Product accumulation and transfer facility

Abstract

The invention relates to an installation (100) for accumulating and transferring products (2) comprising: - a device (1) for conveying said products (2) in a single-line flow, said device (1) comprising an upstream conveyor (10), at least two downstream conveyors (11, 12) opening longitudinally into a gripping zone (P), and a division system (13) for sending from said upstream conveyor (10) successively to one of the downstream conveyors (11, 12) at least a first single-line flow of products (2) in the form of batches to a downstream conveyor (11, 12) and at least a second single-line flow of products (2) in the form of batches to another downstream conveyor (11, 12), - at least one output conveyor (3) for said products (2), - an accumulation surface (4) for receiving the products (2) in the form of batches from the gripping zone (P), said surface (4) being located between said conveying device (1) and said at least one output conveyor (3),- a transfer means (5) for transversely moving at least one batch of products (2), on the one hand, from at least one downstream conveyor (11, 12) at the gripping zone (P) to said accumulation surface (4) and, on the other hand, from said surface (4) to said at least one output conveyor (3), installation (100) characterized in that, for at least two downstream conveyors (11, 12), between said dividing system (13) and the gripping zone (P), the length of a downstream conveyor (11) is greater than the length of at least one other downstream conveyor (12), so that at least two batches of products (2) formed successively by the dividing system (13) and sent, for one of them on one of the downstream conveyors (11, 12) and for the other on the other downstream conveyor (11, 12),arrive at substantially the same time at said gripping zone (P). The invention also relates to a method for accumulating and transferring products (2) in a packaging line. Figure for the abstract: Fig. 1,

Description

Title of the invention: Installation for accumulating and transferring products

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of conveying products within an industrial processing line, and relates, on the one hand, to an installation for accumulating and transferring products, and on the other hand, to a method implementing this installation, namely a method for accumulating and transferring products for a receiving surface.

[0002] In this field, the products, which may be bottles, cans, flasks, boxes, crates, cartons, bundles, or others, are conveyed between successive processing stations using conveyors essentially of the endless belt type. The products circulate in single-wire flow, in multi-wire flow, or even in bulk.

[0003] In order to have a complete line capable of producing continuously despite stoppages or changes in the speed of the different stations, for various reasons such as defects or shortages of consumables, it is necessary to have accumulation solutions between the stations, which receive the products processed by the upstream station while the downstream station cannot operate, and / or which supply the downstream station with products to be processed while the upstream station cannot operate.

[0004] Patent EP3112298 is known, which proposes to transversely transfer two longitudinal batches of products from an input zone to a receiving surface. The device as described requires the installation of a buffer conveyor means between the input conveyor and the receiving surface, as well as the use of two separate tools for the transfer onto the receiving surface. Indeed, a first pusher-type tool ensures the transfer from an input conveyor to the buffer conveyor means and a second tool is responsible for transferring the batches from the buffer conveyor means to the receiving surface. In this way, it is possible to stop the products on the buffer conveyor during their transfer while allowing a flow of products to circulate on the input conveyor. The cycle time for each transfer is therefore extended and the production rate of the line is impacted.Furthermore, transferring two batches of products simultaneously requires either the insertion of an additional waiting area between the input conveyor and the buffer conveyor, or the stopping of the production line. This waiting area increases the footprint of the device.

[0005] There is therefore a need in the current state of the art for a high-capacity, low-complexity accumulation solution that allows products to be processed at high speed, without slowing down the packaging line, while limiting the risks on the products as they enter the receiving surface. It is also desirable to limit the size of such a solution.

[0006] To do this, an installation is proposed comprising at least two separate circulation lanes for successive batches of products, at least two of said lanes having different path lengths from an upstream conveyor to a gripping zone. In this way, batches of products, although formed successively on each of the lanes, arrive substantially at the same time in the gripping zone.

[0007] To this end, the invention essentially proposes to successively divert a single-line flow of products in the form of a batch from an upstream conveyor to one of the downstream conveyors by means of a division system, each of the downstream conveyors having its own path for the circulation of products between the division system and the product pick-up zone. Furthermore, for at least two downstream conveyors, one of the downstream conveyors is significantly longer than the other downstream conveyor.

[0008] The use of several separate circulation paths between a division system and a gripping zone, one path being specific to each of the conveyors of the installation, contributes to synchronizing the arrival of the products at the gripping zone, for their transfer to the accumulation surface. In particular, for at least two downstream conveyors, one of the downstream conveyors is significantly longer than the other downstream conveyor, so that at least two batches of products formed successively by the division system and sent, for one of them on one of the downstream conveyors and for the other on the other downstream conveyor, arrive substantially at the same time at the level of said gripping zone. Thus, products diverted by the division system in the form of a batch on a downstream conveyor will have a path to travel of a different distance from the products diverted in the form of a batch on the other downstream conveyor. The products, each circulating on one of the downstream conveyors in the form of a batch, arrive at approximately the same time at the level of the gripping zone, and it is no longer necessary to alternately remove the batches thus formed from each of the downstream conveyors. In other words, since the arrival of the batches on each of the downstream conveyors of the installation at the level of the gripping zone occurs at approximately the same time, it is possible to simultaneously and easily transfer several adjacent batches of products to the accumulation surface, each of the batches being on one of the downstream conveyors, even if not separated by a dead plate. Advantageously, the invention makes it possible to simultaneously transfer at least two adjacent batches of products from the gripping zone to the accumulation surface, the installation comprising at least two downstream conveyors.

[0009] Furthermore, the use of at least two traffic lanes which have different distances to be covered for the products in batch form makes it possible to have a cycle time, i.e. transfer time, very short while being very efficient. The arrival time between at least two batches of products can be low, or even zero, when the arrival of the single-line product flows is synchronized so as to allow the batches to arrive at the same time on the at least two downstream conveyors of the installation at the level of the gripping zone.

[0010] The invention thus aims to provide a simple, compact and efficient product accumulation and transfer installation and to provide the method associated with this installation.

[0011] To this end, the invention firstly relates to an installation for accumulating and transferring products, comprising: - a device for conveying said products in a single-line flow, said device comprising an upstream conveyor, at least two downstream conveyors opening longitudinally into a gripping zone, and a division system for sending from said upstream conveyor successively to one of the downstream conveyors at least a first single-line flow of products in the form of batches to a downstream conveyor and at least a second single-line flow of products in the form of batches to another downstream conveyor, - at least one output conveyor for said products, - an accumulation surface for receiving the products in batch form from the gripping area, said surface being located between said conveying device and said at least one output conveyor, - a transfer means for transversely moving at least one batch of products, on the one hand, from at least one downstream conveyor at the level of the gripping zone to said accumulation surface and, on the other hand, from said surface to said at least one output conveyor.

[0012] According to the invention, the installation is characterized in that, for at least two downstream conveyances, between the division system and the gripping zone, the length of a downstream conveyance is greater than the length of at least one other downstream conveyance, so that at least two batches of products formed successively by the division system and sent, for one of them on one of the downstream conveyances and for the other on the other downstream conveyance, arrive substantially at the same time at the level of said gripping zone.

[0013] In embodiments, the installation comprises at least three downstream conveyors, and each of the downstream conveyors has a different length, so that all the batches of products formed successively by the division system arrive substantially at the same time at the gripping zone.

[0014] In embodiments, the installation comprises two downstream conveyors and the division system is capable of sending from said upstream conveyor successively and alternately a first single-line flow of products in the form of batches to a downstream conveyor and a second single-line flow of products in the form of batches to the other downstream conveyance, so that two batches of products formed successively by the division system arrive at approximately the same time at the level of said gripping zone.

[0015] According to additional, non-limiting characteristics, the downstream conveyances are U-shaped.

[0016] In embodiments, the division system is a controlled deflector which successively and alternately deflects a determined number of products together forming a batch onto the downstream conveyors.

[0017] According to a possible additional characteristic, the transfer means comprises at least two walls for simultaneously transferring, from the gripping zone to the accumulation surface, at least two longitudinal batches of products, each of the batches being located on one of the downstream conveyors.

[0018] In embodiments, the transfer means comprises an input means and an output means, said input means being configured to transversely transfer a batch of products from at least one downstream conveyor in the gripping zone to the accumulation surface and said output means being configured to transversely transfer at least one batch of products from the accumulation surface to at least one output conveyor.

[0019] In embodiments, the transfer means comprises a plurality of pushers, each pusher being capable of transferring a batch of products from at least one downstream conveyor to at least one output conveyor by crossing the accumulation surface.

[0020] According to a possible additional characteristic, the downstream conveyors each have at least one drive motor of its own.

[0021] In embodiments, at least one downstream conveyor comprises two conveyor belts one after the other, each of the two belts having its own drive motor, so that the conveying speeds of the two successive belts can be different.

[0022] The invention also relates to a method for accumulating and transferring products in a packaging line comprising the following steps: - receive a single-line flow of products at the level of an upstream conveyor then; - distribute the single-line flow of products successively over at least two downstream conveyors in the form of longitudinal batches; - bring said batches into a collection area using said downstream conveyors; - slow down said downstream conveyances at the level of the gripping zone to slow down the products there; - transfer a batch of products from at least one downstream conveyor at the level of said gripping zone to said accumulation surface; - transfer at least one batch of products from said accumulation surface to at least one output conveyor. The method is characterized in that, for at least two downstream conveyances, the journey to bring a batch to the picking zone is longer for one downstream conveyance than for the other downstream conveyance, so as to synchronize the arrival in the picking zone of two successive batches, each traveling respectively on a downstream conveyance.

[0023] The method according to one aspect of the invention may have one or more complementary characteristics among the following, considered individually or according to all technically possible combinations.

[0024] In embodiments, the transfer of a batch from at least one downstream conveyor at the gripping zone to the accumulation surface is carried out by an input tool and the transfer of at least one batch of products from the accumulation surface to at least one output conveyor is carried out by an output tool.

[0025] In embodiments, the transfer between, on the one hand, at least one downstream conveyor in the gripping zone to the accumulation surface and, on the other hand, from said surface to said at least one output conveyor, is carried out by a transfer means, said transfer means comprising a plurality of pushers, each pusher transferring at least one batch of products from at least one downstream conveyor in the gripping zone to said surface, causing said at least one batch of products to pass through said surface and then transferring said at least one batch of products from said surface to at least one output conveyor.

[0026] According to a possible additional characteristic, at least two batches of products are transferred simultaneously, each from one of the downstream conveyors at the level of said gripping zone to the accumulation surface.

[0027] In embodiments, the successive batches, each circulating on one of the downstream conveyors, have the same conveyor speed.

[0028] Brief description of the figures: The invention will be better understood thanks to the description below, which is based on possible embodiments, explained in an illustrative and in no way limiting manner, with reference to the appended figures, in which:

[0029] - [Fig.l] schematically represents a top view of an embodiment of an installation, showing in particular two downstream conveyances, one downstream conveyance being longer than the other downstream conveyance;

[0030] - [Fig.2] schematically represents a top view of an embodiment of an installation, showing in particular a portion of indirect track movable in a longitudinal direction along the conveying portion, so as to adjust the total length of said indirect track;

[0031] - [Fig.3] schematically represents a top view of an embodiment of an installation, showing three downstream conveyances;

[0032] - [Fig.4] schematically represents a top view of an embodiment of an installation, showing two pairs of downstream conveyors;

[0033] - [Fig.5] schematically represents a top view of a second mode of rea layout of an installation, showing in particular a downstream conveyor aligned parallel to the upstream conveyor;

[0034] - [Fig.6] schematically represents a perspective view of a mode of rea development of an installation, showing in particular a transfer means in the form of a plurality of pushers;

[0035] - [Fig.7] schematically represents a top view of the installation during the implementation of a product accumulation method, showing a step of said method, in which a first single-line flow of products is diverted to an indirect path;

[0036] - [Fig.8] schematically represents a view similar to [Fig.7], showing a step of said method, in which a second single-line flow of products in batch form is diverted to a direct path, while the first single-line flow of products travels along the indirect path;

[0037] - [Fig.9] schematically represents a view similar to [Fig.7], showing a step of said method, in which the first and second single-line product flows travel along the direct and indirect paths while a third single-line product flow is directed towards the indirect path,

[0038] - [Fig. 10] schematically represents a view similar to [Fig.7], showing a step of said method, in which the first and second single-line flows of products arrive at the same time at a gripping zone of the installation; and

[0039] - [Fig. 11] schematically represents a view similar to [Fig.7], showing a step of said method, in which the first and second single-line flows in the form of batches of products are transferred simultaneously from the two downstream conveyors to the accumulation surface.

[0040] Detailed description: In the remainder of the description, elements having an identical structure or similar functions will be designated by the same reference.

[0041] The invention firstly concerns an installation 100 for accumulating and transferring products 2. The products 2, such as bottles, flasks, crates, cardboard boxes, are conveyed between different processing stations within a packaging line, for example by conveyor belts on which they rest. The products 2 may all be oriented in the same way or not.

[0042] The installation 100 comprises a device 1 for conveying the products 2 in a flow single-line. Single-line flow is understood to mean a circulation in which the 2 products are conveyed in a line of a single 2 product wide. The conveying device 1 comprises an upstream conveyor 10, at least two downstream conveyors 11, 12 opening longitudinally into a gripping zone P and a division system 13.

[0043] [Fig.l] shows an embodiment in which the installation 100 comprises two downstream conveyors 11 12, the downstream conveyor 12 having a greater length than the downstream conveyor 11, between the division system 13 and the gripping zone P. As illustrated in [Fig.l], the products 2 circulate from an upstream conveyor 10, and pass through a division system 13. The direction of movement of the products 2 is represented by arrows.

[0044] The division system 13 diverts at least a first single-line flow of products 2 in the form of a batch to one of the at least two downstream conveyors 11, 12. Thus, a first group of products 2, said group forming a batch, circulates on one of the downstream conveyors 11, 12, from the division system 13 to the gripping zone P. The division system 13 then diverts at least a second single-line flow of products 2 in the form of a batch to another downstream conveyor 11, 12.

[0045] A batch of products 2 comprises a determined number of products 2, forming a line of a single product 2 wide. In other words, a batch is a group of successive products, one behind the other, obtained by sequencing carried out by the division system 13 of the single-line flow of products 2 coming from the upstream conveyor 10. At the level of the gripping zone P, the batch of products extends longitudinally on a downstream conveyor 11, 12. The division system 13 diverts at least a first group of products 2 in the form of a batch to one of the downstream conveyors 11, 12 then at least a second group of products 2 in the form of a batch to another downstream conveyor 11, 12.

[0046] In embodiments where the installation 100 comprises at least three downstream conveyances 11, 12, the division system 13 diverts a third group of products 2 onto a third downstream conveyance, then a fourth group of products 2 onto a fourth downstream conveyance, and so on, as many times as necessary, i.e. on as many downstream conveyances 11, 12 present. In other words, in embodiments, the division system 13 successively diverts groups of products 2 in the form of batches from an upstream conveyor 10 to each of the downstream conveyors 11, 12 of the installation 100. As will be described later, depending on the needs of the installation 100, not all of the downstream conveyances of the installation 100 are necessarily implemented at the same time. It is entirely possible to define routes for the products 2 which do not involve the use of all of the downstream conveyances of the installation. 100. In other words, in embodiments, the division system 13 forms groups of products 2 in the form of batches successively on a number of downstream conveyances 11, 12 less than the total number of downstream conveyances 11, 12 of the installation 100.

[0047] In embodiments, the product groups 2 thus formed by the division system 13 comprise the same number of products 2.

[0048] In embodiments, the product groups 2 formed by the division system 13 comprise a substantially different number of products 2, with a difference of one to five products 2 between the different groups. For example, in embodiments where the installation 100 comprises two downstream conveyors 11, 12, the first group and the second group of products are formed by a substantially different number of products 2, with a difference of one to five products 2 between the first and the second group.

[0049] According to a possible additional characteristic, the division system 13 is a switch.

[0050] In embodiments, the division system 13 is a controlled deflector which successively diverts a determined number of products 2 together forming a batch onto each of the downstream conveyors 11, 12 of the installation 100.

[0051] In embodiments where the installation 100 comprises two downstream conveyors 11, 12, the division system 13 therefore sends from the upstream conveyor 10 successively and alternately a first single-line flow of products 2 in the form of batches to a downstream conveyor 11, 12 and a second single-line flow of products in the form of batches to the other downstream conveyor 11, 12.

[0052] According to a preferred embodiment, the installation 100 for accumulating and transferring products 2 comprises a device 1 for conveying said products 2 in a single-line flow, said device 1 comprising an upstream conveyor 10, two downstream conveyors 11, 12 opening longitudinally into a gripping zone P, and a division system for sending from said upstream conveyor 10 successively and alternately a first single-line flow of products 2 in the form of batches to a downstream conveyor 11, 12 and a second single-line flow of products 2 in the form of batches to the other downstream conveyor 11, 12, at least one output conveyor 3 for said products 2, an accumulation surface 4 for receiving the products 2 in the form of batches from the gripping zone P, said surface 4 being located between said conveying device 1 and said at least one output conveyor 3, and a means 5 transfer for transversely moving at least one batch of products 2, on the one hand,from at least one of said two downstream conveyors 11, 12 at the level of the gripping zone P to said accumulation surface 4 and, on the other hand, from said surface 4 to said at least one output conveyor 3, the length of a downstream conveyor 11 is greater than the , length of the other downstream conveyance 12 between said division system 13 and the gripping zone P, so that two batches of products 2 formed successively arrive substantially at the same time at said gripping zone P. In embodiments, the division system 13 is in the form of a push plate which moves transversely to successively divert a determined number of products 2 together forming a batch onto each of the downstream conveyors 11, 12 of the installation 100. Each downstream conveyance 11, 12 of the installation 100 is therefore allocated a batch of products 2 successively and alternately with at least one other downstream conveyance 11, 12. The first single-line flow therefore forms a succession of batches of products 2 on a downstream conveyance 11, 12 and the at least second single-line flow forms a succession of batches of products 2 on another downstream conveyance 11, 12. Advantageously, between the division system 13 and the gripping zone P, for at least two downstream conveyances, the length of a downstream conveyance 11 is significantly greater than the length of another downstream conveyance 12. The difference in length between each downstream conveyance 11, 12, between the division system 13 and the gripping zone P, must be sufficiently large so that the initial advance of the first batch is compensated by the additional distance to be covered on the downstream conveyance 12 for said first batch, during its journey from the division system 13 until the arrival of the batch in the gripping zone P. In this way, the delay taken by the at least second batch, formed following the first batch by the division system 13, is compensated by the shorter journey that it will cover on another downstream conveyance 11 from the division system 13 until its arrival in the gripping zone P. Preferably, the difference in length between at least two downstream conveyors 11, 12 also takes into account the rate of the packaging line. In any event, the batches to be formed and transferred for accumulation are batches of a large number of products, preferably at least fifteen products. More particularly, in embodiments, the difference in length between two downstream conveyances 11, 12 is between 0.75 and 1.25 times the length of a group of products 2 forming a batch. A group of products 2 forming a batch corresponds to a group of products 2 sent by the division system 13 on one of the downstream conveyances 11, 12 of the installation 100. For example, for groups forming a train of twenty products 2 following the division system 13, the difference in length between two downstream conveyances 11, 12 will be between fifteen and twenty-five products 2, preferably the difference in length will be twenty products 2. This difference in length therefore depends on the number of products 2 forming a batch, that is to say the length of a train of products 2 (depending on the type of products 2 processed by the packaging line). According to a preferred embodiment, the difference in length between two downstream conveyances 11, 12 is equal to the length of a group of products 2 forming a batch, i.e. the length of a train of products 2.

[0053] The [Fig. 1] shows an embodiment in which one downstream conveyor 11 has a direct path 110 and the other downstream conveyor 12 has an indirect path 120. The length of the direct path 110 is shorter than the length of the indirect path 120. This means that the path to be covered for a batch of products 2 circulating on the downstream conveyor 12 is significantly longer, in terms of distance, than the path to be covered for a batch of products 2 circulating on the downstream conveyor 11. In this way, a first batch sent on the downstream conveyor 12 having the indirect path 120 makes a longer journey than a second batch sent on the downstream conveyor 11 having the direct path 110. In this way, although the batches are not sent at the same time but successively by the division system 13 on each downstream conveyor 11, 12, said successive batches arrive at the same time at the level of a P socket area.This is particularly advantageous because it allows simultaneous transfer of two longitudinal batches of products 2, from the gripping zone P to an accumulation surface 4.

[0054] The installation 100 also comprises at least one output conveyor 3 for the products 2, and an accumulation surface 4 for receiving the products 2 in the form of batches from the gripping zone P. The accumulation surface 4 is located between the conveying device 1 and the at least one output conveyor 3. Further forward, the accumulation surface 4 is located between the at least two downstream conveyors 11, 12, at the level of the gripping zone P, and at least one output conveyor 3. The accumulation surface 4 makes it possible to manage the differences between the flows of two successive stations of the packaging line, between which it is positioned and which then has a suitable accumulation capacity. The accumulation surface 4 has a rectangular shape, the products 2 being fed onto it from one of its sides, and output from the other side, preferably from the opposite side. The accumulation surface 4 receives products 2 in the form of longitudinal batches, to absorb the continuous flow of products 2 coming from the upstream conveyor 10. The accumulation surface 4 is therefore supplied from the at least two downstream conveyors 11, 12, at the level of the gripping zone P. Advantageously, one of the downstream conveyors 11, 12, extends along the accumulation surface 4. More precisely, as visible in [Fig.2], a supply portion 14, 15 of a downstream conveyor 11, 12, borders an edge of the accumulation surface 4. This configuration allows a transverse transfer of a longitudinal batch of products 2, for example a batch formed by at least fifteen products 2 directly from at least one downstream conveyor 11, 12 up to the accumulation surface 4, which promotes rapid and easy feeding of said surface 4. Preferably, the at least one output conveyor 3 extends along the opposite edge of the accumulation surface 4. In other words, preferably, one of the downstream conveyors 11, 12 of the installation 100 extends against an edge of the accumulation surface 4 and at least one output conveyor 3 extends along the opposite edge of said surface 4, the at least two downstream conveyors 11, 12 and the at least one output conveyor 3 therefore extending parallel to and bordering the accumulation surface 4.

[0055] According to a possible additional characteristic, visible in [Fig.l] or 2, the upstream conveyance 10 extends parallel to the downstream conveyances 11, 12 at the level of the gripping zone P.

[0056] In embodiments, at the gripping zone P, the at least two downstream conveyors 11, 12 extend longitudinally and are against each other, directly or indirectly. In other words, according to a preferred embodiment, the at least two downstream conveyors 11, 12 extend parallel to each other in a direct manner, that is to say that there is no transit surface, or dead zone, between the at least two downstream conveyors 11, 12 in the gripping zone P. This is particularly advantageous because it favors a compact installation 100. In a preferred embodiment, at least two downstream conveyors 11, 12 have the same conveying direction X and the products 2 circulate in the same direction. [Fig.l] shows such an embodiment, in the case where the installation 100 comprises two downstream conveyors 11, 12.

[0057] Advantageously, for at least two downstream conveyances 11, 12, the downstream conveyance 12 which has the indirect path 120, extends along an edge of the accumulation surface 4, preferably against said edge, while the downstream conveyance 11, which has the direct path 110, extends along the downstream conveyance 12. This configuration makes it possible to reduce the footprint of the installation 100.

[0058] According to another variant, for at least two downstream conveyances 11, 12 the downstream conveyance 11, which has the direct path 110, extends along an edge of the accumulation surface 4, preferably against said edge, while the downstream conveyance 12, which has the indirect path 120, extends along the downstream conveyance 11. The accumulation surface 4 may be a dead plate or be formed by a conveyor belt, the conveying direction of which extends orthogonally to the conveying direction X of the products 2 circulating on the at least two downstream conveyors 11, 12 at the level of the gripping zone P.

[0059] [Fig.l] shows an embodiment, according to which the downstream conveyors 11, 12 are U-shaped. In this configuration, the downstream conveyor 11, which has the direct path 110, is U-shaped which partly surrounds the U-shape of the indirect path 120 of the downstream conveyor 12. Thus, the conveyor circuits formed by the direct path 110 and by the indirect path 120 are nested within each other and make it possible to limit the footprint of the installation 100. Also, this makes it possible to control more precisely, during the engineering phase, the distances of each conveyor path and the effects of friction, the shapes of the two downstream conveyors 11, 12 being similar and complementary. It is understood that the downstream conveyances can take different shapes, for example taking an overall Z shape when the installation 100 is seen from above. According to a possible additional characteristic, at least two of the downstream conveyances 11, 12 of the installation have the same shape or a different shape, according to a top view of the installation 100.

[0060] According to a possible additional characteristic, visible in particular in [Fig.4], at least one downstream conveyance 11 is aligned longitudinally with the division system 13, in the extension of the upstream conveyance 10.

[0061] According to a possible additional characteristic, the length of at least one downstream conveyance 11, 12, between the division system 13 and the gripping zone P, is adjustable. In other words, the length of the direct path 110 and / or the length of the indirect path 120 is adjustable. This embodiment is particularly advantageous, and contributes to the versatility of the installation 100, insofar as the difference in length for at least two downstream conveyances 11, 12 must allow the synchronization of the batches of products 2 in the gripping zone P. Thus, in particular in the event of a change in the type of products 2 or in the rate, or even in the length of batches of products 2, it is possible to adjust the difference in length between at least two downstream conveyances 11, 12.

[0062] In embodiments, the length of at least one downstream conveyance 11, 12, between the dividing system 13 and the gripping zone P, is adjustable by removably fixing the direct path 110 and / or said indirect path 120 at different points of the downstream conveyance 11, 12 between the dividing system 13 and the gripping zone P. According to a non-limiting embodiment, the direct path 110 and / or the indirect path 120 has, at at least one end, fixing means, to be fixed on supports provided for this purpose, at different locations on the slides of the downstream conveyances 11, 12. Various configurations are known as means for switching the transport paths for the products 2 and adjusting conveyor belt lengths, for example in patent application EP3786093 or in patent EP2451732B1.

[0063] [Fig.2] illustrates an embodiment according to which the length of the indirect path 120 of the downstream conveyor 12 is adjustable. The downstream conveyor 12 has, between the dividing system 13 and the gripping area P, a length that can be adjusted according to the needs of the packaging line. In particular, it is advantageous to be able to modify the length of the conveyor path according to the production rate of the products 2 to be processed. [Fig. 2] shows an example in which the dotted line has been moved to the right, in order to extend the path length of the products 2 sent by the division system 13 onto the downstream conveyor 12. Thus, the indirect path 120 comprises fixing means, to be fixed on supports placed at different locations on the downstream conveyor 12, after the division system 13 and before the gripping zone P, so as to reduce or extend the distance to be traveled for the products 2 circulating in the form of successive batches. This allows great versatility of the installation 100, which can adapt to different rates and therefore manage, transfer and accumulate products 2 coming in a continuous flow from an upstream conveyor 10 with an optimized cycle time.

[0064] Furthermore, having tracks whose length is adjustable advantageously makes it possible to adapt the length of each batch of products 2, i.e. to adapt the number of products 2 constituting a batch as a function of the length of each downstream conveyance 11, 12 of the installation 100.

[0065] This versatility can also be obtained according to other embodiments. Indeed, as described previously, in embodiments, the installation 100 comprises a plurality of downstream conveyors 11, 12. In embodiments, the installation 100 implements the various downstream conveyances 11, 12 to circulate the products 2 coming from the upstream conveyance 10. Further on, between the division system 13 and the gripping zone P, the length of a downstream conveyance 12 is greater than the length of at least one other downstream conveyance 11. Preferably, for at least two downstream conveyances 11, 12, between the division system 13 and the gripping zone P, the length of a downstream conveyance 12 is greater than at least one other downstream conveyance 11, the excess length of the downstream conveyance corresponding to a length of between 0.75 and 1.25 times the length of a product train 2, that is to say of a group of products 2 formed by the division system 13. [Fig. 3] illustrates an embodiment in which the installation comprises three downstream conveyors 11, 11' and 12, each of the three downstream conveyors 11, 11' and 12 having a different length. In this configuration, the division system 13 can form a first single-line flow in the form of batches of products 2 on the conveyor 12, a second single-line flow in the form of batches on the conveyor 11', and a third single-line flow on the downstream conveyance 11. This dispatch order is purely illustrative. According to a possible additional characteristic, the installation 100 does not implement all of the downstream conveyances 11, 12 to circulate the products 2 coming from the upstream conveyance 10. In other words, depending on the needs of the installation, such as the type of product 2, or the production rate, the installation 100 only implements a part of the plurality of downstream conveyances 11, 12. Thus, if we take the example of [Fig. 3], the division system 13 can form successive batches of products 2 for example on only two of the downstream conveyors 11, 11' and 12. In other words, single-line flows of products 2 will only be sent successively and alternately on the downstream conveyors 11, 12, or on the downstream conveyors 11', 12, or even on the downstream conveyors 11, 11', this depending on the needs of the installation 100, and in particular depending on the type of product 2. To do this, in embodiments, the installation 100 comprises a mobile guidance system 130, in particular in the form of a plate, in order to accompany the products 2 as they arrive in the gripping zone P.

[0066] By product type 2, we mean characteristics linked to the nature of the product, for example the material (glass, PET, cardboard) of the product 2, or its shape, dimensions or weight. According to an illustrative example, visible in [Fig.4], the installation 100 comprises two pairs of downstream conveyors 11, 12, 11', 12', each of the downstream conveyors having a different length. Depending on the needs of the installation 100, a pair of downstream conveyors is implemented depending on the type of product 2 to be processed. In other words, the division system 13 sends products 2 in batch form successively and alternately on two downstream conveyors 11, 12, 11', 12' of the same pair.

[0067] Indeed, it may be advantageous to modify the path lengths of batches of products 2 circulating between the division system 13 and the picking zone P, in particular depending on the production rates or the types of products 2. This makes it possible to best synchronize the arrival of the batches of products 2 in the picking zone P, so that said batches arrive substantially at the same time, which facilitates their transfer to the accumulation surface 4.

[0068] As illustrated in the various figures, a downstream conveyor 11, 12 has straight sections and curved sections on the horizontal plane. According to a possible additional characteristic, a downstream conveyance 11, 12 is single-wire or multi-wire at the level of the gripping zone P. In embodiments, at least one downstream conveyor 11, 12 comprises lateral guides for guiding the products 2 and preventing them from falling, in particular in curved portions and bends. Preferably, these lateral guides are adjustable in width to be able to adapt to the type of products 2.

[0069] In embodiments, a downstream conveyor 11, 12 has an angle of inclination relative to the horizontal plane at a curve or bend in order to counter the effects of centrifugal force on the products 2. In other words, all or part of a curve of a downstream conveyor 11, 12 has an angle of inclination relative to the horizontal plane forming a decreasing slope transversely to the conveying direction X. In short, the highest point is located outside the bend and the lowest point inside the bend. Thus, according to different embodiments, the conveying device 1 may be devoid of lateral guides, without the products 2 falling. In addition, the absence of lateral guides makes it possible to avoid friction, which can cause slowdowns of the products 2 and consequently cause problems of synchronization of the arrival of the batches in the gripping zone P. Depending on the type of products 2, the production rates and the radius of curvature of the bend or curved section, the force applied to said products 2 in the curves and bends is different. Thus, having several downstream conveyors 11, 12 makes it possible to overcome this problem by offering different configurations. Thus, according to an additional possible characteristic, the installation 100 comprises at least two pairs of downstream conveyors 11, 12, 11', 12'. For each pair of downstream conveyors, each of the downstream conveyors has a different angle of inclination a relative to the horizontal plane, this angle of inclination a being between 0 and 30 degrees, preferably between 5 and 15 degrees. This advantageously makes it possible to implement one or the other pair of downstream conveyors depending on the type of products 2.

[0070] According to one embodiment, the angle of inclination a of a downstream conveyance 11, 12 is greater than the angle of inclination a' of another downstream conveyance 11', 12', or vice versa. This embodiment is illustrated in [Fig.4], where two pairs of downstream conveyors 11, 12, 11', 12' can be seen. In this embodiment, preferably, only one pair of downstream conveyors is implemented, according to the needs of the installation 100. In embodiments, the installation 100 comprises a mobile guidance system 130, to accompany the products 2 when they arrive in the picking zone P.

[0071] The transfer of the products 2 at the level of the gripping zone P, from at least one downstream conveyor 11, 12 to the accumulation surface 4 is carried out by means of a transfer means 5 which moves the products 2 in longitudinal batches, in a direction of movement which is transverse to the conveying direction X of the at least two downstream conveyors 11, 12 in the gripping zone P. It is understood that a batch of products 2 transferred from the taking zone P to the accumulation surface 4 corresponds to a batch of products 2 formed by the system of division 13. In other words, all the products 2 sent on one of the downstream conveyors 11, 12 of the installation by the division system 13 in the form of batches are then transferred from the taking zone P to the accumulation surface 4.

[0072] In embodiments, the installation 100 comprises a transfer means 5, said transfer means 5 comprising an input means 50 and an output means 51. This embodiment is illustrated in [Fig. 5]. The input means 50 carries out the transfer from at least one downstream conveyor 11, 12, at the level of the gripping zone P to the accumulation surface 4. This feeding movement is preferably a pushing movement of at least one group of products 2 in the form of a longitudinal batch from a supply conveyor 11, 12, at the level of the gripping zone P, to the accumulation surface 4. The inlet means 50 and the outlet means 51 are preferably designed to extend along an entire outer side of the batch of products 2 to be transferred. According to an additional technical characteristic, the transfer means 5 is vertically movable and retracts after the transfer of the products 2, to return to its initial position in the gripping zone, and therefore to pass above the products 2 which circulate on the downstream conveyors 11, 12. According to a possible additional characteristic, the transfer means 5 comprises at least two walls for simultaneously transferring, from the gripping zone P to the accumulation surface 4, at least two longitudinal batches of products 2, each of the batches being located on one of the downstream conveyors 11, 12. In other words, the transfer means 5, and in particular the input means 50, takes hold of a batch of products 2 on the downstream conveyor 11 and of a batch of products 2 on the downstream conveyor 12, and where appropriate of a batch of products 2 on at least one other downstream conveyor, to transfer them simultaneously to the accumulation surface 4. Thus, in cases where the installation 100 comprises two downstream conveyors 11, 12, the input means 50 simultaneously transfers two batches of products 2 from the gripping zone P to the accumulation surface 4. Advantageously, the transfer means 5 comprises at least three vertical plates, one of the plates serving as a protective plate to prevent the products 2 from falling during their transverse transfer in batch form. On the accumulation surface 4, the batches of products 2 form rows. The output means 51 carries out the transfer from the accumulation surface 4 to at least one output conveyor 3. The output means 51 can transfer one or more batches of products 2, i.e. one or more rows, simultaneously. Indeed, the output conveyor 3 can be single-wire or multi-wire. The output can also comprise several output conveyors 3, for example two output conveyors 3, as visible in [Fig. 1].

[0073] In embodiments, as seen in particular in [Fig.6], the transfer means 5 comprises a plurality of pushers 52. Each pusher 52 accompanies at least one batch of products 2 from a downstream conveyor 11, 12 at a gripping zone to at least one output conveyor 3. In other words, each pusher 52 moves from the gripping zone P to at least one output conveyor 3, and therefore entirely crosses the accumulation surface 4, from one edge to another. This characteristic is very advantageous because it makes it possible to limit the risk of products 2 falling, a single pusher 52 accompanying at least one batch of products 2 from the entrance to the accumulation surface 4 to its exit.

[0074] In embodiments, the downstream conveyors 11, 12 of the installation 100 have the same drive system. Indeed, for at least two downstream conveyances 11, 12, the difference in length between the downstream conveyances 11, 12 makes it possible to synchronize the arrival of the successive batches of products 2, such that a batch of products 2 circulating on the downstream conveyance 12, via the indirect path 120, arrives at the same time, substantially simultaneously, as a batch of products 2 circulating on the downstream conveyance 11, via the direct path 110. Thus, the two downstream conveyances 11, 12 can have the same conveying speed, and the difference in length of the direct path 110 and the indirect path 120 alone makes it possible to synchronize the arrival of the batches of products 2 on each of the downstream conveyors 11, 12. A drive system comprises at least one motor 7. A drive system comprises one or more motors 7. Indeed, depending on the length of a conveyance, it may be necessary to use several motors 7. Furthermore, a single motor 7 can drive different conveyor belts. In embodiments, a motor 7 may include different clutches to drive different conveyor belts.

[0075] According to a possible additional characteristic, each of the downstream conveyors 11, 12 has at least one motor 7 which is specific to it.

[0076] In embodiments, the installation 100 further comprises a control unit 6, shown schematically in [Fig. 5]. The control unit 6 controls the conveying speed of at least one of the downstream conveyors 11, 12 to synchronize the arrival of the first and at least second single-line flows of products 2 in batch form in the picking zone P. Advantageously, the control unit 6 comprises various sensors, in particular speed sensors, and a database in which various information concerning the packaging line is stored. For example, the database of the control unit 6 records the conveying speed parameters of the at least two downstream conveyors 11, 12, the upstream conveyor 10, and the at least one output conveyor 3. The database may also comprise information training on the nature of the products 2 to be processed on the packaging line. The database is recorded in a memory device of the control unit 6 or stored on an independent server. According to a possible additional characteristic, the control unit 6 is also connected to the division system 13, in order to know precisely the time information of the passage of each product 2 of each batch on each of the downstream conveyors 11, 12, for example via the use of a passage sensor. The control unit 6, from the data recorded in the database, and / or from the data obtained by the different sensors, is able to estimate the time of arrival in the pick-up zone P of the first flow and of the at least second single-line flow of products 2 passed through the division system 13. The control unit 6 is therefore connected to the various elements of the installation 100, and in particular to at least one drive system for the downstream conveyors 11, 12. It can be connected by wire or not, by any means of communication well known to those skilled in the art.

[0077] Further, according to a possible additional characteristic, at least one downstream conveyor 11, 12 comprises two conveyor belts one after the other, each of the two belts having its own drive motor 7, so that the conveyor speeds of the two belts of the same downstream conveyor 11, 12 can be different. This advantageously makes it possible to stop or slow down the products 2 arriving in the gripping zone P on a downstream conveyor, while allowing the division system 13 to distribute products 2 in batch form onto the other conveyor belt of the downstream conveyor, which is nevertheless stopped in the gripping zone. In this way, it is possible to continuously supply the downstream conveyors 11, 12 and the flow of the upstream station is not altered, and the performance of the product packaging line 2 is not impacted. In addition, 2 products are transferred in batches safely, do not undergo shock.In fact, a full-speed transverse transfer in the P grip zone is not possible. In embodiments, a downstream conveyor 11, 12 comprises two conveyor belts one after the other, powered by the same drive motor 7 which comprises two transmissions, so that the conveyor speeds of the two belts of the same downstream conveyor 11, 12 can be different. According to a possible additional characteristic, the two bands of the at least one downstream conveyor 11, 12 are abutted and aligned longitudinally. In embodiments, the junction between two successive and aligned belts of a downstream conveyor 11, 12 is achieved by a transfer plate. The use of such a transfer plate is particularly useful when the products 2 are containers. However, this transfer plate is not always necessary, in particular when the products 2 are boxes, or products 2 whose stability is important. According to another variant, the two belts of the downstream conveyor 11, 12 are not aligned longitudinally, but offset from each other. In this case, the downstream conveyor 11, 12 comprises a guide, in the form of at least one guide slide, to accompany the passage of the products 2 from one belt to the other of said downstream conveyor 11, 12. In embodiments, the downstream conveyor 11 comprises two conveyor belts, a conveyor belt in the form of a feed portion 14, at the gripping zone P; and a conveyor belt in the form of the direct path 110, the feed portion 14 and the direct path 110 each having its own drive motor 7.

[0078] In embodiments, the downstream conveyor 12 comprises two conveyor belts, a conveyor belt in the form of a feed portion 15, at the level of the gripping zone P, and a conveyor belt in the form of the indirect path 120, the feed portion 15 and the indirect path 120 each having a motor 7 of its own.

[0079] [Fig. 5] shows an embodiment according to which, for two downstream conveyances 11, 12, the downstream conveyance 11 is powered by a drive system comprising a single motor 7, while the downstream conveyance 12 comprises a drive system comprising two motors 7, a motor 7 for powering the indirect path 120 and a motor 7 for powering the feed portion 15 at the gripping zone P. This embodiment advantageously allows the downstream conveyance 12 to have different conveying speeds at the feed portion 15 and at the indirect path 120. In particular, this makes it possible both to avoid stopping the packaging line and the use of a dead plate or waiting zone, during the transfer of the products 2 from the gripping zone P to the accumulation surface 4.Indeed, it is possible, without any difficulty, to slow down or even stop the products 2 which arrive in the gripping zone P on the downstream conveyors 11, 12, while supplying the indirect path 120 with products 2 via the division system 13. The control of the different conveying speeds is preferably carried out by the control unit 6. This example is purely illustrative and not limiting.

[0080] The invention also relates to a method for accumulating and transferring products 2 in a packaging line. The method according to the invention comprises the following steps: - receive a single-line flow of products 2 at the level of an upstream conveyor 10 then; - distribute the single-line flow of products 2 successively over at least two downstream conveyors 11, 12 in the form of longitudinal batches; - bring said batches into a collection zone P using the downstream conveyors 11, 12; - slowing down said at least two downstream conveyors 11, 12 at the level of the gripping zone P to slow down the products 2 there; - transfer a batch of products 2 from at least one downstream conveyor 11, 12 at the level of said gripping zone P to said accumulation surface 4; - transferring at least one batch of products 2 from said accumulation surface 4 to at least one output conveyor 3.

[0081] The method is characterized in that, for at least two downstream conveyances 11, 12, the path for bringing a batch to the picking zone P is longer for one downstream conveyance 11, 12 than for the other downstream conveyance 11, 12.

[0082] In embodiments, the method of accumulating and transferring products 2 in a packaging line comprises the following steps: - receive a single-line flow of products 2 at the level of an upstream conveyor 10 then; - distribute the single-line flow of products 2 alternately and successively on two downstream conveyors 11, 12 in the form of longitudinal batches; - bring said batches into a collection zone P using the downstream conveyors 11, 12; - slow down said downstream conveyors 11, 12 at the level of the gripping zone P to slow down the products 2 there; - transfer a batch of products 2 from at least one downstream conveyor 11, 12 at the level of said gripping zone P to said accumulation surface 4; - transferring at least one batch of products (2) from said accumulation surface (4) to at least one output conveyor 3, method characterized in that: - the journey to bring a batch to the pick-up zone P is longer for a downstream conveyance 11,12 than for the other downstream conveyance 11,1), to synchronize the arrival in the pick-up zone P of two successive batches, each traveling respectively on a downstream conveyance 11,12.

[0083] We will describe different steps of the method using figures 7 to 11, for an installation 100 which comprises two downstream conveyances 11, 12, it being understood that the same method applies for installations 100 which comprise at least three downstream conveyances 11, 12.

[0084] [Fig.7] shows the step of distributing the single-line flow of products 2 to a downstream conveyance 12 which has an indirect conveyance path 120. The division system 13 therefore diverts a first single-line flow of products 2 in the form of a batch coming from the upstream conveyance 10 to the longest downstream conveyance 12. It is entirely possible for the division system 13 to first divert the single-line flow of products 2 to the shortest downstream conveyance and this example is purely illustrative and not limiting. A longer downstream conveyance 12 means that the distance to be covered for a group of products 2 in the form of a batch on said downstream conveyance 12, via the indirect route 120, is significantly longer than the distance to be covered for a group of products 2 in the form of a batch on the other downstream conveyance 11, via the direct route 110. The term length therefore expresses a length in terms of distance and not in terms of duration. In preferred embodiments, the difference in length between at least two downstream conveyors 11, 12 is between 0.75 and 1.25 times the length of a product train 2, corresponding to the length of a batch of products 2 formed by the division system 13 and sent on one of the downstream conveyors 11, 12 of the installation 100.

[0085] [Fig. 8] illustrates the same step of distributing the single-line flow of products 2, the division system 13 directing a second single-line flow of products 2 in the form of a batch from the upstream conveyor 10 to the shortest downstream conveyor 11. In the same way as previously, it is entirely possible for the division system 13 to divert the single-line flow of products 2 to the longest downstream conveyor and this example is purely illustrative and not limiting. It is therefore understood that the first single-line flow of products 2 was sent onto the downstream conveyor 12 first, and that the first product 2 of the first batch is diverted by the division system 13 significantly earlier than the first product 2 of the second batch. At the time of creation of the batches by the division system 13, the distance difference which separates the arrival of a first product of each batch in the gripping zone P is considerable, and the first batch formed by the first single-line flow of products 2 is ahead, at least in chronological terms, of the second batch formed by the second single-line flow. It is understood that, in cases where the installation 100 comprises at least three downstream conveyors 11, 12, and in which all of the downstream conveyors 11, 12 are in operation, the division system 13 successively sends a single-line flow of products 2 in the form of a batch on each of the downstream conveyors 11, 12, each of the batches of products 2 traveling a path of a different distance, in such a way that the batches of products 2 formed successively, and traveling on separate downstream conveyors, arrive substantially at the same time in the gripping zone P.

[0086] [Fig.9] illustrates a new step of distribution of the single-line flow of products 2. For the sake of understanding, it is recalled that an operation for two downstream conveyors 11, 12 is described here, but the same principle operates regardless of the number of downstream conveyors 11, 12 in operation. In this step, the division system 13 successively and alternately diverts groups of a determined number of products 2 in the form of batches, towards one or other of the downstream conveyors 11, 12. This step is carried out uninterruptedly and the single-line flow of products 2 is continuous. It can be seen in [Fig.9] that the distance difference which separates the arrival in the gripping zone P of the batches of products 2 circulating on each downstream conveyor 11,12 is reduced compared to [Fig.8], each batch of products 2 having already traveled a good part of its journey to be made between the division system 13 and the gripping zone P. In other words, the second batch of products 2, formed by the second single-line flow, has started to catch up with the first batch of products 2.

[0087] [Fig. 10] shows a further diversion of the flow towards the downstream conveyor 11. The batches of products 2, formed successively by the division system 13, arrive in the gripping zone P at the same time. In particular, the first product 2 of each batch arrives at the moment in the gripping zone P, each respectively on a downstream conveyor 11, 12, at the level of a feed portion 14, 15.

[0088] [Fig. 11] shows an embodiment according to which the transfer step comprises the simultaneous transfer of a batch of products 2 from each of the downstream conveyors 11, 12. To do this, the products 2 are slowed down in the gripping zone P, within the downstream conveyors 11, 12, possibly to a complete stop, by reducing the speed of the downstream conveyors 11, 12 at the gripping zone P with a deceleration which prevents the products 2 from falling. The products 2 are slowed down at the entrance to the gripping zone P and are stopped or moving at a very low speed at the said zone.

[0089] Advantageously, in embodiments, at least one of the downstream conveyors 11, 12 has two successive conveyor belts, each of the two belts having its own motor 7. This then makes it possible to slow down the products 2 emerging in the gripping zone P on the feed portion 14, 15, while the direct path 110 or the indirect path 120 circulates at a conveying speed allowing the division system 13 to divert the products in batch form onto one or the other path 110, 120. In other words, the division system 13 forms batches and the downstream conveyors 11, 12 are in operation at the level of the direct and indirect paths 110, 120, while the products 2 are stationary or almost stationary at the level of the gripping zone P. According to a preferred embodiment, the downstream conveyor 12 comprises two successive conveyor belts, one belt in the form of the indirect path 120 and one belt in the form of a feed portion 15. The downstream conveyor 11 comprises a single conveyor belt, that is to say that the two successive portions formed by the direct path 110 and the feed portion 14 circulate at the same conveying speed. In this configuration, and advantageously, the products 2 arriving in batch form are slowed down when they arrive at the same time in the gripping zone P, both on the feed portion 14 and on the feed portion 15. The products 2 are slowed down, preferably until they stop. While waiting for the restarting the downstream conveyor 11, the division system 13 can send the products 2 onto the downstream conveyor 12, insofar as said downstream conveyor 12 comprises two successive conveyor belts, each having its own motor 7. It is also possible for the downstream conveyances 11, 12 to have a common motor 7 for the supply portions 14, 15 and two motors 7, one motor 7 for each of the direct 110 and indirect 120 routes, between the division system 13 and the pick-up zone P.

[0090] Advantageously, the control of the drive systems and / or the motors 7 is done by a control unit 6. The control unit 6 synchronizes the conveying speeds of the downstream conveyors 11, 12, preferably the conveying speeds of the supply portions 14, 15 and of the direct 110 and indirect 120 paths.

[0091] In embodiments, the downstream conveyors 11, 12 are U-shaped and each have its own drive motor 7.

[0092] Following their arrival in the gripping zone P, the products 2 in the form of batches are then transferred to the receiving surface 4. This transfer can be done by a sweeping type movement or by grasping the products 2 using a gripping cap which grips them from above, then brings them transversely to the receiving surface 4. A cycle of receiving products 2, slowing down, and transferring is repeated for the downstream conveyors 11, 12, the reception on each of the downstream conveyors 11, 12 of the installation 100 taking place substantially at the same time, thanks to the differences in the length of the path to be taken. The configuration is therefore relatively simple and the cycle times are efficient.

[0093] The method also comprises a step, not shown, of transferring at least one batch of products 2 from the accumulation surface 4 to at least one output conveyor 3. In embodiments, the products 2 are transferred from the gripping zone P to the entrance of the accumulation surface 4. Advantageously, the accumulation surface 4 comprises a conveyor belt and the products 2 are then moved from one edge to the other of the accumulation surface 4, in order to be evacuated onto at least one outlet conveyor 3.

[0094] In any event, the output products 2 are released either in single-line or multi-line. Indeed, it is entirely possible, in the case of a configuration where the upstream station delivers the products 2 in single-line and the downstream station requires products 2 in multi-line, to let the longitudinal batches of products 2 accumulate against each other at the output side of the accumulation surface 2, then to simultaneously remove several longitudinal batches, one next to the other along a direction transverse to the conveying direction X. The products 2 are released from the accumulation surface 4 again transversely to the conveying direction X which they take downstream, which means that the batches of products 2 extracted from the accumulation surface successively form longitudinal sections of the flow downstream of the accumulation surface 4.

[0095] The accumulation and transfer method according to the invention makes it possible to reduce the cycle times between two successive transfers, and therefore an improvement in the performance of the packaging line.

[0096] In embodiments, the transfer between on the one hand at least one downstream conveyor 11, 12 in the gripping zone P to the accumulation surface 4 and on the other hand from said surface 4 and at least one output conveyor 3 is carried out by a transfer means 5, said transfer means 5 comprising a plurality of pushers 52. Each pusher 52 transfers at least one batch of products 2 from at least one downstream conveyor 11, 12 in the gripping zone P to the accumulation surface 4, then, after having crossed said surface 4, said pusher 52 transfers said at least one batch of products 2 from said surface 4 to at least one output conveyor 3.

[0097] According to a possible additional characteristic, a pusher 52 transfers at least two batches of products 2, each batch being on a downstream conveyor 11, 12, from the gripping zone P to the accumulation surface 4, then from said surface 4 to at least one output conveyor 3. In other words, in this configuration, a pusher 52 accompanies one or more batches of products 2 from the entry to the exit of the accumulation surface 4.

[0098] In embodiments, at least two successive batches of products 2, each having circulated on one of the downstream conveyors 11, 12, arrive at the same time in the gripping zone P. The arrival of the at least two successive batches of products 2 is therefore synchronized. This means, for example, that the first product 2 of a batch having circulated on a downstream conveyor 11 arrives substantially at the same time as the first product 2 of a batch having circulated on at least one other downstream conveyor 12, the at least two batches having passed successively through the division system 13. This is possible thanks to the different length of the downstream conveyors 11, 12 for at least two downstream conveyors 11, 12. The difference in path length must be sufficiently large to allow this synchronization, a fortiori when the at least two downstream conveyors 11, 12 have the same conveying speed. In particular, and preferably, the difference in path length corresponds to approximately a length of between 0.75 and 1.25 times the length of a product train 2, i.e. of a batch of product 2 formed by the division system 13. According to a possible additional characteristic, the synchronized arrival means that the first batch of products 2 having circulated on one of the downstream conveyors 11, 12 stops substantially in the gripping zone P at the same time as the at least second batch of products 2 having circulated on another downstream conveyor 11, 12, so as to allow transfer to the accumulation surface 4.

[0099] According to a preferred embodiment, the downstream conveyances 11, 12 have the same conveying speed.

[0100] The invention advantageously makes it possible to optimize the cycles of transferring products 2 from a gripping zone P to an accumulation surface 4, by proposing an installation 100 which comprises at least two downstream conveyors 11, 12 of different lengths. Thus, batches of products 2 formed successively by a division system 13 arrive substantially at the same time in the gripping zone P, which allows an optimized transfer, in a single step. Although the above description is based on particular embodiments, it is in no way limiting of the scope of the invention, and modifications may be made, in particular by substitution of technical equivalents or by different combination of all or part of the characteristics developed above.

Claims

Claims

1. Installation (100) for accumulating and transferring products (2) comprising: - a device (1) for conveying said products (2) in a single-line flow, said device (1) comprising an upstream conveyor (10), at least two downstream conveyors (11, 12) opening longitudinally into a gripping zone (P), and a division system (13) for sending from said upstream conveyor (10) successively to one of the downstream conveyors (11, 12) at least a first single-line flow of products (2) in the form of batches to a downstream conveyor (11, 12) and at least a second single-line flow of products (2) in the form of batches to another downstream conveyor (11, 12), - at least one output conveyor (3) for said products (2), - an accumulation surface (4) for receiving the products (2) in the form of batches from the gripping zone (P), said surface (4) being located between said conveying device (1) and said at least one output conveyor (3),- a transfer means (5) for transversely moving at least one batch of products (2), on the one hand, from at least one downstream conveyor (11, 12) at the gripping zone (P) to said accumulation surface (4) and, on the other hand, from said surface (4) to said at least one output conveyor (3), installation (100) characterized in that, for at least two downstream conveyors (11, 12), between said dividing system (13) and the gripping zone (P), the length of a downstream conveyor (11) is greater than the length of at least one other downstream conveyor (12), so that at least two batches of products (2) formed successively by the dividing system (13) and sent, for one of them on one of the downstream conveyors (11, 12) and for the other on the other downstream conveyor (11, 12), arrive substantially at the same time at the level of said gripping zone (P).,

2. Installation (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that it comprises at least three downstream conveyors (11, 12) and in that each of the downstream conveyors (11, 12) has a different length, so that all the batches of products (2) formed successively by the division system (13) arrive substantially at the same time at the level of the gripping zone (P).

3. Installation (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that it comprises two downstream conveyors (11, 12), and in that the division system (13) is capable of sending from said upstream conveyor (10) successively and alternately a first single-line flow of products (2) in the form of batches to a downstream conveyor (11, 12) and a second single-line flow of products (2) in the form of batches to the other downstream conveyor (11, 12), so that two batches of products (2) formed successively by the division system (13) arrive substantially at the same time at said gripping zone (P).

4. Installation (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the downstream conveyors (11, 12) are U-shaped.

5. Installation (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the division system (13) is a controlled deflector which successively and alternately deflects a determined number of products (2) together forming a batch onto the downstream conveyors (11, 12).

6. Installation (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the transfer means (5) comprises at least two walls for simultaneously transferring, from the gripping zone (P) to the accumulation surface (4), at least two longitudinal batches of products (2), each of the batches being located respectively on one of the downstream conveyors (11, 12).

7. Installation (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the transfer means (5) comprises an input means (50) and an output means (51), said input means (50) being configured to transversely transfer a batch of products (2) from at least one downstream conveyor (11, 12) in the gripping zone (P) to the accumulation surface (4) and said output means (51) being configured to transversely transfer at least one batch of products (2) from the accumulation surface (4) to at least one output conveyor (3).

8. Installation (100) according to any one of 1 to 6, characterized in that the transfer means (5) comprises a plurality of pushers (52), each pusher (52) being capable of transferring a batch of products (2) from at least one downstream conveyor (11, 12) to at least one output conveyor (3) by crossing the accumulation surface (4).

9. Installation (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least two downstream conveyances (11, 12) have each at least one drive motor (7) of its own.

10. Installation (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one downstream conveyor (11, 12) comprises two conveyor belts one after the other, each of the two belts having its own drive motor (7), so that the conveying speeds of the two belts of said at least one downstream conveyor (11, 12) can be different.

11. Method for accumulating and transferring products (2) in a packaging line, method comprising the following steps: - receiving a single-line flow of products (2) at an upstream conveyor (10) then; - distributing the single-line flow of products (2) successively over at least two downstream conveyors (11, 12) in the form of longitudinal batches; - bringing said batches into a gripping zone (P) using said downstream conveyors (11, 12); - slowing down said at least two downstream conveyors (11, 12) at the gripping zone (P) to slow down the products (2) there; - transferring a batch of products (2) from at least one downstream conveyor (11, 12) at said gripping zone (P) to said accumulation surface (4);- transferring at least one batch of products (2) from said accumulation surface (4) to at least one output conveyor (3), characterized in that: - for at least two downstream conveyances (11, 12), the path for bringing a batch to the picking zone (P) is longer for one downstream conveyance (11, 12) than for the other downstream conveyance (11, 12), so as to synchronize the arrival in the picking zone (P) of two successive batches, each circulating respectively on a downstream conveyance (11, 12).;

12. Method according to claim 11, characterized in that the transfer of a batch of products (2) from at least one downstream conveyor (11, 12) at the level of the gripping zone (P) to the accumulation surface (4) is carried out by an input tool (50) and in that the transfer of at least one batch of products (2) from the accumulation surface (4) to at least one output conveyor (3) is carried out by an output tool (51).

13. Method according to claim 11, characterized in that the transfer between, on the one hand, from at least one downstream conveyor (11, 12) in the gripping zone (P) to the accumulation surface (4) and, on the other hand, from said surface (4) to said at least one output conveyor (3), is carried out by a transfer means (5), said transfer means (5) comprising a plurality of pushers (52), each pusher (52) transferring at least one batch of products (2) from at least one downstream conveyor (11, 12) in the gripping zone (P) to said surface (4), causing said at least one batch of products (2) to cross said surface (4) and then transferring said at least one batch of products (2) from said surface (4) to at least one output conveyor (3).

14. Method according to any one of claims 11 to 13, characterized in that at least two successive batches, each having circulated on one of the downstream conveyors (11, 12), arrive at the same time in the picking zone (P).