Machine for packaging discrete articles

Abstract

A machine (10) for packaging discrete articles (100) comprises: a feeding station (S1) for feeding discrete articles (100) in ordered groups (101); the first feeding station (S3) is used for feeding the inner wrapping piece (201); a station (S4) for conveying and folding the inner covers (201) for conveying the ordered groups (101) and folding the inner covers (201) around them; an operation station (S6); the second feeding station (S8) is used for feeding the outer covering piece (202); a station (S9) for conveying and folding the outer covers (202) for conveying the groups (101) and folding the outer covers (202) around them; a station (S11) for closing and welding the outer cladding (202); and an exit station (S12).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a machine for packaging discrete articles, particularly utilizing single- or double-layered coverings. Specifically, the discrete articles to be packaged are food items, such as sweets (e.g., sugar, chewing gum, chocolate, biscuits) or other similarly sized foods.

[0002] A predetermined number of such items are grouped into item groups, which are then covered with the single or double layer of the covering. Background Technology

[0003] For a long time, a pocket-sized package (often also called a candy package) for chewing gum has been known, taking the form of a rigid, dense strip. This chewing gum can be sold in a package in which an ordered group of items is wrapped within a first cover (consisting of a single layer of covering material), and sometimes a second cover (consisting of a second layer of covering material) surrounding the first cover. To securely seal the package, the second cover is closed by welding, for example, by activating a sealing wax pre-applied to the inner surface of the second cover, or, if the second cover is made of a heat-sealing material, by direct welding.

[0004] Packaging machines for packaging chewing gum into ordered groups of items are also known. A first type of known machine is configured to perform packaging with a single layer of wrapping, while a second type of known machine is configured to perform packaging with a double layer of wrapping. Each of these types is specifically designed to perform packaging using precise wrapping material for candies of a predetermined shape and size. If the wrapping material changes and / or the shape and size of the candy changes, necessary design modifications to the machine are required.

[0005] The lack of flexibility of known machines is a problem because they are not general-purpose and are specifically designed to package only the specific items their design is intended for. Known machines cannot convert from single-layer packaging to double-layer packaging and vice versa, and they are also limited by the predetermined dimensions of discrete items and the predetermined quantity of items in an ordered group to be packaged.

[0006] Furthermore, known machines are configured to typically use plastic-based covering materials to manufacture covers, and therefore they are not environmentally sustainable. Consequently, known machines cannot use environmentally sustainable materials (i.e., materials that are at least partially derived from natural sources, recyclable, or compostable) for packaging.

[0007] Therefore, there is a need to improve a machine for packaging discrete items that can overcome at least one of the shortcomings of the prior art.

[0008] Therefore, it is necessary to solve the technical problem of providing a flexible machine for packaging discrete items, which can use different covering materials for different types of discrete items.

[0009] In particular, one object of the present invention is to provide a machine for packaging discrete articles that is convertible and capable of performing single-layer and double-layer packaging as needed.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to provide a machine that is more compact in size compared to the first and second types of machines known in the prior art.

[0011] Another object of the present invention is to provide a machine for packaging discrete items, which allows for the packaging of packages comprising a number of items selected by the operator through a basic, simple and rapid machine setup operation, and is adaptable to the shape and size of each discrete item to be packaged.

[0012] The applicant designed, tested, and implemented the present invention to overcome the shortcomings of the prior art and to achieve these and other objectives and advantages. Summary of the Invention

[0013] The independent claims set forth and describe the invention. The dependent claims describe other features of the invention or variations of the main inventive concept.

[0014] In accordance with the above objectives and to solve the aforementioned technical problems in a novel and original manner, while achieving significant advantages compared to the prior art, according to the present invention, a machine for packaging discrete articles, the machine being capable of alternately selecting a double-layer wrapping configuration or a single-layer wrapping configuration, wherein the machine sequentially comprises: a feed station configured to feed the discrete articles in ordered groups; a rotary conveyor comprising a plurality of wheels rotatable about respective rotation axes, each of the wheels having a plurality of peripheral pockets configured to accommodate at least one ordered group of the discrete articles; at least a first feed station and a second feed station configured to feed an inner wrapping member and an outer wrapping member, respectively; and a first folding member and a second folding member configured to fold the inner wrapping member and the outer wrapping member around each ordered group, respectively.

[0015] According to one aspect of the invention, the machine further includes an operating station arranged downstream of the first feed station and upstream of the second feed station, the operating station having an adjustable configuration depending on the selected covering configuration, wherein the operating station includes: a first conveying device configured to close the inner covering around the ordered group, and to convey the ordered group, at least partially covered in the inner covering, to a second folding member, wherein, when the machine operates according to the double-layer covering configuration, the second folding member closes the outer covering around the inner covering already covered around the ordered group; and a second conveying device including rotatable wheels of a plurality of wheels, the second conveying device configured to, when the machine operates according to the single-layer covering configuration, convey the ordered group to the second folding member without any inner covering surrounding it, such that the second folding member closes the outer covering around the ordered group. The first and second devices are detachably mounted in the operating station, one serving as an alternative to the other.

[0016] This approach offers at least the following advantages: it provides a machine for packaging discrete items that can switch between a double-layer wrapping configuration and a single-layer wrapping configuration. In the double-layer wrapping configuration, both the inner and outer wrappers are fed, with a first conveyor mounted at the operating station. In the single-layer wrapping configuration, only the outer wrapper is fed, with a second conveyor mounted at the operating station.

[0017] According to some embodiments, a first feed station feeds a first covering sheet intended to form an inner covering, and a second feed station feeds a second covering sheet intended to form an outer covering.

[0018] According to some embodiments, the first conveying device includes a forward member and a drive mechanism for driving the forward member, the forward member being configured to advance an ordered group of discrete articles partially covered in an inner cover. The forward member is configured to shift between an active position, in which it moves along a channel of the first conveying device, and in an inactive position, it shifts away from the channel and cyclically shifts back toward the first feed station.

[0019] According to some embodiments, the channel includes at least a horizontal support configured to support and receive the ordered group, and to allow them to slide as they are moved by the first conveying device.

[0020] According to some embodiments, the forward member includes a pushing member configured to engage the channel from below when the machine operates in the double-cover configuration.

[0021] According to some embodiments, the forward member is configured to be positioned between a raised active position for moving the ordered group and a lowered support position that allows the second conveying device to be placed in place in place of the first conveying device.

[0022] According to some embodiments, the drive mechanism is mounted on a support body, which is movably mounted on the machine to move between a working position and a supporting position located below the working position. In the working position, when the machine operates in a double-cover configuration, the drive mechanism is capable of driving the forward member to move an ordered group partially covered by the inner cover. In the supporting position, when the machine operates in a single-cover configuration, the drive mechanism is located at a distance from the second conveying device so as not to interfere with the second conveying device.

[0023] According to some embodiments, the support is movably, preferably slidably, mounted on the machine, i.e., on the machine's frame.

[0024] According to some embodiments, the drive mechanism includes: a first motor configured to move the forward member in a horizontal direction; and a second motor configured to move the forward member in a vertical direction.

[0025] According to some embodiments, the machine includes a closure and welding station configured to close and weld the outer cladding. The station for closing and welding the outer cladding includes multiple welding components configured to weld the outer cladding. This allows for adjustment of the weld strength depending on the cladding material used.

[0026] Preferably, the plurality of welded components include: a first series of upper welded components configured to weld an outer covering at the upper longitudinal side of the ordered group; and a second series of lateral welded components configured to weld an outer covering at the end of the ordered group.

[0027] According to some embodiments, the machine includes a single linear conveyor for conveying the ordered group of at least discrete articles covered in the outer covering through a station for closing and welding the outer covering, and then toward an exit station.

[0028] Advantageously, the exit station also includes a pair of lateral conveyors, each located on a corresponding side of the ordered group of at least the discrete articles covered in the outer casing, to guide the newly welded ends of the outer casing. This allows the weld seams at the ends to be protected from sliding relative to a stationary surface during cooling.

[0029] According to some embodiments, at least one of the stations for conveying and folding inner coverings or for conveying and folding outer coverings is equipped with a damping member configured to guide the ordered group of discrete articles and, if present, the corresponding coverings into the corresponding seats.

[0030] Advantageously, at least one of the stations for conveying and folding inner covers or for conveying and folding outer covers includes one of the rotary conveyors equipped with the seat for receiving an ordered group of discrete articles, and includes the damping member displaceable between a retracted position and an extended position, in which the damping member is fully contained within the entire dimension of the conveyor, and in the extended position, at least one end of the damping member extends from one of the seats so that it first contacts the ordered group of discrete articles.

[0031] More specifically, each of the stations for conveying and folding inner coverings or for conveying and folding outer coverings includes a corresponding wheel comprising a body with a central cavity and an outer wall with a circular cross-section, wherein a plurality of seats are created in the outer wall, the seats being configured to receive an ordered set of discrete items. Each seat includes a bottom equipped with a longitudinal groove. A damping member is located within the central cavity and has a plate-like body configured to pass through the longitudinal groove at the bottom of the seat.

[0032] Advantageously, each damping member is displaceable between a retracted position and an extended position, in which it is completely contained within the central cavity, and in the extended position, at least one end of it extends from the longitudinal slot and is positioned within the corresponding seat. Attached Figure Description

[0033] These and other aspects, features, and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description of embodiments given as non-limiting examples with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein: Figure 1 This is a partial schematic longitudinal sectional view of a machine for packaging discrete articles according to the present invention in a first operating configuration; Figure 2a and Figure 2b These are three-dimensional views of packaged discrete items, each showing a corresponding variation; Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 6 It is shown Figure 1 Enlarged longitudinal section view of the different operating stations of the machine; Figure 5 yes Figure 4 A schematic three-dimensional cross-sectional view of the equipment included in the operating station shown; Figure 7 and Figure 8 yes Figure 1 A magnified 3D view of other details of the machine. Figure 8 It is also a partial cross-section; Figure 9 schematically shown Figure 1 The process of packaging a set of discrete items by a machine in the first operating configuration; Figure 10 yes Figure 1 A partial schematic longitudinal section view of some operating stations of the machine, wherein the machine is arranged in a second operating configuration; Figure 11 schematically shown Figure 10 The visible process is the operation flow of a machine arranged in the second operating configuration to package a set of discrete items.

[0034] It must be clarified that the sole function of the wording and terminology used in this specification, as well as the figures and their manner of description in the accompanying drawings, is to better illustrate and explain the invention. Their purpose is to provide non-limiting examples of the invention itself, since the scope of protection is defined by the claims.

[0035] For ease of understanding, the same reference numerals have been used to identify the same common elements in the figures where possible. It should be understood that elements and features of one embodiment can be readily combined or incorporated into other embodiments without further explanation. Detailed Implementation

[0036] Referring to the accompanying drawings, the machine 10 according to the invention is configured to package ordered groups 101 of discrete articles 100, such as sweets (e.g., candy, chewing gum, chocolate, biscuits) or general food, wherein each group contains a predetermined number of discrete articles, such as ten articles.

[0037] In the following description, discrete article 100 is preferably chewing gum of a known type, generally in the form of rectangular candy. Obviously, the nature of the packaged discrete article can also be different; for example, it could even be a product from an industry other than the food industry, which does not constitute a limitation on the scope of this invention.

[0038] Therefore, each ordered group 101 of the articles 100 has an elongated shape, wherein a plurality of longitudinal sides 102 extend between two opposite ends 103. In the specific example shown, the articles have a rectangular shape and are provided with four longitudinal sides 102, i.e., one on each perimeter of the article. Figure 2a and Figure 2b ).

[0039] As will be described in more detail below, machine 10 allows these discrete items 100 to be packaged according to two different packaging configurations: double-layered or single-layered.

[0040] In the case of double-layer wrapping, the inner wrapping member 201 is configured to directly contact the group 101 of the discrete articles 100, and is disposed within the outer wrapping member 202, which wraps around the inner wrapping member 201. Figure 2a Each cover 201 and 202 is composed of a corresponding sheet of suitable covering material cut to the appropriate size. The materials of these covers may include cellulose-based materials (e.g., paper), plastic materials, or materials suitable for defining a barrier effect to protect the product from moisture (e.g., foil or metallized paper). The sheets are folded in a known manner around the group 101 of discrete articles 100, thereby causing the discrete articles 100 belonging to the same group 101 to be stably combined together.

[0041] On the other hand, in the case of single-layer covering, a single covering is provided, which is in direct contact with the discrete articles 100 and is covered by a group 101, consisting of an outer covering 202, which is also made of a suitable covering material, such as those listed above.

[0042] refer to Figure 1 and Figures 3 to 8 These illustrate the operating configuration of machine 10, which allows for the acquisition of, etc. Figure 2a The packaging shown has a double layer of wrapping.

[0043] Machine 10 includes a feed station S1 equipped with a vibratory finisher 11, into which discrete items 100 are fed in bulk. The discrete items 100 then fall automatically from the vibratory finisher 11 into a channel device 12 due to gravity. In one feasible embodiment, the channel device 12 includes a plurality of channels (not shown), which are preferably arranged parallel to each other and adjacent to each other, configured to guide the discrete items 100 from the feed station S1 to the next processing station.

[0044] Each channel forms an ordered group of discrete items 100. At the exit of the channel device 12, the corresponding items exit from each channel. Due to the arrangement of the channels, all items exiting from the channels are arranged side by side in sequence to form groups 101. In the example given here, each group 101 contains ten items 100, and the channel device contains the same number of channels. Groups 101 are oriented to extend along a longitudinal axis, which is substantially horizontal.

[0045] In the example described herein, at least one control device 14 associated with the channel device 12 is provided, configured to control the discrete items 100 during their descent to detect, for example, any blockages, missing items, or potential damage. The control device 14 is preferably of an optical type, such as including a camera.

[0046] Machine 10 includes a first conveying station S2, and the first conveying station S2 includes a conveyor wheel 13.

[0047] In the first conveyor station S2, group 101 enters the conveyor wheel 13 for conveying item 100 ( Figure 1 and Figure 3 The rotating shaft R1 of the conveyor wheel 13 is basically parallel to the longitudinal axis of the group 101.

[0048] The conveyor wheel 13 for conveying articles 100 includes a plurality of accommodating slots 15 angled along the circumference of the conveyor wheel 13 and opening outwards. Each accommodating slot 15 serves as a seat configured to receive a corresponding group 101 to ensure that it remains in its ordered arrangement without any elements binding it together, given that in this operating position of the machine 10, the group 101 consists only of a plurality of side-by-side articles without any coverings holding them together. For this purpose, the internal dimensions of each accommodating slot 15 substantially correspond to the external dimensions of the group 101 formed at the outlet of the channel device 12.

[0049] We must clearly point out that the shape of the receiving groove 15 is rectangular, and it is oriented so that its longitudinal axis is substantially parallel to the rotation axis R1 of the wheel 13. Therefore, the assembly 101 is also oriented parallel to this axis.

[0050] In the example shown, wheel 13 has eight receiving slots 15 spaced 45° apart from each other. Wheel 13 is connected to a corresponding motor component (not shown for simplicity), preferably brushless, configured to drive the wheel in a step-like alternating motion in a unidirectional rotational direction (e.g., counterclockwise). In this case, the motor component causes the wheel to rotate 45° per step.

[0051] A rejection zone 16 is set up, for example, below wheel 13, although other locations are also possible.

[0052] Wheel 13 includes two push rod members 17, 18 configured to push assembly 101 out of receiving groove 15. To allow these push rod members 17, 18 to pass through, the bottom wall of receiving groove 15 includes at least one passage hole (not shown) for the push rod.

[0053] The first push rod component 17 is arranged in the rejection area 16 ( Figure 3 ), so that if the control device 14 detects that the group does not meet the quality standard, the group 101 will be pushed out of the corresponding receiving slot 15. The second push rod member 18 is configured to push the group 101 out of the corresponding receiving slot 15 from the conveyor wheel 13 at the exit station and push it to the next processing station. Figure 3 ).

[0054] Each push rod component 17, 18 is shaped to enable it to interact with all items 100 of group 101 to prevent any isolated item from being accidentally left in the receiving slot.

[0055] Each push rod component 17, 18 can move between a supporting position and a pushing position. In the supporting position, the push rod components 17, 18 are fully accommodated in the compartment inside the wheel. Figure 3 In the push position, at least the ends of the push rod components 17 and 18 extend into the receiving groove 15 to push the article 100 out.

[0056] Machine 10 includes a first feed station S3 where a sheet 19 of covering material is fed to form an inner cover 201 of a double-layered package. The sheet 19 of covering material is preferably fed by a corresponding roll (not shown) along a vertical plane parallel to the direction of the channel device 12, for example, above the first cover feed station S3. The sheet 19 reaches the first cover feed station S3 to intersect the path of a group 101 pushed by a second pusher member 18, causing the group 101 to impact the sheet. The sheet is preferably pre-cut so that it can automatically detach from the roll due to the impact force of the group 101 against the advancing sheet.

[0057] Downstream of the first feed station S3, there is a conveying and folding station S4, which includes a wheel 20 that can rotate about a rotating shaft R2, which is parallel to the rotating shaft R1 of the wheel 13.

[0058] Wheel 20 is configured to transport group 101 together with its associated sheet 19 to cover feed station S3, while performing a predetermined folding sequence of sheet 19 to define the covering of inner cover 201 around group 101.

[0059] Wheel 20 includes a plurality of receiving slots 21, for example, eight in this example, which are configured to be angled along its circumference and oriented parallel to its axis of rotation R2. Figure 1 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 The conveying and folding wheels 20 are driven clockwise in a unidirectional, alternating stepping motion.

[0060] The wheel 20 includes a damping member 22 configured to guide the assembly consisting of group 101 and corresponding sheet 19 into the receiving groove 21 of the wheel 20 in a controlled manner.

[0061] For this purpose, the damping member 22 is substantially aligned with the second push rod member 18. The damping member 22 is movable between an active position and a non-active position. In the active position, the end of it that contacts the sheet 19 is located within the receiving groove 21, where the assembly 101 and its associated sheet 19 enter the wheel 20. In the non-active position, the damping member 22 is located outside the receiving groove 21, within a compartment inside the wheel 20.

[0062] When the damping member 22 is in the active position, it engages with the second push rod member 18 of the assembly 101 that pushes the article 100. The second push rod member 18 and the damping member 22 move together, especially in Figure 1 and Figure 3 The article 100 is shifted to the right, impacting the assembly formed by group 101 and sheet 19, one in front and one behind, thereby guiding and cushioning its entry into wheel 20, thus preventing the article 100 from impacting the wall of receiving groove 21. Damping member 22 also advantageously allows sheet 19 to be positioned tightly against group 101 during insertion of article 100 into receiving groove 21.

[0063] The wheel 20 also includes a third push rod member 23, which is configured to push the article 100 out of the receiving slot 21 when the receiving slot 21 reaches the exit position leading to the next processing station.

[0064] The wheel 20 is provided with a first folding member 24 for folding the sheet 19 around the assembly 101 to form an inner covering 201. The first folding member includes a fixing element located upstream of the wheel 20 at a first conveying station 27. The first folding member 24 further includes a folding channel 25 defined by an upper wall 26 and two side walls 27 relative to the conveying direction of the article 100. These upper walls 26 and side walls 27 allow for the automatic execution of the first fold of the covering sheet 19 along the longitudinal sides 102 and ends 103 of the ordered assembly 101 of the article 100.

[0065] The first folding member 24 has a lower wall that, in addition to supporting the article 100, is folded again along the second longitudinal side 102 of the assembly 101, opposite the longitudinal side 102 where the first fold of the sheet 19 occurs. Optionally, the final two folds can be performed while the assembly 101 of the article 100 is inserted into the receiving slot 21. This results in the sheet 19 being substantially folded into a C-shape along the three longitudinal sides 102 of the assembly 101.

[0066] The upper wall 26 of the first folding member 24 also includes a rear edge 26A positioned flush with and coaxial with the wheel 20 so that when the wheel 20 rotates clockwise, it causes a second fold of the covering material sheet 19 along the second longitudinal side 102 of the group 101 of the article 100.

[0067] Downstream of the inner covering conveying and folding station S4, a second conveying station S5 is provided, wherein the third pusher member 23 pushes the assembly 101, which is partially covered in the covering material sheet 19, out of the receiving groove 21 toward the next processing station. Figure 1 and Figure 3 This processing station is configured as operation station S6, which will be described in detail below.

[0068] In this double-layer wrapping operation configuration, the operation station S6 includes a first conveying device 28 ( Figure 4 The first conveying device is configured to convey a portion of a group 101 covered in a sheet of packaging material 19, which has been partially folded over by a first folding member 24 associated with the wheel 20, and simultaneously folds the same sheet 19 to close the inner covering 201 around the group 101.

[0069] The first conveying device 28 is detachably mounted on the operating station S6 of the machine 10. The first conveying device 28 includes a straight channel 29 in which the assembly 101 advances step by step. Figure 5 The passage 29 is defined at the top by a series of support rods 30, on both sides by two side walls 31, and at the bottom by a lower wall 32, which provides horizontal support for the article 100. The lower wall 32 is provided with one or more longitudinal slits 33 extending the entire length of the passage 29. Figure 5 ).

[0070] As assembly 101 and the sheet 19 surrounding it advance within channel 29, folding devices forming part of first folding member 24 operate sheet 19 to further fold, completing the formation of inner cover 201. These folding devices may be associated with sidewall 31 and operate at the top, for example, configured as upper rod 30 or other folding members (e.g., continuous rod).

[0071] Specifically, in the example shown, each sidewall 31 is equipped with two inclined slots 34A and 34B as folding devices, which are used to perform the final folding of the sheet 19 at the end 103 of the group 101 of the article 100. Figure 4 These slots 34A and 34B are of known types, so they will not be described further.

[0072] The first conveying device 28 includes a forward member 35, for example configured as a comb member, arranged below the channel 29 for progressively advancing the group 101 in the channel 29.

[0073] The comb-like member 35 includes one or more rows of teeth 36 arranged to pass through a longitudinal slit 33 in the lower wall 32 into the channel 29, so as to be able to push the assembly 101 forward. Each row of teeth 36 includes a plurality of teeth 37 to be able to push the assembly 101 along the entire length of the channel 29.

[0074] Group 101 advances progressively along the entire channel 29 due to the cyclic drive of the advancing member 35. More specifically, the comb-like member is raised so that its teeth 37 enter the channel 29 vertically. Figure 5 Then, it is moved forward to push group 101 into channel 29, then lowered so as not to interfere with group 101 arranged in channel 29, and finally moved backward to its starting position. This movement cycle is then repeated to operate group 101 continuously along channel 29.

[0075] In order to move the forward component 35, the first conveying device 28 includes a drive mechanism 38 of a known type. Figure 1 and Figure 10 The drive mechanism 38 is mounted on a support 38A, which is vertically slidably mounted on a guide rail 38b, which is attached to the frame of the machine 10. Thus, the forward movement member 35, together with the drive mechanism 38, can be in the raised position (…). Figure 1 ) and descent position ( Figure 10 The tooth 37 of the forward member 35 can be inserted into the channel 29 when the member is in the raised position.

[0076] In some variations not shown, a mechanical connecting member may be inserted between the drive mechanism 38 and the forward member 35, wherein only the forward member 35 moves between the raised and lowered positions, while the drive mechanism 38 remains fixed.

[0077] The forward member 35 can sequentially shift between an active position and an inactive position in a known manner. In the active position, it is raised and interacts with the ordered group 101 transported along the channel 29 (e.g., Figure 4 (as shown). In the inactive position, it remains outside of channel 29, especially below channel 29, and therefore cannot interact with group 101 in channel 29. Thus, the forward member 35 can be displaced along channel 29 when it is in the active position to allow the ordered group 101 to advance, while in the inactive position it is then displaced backward to avoid moving the ordered group 101 backward.

[0078] Machine 10 includes a third conveying station S7, in which group 101 is conveyed from first conveyor 28 to wheel 40 for conveying group and folding wrapping.

[0079] Corresponding to this transfer, a second cover feed station S8 is provided, in which a second cover material sheet 39, in the version described herein, serves as the outer cover 202. Similar to that described at the first cover feed station S3, the second sheet 39 is fed along a vertical plane substantially parallel to the plane in which the sheet 19 is fed. The second sheet 39 is unwound from a corresponding spool (not shown) located above the second cover feed station S8, pre-cut to the desired size, and held in contact with the remainder of the spool by one or more attachment points configured to tear upon impact of the assembly 101 with the second sheet 39. As explained in the context of the first cover feed station S3, the force exerted on the second sheet 39 by the advancing assembly 101 determines the tearing of the attachment points, thereby detaching the sheet from itself, while the sheet remains associated with the assembly 101 being transported, which has been covered by the inner cover 201.

[0080] After the second cover feed station S8, the machine 10 includes a station S9 for conveying and folding the outer cover, which includes a group 101 for conveying and folding the cover 40, which is very similar to the conveying and folding wheel 20, except that from an operational point of view, it conveys the group 101 of the article 100 already covered in the inner cover 201.

[0081] The folding wheel 40 for conveying and covering is rotatable about a rotation axis R3, which is parallel to the rotation axes R1 and R2 of the previously described wheels 13 and 20, and includes a plurality of receiving slots 41, eight in the illustrated example, each of which is configured as a seat and is adapted to receive a group 101 of articles 100, which are completely covered in an inner covering 201 and partially covered by a second sheet 39 intended to define an outer covering 202.

[0082] Wheel 40 also includes a second folding member 42 located between itself and the second cover feed station S8, which has the same structure and operation as the first folding member 24 described above. Wheel 40 also includes a second damping member 43 and a fourth push rod member 44, which are identical to damping member 22 and third push rod member 23, respectively, both in terms of structure and operation and in terms of their relative positions with respect to wheel 40.

[0083] Therefore, it can be inferred that the second damping member 43 is configured to cooperate with the forward member 35 to guide the group 101 of the item 100 into the receiving tank 41 at the third conveying station S7. In addition to causing the group to move forward along the channel 29, the forward member 35 is also configured to convey the group 101 through the third conveying station S7 into the interior of the receiving tank 41.

[0084] The fourth pusher member 44 is configured to push the assembly 101, partially covered in the second sheet 39, toward the fourth transfer station S10, which is located substantially opposite the diameter of the third transfer station S7 relative to the wheel 40. It should be noted that, similar to the case described with the inner cover conveyor and folding wheel 20, upon exiting the assembly conveyor and cover folding wheel 40, the cover is folded substantially around the four longitudinal sides 102 of the assembly 101, and only at the rear end 103 of the assembly 101 (relative to the feed direction). This rearward folding of the end 103 occurs during the transfer of the assembly 101 from the wheel 40 to the next station.

[0085] Following the fourth transfer station S10, a station S11 is provided for closing and welding the outer casing 202, which includes a device 45 for closing and welding the outer casing 202. Finally, following the closing and welding station S11, an exit station S12 for the packaged assembly 101 is provided. Figure 7 and Figure 8 ).

[0086] The ordered group 101 of articles 100 is fed through the closing and welding station S11 to the exit station S12 by means of a conveyor 46. The conveyor 46 includes, for example, two parallel and positioned annular belts 47, each belt being equipped with: a plurality of first attachment elements 48, each first attachment element being provided with a first tooth 49; and a plurality of second attachment elements 50, each second attachment element being provided with a corresponding second tooth 51. Figure 1 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 ).

[0087] On the same annular belt 47, the first and second abutment elements alternate in sequence. The first tooth 49 has a basic triangular shape, with a leading edge 49A and a trailing edge 49B, the leading edge 49A being substantially perpendicular to the forward direction A of the ordered group 101 of the article and the group 101 configured to push the article 100.

[0088] The second tooth 51 has a shape and size similar to the first tooth 49.

[0089] The second tooth 51 follows the first tooth 49, forming a space between them with two parallel edges. Figure 1 and Figure 6 The ordered group 101 of the item 100 is placed in this space. The first tooth 49 acts as a push tooth, while the second tooth 51 acts as a stop tooth. When the group 101, pushed by the fourth push rod member 44, leaves the wheel 40 and enters the station S11 for closing and welding the outer covering 202, the stop tooth is used to stop the movement of the group 101. At the station S11, the group 101 is received by the conveyor 46.

[0090] The closing and welding device 45 includes a channel 52, the upper part of which is defined by an initial upper wall 53 for the first section 52A. The initial upper wall 53 also serves as a folding member to perform folding of the second sheet 39 on the last longitudinal side 102 of the group 101. The section is then defined by a plurality of sequentially arranged upper welding members 54 configured to weld the second sheet 39 to close the outer cover 202 on the longitudinal side 102 of the group 101, which faces upward and includes the end flap of the second sheet 39.

[0091] The upper welding member 54 is positioned longitudinally at the point where group 101 stops at each forward step, so that welding of the outer cladding 202 is performed in several repetitive stages for a short period of time while group 101 is temporarily stationary between one forward step and the next. During the movement of group 101, the upper welding member 54, which is in a raised position, is lowered and comes into contact with the same group 101 that is temporarily stationary below.

[0092] As an alternative to this alternating motion mode, the conveyor 46 can also be driven to move continuously, thereby ensuring uninterrupted movement of the assembly 101 to be welded. In this alternative mode, the upper welding member 54 is always held in the descending position, so that the assembly 101 remains in contact with it as it moves along the first section 52A of the channel 52, thereby allowing upper welding to be performed.

[0093] The same first section 52A of the channel 52 is laterally defined by two lateral walls 55, each lateral wall 55 being provided with slots similar to slots 34A, 34B in the channel 29 of the first conveying device 28. These slots form another folding device included in the second folding member 42 for folding the last wing of the sheet 39 at the end 103 of the group 101 of the article 100, similar to those described for slots 34A, 34B in the channel 29 of the first conveying device 28.

[0094] Subsequently, the channel 52 includes a second section 52B continuous with the first section. The second section 52B is defined in the upper part by an upper wall (not visible in the figure) and in the lateral part by a series of laterally welded members 57, which are configured to weld sheets 39 to the end 103 of the assembly 101 of the article 100, thereby closing the outer covering 202. Figure 7 and Figure 8 ).

[0095] It must be clarified that the number of upper welded members 54 and lateral welded members 57, or more broadly, the longitudinal extension covered by these welded members, grants the machine greater flexibility in terms of potential materials for use as cladding (especially outer cladding 202), as will be shown below. In fact, the greater the number of upper welded members 54 and / or lateral welded members 57, or the greater their longitudinal extension, the greater the probability of being able to weld sheet materials that are otherwise difficult to weld. This allows for the use of a variety of different types of materials for the outer cladding 202.

[0096] In the example shown in the attached figures, the closing and welding device 45 includes six upper welding members 54 and at least two pairs of lateral welding members 57, the latter having a longitudinal extension substantially corresponding to the longitudinal extension covered by the six upper welding members 54.

[0097] In sections 52A and 52B, channel 52 is defined at its lower part by a lower wall 58, and conveyor 46 causes assembly 101 to slide on the lower wall 58, wherein the lower wall 58 is located between two annular belts 47 below, so as to allow teeth 49 and 51 to enter channel 52. Figure 7 and Figure 8 ).

[0098] The exit station S12 includes a pair of lateral conveyors 59 driven by alternating motion to guide the packaged group 101 out of the machine 10. Figure 7and Figure 8 In general, these lateral conveyors 59 allow for the movement of lateral walls along with the packaged assembly 101, thereby preventing drag friction between the freshly formed, uncooled weld at the end 103 of the assembly 101 and the stationary wall. This allows for protection of the newly formed weld from external stresses and ensures optimal weld curing as the assembly 101 moves toward the outlet.

[0099] The operation of the machine 10 for packaging discrete articles 100, as described above, includes the following steps in an operation configuration for performing double-layer wrapping.

[0100] Figure 9 The operation flow of the ordered group 101 of item 100 is shown.

[0101] At feed station S1, especially in Figure 9 At the exit of the channel device 12 on the left, an ordered group 101 of items 100 is formed. Here, the formed group 101 falls into the wheel 13, which rotates counterclockwise. During descent along the channel device 12, the quantity and consistency of items 100 are checked by means of the control device 14.

[0102] With each step, wheel 13 rotates 45°, ensuring that it always has a receiving groove 15 aligned with the channel device 12.

[0103] After a 180° rotation, group 101 is located in rejection zone 16, and if group 101 contains defective or missing items, it can be discharged from wheel 13 via first push rod member 17.

[0104] The qualified assembly 101 moves 90° counterclockwise until it is in front of the first conveying station S2, where it is pushed off the wheel 13 by the second pusher member 18. The extension of the second pusher member 18 causes it to push the assembly 101 through the first cover feed station S3 (where the sheet 19 is fed) until it is introduced into the receiving groove 21 of the wheel 20 in the station S4 for conveying and folding the inner cover 201.

[0105] When assembly 101 is inserted into receiving groove 21, first damping member 22 extends to make initial contact with assembly 101 and sheet 19, and retracts to guide the movement of assembly 101 all the way to the bottom of receiving groove 21.

[0106] During its travel between the first cover feed station S3 and the receiving groove 21, assembly 101 and sheet 19 encounter a first folding member, which operates a double fold of sheet 19 along two opposing longitudinal sides 102 (oriented upwards and downwards), while also folding the first wing at the end 103. When sheet 19 is inserted into receiving groove 21, the first sheet 19 then C-shaped over the three longitudinal sides 102 of assembly 101, after which wheel 20 begins to rotate clockwise. This structure is visible in… Figure 9 Position P1.

[0107] Then the drive wheel 20 completes the first step of a 45° rotation, which causes a second fold (position P2) of the sheet 19 on the fourth longitudinal side 102 of group 101.

[0108] After group 101 has completed a 180° angle from position P1, it is positioned in front of the second conveying station S5, where it is pushed by the third pusher member 23. This push causes group 101 to be conveyed to the first conveying device 28 located at the operating station S6 (position P3). Upon entering the first conveying device 28, sheet 19 is further folded so that its final portion folds onto the first longitudinal side 102 of group 101, thus completing the longitudinal wrapping.

[0109] Then, group 101 is advanced one step along channel 29, which causes the front wing edge to fold in each end 103 of group 101 (position P4).

[0110] The second step, completed within assembly 101 in channel 29, causes the upper flanges of both ends 103 to fold via the first groove 34A (position P5); the third step, immediately following the second step, causes the lower flanges to fold at both ends 103 via the second groove 34B (position P6). At this point, the inner covering 201 is completely folded and closed around assembly 101, which is located at the end of channel 29 facing the third transfer station S7 and the second covering feed station S8.

[0111] Then, the last tooth 37 of the forward member 35 pushes the assembly 101 through the second sheet 39 fed into the second cover feed station S8, and through the second folding member 42, and then to the receiving groove 41 of the wheel 40 in the corresponding station S9 for conveying and folding the outer cover 202.

[0112] At this position (indicated by reference P7), the second sheet 39 undergoes the same folding as the first sheet 19 in position P1, folding into a C-shape on the three longitudinal sides 102 of group 101. The first step of rotating the wheel 40 by 45° causes the second sheet 39 to fold on the fourth longitudinal side 102 of group 101 (position P9), similar to the folding of the first sheet 19 at position P2.

[0113] Group 101 completes a 180° path from position P7 to the fourth transfer station S10, and then is pushed by the fourth pusher member 44 into the channel 52 of the device 45 for closing and welding the outer covering 202 at the closing and welding station S11. After entering the closing and welding device 45, the second sheet 39 is automatically folded onto the first longitudinal side 102 of group 101 again, thereby completing the longitudinal covering (position P9).

[0114] By advancing three times in a single step, subsequent folding is permitted by means of the side walls 55 of the channel 52 and the front, lower, and upper wings of the corresponding end 103 of the channel assembly 101. In this final section, the second plate 39 is welded to the upper side by the upper welding member 54.

[0115] In the following steps ( Figure 9 (not shown in the image), the outer covering 202 is welded to the end 103 of the assembly 101, and then the assembly 101 enters the exit station 12, where it is guided to the exit of the machine 10 by the side conveyor 59.

[0116] According to the present invention, machine 10 can be easily switched between the following operating configurations: an operating configuration for producing packaging with double-layer wrapping, wherein both inner wrapping 201 and outer wrapping 202 are present. Figure 2a ); an operating configuration for producing packaging with a single-layer covering, wherein the covering is only the outer covering 202 formed from sheet 39. Figure 2b The operating configuration of machine 10 for production packaging is as follows: Figure 10 As shown, the operation flow followed by the group 101 of items in this embodiment is as follows: Figure 11 It is illustrated in the diagram.

[0117] All components shared by machine 10 in both operating configurations are indicated by the same reference numerals. For the sake of brevity, the following description will focus only on the differences between machine 10 in the single-layer operating configuration and the dual-layer operating configuration described above, and will not repeat the description of all structural and functional features shared by the machine in both configurations.

[0118] In a single-layer operation configuration, at the operation station S6, the function of the first conveying device 28 is performed by the second conveying device 60. For example, the second conveying device 60 is configured as a wheel that rotates about its rotation axis R4, which is parallel to the rotation axes R1, R2, and R3 of the other wheels 13, 20, and 40.

[0119] The wheels of the second conveying device 60, located between the second conveying station S5 and the third conveying station S7, have a structure similar to the other wheels because they include multiple angled receiving grooves 61. The wheels of the second conveying device 60 are driven in a unidirectional alternating motion, which is clockwise in this example.

[0120] The wheel of the second conveyor 60 shown in the figure contains sixteen receiving slots 61, and its diameter is larger than that of the other wheels of the machine. Each time it is driven, the wheel of the second conveyor 60 travels at an angle approximately 22.5°. Clearly, the number of receiving slots can be varied as needed, which will affect the angle of travel for each angular step.

[0121] The receiving groove 61 is similar to the receiving grooves of other wheels, that is, they are configured as a seat with an opening to the outside of the wheel facing the second conveying device 60, and include the bottom of the opening to allow the pushing member to pass through.

[0122] Due to the overall size of the wheels of the second conveyor 60, the forward member 35 and its corresponding drive mechanism 38 are lowered to an inactive position to allow insertion of the second conveyor 60. Figure 10 When the second conveyor 60 is used in this version, the forward member 35 and its drive mechanism 38 are not used and therefore remain stationary.

[0123] The wheel of the second conveying device 60 includes a third damping member 62, similar to the other damping members 22, 43, oriented toward the second conveying station S5 to guide the orderly group of articles 100 into the receiving groove 61, in a manner similar to that described above for the other wheels 20, 40. The wheel also includes a fifth pusher member 63, oriented toward the third conveying station S7 to push the articles 100 out of the receiving groove 61, through the third conveying station S7 and the second covering feed station S8, until they reach the wheel 40.

[0124] The third damping member 62 and the fifth push rod member 63 are capable of moving along the basic radial direction of the wheel and are actuated by corresponding actuator members of a type known in the art.

[0125] Therefore, it must be clear that in order to move from a double-layer wrapping operation configuration that creates double-layer packaging to a single-layer wrapping operation configuration, it is only necessary to replace the first conveyor 28 with the second conveyor 60, as well as the lowering forward member 35 and the corresponding drive mechanism 38.

[0126] like Figure 11 As shown, in this operating configuration of machine 10, the operating procedure of group 101 stipulates that the covering material sheet 19 will not be fed to the first covering part feed station S3, because there is no inner covering part 201 in this configuration.

[0127] Unlike the double-layer wrapping operation configuration, in this single-layer wrapping operation configuration, the group 101 of articles formed at the exit of the channel device 12 advances without being wrapped by any sheet until the third transfer station S7 and the second wrapping feed station S8, where a sheet 39 of wrapping material is fed. This sheet is intended to define a single wrapping around the articles, corresponding to the outer wrapping 202 mentioned above when describing the double-layer configuration.

[0128] Following the steps previously described for the outer cover 202, the sheet 39 is then folded, closed, and welded. These subsequent steps are the same as in the double-layer wrapping version, the only difference being that in this case only a single cover is in direct contact with the article 100, whereas in the first operating configuration, the outer cover 202 covers the inner cover 201, which in turn covers the article 100.

[0129] Obviously, modifications and / or additions can be made to the machine 10 described above without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the claims.

[0130] It is also evident that, although the present invention has been described with reference to specific examples, those skilled in the art can implement other equivalent forms of machines for packaging discrete articles, which have the features described in the claims and are therefore within the scope of protection defined by the claims.

[0131] For example, if the dimensions of the discrete items 100 to be packaged change, and / or the number of items to be inserted in each group changes, and / or the type of covering material used changes, those skilled in the art will readily understand the structural adjustments that need to be made to the machine.

[0132] In the following claims, the reference numerals in parentheses are for the sole purpose of facilitating their reading and should not be regarded as limiting factors of the scope of protection defined by the claims.

Claims

1. A machine (10) for packaging discrete articles (100), the machine being capable of alternately selecting a double-layer packaging configuration or a single-layer packaging configuration, wherein the machine comprises: - Feed station (S1), configured to feed the discrete items (100) in ordered groups (101), - A rotary conveyor comprising a plurality of wheels (13, 20, 40, 60) capable of rotating about respective rotation axes (R1, R2, R3, R4), each wheel having a plurality of peripheral seats (15, 21, 41, 61), each seat being configured to receive at least one ordered group (101) of the discrete articles (100). -At least the first feed station (S3) and the second feed station (S8) are configured to feed the inner covering (201) and the outer covering (202) respectively. - A first folding member (24) and a second folding member (42) are respectively configured to fold the inner covering (201) and the outer covering (202) around each of the ordered groups (101). The feature is that it further includes an operating station (S6) arranged downstream of the first feed station (S3) and upstream of the second feed station (S8), the operating station (S6) having an adjustable setting that depends on the selected covering configuration, wherein the operating station (S6) includes: a first conveying device (28) configured to close the inner covering (201) around the ordered group (101), and to convey the ordered group (101) at least partially covered in the inner covering (201) to a second folding member (42), wherein when the machine operates according to the double-layer covering configuration, the second folding member (42) closes the outer covering (202) around the inner covering (201), the inner covering... A cover (201) is wrapped around the ordered group (101); and a second conveying device (60) including a rotatable wheel (60) among the plurality of wheels (13, 20, 40, 60), the second conveying device (60) being configured to convey the ordered group (101) to the second folding member (42) without any inner cover being wrapped around it when the machine is operating according to the single-layer cover configuration, such that the second folding member (42) closes the outer cover (202) around the ordered group (101), wherein the first conveying device (28) and the second conveying device (60) are detachably mounted in the operating station (S6), one serving as an alternative to the other.

2. The machine (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first conveying device (28) includes a forward member (35) of the ordered group (101) configured to move and be covered in the inner cover (201) and a drive mechanism (38) for driving the forward member (35).

3. The machine (10) according to claim 2, characterized in that, The forward member (35) is configured to shift between an active position and an inactive position, in which the forward member (35) moves along the channel (29) of the first conveying device (28), and in the inactive position the forward member (35) shifts away from the channel (29) and moves back toward the first feed station (S3) in a cyclic manner.

4. The machine according to claim 3, characterized in that, The channel (29) includes at least a horizontal support (32) configured to support and receive the ordered group (101) and allow them to slide as they are moved by the first conveying device (28).

5. The machine (10) according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that, The forward member (35) includes a pushing member (37) configured to engage with the channel (29) from below when the machine is operated in the double-cover configuration.

6. The machine (10) according to any one of claims 2 to 5, characterized in that, The forward member (35) is configured to be positioned between a raised active position for moving the ordered group (101) and a lowered support position that allows the second conveying device (60) to be placed in place in place of the first conveying device (28).

7. The machine (10) according to any one of claims 2 to 6, characterized in that, The drive mechanism (38) is mounted on a support (38A), which is movably mounted on the machine (10) to move between a working position and a supporting position below the working position. In the working position, when the machine operates according to the double-layer covering configuration, the drive mechanism (38) is able to drive the forward member (35) to move the ordered group (101) partially covered by the inner covering member (201). In the supporting position, when the machine operates according to the single-layer covering configuration, the drive mechanism (38) is located at a distance from the second conveying device (60) so as not to interfere with the second conveying device (60).

8. The machine according to claim 7, characterized in that, The support (38A) is slidably mounted on a guide rail (38B) attached to the frame of the machine (10).

9. The machine according to any one of claims 2 to 8, characterized in that, The drive mechanism (38) includes: a first motor configured to move the forward member (35) in a horizontal direction; and a second motor configured to move the forward member (35) in a vertical direction.

10. The machine (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, It also includes a closing and welding station (S11) configured to close and weld the outer covering (202).

11. The machine (10) according to claim 10, characterized in that, The closing and welding station (S11) includes a plurality of welding components (54, 57) configured to weld the outer covering (202).

12. The machine (10) according to claim 11, characterized in that, It includes a single linear conveyor (46) for conveying the ordered group (101) at least covered in the outer covering (202) through the closing and welding station (S11) and then toward the exit station (S12).

13. The machine (10) according to claim 12, characterized in that, The exit station (S12) includes a pair of lateral conveyors (59), each lateral conveyor being located on a corresponding side of the ordered group (101) at least covered in the outer cover (202).

14. The machine (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, At least one of the stations (S4) for conveying and folding the inner covering (201) or the station (S9) for conveying and folding the outer covering (202) is equipped with damping members (22, 43) configured to guide the ordered group (101) and, if present, the corresponding covering (201, 202) into the corresponding seat (21, 41).

15. The machine (10) according to claim 14, characterized in that, At least one of the stations (S4) for conveying and folding the inner covering (201) or the station (S9) for conveying and folding the outer covering (202) includes one of the rotary conveying devices (20, 40) equipped with the seat (21, 41) and including the damping member (22, 43) displaceable between a retracted position and an extended position, wherein in the retracted position the damping member (22, 43) is completely contained within the conveying device (20, 40), and in the extended position at least one end of the damping member (22, 43) extends from one of the seat (21, 41).

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