Device and method for grouping, and installation for lateral transfer of products

Abstract

The present invention relates to a device (2) for grouping products (1), comprising a conveyor (3) for supplying the products (1) in a single-line flow in a longitudinal direction (X) from upstream to downstream, from an inlet (4) to an outlet (5); a downstream module (6) for guiding said products (1) and for sequencing a determined number of products (1) released at the outlet (5); as well as an upstream module (9) for guiding said products (1) from said inlet (4) to said downstream sequencing module (6), with an upstream conveyor (90) provided with a pair of upstream surfaces extending on either side of said supply conveyor (3) and designed to be movable from a retracted position to a tightened position, and vice versa. The invention also relates to a corresponding grouping method and an installation for lateral transfer of said products (1). Figure for abstract: Fig. 8

Description

Title of the invention: Device and method for grouping, and installation for lateral transfer of products Technical field of the invention

[0001] The present invention falls within the field of conveying products within an industrial production line of said products.

[0002] Such products may be containers, such as, but not limited to, bottles, cans, flasks or even cardboard bricks. Such a container is intended to contain, but not limited to, a fluid, a liquid, powders or granules, in particular of the agri-food or cosmetic type. These products can be made of any type of material, metal, glass, but preferably plastic-based, in particular polyethylene (PE) or polypropylene (PP) providing flexibility making the product semi-rigid. Such products may have any type of shape, whether symmetrical or not, regular or irregular. In addition, each of the products may have a rounded section, generally circular or ovoid in shape, or a polygonal section, in particular rectangular or square. In particular, the use of a product with a specific shape, for example asymmetrical or oblong, is widespread in the field of food, home care and personal care (FHPC), for example for a container intended to contain shower gel or shampoo, or in the field of cleaning and maintenance, such as a bottle with a sprayer for detergents and disinfectants.

[0003] In a known manner, said containers are moved along said production line, individually or grouped into batches, to be transported to different successive processing stations, such as the manufacture of the container, for example during a plastic injection operation or stretch-blow molding in the case of a plastic bottle, followed by filling and then closing with a cap and labeling. At the end of these treatments, the containers are said to be "finished".

[0004] For the purpose of handling, such finished products are packaged in batches. Each batch comprises a group of several products, grouped together in a row or in a matrix arrangement, generally in a parallelepiped shape, often square or rectangular, in several rows and columns. For example, a typical batch groups six products in two rows and three columns, often referred to as a "pack". Once the product groups have been produced, the groups generally undergo packaging by boxing or by coating, in particular through a filming or preferably bundling step, or by coating using a sheet, in particular made of paper or cardboard material, in order to keep the products of the same batch together.

[0005] During these different stages, the products are therefore transported along the production line, in a direction of movement extending longitudinally, from upstream to downstream, between and within the different stations dedicated to each treatment that the products must undergo. In particular, in order to produce the batches, the products must undergo a grouping stage, in at least one row.

[0006] The invention specifically aims at grouping products from a single-line flow, namely that the products are conveyed one after the other in said longitudinal direction, with a view to their lateral transfer to a conveying surface extending transversely and orthogonally relative to said longitudinal direction of movement. State of the art

[0007] Currently, the lateral transfer of products leaving the feed conveyor to a conveying surface located downstream can be carried out transversely, in a transverse direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction upstream. Such a lateral transfer makes it possible to create, from a single-line flow of products, one or more rows in said longitudinal direction, but also one or more columns in the transverse direction.

[0008] A known lateral transfer solution comprises, by means of a transfer member, preferably several successive ones, in the form of a collector provided with housings, often referred to as a "comb". Each of the housings is shaped and sized to internally receive one or more products. In addition, the collector is designed to be movable laterally, step by step, to successively position a free housing opposite the next product to be received for the purpose of its transfer. Thus, from a continuous single-line flow of products being supplied, the reception of one or more products by the comb is carried out discontinuously, by step-by-step transverse displacement of the housings of said comb-collector, until a following collector is filled and positioned, or else a displacement of said collector to a deposit zone for the products thus taken in before its return to the collection location for the following products.

[0009] Therefore, upstream of the transfer, it is necessary to group the products of the single-line flow, ensuring that the groups of products to be transferred follow one another. regularly, with a substantially equal pitch. Preferably, the products are placed side by side and in contact, namely in a configuration where an upstream product touches the adjacent product located downstream. This contact ensures their proper handling and successive insertion within each of the housings of the collector, particularly for products with specific shapes, namely irregular or asymmetrical, or even oblong shapes, such as for example bottles with an oblong section.

[0010] Such grouping of products is carried out during transport along a supply conveyor advancing at constant speed, during a sequencing ensuring the release of a determined number of products, at a given interval. Such sequencing is carried out along a corridor, consisting for example of two side walls, extending essentially vertically above said supply conveyor and parallel to the longitudinal direction. In addition, these side walls come into contact on either side of said products, then serving as guides. To do this, a known solution consists of two lateral surfaces provided motorized in said longitudinal direction, synchronously with each other, to accompany the products during their movement and control the feeding of a number of products corresponding to the group to be transferred. More precisely, the speed of the two lateral surfaces is controlled variably, namely that, during a delivery cycle of one or more products of the same group to the transfer module, the lateral surfaces are stopped or at a low initial speed (lower than the speed of the supply conveyor), slowing the products down to blocking their advancement. Then, the surfaces are accelerated to substantially the speed of the supply conveyor, or even to a higher speed, to release and deliver one or more products at the output.The side surfaces are then decelerated, possibly to a stop, and then accelerated again, to release the next product(s), with a specific interval between them (i.e. an interval dependent on the collector pitch). When the desired number of products is delivered to the transfer module, the surfaces are decelerated, to the initial low speed, before restarting a cycle. While such a sequencer can deliver a predefined number of products to a transfer module at a set rate, the successive accelerations and decelerations of the sequencing process generate gaps between the upstream products. These gaps are detrimental to the required continuity of the single-line flow, with a view to delivering a set number of products as regularly as possible. Too large a gap can lead to a missing product, making it impossible to form the batch downstream.

[0011] Furthermore, a related disadvantage is that upstream, products may move and orient themselves differently along the feed conveyor, or even be offset from each other, both longitudinally and transversely. In short, the products are no longer aligned, rotating on themselves, which is even more restrictive for products with an irregular shape, for example with an irregular or asymmetrical section. Therefore, at the inlet, the products are likely to hit the lateral guide surfaces, once again inducing an unwanted spacing between the products, or even causing them to fall. Statement of the invention

[0012] The invention aims to overcome the drawbacks of the state of the art by proposing a grouping of products, upstream of a lateral transfer, ensuring the maintenance of the continuity of the single-line flow of products, according to a regular pitch, the products being preferentially in contact with each other. In other words, the grouping device makes it possible to fill the unwanted spaces between the products.

[0013] Relatedly, the grouping according to the invention makes it possible to ensure the alignment of the products, in particular for specific products of irregular or asymmetrical shape.

[0014] To do this, the invention aims at a grouping device comprising: (i) at least one supply conveyor transporting products in a single-line flow in a longitudinal direction from upstream to downstream, from an inlet to an outlet of said grouping device; ii) a downstream module for sequencing the products towards said output provided - means for guiding said products according to said single-line flow along said supply conveyor to said outlet; - means for sequencing a determined number of products released according to at least one output interval. Such a grouping device is characterized in that it comprises iii) an upstream module for guiding said products from said inlet to said downstream sequencing module, said upstream module comprising at least one upstream conveyor provided with a pair of upstream surfaces extending on either side of said conveyor and in that said upstream surfaces of the upstream module are movable from a retracted position to a tightened position, and vice versa; - in the tightened position, said upstream surfaces extend parallel in said longitudinal direction, at a determined spacing, so as to come into contact with the periphery of the products transported by said supply conveyor, said upstream surfaces being aligned with said guide means (7); - in the retracted position, said upstream surfaces are spaced apart from said tightened position. According to additional, non-limiting characteristics, said upstream surfaces are movable in translation from the tightened position to the retracted position, and vice versa.

[0015] According to one embodiment, said upstream surfaces are in the form of at least one belt conveyor.

[0016] According to one embodiment, said guiding means and said sequencing means are in the form of at least one pair of motorized downstream conveyors from upstream to downstream. According to one embodiment, said upstream surfaces are in the form of at least one pair of upstream conveyors motorized from upstream to downstream and said downstream conveyors and the upstream conveyors being independent.

[0017] The invention also relates to a lateral product transfer installation, said installation being equipped with said grouping device. To do this, such a lateral transfer installation includes: - downstream, a motorized conveying surface in a direction orthogonal to said longitudinal direction; - a lateral transfer module for said products, provided with at least one successive transfer member for each of said products of said single-wire flow. The installation is characterized in that, upstream, it includes a grouping device as described previously.

[0018] According to one embodiment, the installation provides that said transfer member comprises at least one collector provided with a plurality of housings.

[0019] The invention also relates to a method for grouping products comprising at least the following steps: - a continuous single-line flow of products is brought in at a determined speed, one after the other, according to a displacement along a longitudinal direction from upstream to downstream; - downstream, up to an exit, the products are guided on either side along a corridor of a predetermined width, preferably corresponding to the width of said products; - at the output, the products are sequenced by delivering a determined number of released products according to at least one interval. Such a grouping process is characterized in that - upstream, from an entrance, we carry out upstream guidance; said upstream guidance being provided intermittently, periodically providing support in contact with said products, accelerating or slowing down said products so as to maintain the continuous single-line flow of products.

[0020] According to additional, non-limiting characteristics, such a grouping method provides that - upstream guidance is carried out by means of upstream surfaces extending parallel in said longitudinal direction; said upstream surfaces being moved periodically - moving from an active position to a retracted position, without contact with said products; - tightening from said retracted position towards said active position generating support in contact with the periphery of said products by said upstream lateral surfaces.

[0021] According to one embodiment, the upstream guidance is designed to be retractable and is carried out by controlling the transverse movement of said upstream surfaces.

[0022] According to one embodiment, the grouping method provides that the movement cycle of the upstream surfaces of the upstream conveyor is controlled, as a function of the control of the movement speed of said products.

[0023] According to one embodiment, the grouping method provides that, in the tightening position, said upstream surfaces are spaced laterally by a width determined according to the format of said products. The products are aligned when said upstream surfaces are tightened.

[0024] According to one embodiment, the grouping method provides that downstream of the outlet, a lateral transfer is carried out successively of each group of products from among the determined number of said products released according to said interval, said lateral transfer being carried out in a transverse direction extending orthogonally to said longitudinal direction. Presentation of the drawings

[0025] Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will emerge from the detailed description which follows of the non-limiting embodiments of the invention, with reference to the appended figures, in which:

[0026] [Fig. 1] schematically represents a perspective view of an embodiment of a product grouping device, showing in particular two downstream and upstream guide modules;

[0027] [Fig.2] schematically represents a simplified perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a product grouping device within a lateral transfer installation, showing in particular the mobility of the upstream lateral surfaces of the upstream guide module;

[0028] [Fig.3] schematically represents a simplified elevation view of an embodiment of the grouping device, with a downstream module in the form of a corridor with a type of sequencer at the output, as well as at the input, with an independent upstream module in a tightened position, with upstream surfaces in the form of motorized and retractable bands according to a transverse translation;

[0029] [Fig.4] schematically represents a simplified elevation view of another mode of production of the grouping device, with a downstream module whose guidance and sequencing means are formed by a pair of downstream bands;

[0030] [Fig.5] schematically represents a simplified elevation view of another embodiment of the grouping device, with an independent upstream module in the retracted position, with upstream lateral surfaces retractable according to a rotation;

[0031] [Fig.6] schematically represents a simplified elevation view of another mode of producing the grouping device, provided with downstream and upstream modules, the latter being provided with lateral surfaces in the form of common belt conveyors, with the portions of the upstream surfaces in the retracted position according to a rotation;

[0032] [Fig.7] schematically represents a simplified elevation view of another mode of production of the grouping device, with downstream and upstream modules in the form of independent conveyors of the “pinching conveyor” type, equipped with chains on which product gripping lugs are mounted;

[0033] [Fig.8] schematically represents a simplified elevation view of an example of implementation of a preferred embodiment of the product grouping device, in the form of oblong-shaped containers, within a lateral transfer installation of a single column of four products, showing in particular an upstream spacing between two products;

[0034] [Fig.9] schematically represents a view similar to [Fig.8], showing upstream the translational spacing of the upstream lateral surfaces, releasing the products to fill said spacing, while the products are blocked downstream;

[0035] [Fig. 10] schematically represents an elevation view of another example of implementation of the product grouping device, in the form of oblong-shaped containers, within an installation with a lateral transfer of two columns of four rows of products, by means of a suitable collector;

[0036] [Fig.11] schematically represents a view similar to [Fig.10], showing upstream the translational spacing of the upstream lateral surfaces, releasing the products to fill said spacing, while the products are blocked downstream;

[0037] [Fig. 12] schematically represents an elevation view of another example of implementation of the grouping device, in the retracted position of the upstream module, showing in particular non-aligned products at the inlet; and

[0038] [Fig.13] schematically represents a view similar to [Fig.12], with the upstream lateral surfaces tightened, highlighting in particular an alignment of the products. Detailed description

[0039] The present invention relates to the conveying of products 1. As mentioned above, such products 1 may be containers, such as, but not limited to, bottles, cans, flasks or even cardboard cartons. Such a container is intended to contain, but not limited to, a fluid, a liquid, powders or granules, in particular of the food or cosmetic type. These products 1 can be made of any type of material, metal, glass, but preferably plastic-based, in particular polyethylene (PE) or polypropylene (PP) providing flexibility making said product 1 semi-rigid. Such products 1 can have any type of shape, symmetrical or not, regular or irregular. In addition, each of the products 1 can have a rounded section, generally circular or ovoidal in shape, or a polygonal section, in particular rectangular or square.

[0040] Further, the conveying of the products 1 is carried out from upstream to downstream, in a longitudinal direction X. In addition, the conveying is carried out at least upstream according to a single-line flow of products, namely according to a single line of products 1 aligned in said longitudinal direction X. In other words, the products 1 follow one after the other. Therefore, the single-line flow of products 1 is supplied continuously, namely without interruption, or without the presence of spacing, separation or hole between two products 1 according to a determined distance (for example: a distance greater than half the width, diameter or section of a product 1). In short, the single-line flow has a regular pitch, with an equal or substantially equal distance between two successive products 1. Preferably, the products 1 of said single-line flow are located side by side or adjacent to each other, namely that the wall located downstream of an upstream product 1 touches the wall located upstream of an adjacent downstream product 1. In this case, the distance between two successive products 1 is zero.

[0041] More specifically, the invention aims at the grouping of said products 1, namely the distribution of the products 1 of the single-line flow into a group comprising a determined number of products 1. Such a group generally has a matrix distribution of said products 1, namely according to at least one column, preferably several, as well as several rows (i.e. several rows of a single product 1 in the case of a single column). Such grouping of the products 1 is carried out through a dedicated grouping device 2.

[0042] According to the invention, the device 2 for grouping the products 1 firstly comprises at least one supply conveyor 3 transporting the products 1 in a single-line flow along the longitudinal direction X from upstream to downstream. Several supply conveyors 3 can follow one another along the grouping device 2. Each supply conveyor 3 can be of any type, preferably in the form of at least one endless belt conveyor. The supply conveyor 3 extends along the grouping device 2, from an inlet 4 to an outlet 5. Furthermore, the feed conveyor 3 is motorized, according to a determined speed. Preferably, the speed of the feed conveyor 3 is provided to be constant, namely with a value determined in particular in relation to the production rate, or even the format of the products 1 to be processed. In principle, such a feed speed does not vary during production, apart from the initial acceleration and deceleration when starting and stopping the grouping device 2. Thus, the supply conveyor 3 makes it possible to transport the products 1, resting at least on their bottom on the upper face of said supply conveyor 3.

[0043] Further on, the grouping device 2 comprises a downstream module 6 for sequencing the products 1 towards said outlet 5. The role of this downstream module 6 is to sequence the products 1, namely from the single-wire flow transported by the supply conveyor 3, to deliver a determined number of products 1 to the outlet 5 of the grouping device 2. To do this, said downstream module 6 is firstly provided with means 7 for guiding said products 1 according to said single-wire flow along said supply conveyor 3 to said outlet 5. These guiding means 7 form a corridor along which the products 1 transported by the supply conveyor 3 progress, while maintaining the alignment of the single-wire flow along the grouping device 2.

[0044] According to an embodiment shown in [Fig. 3], the guide means 7 comprise at least two walls 70, extending vertically and parallel to each other, as well as to the longitudinal direction X. In addition, the walls 70 are spaced apart, according to an adjustable spacing depending on the shape and dimensions of the products 1, in particular depending on their diameter or their width. The walls 70 therefore frame the products 1 laterally, on the right and left sides. The walls 70 can be of any type, in the form of fixed plates against which the products 1 slide around their perimeter, or even equipped with bearings or free rotating rollers allowing the perimeter of the products 1 to roll in contact with them.

[0045] According to another possible embodiment, the guide means 7 comprise a pair of downstream conveyors 71. Like the walls 70, the pair of conveyors 71 forms the corridor, framing the products 1 on each side, that is to say on the right and left sides as they progress. In addition, the downstream conveyors 71 of each pair have motorized surfaces along said longitudinal direction X. These surfaces therefore accompany the products 1 during their transport by the supply conveyor 3, or even limit their movement depending on their speed of progression. According to a preferred embodiment, the downstream conveyors 71 can ensure contact by pressing against the periphery of the products 1. Thus, the products 1 are framed and, depending on the speed of said downstream conveyors 71, they can be accelerated or slowed down. Indeed, if the speed of the downstream conveyors 71 is higher than the speed of the supply conveyor 3, the products 1 are accelerated. If the speed of the downstream conveyors 71 is lower than the speed of the supply conveyor 3, the products 1 are then slowed down, or even stopped, rubbing against the surface of the supply conveyor 3. These downstream conveyors 71 can be of any type, preferably endless belt conveyors, as seen in Figures 4 to 6. In these embodiments, it is the portions of belts on the forward path of the downstream conveyors 71 which accompany the products 1, and which act on their movement via the modulation of their conveying speed. It will be noted that the faces of the downstream conveyors 71 coming into contact with the products 1 may have adhesion characteristics, determined according to said products 1 to be treated. For example, the external surfaces of the downstream conveyors 71 may comprise a polyurethane (PU)-based coating. According to another possible configuration, shown in [Fig.6], the downstream conveyors 71 can be in the form of chains on which are mounted gripping lugs for the products 1; the lugs then act like fingers to hold each of the products 1 located between the downstream conveyors 71. It will be noted that such downstream conveyors 71 may be of the “pinching conveyor” type, the contact by pressing of which ensures sufficient force to grip the products 1 and hold them on either side of the guide means 7.

[0046] Further, said downstream module 6 comprises means 8 for sequencing a determined number of products 1 released according to at least one interval at the output 5. In other words, the sequencing means 8 make it possible to deliver a determined number of products 1 at the output 5. In other words, the sequencing means 8 determine the sending of the products 1 at the output of the grouping device 2, or their temporary stopping within the downstream module 6, but also the number of products 1 released (one by one, or several at a time), as well as the rate and the interval between the products 1 sent downstream.

[0047] Such sequencing means 8 can be of any type. According to an embodiment shown in [Fig.3], the sequencing means 8 may comprise removable stops, from a position for blocking the products 1 at the outlet 5 (or even along the downstream module 6), to a retracted position, leaving the passage free and allowing the products 1 to circulate freely, in particular through said outlet 5 or along the corridor.

[0048] According to a corresponding embodiment, the sequencing means 8 are formed by said at least one downstream conveyor portion 71. In other words, said guiding means 7 and said sequencing means 8 are in the form of at least said pair of downstream conveyors 71. In particular, in embodiments and as mentioned previously, the sequencing of the products 1 at the outlet is then carried out by varying the speed of the downstream conveyors 71, making it possible to decelerate the gripped products 1, or even to the point of stopping them, blocking the feed at the outlet 5. In other words, along the downstream module 6, the products 1 are gripped on either side by the downstream conveyors 71 and this gripping causes them to slide on the face of the supply conveyor 3 when the speed of said downstream conveyors 71 is lower than the speed of the supply conveyor 3. Then, to deliver the products 1, the speed of the downstream conveyors 71 is increased, until it reaches that of the supply conveyor 3 (or possibly even to accelerate them to a higher speed). Thus, by modulating the speed of the downstream conveyors 71, it is possible to precisely control the number of products 1 delivered at the outlet, as well as the interval between each of them.

[0049] A problem with the discontinuous delivery of the products 1 by the downstream module 6 lies in maintaining upstream the single-wire flow of the products 1 one after the other, preferably side by side or "touch-touch". In other words, it is appropriate to maintain the most regular pitch possible of the single-wire flow, namely the distance between two successive products 1. Such a pitch can be reduced to the size of the products 1, when the products 1 are in contact one behind the other.

[0050] During the sequencing of the products 1, the successive accelerations generate an increase in the distance between the products 1 and gaps are created between the products 1 upstream. To solve this problem, advantageously, said grouping device 2 comprises an upstream module 9 for guiding said products 1. Such an upstream module 9 extends from said inlet 4 to said downstream sequencing module 8. In other words, the upstream module 9 is located between the inlet 4 and the downstream sequencing module 8. Preferably, the upstream module 9 is adjacent to the downstream module 8.

[0051] In addition, said upstream module 9 comprises at least one upstream conveyor 90 provided with a pair of upstream surfaces extending on either side of said supply conveyor 3. Preferably, the upstream module 9 comprises two upstream conveyors 90, on each side of the supply conveyor 3. Each upstream conveyor 90 can be of any type. Preferably, said upstream surfaces are in the form of at least one endless belt conveyor. It is then the portion of belt on the outward path which corresponds to the upstream surfaces of the upstream conveyor 90 which therefore surround the products 1 on either side, that is to say on the left and right sides of the grouping device 2. It will be noted that the upstream surfaces of each upstream conveyor 90 coming into contact with the products 1 may have adhesion characteristics. Any coating that makes it possible to obtain adhesion characteristics may be used. In particular, the choice of coating is determined according to said products 1 to be treated. For example, the external surfaces of the upstream conveyors 90 comprise a polyurethane (PU)-based coating. Furthermore, in the tightened position, these upstream surfaces extend in alignment with said guide means 7, extending the corridor along which the products 1 are moved. In addition, the upstream surfaces are motorized and have a direction of movement parallel to the longitudinal X direction, from upstream to downstream. In addition, the speed of the upstream surfaces can be adjustable, according to a constant speed during production (i.e. except at the start or end of production); or according to a variable planned speed during production.

[0052] Advantageously, said upstream surfaces of the upstream module 9 are movable from a retracted position to a tightened position, and vice versa. In the tightened position, said upstream surfaces extend parallel along said longitudinal direction X, at a determined spacing, so as to come into contact with the periphery of the products 1 transported by said supply conveyor 3. Such support can, depending on the speed of the upstream conveyor 90, slow down or accelerate the products 1, or even allow them to advance at the same transport speed by the supply conveyor 3. Furthermore, it is in the tightened position that the upstream surfaces are completely aligned with the corridor formed by the guiding means 7 of the downstream module 6. Furthermore, in the retracted position, said upstream surfaces are spaced apart relative to said tightened position. In other words, the upstream surfaces are spaced transversely, by a distance greater than the dimensions of the products 1, in particular their largest section as well as their diameter, ensuring that the products 1 are no longer in contact with said upstream surfaces and are free to advance under the action of the supply conveyor 3.

[0053] According to an embodiment shown in Figures 3 and 4, said upstream surfaces are movable in translation from the tightened position to the retracted position, and vice versa. In other words, the upstream surfaces move transversely, in a Y direction orthogonal or essentially orthogonal to the longitudinal X direction.

[0054] According to another embodiment shown in [Fig.5], said upstream surfaces of the upstream conveyor 90 are rotatable from the narrowed position to the retracted position, and vice versa. In addition, in the retracted position, said upstream surfaces converge from upstream to downstream relative to said longitudinal direction X. In other words, the upstream end of the upstream surfaces move apart and said upstream surfaces become inclined, forming a funnel narrowing from the inlet 4.

[0055] In embodiments, said upstream surfaces are in the form of at least one pair of upstream conveyors. In addition, according to a possible variant, said downstream conveyors 71 and said upstream conveyor 90 are independent, that is to say that their conveying speed can be adjusted independently. Such a configuration is notably represented in FIGS. 1 to 5.

[0056] According to a corresponding embodiment, in the case of upstream surfaces that can be rotated, the downstream conveyors 71 and said upstream conveyor 90 comprise at least one common belt conveyor, extending from the inlet 4 to the outlet 5. Preferably, a belt conveyor extends on each right and left side. Such a configuration is notably visible in [Fig.6]. In particular, each shared conveyor has return and / or drive rollers, ensuring between the downstream module 6 and the upstream module 9, a pivoting of the upstream surfaces of the upstream conveyor 90.

[0057] Thus, when passing towards the retracted position, the upstream surfaces of the upstream conveyor 90 allow the products 1 to advance at the speed of the supply conveyor 3, to make up for the gaps formed upstream, during the release downstream of the products 1 still maintained and periodically accelerated and decelerated by the downstream module 6.

[0058] It will be noted that the triggering of the retraction can be controlled as a function of the rate of release of the products 1 at the outlet 5, the release of the products 1 being carried out by the sequencing means 8. In other words, the triggering of the retraction is then synchronized with the sequencing means 8. In embodiments, the upstream module 9 comprises a cycle of movement of the upstream surfaces between the retracted and retracted positions. Said movement cycle successively comprises, from a retracted position: - a duration dl of movement from said tightened position to a retracted position; - a duration d2 of retraction, which corresponds to said retracted position; - a duration d3 of movement from said retracted position to a retracted position and - a guidance duration d4, which corresponds to said tightened position, until the triggering of a new movement cycle.

[0059] The movement cycle is visible in particular in the examples of figures 8 and 9.

[0060] [Fig.8] shows an example of implementation in which the upstream surfaces of the upstream conveyor 90 are in the tightened position. A product 1 has been delivered at the outlet 5 and received in a housing of a transfer member 103. Two other products 1 have been delivered with a determined interval at the outlet 5. A fourth product is momentarily slowed down or stopped at the outlet 5 in order to deliver it according to said interval. In addition, it can be seen that a gap has formed upstream between two products 1. This stopping or slowing down at the outlet 5 is represented schematically by an arrow comprising an arrival end with a transverse line. The collector movements are represented schematically by an arrow comprising a starting end with a transverse line. [Fig.9] shows a stop at outlet 5, after having delivered the determined number of products 1 into a collector of the member 103. The duration of the stop at outlet 5 allows, on the one hand, time for the next collector to position itself for receiving the products 1 to come, and on the other hand the passage of the upstream surfaces of the conveyor 90 from a narrowed position to a retracted position in order to fill said gap formed upstream between said two products 1.

[0061] [Fig. 10] shows an example of implementation similar to [Fig. 8], in which two products 1 are received in the same housing of a collector of a transfer member 103.

[0062] [Fig. 11] shows an example of implementation similar to [Fig. 9], in which the upstream surfaces of the conveyor 90 have moved from a narrowed position to a retracted position, in order to accelerate the products 1 so as to close the gap between the two products 1.

[0063] In embodiments, the triggering of the retraction is supervised by an operator, through a dedicated interface with which the grouping device 2 is provided. Furthermore, such an interface makes it possible to control the various elements and components of said grouping device 2, in particular the speeds of the conveyors and belts.

[0064] To do this, the grouping device 2 comprises in embodiments a control unit, provided with a memory for recording digital data, in the form of a local client or server, in particular an independent server. Further, the interface can automatically control the triggering of the retraction of the upstream surfaces of the upstream conveyor 90, by detecting the gaps formed between the products 1, by means of sensors positioned along the path of said products 1.

[0065] In embodiments, the operator configures the information relating to the movement cycle, in particular the values ​​of the durations d1 to d4, in the control unit. According to a variant, the control unit automatically determines the movement cycle, for example as a function of the products 1 to be processed, the rate of the production line, the information collected by the sensors, the configuration of the group of products 1 to be delivered at output 5, etc. For example, the movement cycle is controlled as a function of the rate of release of the products 1 at output 5, the release being carried out by the sequencing means 8.

[0066] The sensors can be of any type, measuring the passage of a product 1 in its detection radius, measuring the time interval between the passage of two products 1, or even measuring a distance between two successive products 1, or even measuring the speed of one or more products 1.

[0067] Advantageously, the control unit comprises a human-machine interface. An operator of the packaging line can, for example, enter various instructions via the control unit, such as the nominal speed of the supply conveyor 3, the category of products 1 to be processed, information relating to the number of products 1 to be delivered to the transfer module, etc. A product category 1 is defined in particular by the nature of the products 1, for example containers such as flasks, bottles, cans, bricks. It can also be defined according to the material of the products 1 (glass, PET, cardboard), or even their shape or weight. According to a possible additional feature, an operator can input instructions to the control unit relating to the sequencing means 8, such as the number of products 1 to be delivered, according to a given interval.

[0068] In embodiments, the control unit generates speed instructions in the form of speed setpoints, the speed setpoint being defined according to the number of products 1 to be delivered at output 3 by the sequencing means 8. Such a speed setpoint corresponding to the sequencing cycle can be recorded in the memory of the control unit.

[0069] According to a possible additional characteristic, the speed corresponding to the sequencing cycle is synchronized with the movement cycle of the upstream surfaces of the upstream conveyor 90. In embodiments, an operator provides instructions regarding the pitch of the products 1 to be delivered at the output 5. Advantageously, the control unit processes the information transmitted by the various sensors, via a communications network, and triggers the tightening of the upstream lateral surfaces 90, in order to reestablish the continuous pitch between said products 1, in the event of a deviation being detected. This embodiment is particularly advantageous because it then makes it possible to maintain the upstream lateral surfaces 90 in the retracted position, as long as no deviation is detected. In a related manner, as visible in the embodiment of [Fig. 1]. The grouping device 2 may comprise a structure 10 supporting the various elements and components. Such a structure 10 serves as a base for said device 2, in particular by means of several feet 11 resting on the ground. This structure 10 comprises one or more frames, with uprights and crosspieces, on which the modules 6, 9 are mounted. In particular, the structure 10 may comprise a gantry 12, on which at least the upstream module 9 is mounted. Such a gantry 12 extends in elevation above the supply conveyor 3, supporting at least the upstream module 9 and its upstream conveyors 90 above the surface of the supply conveyor 3. This gantry 12 also supports the motorization of said upstream conveyors 90, as well as the means ensuring their mobility in spacing and in tightening. It should be noted that such means ensuring the mobility of the upstream 90 conveyors can be of any type, in particular in the form of belt motorization, electric or pneumatic cylinders, or even linear motors. Furthermore, the motorization of the upstream conveyors 90 can be mounted on the mobile part of the gantry 12, while the motorization of the downstream conveyors 71 is secured to the fixed part of said gantry. The invention also relates to an installation 100 for lateral transfer of the products 1. Such an installation 100 allows the products 1 to be transferred at the outlet 5 in a different direction Y, preferably orthogonal or substantially orthogonal, relative to said longitudinal direction X.

[0070] To do this, the installation 100 comprises, upstream, a grouping device 2 according to the invention, according to the different embodiments previously described.

[0071] In addition, the installation 100 comprises, downstream, a conveying surface 101 in a direction Y orthogonal to said longitudinal direction X. Such a conveying surface 101 may be of any type, in the form of a conveyor, preferably an endless or rolling belt, but also in the form of an accumulation surface, or even a fixed or dead plate. Furthermore, in embodiments, said conveying surface 101 makes it possible to transport the groups of products 1 released at the outlet 5 of the grouping unit, to a suitable processing station, in particular a packaging station.

[0072] The installation 100 also comprises a module 102 for lateral transfer of said products 1. In addition, such a module 102 is provided with at least one member 103 for successive transfer of each of said products 1 of said single-wire flow. In particular, each member 103 can make it possible to move the determined number of products 1 delivered by the grouping device 2, and in particular by the sequencing means 8, namely the number of products 1 corresponding to a group with a view to forming a batch. Preferably, the transfer module 102 comprises several members 103, motorized according to a rate successively ensuring the handling of the products 1 delivered at output 5.

[0073] According to one embodiment, as shown in Figures 2 to 7, the member 103 ensures the transfer simply by means of the conveying surface 101, with possibly other related elements, such as rails or guide corridors for the products 1.

[0074] According to another embodiment, the lateral transfer can be carried out by gripping the periphery or the upper distal part of the products 1, such as for example the neck in the case of containers in the form of bottles.

[0075] According to a preferred embodiment, said transfer member 103 comprises at least one collector provided with a plurality of housings. Each housing is intended to receive one or more products 1. Figures 8 and 9 show a collector whose housings are sized to receive a single product 1, while [Fig. 10] shows a collector whose each housing can receive two products 1. In addition, each collector can receive the entire determined number of products 1 delivered at outlet 5, namely each group, or can receive several groups of products 1, or several collectors can receive the same group of products distributed between them.

[0076] It will be noted that any means can be used to manipulate and move the transfer member(s) 103, such as for example under the action of a multi-axis robotic arm. In embodiments, the control unit makes it possible to send instructions to the transfer module 102 in order to coordinate the collection of the products 1 with the grouping device 2.

[0077] The invention also relates to a method for grouping products 1.

[0078] In embodiments, such a grouping method is provided for implementing the grouping device 2 as previously described.

[0079] In embodiments, such a grouping method is provided for implementation within the installation 100 as previously described.

[0080] Further, the grouping method comprises at least the following steps. First, a continuous single-line flow of products 1 is fed at a determined speed, one after the other. In addition, the products 1 are fed according to a movement along the longitudinal direction X from upstream to downstream.

[0081] Further on, downstream, for example up to an exit 5, the products 1 are guided on either side along a corridor of a predetermined width, preferably corresponding to the width of said products 1.

[0082] Then, the products 1 are sequenced by delivering a determined number of released products 1 according to at least one interval. In other words, the products 1 of the single-line flow are released one by one, two by two, or more, forming one or more rows (even a row of a single product 1). The rows are spaced apart by said interval, so that they form, by successive shifts during the lateral transfer, one or more columns of products 1, thus forming the group for the formation of the batch by downstream processing.

[0083] Advantageously, the grouping method provides that upstream, for example from an inlet 4, an upstream guidance is carried out, provided intermittently, periodically ensuring support in contact with said products 1, accelerating or slowing down said products 1 so as to maintain the continuous single-line flow of products. In other words, the upstream guidance makes it possible to ensure contact with the products 1, for a given duration, then to release this contact for a period of time, before returning to said contact. Therefore, in the absence of contact, during said period of time, the products 1 circulate at the determined feed speed. Depending on the case, depending on the speed of the upstream guidance possibly applied during the application of the contact (i.e. by means of contact made by one or more motorized conveyors), during said given duration, the products 1 can be: - maintained at the same feed speed, if said feed speed is equal or substantially equal to the upstream guidance speed; - accelerated if the feed speed is lower than the upstream guidance speed (i.e. the upstream guidance speed is higher than the feed speed; - decelerated if the upstream guidance speed is lower than the feed speed (i.e. the feed speed is higher than the upstream guidance speed). Preferably, the upstream guiding speed is lower than the feed speed, so that the products 1 are slowed down when contact is applied during said given duration, and conversely accelerated when released during said period of time.

[0084] In embodiments, these steps are advantageously implemented using a control unit, which transmits instructions to the conveyors 71, 90, including, but not limited to, speed instructions and time instructions for triggering the tightening or spreading, as well as trigger instructions linked to the detection of a gap or a variation in gap between the products 11. It will be noted that these instructions can be pre-recorded in a dedicated memory, locally within the device 2, or within a global memory, such as that of a supervision unit of the installation 100, or even of the production line, or even a remote server. These instructions can also be calculated in real time, based on data transmitted by different sensors equipping said device 2 and / or said installation 100.

[0085] According to one embodiment, the grouping method provides that the upstream guidance is carried out by means of upstream surfaces extending parallel in said longitudinal direction X. In addition, said upstream surfaces are moved periodically, in order to confer the intermittent nature of the contact when bearing on the products 1. In particular, the upstream surfaces are moved, in separation from an active position towards a retracted position, without contact with said products 1, as well as in contraction from said retracted position towards said active position generating support in contact with the periphery of said products 1 by said upstream lateral surfaces. As mentioned previously, in the retracted position, the upstream surfaces are no longer in contact with the products 1, which are only transported according to the feed speed (in particular by the feed conveyor 3). Depending on the corresponding speeds, the products 1 can then be preferentially accelerated when they are thus released from the upstream guide.

[0086] According to one embodiment, the grouping method provides that the upstream guidance is designed to be retractable and is carried out by controlling the transverse movement of said upstream surfaces. According to another embodiment, the retractable nature of the upstream guidance is achieved by rotational movement of said upstream surfaces, with said upstream surfaces in the retracted position being provided according to a converging inclination from upstream to downstream in the longitudinal direction X.

[0087] In embodiments, the upstream surfaces are moved according to a movement cycle in which from a tightened position: - the upstream surfaces are moved according to a duration dl of movement from said tightened position to a retracted position; - the upstream surfaces are in the retracted position for a duration d2; - the upstream surfaces are moved from said retracted position to the tightened position according to a displacement duration d3 and - the upstream surfaces are in the tightened position for a guidance duration d4, until a new movement cycle is triggered.

[0088] In embodiments, the triggering of a new movement cycle is done according to a defined cycle, the durations d1 to d4 being predetermined.

[0089] According to a possible variant, the triggering of a new movement cycle is done following the reception of a signal emitted by the control unit, for example following the detection of a difference between two successive products 1.

[0090] According to an additional advantageous characteristic, the grouping method provides that the movement cycle is controlled, and in particular the duration d4 of guidance by pressing on the contact of said products 1, as a function of the control of the speed of movement of said products 1. Such control of the duration d4 of guidance can be carried out via the control unit.

[0091] It will be noted that, because the feed speed is greater than the speed of said upstream surfaces, the products 1 can therefore be accelerated during their release and the passage into the retracted position of said upstream surfaces. More specifically, the spacing and tightening of the upstream surfaces of the upstream conveyor 90 serves to fill the gaps and holes occurring between the products 1, so as to maintain the continuous nature of the single-line flow of products 1 feeding the guidance and especially the sequencing downstream. As explained previously, it is the discontinuous release of the products 1 downstream through the outlet 5, which is likely to generate a gap upstream. Therefore, with a determined feed speed, preferably constant, it is appropriate to separate the upstream surfaces when the downstream products 1 are slowed down, maintained at a constant speed (in particular different from said feed speed), or even when they are stopped, so that on the feed portion from the inlet 4 to the downstream guide, the transported products 1 catch up with the following products 1, in particular slowed down between the downstream guide. Thus, by controlling the separation of the upstream surfaces, depending on the sequencing of the products 1 downstream, along the portion of said upstream surfaces, the products 1 can circulate freely until they fill the gaps and return to a continuous single-line flow.

[0092] According to a preferred configuration, the feed speed of the conveyor 3 is constant, while the speed of the upstream surfaces of the upstream conveyor 90 is lower than said feed speed of said conveyor 3, slowing down the advancement of the products 1 at the time of contact, namely the gripping or pinching by said upstream surfaces. The products 1 then rub at their bottom on the surface of the feed conveyor 3, due to the differential between the coefficient of friction and the force applied by said contact. It should be noted that the coefficient of friction, or static coefficient of friction, or adhesion, hereinafter "COF", is generally defined as a value according to which two surfaces, often of different materials, slide against each other. A low COF means low adhesion of the articles on the surface of the conveyor belt, namely the surface of the supply conveyor 3.

[0093] Furthermore, such contact support is all the more effective for semi-rigid products 1, namely made of plastic material whose flexibility allows sufficient pinching pressure to be applied to slow down or block the products 1, without risking damaging said products 1 due to the elasticity of its material.

[0094] In a related manner, it is also possible to control the speed of the upstream surfaces of the upstream conveyor 90, in order to accelerate or decelerate the products 1, at the time of tightening, or even of separation. Such speed control makes it possible in particular to make the application of the contact of said upstream surfaces against the products 1 more flexible during tightening, also limiting the risks of imbalance or modification of the orientation or alignment of said products 1, via in particular an acceleration and deceleration control unit.

[0095] According to one embodiment, the grouping method provides that, in the tightening position, said upstream surfaces are spaced laterally by a width determined according to the format of said products 1. Thus, when said upstream surfaces are tightened, the products 1 are aligned. In other words, by bringing the upstream surfaces closer together, the products 1, which may be misaligned, are pushed back towards the center, in perfect alignment with the downstream corridor. Furthermore, during this alignment, it is possible to straighten or reorient the products 1, by rotating them on themselves. An example of such an alignment is shown in Figures 12 and 13. According to one embodiment, the grouping method provides that, downstream of the outlet 5, a lateral transfer is carried out successively of each group of products 1 from among the determined number of said products 1 released according to said interval. In addition, said lateral transfer is carried out in a transverse Y direction extending orthogonally to said longitudinal X direction. Such lateral transfer can be carried out by any type of means, preferably as previously described.

Claims

Claims

1. Device (2) for grouping products (1), comprising i) at least one supply conveyor (3) transporting products (1) in a single-line flow in a longitudinal direction (X) from upstream to downstream, from an inlet (4) to an outlet (5) of said grouping device (2); ii) a downstream module (6) for sequencing the products (1) towards said outlet (5) provided with - means (7) for guiding said products (1) in said single-line flow along said supply conveyor (3) to said outlet (5); - means (8) for sequencing a determined number of products (1) released according to at least one interval at the outlet (5);characterized in that said grouping device (2) comprises iii) an upstream module (9) for guiding said products (1) from said inlet (4) to said downstream sequencing module (6), said upstream module (9) comprising at least one upstream conveyor (90) provided with a pair of upstream surfaces extending on either side of said supply conveyor (3), and in that said upstream surfaces of the upstream module (9) are movable from a retracted position to a tightened position, and vice versa; - in the tightened position, said upstream surfaces extend parallel in said longitudinal direction (X), at a determined spacing, so as to come into contact with the periphery of the products (1) transported by said supply conveyor (3), said upstream surfaces being in alignment with said guide means (7); - in the retracted position, said upstream surfaces are spaced apart from said tightened position.;

2. Grouping device (2) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that said upstream surfaces are movable in translation from the tightened position to the retracted position, and vice versa.

3. Grouping device (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said upstream surfaces are in the form of at least one belt conveyor.

4. Grouping device (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said guiding means (7) and said sequencing means (8) are in the form of at least one pair of motorized downstream conveyors from upstream to downstream.

5. Grouping device (2) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that: - said upstream surfaces are in the form of at least one pair of upstream conveyors (90) motorized from upstream to downstream; - said downstream conveyors (71) and the upstream conveyors (90) being independent.

6. Installation (100) for lateral transfer of products (1) comprising: - downstream, a motorized conveying surface (101) in a direction (Y) orthogonal to said longitudinal direction (X); - a module (102) for lateral transfer of said products (1), provided with at least one member (103) for transferring said products (1) from said single-line flow; installation (100) characterized in that - upstream, said installation (100) comprises a grouping device (2) according to any one of the preceding claims.

7. Lateral transfer installation (100) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that said transfer member (103) comprises at least one collector provided with a plurality of housings.

8. A method for grouping products (1), characterized in that it comprises at least the following steps: - a continuous single-line flow of products (1) is brought at a determined speed, one after the other, according to a displacement along a longitudinal direction (X) from upstream to downstream; - downstream, up to an outlet (5), the products (1) are guided on either side according to a corridor of a predetermined width, preferably corresponding to the width of said products (1); - at the outlet (5), the products (1) are sequenced by delivering a determined number of products (1) released according to at least one interval; method characterized in that - upstream, from an inlet (4), upstream guidance is carried out; said upstream guide being provided intermittently, periodically providing support in contact with said products (1), accelerating or slowing down said products (1) so as to maintain the continuous single-line flow of the products (1).

9. Grouping method according to the preceding claim, characterized in that - the upstream guidance is carried out by means of upstream surfaces extending parallel in said longitudinal direction (X); said upstream surfaces being moved periodically - in separation from an active position towards a retracted position, without contact with said products (1); - in tightening from said retracted position towards said active position generating a support in contact with the periphery of said products (1) by said upstream lateral surfaces.

10. Grouping method according to any one of claims 8 or 9, characterized in that the upstream guidance is provided to be retractable and is carried out by controlling the transverse movement of said upstream surfaces.

11. Grouping method according to any one of claims 8 to 10, characterized in that the movement cycle of the upstream surfaces of the conveyor (90) is controlled, as a function of the control of the movement speed of said products (1).

12. Grouping method according to any one of claims 8 to 11, characterized in that - in the tightening position, said upstream surfaces are spaced laterally by a width determined according to the format of said products (1); - the products (1) are aligned during the tightening of said upstream surfaces.

13. Grouping method according to any one of claims 8 to 12, characterized in that - downstream of the outlet (5), a lateral transfer is carried out successively of each group of products (1) from among the determined number of said products (1) released according to said interval, said lateral transfer being carried out in a transverse direction (Y) extending orthogonally to said longitudinal direction (X).

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