly to convey the powder material along a defined path (essentially continuously) through a workstation, where a compacting device is arranged, the compacting device being suitable for compacting the powder material by cooperation with a pressure roller so as to obtain a compacted powder layer.

[0010] An example of a continuous machine for compacting ceramic powders is disclosed in the international patent application published as WO 2005 / 068146 by the same applicant as the present application.

[0011] WO9823424A2 discloses a method for pressing powder material to obtain tiles. The method comprises distributing the powder on a flexible conveyor device and moving the powder in a moving direction through a pressing station provided with a receiving device. The receiving device acts on the powder to be pressed during pressing. The compacted layer is transferred to a printing device.

[0012] It is also known to implement (for example by digital printing) a graphic decoration on a layer of compacted ceramic powder in order to make the final product visually more similar to a natural product.

[0013] International patent application WO2018 / 163124 of the same applicant discloses a device for producing ceramic products, the device comprising two feeding devices, each of which is suitable for accommodating a corresponding type of powder material and feeding such powder material to a conveyor assembly; the device also comprises an operating device and a control unit, the operating device is suitable for allowing the powder material to selectively come out through the area of ​​the feeding device arranged continuously transversely to the moving direction, and the control unit controls the operating device according to the desired reference distribution and according to how far the conveyor assembly feeds the powder material. In particular, the operating device comprises a plurality of operating units, each of which is arranged at a corresponding area to adjust the passage of the material through the same area.

[0014] However, the devices available to date for producing ceramic products have several disadvantages. These disadvantages include the following. The devices allowing the selective feeding of different types of powder materials are relatively complex, bulky (and therefore difficult to miniaturize - which also means that it is difficult to increase the resolution of the distribution) and expensive. In addition, they do not always allow obtaining a precise and reproducible powder distribution.

[0015] The object of the present invention is to provide a compactor and an apparatus which are able to at least partially overcome the disadvantages of the prior art and which are at the same time easy and inexpensive to manufacture. Summary of the invention

[0016] According to the present invention, there is provided a compactor and an apparatus for producing a ceramic product as described in any of the attached independent claims and preferably in any of the claims directly or indirectly dependent thereon. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] The invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings showing some non-limiting embodiments of the invention, in which:

[0018] - Figure 1 is a schematic side view of an apparatus according to the present invention;

[0019] - Figure 2 and Figure 3 are in two different operating configurations Figure 1 A side view of the interior of the device;

[0020] - Figure 4 yes Figure 2 and Figure 3 a stereogram of a portion of

[0021] - Figure 5 Yes Figure 2 and Figure 3 a stereogram of a portion of

[0022] - Figure 6 yes Figure 2 and Figure 3 a perspective view of a portion of a device with some components removed for clarity;

[0023] - Figure 7 , Figure 8 and Fig. 9 are in different operating configurations Figure 2 and Figure 3 side views of different embodiments of parts of;

[0024] - Fig.10 yes Figure 7 , Figure 8 and Fig. 9 A three-dimensional diagram of the components;

[0025] - Fig.11 yes Figure 1 A perspective schematic diagram of a portion of a device;

[0026] - Fig.12 and Fig.13 are in different operating configurations Figure 2 and Figure 3 side views of different embodiments of parts of;

[0027] - Fig.14 yes Figure 4 and Fig.10 Front views of different embodiments of components;

[0028] - Fig.15 yes Figure 1 A virtual representation of a portion of a device control program;

[0029] - Fig.16 , Fig.17 , Fig.18 and Fig.19 are in different operating configurations Figure 2 and Figure 3 side views of different embodiments of parts of;

[0030] - Fig. 20 It is to add parts Figures 16 to 19 a side view of a portion of;

[0031] - Fig.21 is added to Fig. 20 an enlarged side view of a component;

[0032] - Fig. 22 yes Fig.21 A three-dimensional diagram of the components;

[0033] - Fig.23 yes Fig.21 and Fig. 22 a perspective view of a portion of a component;

[0034] - Fig.24 yes Fig.23 a top view of a portion of

[0035] - Fig.25 yes Fig.23 and Fig.24 a side view of a portion of;

[0036] - Fig.26 yes Figure 23 to Figure 25 A front view of a portion of;

[0037] - Fig. 27 yes Fig. 20 a perspective view of a portion of

[0038] - Fig.28 Shows Figure 1 Detail of an alternative embodiment of a device with some parts removed for clarity. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0039] exist Figure 1 , numeral 1 as a whole denotes an apparatus for producing a ceramic product T.

[0040] The apparatus 1 has a compactor 2 that compacts a powder material CP, the powder material CP comprising a ceramic powder (particularly, the powder material CP is a ceramic powder; more particularly, the ceramic powder has a water content of about 5% to 6%).

[0041] In particular, the ceramic article T produced is a plate (more precisely, a tile).

[0042] The machine 2 comprises a compacting device 3 arranged at a workstation 4 and adapted to (configured to) compact the powder material CP so as to obtain a layer of compacted powder KP, and a conveyor assembly 5 (configured to) convey the powder material CP (substantially continuously) from an input station 6 to (in particular, at) the workstation 4 along a section PA of a determined path in a (in particular, substantially horizontal) direction of movement A, and convey the layer of compacted powder KP from the workstation 4 to an output station 7 along a section PB of a determined path (in particular, in direction A). In particular, the determined path consists of sections PA and PB.

[0043] According to a non-limiting embodiment, the compacting device 3 is configured to exert a pressure of at least about 350 kg / cm 2 (In particular, at least about 380 kg / cm 2 More specifically, up to about 450 kg / cm 2 More specifically, up to about 420 kg / cm 2 ) pressure.

[0044] In particular, the compacting device 3 is configured to exert on (the layer of) the ceramic powder CP a lateral pressure relative to (in particular, orthogonal to) the direction A (and relative to the extension direction DD defined in more detail below).

[0045] Advantageously, but not necessarily, the compacting device 3 is configured to operate continuously. In particular, (the layer of) the ceramic powder CP is compacted during its continuous movement.

[0046] Alternatively (according to some non-illustrated and non-limiting embodiments), the compacting device 3 is a discontinuous compacting device (generally called a press). In detail, in this case, when compacting is carried out by means of a discontinuous compacting device, a given amount of ceramic powder is fed in use to a seat of the compacting device 3 having a specific shape (generally rectangular or square - more precisely, the shape of the compacted ceramic product to be obtained). At this point, pressure is applied to the ceramic powder CP arranged in the seat (and therefore does not move in direction A) so as to obtain a layer of compacted powder KP.

[0047] In particular, in this case, the layer of compacted powder KP substantially has the dimensions of a compacted ceramic article (ie the dimensions of a ceramic plate or tile), and even more particularly, no cutting of the layer of compacted powder KP is required to obtain the plate 48 (described in more detail below).

[0048] Especially referring to Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figures 5 to 9 , Fig.12 , Fig.13 and Figures 16 to 18 The machine 2 also has a supply assembly 9, which includes a supply device 10 and at least one supply device 11 arranged above the conveyor assembly 5. The supply device 10 includes a corresponding receiving chamber 12 with at least one associated output opening 13, the longitudinal extension of the output opening 13 is transverse to (in particular, substantially perpendicular to) the movement direction A (the longitudinal extension is in particular substantially horizontal). In other words, the output opening 13 is transverse to (in particular, substantially perpendicular to) the movement direction A- Figure 5 and Figure 6 ) extends in an extension direction DD (the extension direction DD is in particular substantially horizontal).

[0049] The second supply device 11 comprises at least one corresponding receiving chamber 14, which has a corresponding output opening 15, the longitudinal extension of which is transverse (especially perpendicular) to the movement direction A (the longitudinal extension is especially substantially horizontal). In particular, the longitudinal extensions of the output openings 13 and 15 are substantially parallel to each other.

[0050] In other words, the outlet opening 15 extends in an extension direction DD which is transverse (in particular, substantially perpendicular) to the movement direction A (the extension direction DD is in particular substantially horizontal).

[0051] More specifically, but not necessarily, the receiving chamber 12 is suitable for (configured to) receive a first type of (ceramic) powder material CA, and the receiving chamber 14 is suitable for (configured to) receive a second type of (ceramic) powder material CB.

[0052] According to some non-limiting embodiments, the powder materials CA and CB (are ceramic and) have different colors. Thus, a color effect can be produced in the thickness of the ceramic product T. The color effect is visible, for example, in the edge of the ceramic product. Alternatively or additionally, the powder materials CA and CB are suitable for (are configured to) bring different physical properties to the ceramic product T.

[0053] In particular, the powder material CP is composed of one or both of the powder materials CA and CB. More specifically, the powder material CP includes (is composed of) the powder materials CA and CB (distributed in different regions of the powder material CP).

[0054] According to some embodiments (such as Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 5 and Figure 6 ), the supply device 10 comprises (only) one receiving chamber 12, while the supply device 11 comprises two receiving chambers 14 and 14' (arranged on opposite sides of the receiving chamber 12). In addition, each of the receiving chambers 14 and 14' has a corresponding output opening 15 and 15' (in particular, substantially facing each other).

[0055] The outlet 13 has respective passage zones 16 arranged successively along the longitudinal extension of the outlet 13 (see in particular Figure 5 and Figure 6 ). The outlet 15 (and the outlet 15') has respective passage areas 17 arranged successively along the longitudinal extension of the outlet 15 itself. In addition, the supply assembly 9 comprises an operating device 18 (see in particular Figure 2 and Figure 3 ), the operating device 18 is suitable for (configured to) allowing the powder material to selectively come out through one or more of the channel areas 16 and 17. In particular, each channel area 16 is arranged adjacent to (more precisely, above; associated with) the corresponding channel area 17.

[0056] Advantageously, but not necessarily, the machine 1 also comprises ( Figure 1) a control unit 20 adapted (configured) to convert a reference distribution 21 (of first and second (desired) types of powder materials CA and CB) Fig.15 ) is stored (has been stored) in the powder material CP conveyed by the conveyor assembly 5, and controls the operating device 18 according to the reference distribution 21. More specifically, the control unit 20 is suitable for (configured to) control the operating device 18 to reproduce the reference distribution 21 (on the conveyor assembly 5).

[0057] According to some non-limiting embodiments (see, in particular, Fig.11 ), the machine 1 further comprises a detection device 19 (e.g., an encoder) to detect how far the conveyor assembly 5 conveys the powder material CP along a given path (in the feeding direction A), in particular along the section PA. In particular, in these cases, the control unit 20 is adapted (configured) to control the operating device 18 according to what the detection device 19 detects and the reference distribution 21. More particularly, the control unit 20 is adapted (configured) to control the operating device 18 according to what the detection device 19 detects, so as to reproduce the reference distribution 21 (on the conveyor assembly 5).

[0058] According to certain non-limiting embodiments (see in particular Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figures 18 to 20 and Fig.25 ), the operating device 18 includes a plurality of operating units 22 (in Figure 5 and Figure 6 Six operating units are only partially shown in FIG. Figures 18 to 20 The eight operating units shown in FIG. Fig.25 Twenty-four operating units are partially shown in FIG, wherein each operating unit is suitable for (configured to) regulate the passage of powder material through corresponding channel areas 16 and 17.

[0059] In particular, each operating unit 22 is arranged at a corresponding channel zone 16 and 17 .

[0060] According to some non-limiting embodiments, the operating units 22 are arranged continuously along the longitudinal extension of the outlets 13 and 15 (in the transverse direction—in particular, substantially perpendicular to the movement direction A). More precisely, but not necessarily, each slide 23 of the operating unit 22 (described in more detail below) is arranged at a corresponding passage zone 16 and 17.

[0061] In particular, the slide blocks 23 are arranged consecutively (in particular, in a row) in the extension direction DD (in particular, substantially horizontally).

[0062] More precisely, but not necessarily, the slides 23 are arranged successively along the longitudinal extension of the outlet openings 13 and 15 (in a direction transverse to the movement direction A—in particular, substantially perpendicular to—the movement direction A).

[0063] Advantageously, but not necessarily, each slide 23 has a thickness (particularly measured in the extension direction DD) less than or equal to 10 mm (particularly less than or equal to 6 mm; particularly greater than 2 mm).

[0064] Advantageously, but not necessarily, the control unit 20 is configured to control each operating unit 22 independently of the other operating units 22 (depending on the content detected by the detection device 19 and the reference profile 21 ).

[0065] In particular, in use, the control unit 20 follows the virtual path VP ( Fig.15 ) (virtually) moves the reference distribution 21 through the virtual reference front RP. The virtual reference front VP has a plurality of positions, each of which corresponds to a passage zone 16 and a passage zone 17 associated with each other; the control unit 20 operates the supply assembly 9 (particularly, the supply devices 10 and 11; more specifically, the operating device 18; even more specifically, the operating unit 22) so as to allow the powder material to come out through the passage zone 16 and / or 17 at a specific time according to the type of powder material provided at the position of the virtual reference front RP corresponding to the passage zone 16 and / or 17 in the reference distribution 21 at that specific time.

[0066] Advantageously but not necessarily (see in particular Figures 2 to 10 , Figure 12 to Figure 14 and Figures 16 to 20 ), each operating unit 22 includes a corresponding transfer slider 23 (some embodiments of which are specifically Figure 4 , Fig.10 , Fig.14 ) and the corresponding actuator 27 ( Figure 20 to Figure 22 , Fig. 27 ), the transfer slide 23 has a passage 24 (i.e., a recessed passage or a conduit), the passage 24 is provided with at least one inlet 25 and at least one output portion 26 arranged below the inlet 25, the actuator 27 is used to bring the transfer slide 23 to the first position FP and at least to the second position SP, in the first position FP, the passage 24 is aligned with the accommodating channel 12 ( Figure 3 , Fig. 9 , Fig.13 and Fig.16) is connected so that the first type of powder material CA is transferred from the receiving chamber 12 to the passage 24 (particularly, through the passage 14 itself; more particularly, through the inlet 25; and even more particularly, through the outlet 13), the second position SP is arranged below the first position FP, and in the second position SP, the passage 24 is connected to the receiving chamber 14 ( Figure 2 , Figure 8 , Fig.12 and Fig.18 ) so that the second type of powder material CB is transferred from the receiving chamber 14 (and / or 14') to the passage channel 24 (particularly, through the channel 24 itself; more particularly, through the inlet 25; and even more particularly, through the outlet 15).

[0067] In other words, each actuator 27 is configured to move the slide 23 (at least) between a first position FP and a second position SP (in particular, substantially vertically), and vice versa.

[0068] In yet other words, each actuator 27 is configured to move (at least, in particular, substantially vertically) the slide 23 from the first position FP to the second position SP, and vice versa.

[0069] Note that since the channel 24 is part of the slider 23 , it (the channel 24 ) moves together with the slider 23 .

[0070] Note that the structure and operation of the above-described operating unit 22 are particularly simple and inexpensive. For example, two or (as explained in more detail below) more types of powder materials can be selectively and punctually fed to the conveyor assembly 5 using a single actuator 27. In addition, the need for gaskets (and / or sealing systems) is greatly reduced.

[0071] Specifically, the second position SP is set lower than the first position FP (specifically, below the first position FP). In other words, the first position FP is set higher than the second position SP (above the second position SP).

[0072] Hereby a more precise powder feeding can be obtained: each type of powder passes through the same output 26 (and therefore at the same position).

[0073] Advantageously, but not necessarily, each actuator 27 is configured to move the corresponding slide 23 in a direction transverse (particularly substantially vertical) to the direction A (particularly substantially perpendicular to the direction A) between the first position FP and the second position SP.

[0074] According to some non-limiting embodiments (see, for example, Figure 4), the passage 24 is configured (structured) so that the powder materials CA and / or CB flow (more specifically, due to gravity) through the passage 24 itself (from the inlet 25 and / or from another inlet 28 described in more detail below—to the output portion 26).

[0075] Additionally or alternatively, the passageway 24 is configured (structured) such that the powder material CA and / or CB exits the passageway 24 through the output 26 (more particularly, by gravity).

[0076] According to some non-limiting embodiments (see in particular Figure 3 and Fig.16 ), (each operation unit 22 is configured such that, when the transfer slider 23 is in the first position FP) in the first position FP, the inlet 25 faces the outlet 13.

[0077] More specifically, but not necessarily, (each operating unit 22 is configured so that, when the transfer slide 23 is in the first position FP) in the first position FP, the slide 23 is (at least) partially arranged in the receiving chamber 12 (in particular, the inlet 25 is in the receiving chamber 12).

[0078] In particular, each operating unit 22 is configured such that when the transport slide 23 is in the first position FP, the slide 23 (at least partially; more particularly, completely) blocks the output opening 15 .

[0079] Additionally or alternatively, in the second position SP (when the transfer slide 23 is in the second position SP), the inlet 25 faces the outlet 15 .

[0080] Especially referring to Figure 4 , Fig.10 , Fig.12 and Fig.14 Advantageously but not necessarily, each passage 24 has at least one additional entrance 28. (Each operating unit 22 is configured so that, when the corresponding transfer slide 23 is in place). According to some non-limiting embodiments (see, for example, Figure 3 and Fig. 9 ), in the first position FP, the inlet 28 is connected to the receiving chamber 12, so that the first type of powder material CA is transferred from the receiving chamber 12 to the passage 24 (through the inlet 28).

[0081] Specifically, (when the transport slider 23 is at the second position SP) at the second position SP ( Figure 2), the inlet 28 is arranged so that the second type of powder material CB (from the supply device 11) is (also) transferred to the passage 24 through the inlet 28. More specifically, when the transfer slide 23 is in the second position SP, the inlet 28 is arranged so that it is connected to the additional receiving chamber 14' (of the supply device 11 and; more specifically, receiving the second type of powder material CB), so that the second type of powder material CB is transferred from the receiving chamber 14' (through the inlet 28) to the passage 24. More specifically, the inlet 28 faces the additional output port 15' of the receiving chamber 14'.

[0082] For example, the receiving chamber 12 is arranged between the receiving chambers 14 and 14 ′.

[0083] According to some non-limiting embodiments, the inlet 25 and the further inlet 28 are at least partially arranged on opposite sides of the respective transfer slide 23. In other words, the inlet 25 and the further inlet 28 face opposite sides of the respective slide 23 (at least partially).

[0084] Advantageously, but not necessarily, each output portion 26 faces downwards.

[0085] Advantageously but not necessarily, such as Figure 5 and Figure 6 As better shown in the figure, the transfer slides 23 are arranged continuously transversely to the movement direction A (in particular, along the output port 13 and the second output port 15; more specifically, also along the output port 15'; more specifically, along the additional output port 29 of the additional receiving chamber 30 - described in more detail below) so that each slide 23 is in contact with one or more adjacent transfer slides 23 (in particular, in close contact - i.e., so as to prevent particles of the powder material CP from passing through).

[0086] Thus, the use of expensive and complex (especially complex to assemble) partitions arranged between adjacent operating units 22 (such as the appropriate partitions in the machine described in patent application WO2018 / 163124) can be avoided. In addition, the need for relatively expensive, difficult to assemble and easily worn gaskets (and / or sealing systems) is further reduced.

[0087] In particular, each actuator 27 is configured to move the corresponding transfer slide 23 so that the corresponding transfer slide 23 slides in contact with adjacent one or more transfer slides 23 .

[0088] According to some non-limiting embodiments (see in particular Figure 4 , Fig.10 and Fig.14), each transfer slide 23 comprises a respective bottom wall 32 which partially delimits the passage 24. In particular, each bottom wall 32 is transverse to the longitudinal extension direction of the outlet 13, and in particular to the longitudinal extension direction of the outlet 15. More particularly, each bottom wall 32 is substantially parallel to the movement direction A.

[0089] Advantageously, but not necessarily, each transfer slide 23 has no wall opposite the bottom wall 32. In other words, the channel 24 is a recess (open at the top) in the body of the slide 23 which thus has at least one raised portion 34 relative to the channel 24 (see in particular Figure 4 and Fig.10 - In this case, there are three raised portions 34).

[0090] It is particularly easy to manufacture a slide block 23 having such a shape. It also makes it more difficult for obstacles to form along the channel 24 (for example, caused by a block of powdery material).

[0091] According to certain non-limiting embodiments ( Figure 5 and Figure 6 ), at least one of the channels 24 (in particular, each channel 24, except for one) is defined by the bottom wall 32 of the adjacent transfer slide 23 (arranged on the opposite sides of the corresponding bottom wall 32) on the opposite sides of the corresponding bottom wall 32 (in other words, the bottom wall 32 of the corresponding slide 23).

[0092] In particular, each actuator 27 is configured to move the corresponding transfer slider 23 so that the corresponding transfer slider 23 slides in contact with (one or more) adjacent transfer sliders 23. In other words, each slider 23 is moved so that its own bottom wall 32 slides in contact with (one or more) parts 34 of the adjacent slider 23 and / or its own (one or more) parts 34 slide in contact with the bottom wall 32 of the adjacent slider.

[0093] Especially referring to Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 7-Figure 9 , Fig.12 , Fig.13 and Figures 16 to 20 (which is exemplified in the following description), advantageously but not necessarily, each operating unit 22 includes a corresponding operating connection 33 (particularly, a corresponding operating rod 33; in some non-limiting cases, the operating rod 33 is a wire), which is connected to the corresponding slider 23 (particularly, integral with the corresponding slider 23) and connected to the corresponding actuator 27 ( Figures 18 to 20) so as to transmit the (generated) movement from the actuator 27 toward the slider 23 (in particular, to the slider 23). According to some non-limiting embodiments, the operative connection member (in particular, rod) 33 extends upward (in particular, vertically; according to some embodiments, through the accommodation chamber 12) from the slider 23 (in particular, from the upper end of the slider 23).

[0094] For example, the actuator 27 comprises a pneumatic actuation device or an electric motor (in particular a linear one). Advantageously, but not necessarily, the actuator 27 is arranged above the housing chamber 12 .

[0095] According to certain non-limiting and not shown embodiments, each actuator 27 is configured to bring the corresponding transfer slide 23 to an intermediate position (in particular, so as to maintain it in this position), which intermediate position is between the first position FP and the second position SP, and in this intermediate position, the corresponding passage 24 is connected to the containing chamber 12, so that the powder material CA is transferred from the containing chamber 12 to the passage 24 (through the output port 13), and is connected to the containing chamber 14, so that the powder material CB is transferred from the containing chamber 14 to the passage 24 (in particular, through the output port 15).

[0096] Especially referring to Figures 7 to 9 Advantageously, but not necessarily, the supply assembly 9 comprises at least one further supply device 30', which is arranged above the conveyor assembly 5 (in particular, at the input station 6) and comprises a respective receiving chamber 30, which is configured to receive a third type of powder material (a ceramic material not specifically shown) and has a respective output opening 29, the longitudinal extension of which is transverse (in particular, perpendicular) to the movement direction A (in particular, said longitudinal extension is substantially horizontal). In particular, the longitudinal extension of the output opening 29 is substantially parallel to the longitudinal extension of the output opening 15 (and possibly the output opening 13).

[0097] According to some embodiments, the third type of powder material has a different color than the powder materials CA and CB. A color effect can thereby be produced over the thickness of the ceramic article T. Such a color effect is visible, for example, in the edge of the ceramic article T. Alternatively or additionally, the third type of powder material is suitable for (configured to) provide a ceramic article T having different physical properties than the powder materials CA and CB.

[0098] In particular, the powder material CP consists of one of the three types of powder materials or (advantageously) consists of all three types of powder materials. More specifically, the powder material CP includes (consists of) a third type of powder material and powder materials CA and CB (distributed in different regions of the powder material CP).

[0099] The outlet opening 29 has corresponding passage areas 31 which are arranged successively along the longitudinal extension of the third outlet opening 29 itself.

[0100] In particular, each passage opening 31 is arranged beside the corresponding passage zone 17 and the corresponding passage zone 16 (more precisely, between the corresponding passage zone 17 and the corresponding passage zone 16 ; in particular, associated with the corresponding passage zone 17 and the corresponding passage zone 16 ).

[0101] In particular, the operating device 18 is configured to allow (in particular, and / or prevent) the third type of powder material from passing through the corresponding channel area 31; each operating unit 22 is arranged at the corresponding channel area 31 and is configured to regulate the passage of the third type of powder material through the corresponding channel area 31. More specifically, each actuator 27 is configured to move the transfer slide 23 to at least the third position TP ( Figure 8 ), whereby the passage 24 is connected to the receiving chamber 30, so that the third type of powder material is transferred from the receiving chamber 30 to the passage 24 (particularly, through the output port 29).

[0102] More specifically, but not necessarily, (each drive unit 22 is configured such that when the transfer slide 23 is in the third position TP) in the third position TP, the input portion 28 faces the output port 29 .

[0103] In particular, the third position TP is between the first position FP and the second position SP.

[0104] According to some non-limiting embodiments, the third position TP is set lower than the first position FP (particularly, below the first position FP). In other words, the first position FP is set higher than the third position TP (above the third position TP).

[0105] Additionally or alternatively, the second position SP is set lower than the third position TP (particularly, below the third position TP). In other words, the third position TP is set higher than the second position SP (above the second position SP).

[0106] Advantageously, but not necessarily, each actuator 27 is configured to move the corresponding slide 23 in a direction transverse to (in particular, substantially perpendicular to) direction A (in particular, substantially vertical) between the first position FP and the third position TP and between the third position TP and the second position SP.

[0107] Advantageously, but not necessarily, (each operating unit 22 is configured so that, when the transfer slide 23 is in the third position TP) in the third position TP, powder material CA and / or CB from the supply device 10 and / or 11 (in particular, from the containing chamber 12 and / or 14) does not enter the passage 24.

[0108] Additionally or alternatively (similarly), (each operating unit 22 is configured such that, when the transfer slide 23 is in the second position SP) in the second position SP, the first type of powder material CA and / or the third type of powder material from the supply device 10 and / or 30' (in particular, from the containing chamber 12 and / or 30) does not enter the passage 24.

[0109] Additionally or alternatively (similarly), (each operating unit 22 is configured such that, when the transfer slide 23 is in the first position FP) in the first position FP, the second type of powder material CB and / or the third type of powder material from the supply device 11 and / or 30' (in particular, from the containing chamber 14 and / or 30) does not enter the passage 24.

[0110] According to certain non-limiting embodiments (see in particular Figures 16 to 19 ), the supply assembly 9 comprises at least another (in this case, a fourth) supply device 10' (structurally and functionally similar to the supply device 30'), which is arranged above the conveyor assembly 5 (and below the supply device 30') and comprises a corresponding receiving chamber 12' (similar to the receiving chamber 30), which is configured to receive a fourth type of powder material (ceramic material not specifically shown) and has an associated (fourth) output port 57 (similar to the output port 29), the longitudinal extension of the output port 57 being transverse to (in particular, perpendicular to) the movement direction A (the longitudinal extension being in particular substantially horizontal).

[0111] In particular, the longitudinal extension of the outlet 57 is in the direction DD.

[0112] Alternatively or additionally, the longitudinal extension of the delivery opening 57 is substantially parallel to the longitudinal extension of the delivery openings 13 , 15 and 29 .

[0113] According to some embodiments, the fourth type of powder material has a different color than the powder materials CA and CB and the third type of powder material. A special color effect can thereby be produced in the thickness of the ceramic article T. Such a color effect is visible, for example, in the edge of the ceramic article T. Alternatively or additionally, the fourth type of powder material is suitable for (configured to) provide a ceramic article T having different physical properties than the powder materials CA and CB and the third type.

[0114] In particular, the powder material CP consists of one of the four types of powder materials or (advantageously) consists of all four types of powder materials. More specifically, the powder material CP includes a fourth type of powder material, a third type of powder material, and powder materials CA and CB (consists of a fourth type of powder material, a third type of powder material, and powder materials CA and CB).

[0115] The fourth outlet opening 57 has a respective fourth channel region 58 (analogously to the channel region 31 ) which is arranged continuously along the longitudinal extension of the fourth outlet opening 57 itself.

[0116] In particular, each fourth channel region 58 is arranged beside (or more precisely between; in particular associated with) the corresponding channel region 31 , the channel region 17 and the corresponding channel region 16 .

[0117] In particular, the operating unit 18 is configured to allow (in particular, and / or prevent) the fourth type of powder material from coming out through the corresponding fourth channel area 58; each operating unit 22 is arranged at the corresponding fourth channel area 58 and is configured to regulate the passage of the fourth type of powder material through the corresponding fourth channel area 58. More specifically, each actuator 27 is configured to move the transfer slide 23 to at least the fourth position FFP, in which the passage 24 is connected to the receiving chamber 12' of the fourth feeding device, so that the fourth type of powder material is transferred to the passage 24 (in particular, through the fourth output port).

[0118] More specifically, but not necessarily, (each operating unit 22 is configured such that, when the transport slide 23 is in the fourth position FFP) in the fourth position FFP, the input portion 28 faces the fourth output port 57 .

[0119] Advantageously, but not necessarily, (each operating unit 22 is configured so that, when the transfer slide 23 is in the fourth position FFP) in the fourth position FFP, the third type of powder material and / or CA and / or CB from the supply device 30' and / or 10 and / or 11 (in particular, from the containing chamber 30 and / or 12 and / or 14) does not enter the passage 24.

[0120] According to some non-limiting embodiments, the fourth position FFP is set lower than the first position FP (particularly, below the first position FP). In other words, the first position FP is set higher than the fourth position FFP (above the fourth position FFP).

[0121] Additionally or alternatively, the fourth position FFP is set lower than the third position TP (particularly, below the third position TP). In other words, the third position TP is set higher than the fourth position FFP (above the fourth position FFP).

[0122] Additionally or alternatively, the fourth position FFP is set lower than the second position SP (particularly, below the second position SP). In other words, the second position SP is set higher than the fourth position FFP (above the fourth position FFP).

[0123] Advantageously, but not necessarily, each actuator 27 is configured to move the corresponding slide 23 in a direction transverse to (in particular, substantially perpendicular to) direction A (in particular, substantially vertical) between the first position FP and the fourth position FFP, between the third position TP and the fourth position FFP, and between the second position SP and the fourth position FFP.

[0124] Advantageously, but not necessarily, the supply assembly 9 includes a transfer chamber 35, which is formed to accommodate powder material CP received from the supply device 10 (more specifically, from the receiving chamber 12) and from the supply device 11 (more specifically, from the receiving chamber 14) (in particular, also from the supply device 30'; more specifically, from the receiving chamber 30) through the channel 24, and to transfer the powder material CP to the conveyor assembly 5 at the input station 6.

[0125] The transfer chamber 35 is arranged between the supply device 10 (more specifically, the receiving chamber 12) and the supply device 11 (more specifically, the receiving chamber 14) on one side (particularly, the supply device 30'; more specifically, the receiving chamber 30) and the conveyor assembly 5 on the other side; in particular, the transfer slider 23 is slidably mounted along at least a portion of the discharge chamber 35.

[0126] The transfer chamber 35 has a first wall 36 , in particular transverse to the movement direction A, and at least a second wall 37 , in particular transverse to the movement direction A, in particular parallel to the wall 36 , which faces the wall 36 and is arranged upstream of the wall 36 with respect to the movement direction A.

[0127] The conveying chamber 35 has: a loading section CT (in particular, substantially vertical), which is transverse to (in particular, substantially perpendicular to) the moving direction A and is arranged below the containing chamber 12 and the containing chamber 14 (in particular, also the containing chamber 30); a discharge section DT, which is provided with a discharge opening DO at least partially oriented in the moving direction A, for conveying the powder material CP to the conveyor assembly 5; and a connecting portion RT, which is curved and arranged between the loading section CT and the discharge section DT.

[0128] It has been observed experimentally that this particular structure results in a deformation of the relative distribution of the powder materials CA and CB when these powder materials are transferred from the supply assembly 9 to the conveyor assembly 5. For example, referring to Fig.11, it can be seen that the powder material CA is tilted, forming a scar.

[0129] Advantageously, but not necessarily, each slide 23 is configured to at least partially compensate for the different lengths ( Figure 12 to Figure 14 ).

[0130] In particular, each transfer slide 23 has a rear side wall 34' and a front side wall 34" (side wall 34" is downstream of side wall 34') arranged continuously in the moving direction A, and the rear side wall 34' and the front side wall 34" laterally limit the corresponding passage 24. Note that the side walls 34' and 34" are part of the raised portion 34.

[0131] According to some non-limiting embodiments, the slider 23 also has an upper wall 34 * that delimits the corresponding passage 24 at the top. The upper wall 34 * is part of the raised portion 34.

[0132] According to some non-limiting embodiments ( Fig.14 ), the side wall 34" has a convex inward curvature of the channel 24, which is greater than the inward curvature of the side wall 34'. Therefore, the path of the particles of the powder material CP is close to the side wall 34" and the above-mentioned deformation of the relative distribution of the powder materials CA and CB is at least partially compensated.

[0133] Alternatively or additionally ( Fig.12 and Fig.13 ), the inlets 25 and 28 are at different heights. In particular, the inlet 28, which is arranged upstream of the input 25 with respect to the direction A, is located at a greater height than the inlet 25. In this case, the above-mentioned deformation of the relative distribution of the powder materials CA and CB is also at least partially compensated.

[0134] Especially referring to Figure 20 to Figure 22 and Fig. 27 , the compacting machine 2 comprises a plurality of groups 38 of operating units 22. Each group 38 comprises at least two operating units 22 adjacent to each other. In other words, the slides 23 of the same group 38 are arranged continuously (particularly without interruption; more particularly, in contact) transversely (particularly perpendicularly) to the movement direction A (particularly along the longitudinal extension of the outlets 13 and 15).

[0135] In particular, the slide blocks 23 of the same group 38 are arranged substantially continuously (in particular, without interruption; more particularly, in contact) in the extension direction DD.

[0136] Each actuator 27 comprises a movable element 39 connected to (in particular integral with) the respective operating connection 33 and a movement system 39' (of a type known per se - for example a linear motor, in particular an electric motor) for moving the movable element 39 in the respective defined direction D. The defined directions D (of the movement systems) of the operating units 22 belonging to the same group 38 of operating units 22 are different from each other and transverse to each other.

[0137] It is observed that in this way, the resolution of the distribution of different types of powder materials (eg, powder material CA and powder material CB) within the powder material CP can be unexpectedly increased.

[0138] This is because the footprint of the actuator 27 can be distributed in all directions and therefore a large number of actuators 27 can be provided. Therefore, the distance between two adjacent slides 23 can be reduced, so that a large number of slides 23 per unit length is also obtained. The actuators 27 are no longer arranged continuously only in a direction perpendicular to the direction A (in the extension direction DD) and / or immediately above the corresponding channel areas 16 and 17. For example, the actuators 21 can also be arranged downstream and upstream (with respect to the direction A) of the output ports 13 and 15 (such as Figure 20 to Figure 22 ) and / or may also extend beyond the ends of the outlets 13 and 15 (eg, thus also beyond the side edges of the conveyor belt 53).

[0139] Therefore, the overall size of the actuator 27 in the direction perpendicular to the direction A (in the extending direction DD) can also be reduced.

[0140] According to some non-limiting embodiments, the movable element 39 is part of the corresponding operative connection 33. In these cases, more precisely but not necessarily, the movable element 39 defines one end of the corresponding operative connection 33.

[0141] Advantageously, but not necessarily, each group 38 of operating units 22 comprises at least three (particularly, at least four; more particularly, at least six; even more particularly, at least eight) operating units 22 (adjacent to each other).

[0142] According to some non-limiting embodiments, the actuators 27 of the same group 38 of operating units 22 are arranged continuously (one after another, in particular in a row) transversely to the extension direction DD of the outlets 13 and 14. In particular, the actuators 27 of the same group 38 of operating units 22 are arranged continuously in the movement direction A substantially.

[0143] More precisely, but not necessarily, the actuators 27 of the same group of operating units 22 are arranged substantially in the same plane (particularly transverse to the longitudinal extension direction DD of the outputs 13 , 14 ; more specifically substantially in the movement direction A).

[0144] According to an alternative non-limiting embodiment (not shown), the actuators 27 of the same group 38 are arranged offset from one another (not in a row and / or not in a plane relative to the other actuators 27 of the same group 38). For example, some actuators 27 may also be arranged beyond the ends of the outputs 13 and 15 (e.g., and therefore also beyond the side edges of the conveyor belt 53).

[0145] Advantageously, but not necessarily, each operating connection 33 comprises (in particular is) at least one operating rod, in particular flexible (and more particularly having a small deformation memory).

[0146] According to some non-limiting embodiments, the operating rod is made of metal, in particular steel, in particular having a high tensile strength.

[0147] In particular, in this context, a flexible operating rod is a rod that is configured to deform (made of a material such that it can) by moving along a corresponding guide channel 40 (described in more detail below - adapting to the shape of the guide channel 40) while continuing to perform its function of transmitting the movement generated by the actuator 27 towards the slider 23.

[0148] In some non-limiting cases, the operating rod (each rod) has a tensile strength Rm greater than about 800 MPa (specifically, greater than about 1200 MPa; more specifically, greater than about 1600 MPa).

[0149] Additionally or alternatively, the operating rod (each rod) has a tensile strength Rm of up to about 3000 MPa (in particular, up to about 2800 MPa).

[0150] In particular, the tensile strength Rm of the rod is measured according to ISO 6892-1:2019 (in particular, operating under standard conditions).

[0151] Additionally or alternatively, the operating rod (each rod) has an elastic modulus (Young's modulus) of at least about 170 GPa (particularly, at least about 180 GPa; more particularly, at least about 190 GPa) (particularly, is composed of a material having the elastic modulus (Young's modulus)).

[0152] According to some non-limiting embodiments, the operating rod (each rod) has (particularly consists of) a material having an elastic modulus (Young's modulus) of at least about 200 GPa (particularly, at least about 205 GPa).

[0153] Additionally or alternatively, the operating rod (each rod) has (particularly consists of) a material having an elastic modulus (Young's modulus) of up to about 300 GPa (particularly, up to about 260 GPa; more particularly, up to about 250 GPa).

[0154] According to some non-limiting embodiments, the operating rod (each rod) has an elastic modulus (Young's modulus) of up to about 240 GPa (particularly, up to about 230 GPa; more particularly, up to about 210 GPa) (particularly, is composed of a material having the elastic modulus (Young's modulus)).

[0155] In some specific non-limiting cases, the operating rod (each rod) has an elastic modulus (Young's modulus) of about 210 GPa (particularly, is composed of a material having such an elastic modulus (Young's modulus)).

[0156] Specifically, the elastic modulus is measured using the method specified in ISO 6892-1 (specifically, see Appendix G thereof). Alternatively, the elastic modulus is measured using the method specified in ASTM D790-17.

[0157] For example, the rod is made of spring steel C72 UNI 10270-1 and / or 52SiCrNi5 UNI 10270-2, ASTM-A36 steel or the like.

[0158] According to some non-limiting embodiments, the cross-sectional area of ​​such a lever is between about 1 mm and about 4 mm. 2 between (particularly, a diameter of about 1 mm to about 2 mm).

[0159] Advantageously, but not necessarily, each group 38 of operating units 22 comprises at least two (particularly, at least four; more particularly, at least six; even more particularly, at least eight) guide channels 40 (particularly see Fig. 20 and Figure 23 to Figure 26 ), in each guide channel, one of the operating connections 33 (in particular, the operating rod) extends at least partially and slidably.

[0160] According to some non-limiting embodiments, each guide channel 40 is at least partially curved and has an upper open end 41 and a lower open end 42 pointing at least partially downward. More specifically, but not necessarily, each lower open end 42 is arranged above (particularly facing) a corresponding slider 23 (i.e., a slider 23 of its own operating unit 22).

[0161] In particular, each guide channel 40 at least partially bends the corresponding operating connection member 33 (in particular, the operating rod). More particularly, in use, when each operating connection member 33 (in particular, the operating rod) slides along the corresponding guide channel 40, it deforms to match the shape of the guide channel 40.

[0162] Advantageously, but not necessarily, the lower open ends 42 of the guide channels (of the same group 38 operating units 22) are arranged substantially continuously (in particular, they are continuously - more specifically - in a row - in direction DD) transversely (in particular, on a transverse line) (in particular, perpendicularly) to the movement direction A.

[0163] In some non-limiting cases, at least some of the upper open ends 41 of the same set 38 of operating units 22 have different orientations (eg, some facing upward and some facing horizontally).

[0164] According to some non-limiting embodiments, each of said plurality 38 of operating units 22 comprises a manifold 43 in which said guide channels 40 are obtained. In particular, each collector 43 is (substantially) solid (ie it has no voids), except for the guide channels.

[0165] Alternatively, and according to a further embodiment, the operating connection 33 (instead of the flexible operating rod) comprises: a first rack shaft RS, which is directly connected to the respective actuator 27 (more precisely to the movable element 39) suitable for moving it (longitudinally); a second rod S, which has a first end (integrally) connected to the respective slider 23 and a second rack end; and an intermediate kinematic chain TW, which is configured to transmit the movement from the first rack shaft RS to the second rod S and in particular comprises a plurality of gears meshing with each other (see Fig.28 ).

[0166] According to other embodiments, not shown, the operative connection 33 comprises another type of kinematic mechanism.

[0167] According to some non-limiting embodiments, the apparatus 1 comprises a printing device 44 ( Figure 1 ), which is suitable for producing a graphic decoration above (on) the compacted ceramic powder layer KP transported by the conveyor assembly 5, and is arranged at a printing station 45 (arranged upstream of the output station 7) along a determined path (in particular, along the section PB) downstream of the work station 4. The control unit 20 is suitable for controlling the printing device 44 so as to produce a graphic decoration consistent with the reference distribution 21, in particular so that a graphic decoration of a specific color is (selectively) displayed at the powder material CA (or CB).

[0168] Advantageously, but not necessarily, the device 1 comprises an additional application unit 46 for at least partially covering the layer of compacted powder KP with an additional layer of powder material. In particular, the application unit 46 is arranged upstream of the work station 4 (and upstream of the printing station 45) along a determined path (more precisely along the section PA).

[0169] In particular, the machine 1 also comprises a cutting assembly 47 for transversely cutting the compacted ceramic powder layer KP to obtain plates 48, wherein each plate 48 comprises a portion of the compacted ceramic powder layer KP. More particularly, the cutting assembly 47 is arranged along a section PB of a determined path (between the work station 4 and the printing station 39). The plates 48 comprise (consist of) the compacted ceramic powder KP.

[0170] Advantageously, but not necessarily, the cutting assembly 47 comprises at least one cutting blade 49 suitable for coming into contact with the layer of compacted powder KP and for transversely cutting the layer of compacted powder KP.

[0171] According to some non-limiting embodiments, the cutting assembly 47 further comprises at least two further blades 50 arranged on opposite sides of the section PB and adapted to cut the compacted ceramic powder layer KP and define the lateral edges of the plate 48 (and substantially parallel to the direction A) - possibly subdividing the plate 48 into two or more longitudinal parts. In some specific cases, the cutting assembly 47 is as described in the patent application with publication number EP1415780.

[0172] In particular, the plant 1 comprises at least one firing kiln 51 for sintering the layer of compacted powder KP of the plate 48 so as to obtain a ceramic article T. More specifically, the firing kiln 51 is arranged downstream of the printing station 45 (and upstream of the output station 7) along a determined path (more precisely along the section PB).

[0173] According to certain non-limiting embodiments, the plant 1 also comprises a dryer 52 arranged along the section PB downstream of the working station 4 and upstream of the printing station 45 .

[0174] According to some non-limiting embodiments, the conveyor assembly 5 includes a conveyor belt 53 extending (and adapted to move) from the input station 6 and extending through the workstation 4 along the aforementioned determined path (or more precisely, a portion of the aforementioned determined path).

[0175] In some cases, the supply assembly 9 is suitable for bringing a layer of (uncompacted) powder material CP to (onto) a conveyor belt 53 (at an input station 6); the compacting device 3 is suitable for (being configured to) apply a pressure on the layer of ceramic powder CP transverse to (in particular, orthogonal to) the surface of the conveyor belt 53.

[0176] According to some non-limiting embodiments, a series of transfer rollers are provided downstream of the belt 53 .

[0177] According to some embodiments, in particular, the compacting device 3 includes at least two compression rollers 54 arranged on opposite sides of the conveyor belt 53 (one above the conveyor belt 53 and one below the conveyor belt 53), which are used to apply pressure on the powder material CP so as to compact the powder material CP itself (and obtain a layer of compacted powder KP).

[0178] Despite Figure 1 Only two rollers 54 are shown, but according to some variants, multiple rollers 54 arranged above and below the conveyor belt 53 may also be provided, such as disclosed in patent EP1641607B1, from which further details of the compacting device 3 can be obtained.

[0179] Advantageously (as in Figure 1 In the embodiment shown, but not necessarily, the compacting device 3 comprises a pressure belt 55 converging towards the conveyor belt 53 in the moving direction A. A pressure gradually increasing in the direction A is thereby exerted on the powder material CP (from the top downwards) in order to compact it.

[0180] According to certain embodiments (e.g. Figure 1 ), the compacting device further comprises a contrast belt 55', which is arranged on the side of the conveyor belt 53 opposite to the pressure belt 55, and is used to cooperate with the conveyor belt 53 to provide sufficient feedback to the force applied downward by the pressure belt 55. In particular, the pressure belt 55 and the contrast belt 55' are (mainly) made of metal (steel), so that they are substantially unable to deform when pressure is applied to the ceramic powder.

[0181] According to some embodiments, not shown, the contrast belt 55' coincides with the conveyor belt 53. In such a case, the belt 53 is (mainly) made of metal (steel) and the contrast belt 55' is absent.

[0182] Advantageously, but not necessarily (see in particular Figures 16 to 19 ), the operating device 18 comprises a protection system for the operating unit 22 (in particular, for the operating connection 33); in particular, the protection system is suitable for reducing (in particular, preventing) the risk of contact between the operating connection 33 (and the upper part of the slide 23; more precisely, but not necessarily, the upper part 34*) and the powder material (such as CA and / or CB).

[0183] This improves the operation of each operating unit 22 by reducing the force required to move (especially upwards) the slide 23 and reducing wear on the various parts.

[0184] More specifically, such a protection system comprises two protection walls 59 which are arranged transversely to the direction A (in particular, substantially vertically) on opposite sides of the operating connection 33 in a row in the direction A. In other words, the walls 59 delimit a sliding channel (in particular, transversely to the direction A; more particularly, substantially vertically) for the operating connection 33 and (partially) for the slide 23 (in particular, for the upper wall 34 *).

[0185] Advantageously, but not necessarily, the wall 59 has a certain length and the upper wall 34 * has a certain thickness so that at any position FP and SP (and possibly TP; and possibly FFP) of the slider 23, at least a portion of the upper wall 34 * is located in the channel defined by the wall 59.

[0186] The device and method according to the invention achieve several advantages over the prior art. These advantages include: lower cost and complexity; the ability to obtain a reproducible and accurate distribution of even more than two types of powder; the reproducible creation of textures of different materials (and therefore different colors - even more than two) in the thickness of the article; and the creation of the texture obtained in the thickness of the article (and therefore visible when looking at the edge of the article) in a consistent position relative to the surface decoration obtained by printing.

[0187] In particular, with regard to patent application WO2018 / 163124, it should be noted that according to the invention, the number of actuators can be reduced by up to half, thereby saving costs, simplifying the technology (also with regard to the handling of the relevant materials) and enabling miniaturization (and therefore greater precision and resolution when realizing a specific embodiment of the powder material CA in the powder material CB).

[0188] Unless expressly stated to the contrary, the contents of the references (articles, books, patent applications, etc.) cited herein are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. In particular, the above references are incorporated herein by reference.

Claims

1. A compactor (2) for compacting a powder material (CP), the powder material (CP) comprising a ceramic powder; The compactor (2) comprises: a compacting device (3) arranged at the workstation (4) and configured to compact the powder material (CP) to obtain a layer of compacted powder (KP); a conveyor assembly (5) conveying the powder material (CP) from an input station (6) toward the workstation (4) along a first section (PA) of a given path in a moving direction (A), and conveying the layer of compacted powder (KP) from the workstation (4) to an output station (7) along a second section (PB) of the given path; and a supply assembly (9) configured to supply the powder material (CP) to the conveyor assembly (5) at the input station (6); The supply assembly (9) comprises a first supply device (10) and at least one second supply device (11) arranged above the conveyor assembly (5); the first supply device (10) comprises at least one corresponding first receiving chamber (12), the first receiving chamber (12) being configured to receive a first type of powder material (CA) and having at least one associated first output port (13), the first output port (13) having a longitudinal extension transverse to (particularly, perpendicular to) the moving direction (A); the second supply device (11) comprises at least one corresponding second receiving chamber (14), the second receiving chamber (14) being configured to receive a second type of powder material (CB) and having an associated second output port (15), the second output port (15) having a longitudinal extension transverse to (particularly, perpendicular to) the moving direction (A); The first output port (13) has a corresponding first channel area (16) arranged continuously along the longitudinal extension of the first output port (13); the second output port (15) has a corresponding second channel area (17) arranged continuously along the longitudinal extension of the second output port (15); the supply assembly (9) further comprises an operating device (18), the operating device (18) being configured to allow and / or prevent the powder material (CA; CB) from passing through the first channel area (16) and the second channel area (17), and comprising a plurality of operating units (22), wherein each operating unit is configured to regulate the passage of the powder material (CA; CB) through the corresponding first channel area (16) and the second channel area (17); The compactor (2) is characterized in that each operating unit (22) comprises a corresponding conveying slide (23) and a corresponding actuator (27), wherein the conveying slide (23) has a passage (24), wherein the passage (24) is provided with at least one inlet (25; 28) and at least one output portion (26) arranged below the inlet (25; 28), and wherein the actuator (27) is used to move the conveying slide (23) to a first position (FP) and at least to a second position (SP), wherein in the first position (FP), the passage (24) is connected to the first receiving chamber (12), so that the first type of powder material (CA) moves from the first receiving chamber (12) to the passage (24), and in the second position (SP), the passage (24) is connected to the second receiving chamber (14), so that the second type of powder material (CB) moves from the second receiving chamber (14) to the passage (24); Each operating unit (22) further comprises a corresponding operating connection member (33), which is connected to the corresponding slider (23) and the corresponding actuator (27) so as to transmit the movement generated by the actuator (27) to the slider (23); The compacting machine (2) comprises a plurality of groups (38) of operating units (22); each group (38) comprises at least two operating units (22) adjacent to each other; each actuator (27) comprises a movable element (39) connected to a corresponding operating connection (33) and a movement system (39') for moving the movable element (39) in a corresponding defined direction (D); The defined directions (D) of the movement systems (39') of the operating units (22) belonging to the same group (38) of operating units (22) are different from each other and are transverse to each other.

2. The compactor according to claim 1, wherein: Each of the plurality of groups (38) of operating units (22) includes at least four operating units (22) adjacent to each other.

3. The compactor according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The actuators (27) of the same group (38) of operating units (22) are arranged successively transversely to the longitudinal extension direction (DD) of the output ports (13, 15).

4. A compactor according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The operating connection (33) comprises at least one flexible operating rod with a small deformation memory.

5. A compactor according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The operating connection (33) comprises at least one operating rod made of a material with high tensile strength (particularly, Rm exceeding 1600 MPa), such as C72 UNI 10270-1 spring steel and / or 52SiCrNi5 UNI 10270-2 spring steel.

6. The compactor according to claim 4 or 5, wherein: The cross-sectional area of ​​the operating rod (33) is 1 to 4 mm 2 (particularly, the diameter is 1 to 2 mm), and in particular, the elastic modulus of the operating rod is at least about 170 GPa (more particularly, at least about 180 GPa; even more particularly, at least about 200 GPa).

7. A compactor according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: Each of the plurality of groups (38) of operating units (22) comprises at least two (particularly, a plurality) of guide channels (40), in which corresponding operating connections (33) (particularly, the operating rods) extend at least partially and in a sliding manner.

8. The compactor according to claim 7, wherein: Each guide channel (40) is at least partially curved and has an upper open end (41) and a lower open end (42), the lower open end (42) at least partially facing downward (particularly, each lower open end is arranged above a corresponding slider (23)).

9. The compactor according to claim 8, wherein: The lower open end (42) of the guide channel is arranged substantially continuously transversely (in particular, perpendicularly) to the movement direction (A).

10. A compactor according to any one of claims 7 to 9, wherein: Each of the plurality of groups (38) of operating units (22) comprises a manifold (43) at which the guide channel (40) is defined; in particular, each manifold (43) is solid except for the guide channel (40).

11. A compactor according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The second position (SP) is arranged to be lower than the first position (FP) (particularly, below the first position (FP)); in particular, in the first position (FP), the inlet (25; 28) faces the first output port (13) or is inside the first receiving chamber (12), and in the second position (SP), the inlet (25; 28) faces the second output port (15).

12. A compactor according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The transfer slides (23) are arranged continuously transversely to the moving direction (A) (in particular, along the first output port (13) and the second output port (15)), so that each transfer slide (23) contacts one or more adjacent transfer slides (23); in particular, each actuator (27) is configured to move the corresponding slide (23) so that the corresponding transfer slide (23) slides in contact with one or more adjacent transfer slides (23).

13. A compactor according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: Each slider (32) has a thickness (particularly measured transversely to - more particularly, perpendicularly to - the movement direction (A); more particularly measured in the longitudinal extension direction (DD) of the output port) less than or equal to 10 mm (particularly, less than or equal to 6 mm; particularly, greater than 2 mm).

14. A compactor according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The operating device (18) comprises a protection system for the operating unit (22), which is provided with two protection walls (59) and is designed to reduce the risk of the operating connection (33) coming into contact with the powder material.

15. The compactor according to claim 5, wherein: Each of the operational connections (33) includes at least one operating rod having an elastic modulus of at least about 170 GPa (more specifically, at least about 180 GPa; even more specifically, at least about 200 GPa).

16. An apparatus for manufacturing a ceramic product (T); the apparatus (1) comprising: A compactor (2) according to any one of the preceding claims; a cutting assembly (47) for transversely cutting said layer of compacted powder (KP) to obtain plates (48), each plate having a portion of said layer of compacted powder (KP); and at least one firing kiln (51) for sintering the layer of compacted powder (KP) of the plate (48) to obtain the ceramic product (T); in particular, the firing kiln (51) is arranged downstream of the printing station (39) of the device along the given path.

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