Production line for producing coated boxes

Abstract

The manufacturing line (1) for producing covered boxes (8) comprises: a forming machine (2) configured to receive a corrugated cardboard box blank (6) and fold the blank to form a box, the forming machine (2) including a movement system including a plurality of folders (21) and a plurality of support members (23) that receive the horizontally oriented box blank (6) and extend along a vertical direction (V) and abut against a base (6a) of the box blank (6) to move the box blank in the vertical direction (V); a bonding unit (3) configured to receive a cover blank (7) and spread adhesive on the cover blank (7); a positioning device (4) configured to position the box on the cover blank (7); and a covering device (5) that receives a box (60) to be coupled to the corresponding cover blank (7) from the positioning device (4) and folds the cover blank (7) to contact the box (60) to cover the box.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a molding machine for molding boxes and a method for molding boxes.The present invention further relates to a production line for producing coated boxes and a method for producing coated boxes. [Background technology]

[0002] In the field of box making, forming machines and quadrangular machines are known; for example, patent document EP 2991821 B1 in the name of the present applicant describes an apparatus adapted to form boxes from blank sheets of paper or cardboard, the apparatus comprising a vertically movable die acting on the base of the blank, folding elements that interact with each segment of the blank to fold and vertically arrange the segments with their lateral peripheries juxtaposed to form the vertical edges of the box, a number of feed stations that dispense heat-sealing tape and arrange each piece of tape facing the vertical edges of the box, and a number of sealing heads that are movable toward and away from the box and each include a heatable presser that presses the pieces of heat-sealing tape against each edge and a blade for cutting the heat-sealing tape. To form the correct box shape, the vertically movable die must be accurately fitted to the presser, and the size of the die must be adapted to the size of the box to be formed. Therefore, every time the size of the box being manufactured changed, the mold used to form that box had to be changed, which was time-consuming and required the preparation of as many molds as there were box sizes to be manufactured, with all the attendant problems of inventory management.

[0003] In prior art production lines, such as that described in patent document EP 3486079 A1 in the name of the present applicant, boxes formed by a forming machine are then fed into a positioning device, which joins them with a pre-adhesive covering blank. Finally, the joined box with the covering blank is fed into a covering machine, which folds the covering blank into contact with the box to cover it. In this regard, there is a widely felt need in the industry to improve the accuracy of positioning the box on the covering blank in the positioning device. There is also a widely recognized need to correctly fold the flaps and wings of the covering blank in the covering machine, even when the flaps of the covering are not covered with adhesive.

[0004] Patent document US2012 / 115698A1 relates to a four-corner sealing machine for forming boxes of different sizes, and according to this document, a glue gun is used to seal the boxes. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] The present disclosure provides a molding machine for molding a box and a method for molding a box, which aims to overcome the above-mentioned problems in the prior art. The present disclosure also provides a production line for manufacturing a coated box and a method for manufacturing a coated box, which aims to overcome the above-mentioned problems in the prior art.

[0006] According to the present disclosure, this object is fully achieved by a box forming machine and a box forming method having the features of the appended claims. According to the present disclosure, this object is fully achieved by a production line for producing coated boxes and a method for producing coated boxes having the features of the appended claims.

[0007] Specifically, the present disclosure relates to a forming machine or a four-corner fastening machine for forming a box from a paper or corrugated box blank having a base configured to define a box base wall and side panels connected to the base and foldable to define the box side walls.

[0008] The forming machine includes a work area configured to receive the blank, and a plurality of folders disposed within the work area that fold the blank's side panels to form vertically parallel sidewalls with lateral peripheries of the side panels juxtaposed to interact with the blank's side panels to form vertical ends of the box's side walls, the folding of the blank's side panels defining an interior space of the box.

[0009] Preferably, the molding machine includes a plurality of heads, each of which is movable toward or away from one another (at least to allow for changeover, i.e., to allow for molding boxes of different sizes), and each of the plurality of heads includes a presser foot configured to abut against a corresponding vertical end from outside the space inside the box.

[0010] In one embodiment, each head is configured to seal the vertical edges of the boxes by applying a tape of sealing (or heat sealing) material. In this embodiment, each head may comprise a supply configured to position a piece of sealing (or heat sealing) tape facing the corresponding vertical edge. In particular, the supply is configured to unwind the tape. However, in some embodiments, the supply is separate from the head. In this embodiment, each head further comprises a cutter to cut the sealing tape and separate the cut piece from the head.

[0011] Preferably, in this embodiment, the presser foot is movable in a horizontal plane relative to the head to press the heat sealing tape against the vertical end, specifically, the presser foot has a constant horizontal stroke so as to move between a retracted position (where it does not interfere with the vertical end) and an advanced position (where it presses the heat sealing tape against the vertical end).

[0012] In another embodiment, adhesive is spread on the connection line between the base and the side panel, in which case the adhesive holds the side panel in a vertical position when the side panel is folded (without the need for sealing tape). In this embodiment, it is also useful to have pressure plates that abut the vertical edges from the outside while the box is being formed.

[0013] Preferably, the molding machine further includes a plurality of support columns extending in a vertical direction, each of which is movable in the vertical direction. Each of the support columns can be positioned in front of a corresponding presser foot in the interior space of the box, so that each support column abuts against a vertical end of a corresponding box operatively disposed between the support column and the presser foot.

[0014] In this way, each support post takes the place of a mold in a conventional molding machine.

[0015] Preferably, the support columns are movable toward and away from each other in a horizontal plane (preferably linked and / or synchronized). This allows the support columns to accommodate boxes of various sizes (effectively constituting a mold with a variable size). Specifically, the support columns are configured to abut against the base of a box blank received in the molding machine and are movable along the vertical direction so as to push the box blank in the vertical direction.

[0016] Preferably, each of the plurality of struts is associated with a corresponding one of the plurality of heads. In particular, each of the plurality of struts is supported by (or mounted on or coupled to) a corresponding one of the plurality of heads. Preferably, each strut is slidably coupled to the head for vertical movement relative to the head.

[0017] Preferably, each of the multiple heads is movable in a horizontal plane perpendicular to the vertical direction between a retracted position where it does not interfere with the box placed in the work area and an advanced position where it acts on the corresponding vertical end of the box. Preferably, each head is movable in coordination and / or synchronously. Thus, each of the multiple heads is configured to move the associated support part in the horizontal plane.

[0018] Specifically, each of the heads includes a guide along the vertical direction, and each of the support columns is slidably coupled to the guide of the corresponding head. Note that the guide of each of the heads is positioned at a different vertical height relative to the corresponding presser foot. This prevents the guide from interfering with the presser foot. Preferably, the guide is positioned higher than the corresponding presser foot. A blank is fed into the space between the guide and the presser foot.

[0019] Preferably, the molding machine further includes a plate movable along the vertical direction. The plate is preferably located above (or below) the guide. Each of the multiple support columns is detachably connectable (or connected) to the plate. Thus, the molding machine has (i.e., is operable in) a working configuration in which each support column is connected to the plate and moves vertically together with the plate, and a switching configuration in which each support column is disconnected (i.e., removed) from the plate and is movable horizontally (preferably integrally with the head).

[0020] Preferably, each support rod is magnetically connectable to the plate. Specifically, the plate includes a ferromagnetic material, and each of the plurality of support rods has a magnet at its upper end (or lower end) that can be magnetically coupled to the plate. In this manner, the magnets of the plurality of support rods are configured to exert an attractive force on the plate.

[0021] The molding machine further comprises a plate actuator configured to move the plate along a vertical direction, and in the working configuration, each of the support columns is movable along the vertical direction under the influence of the movement of the plate.

[0022] The molding machine may further comprise an electrical circuit including an electrical winding that can be energized to generate a magnetic force for each support column that can counteract and cancel the magnetic force inherent in the respective magnet. Thus, when de-energized, the magnets exert an attractive force that brings the support column into close contact with the plate (the molding machine is in the working configuration), and when energized, the magnetic attractive force is released, causing the support column to move away from the plate (the molding machine is in the switching configuration). This configuration reduces the consumption of electrical energy. In practice, the electrical circuit is kept in the OFF state while the molding machine is running, and is switched ON only when the support column needs to be removed for switching.

[0023] It should be noted that for each of the multiple heads, the corresponding guide is located at a predetermined distance from the respective cutter in the horizontal movement direction of the cutter when the head is in the advanced position toward the corresponding guide of another head among the multiple heads. In fact, when applying the sealing tape to the outer surface of the vertical end of the box (and operating the cutter on the sealing tape), the support (associated with the head) must be in contact with the inner surface of the vertical end of the box. Because the box has a non-zero thickness, the support is located in an advanced position relative to the cutter (and pressure element). Preferably, the forming machine includes an adjustment device for each of the multiple heads that changes the predetermined distance between the guide and the corresponding cutter (and / or the corresponding pressure element in each advanced position). This allows the relative position of the support with respect to the cutter and / or pressure element and / or feed element to be modified depending on the thickness of the box blank. Specifically, the head is positioned so that each support is in contact with the inner vertical end of the box's interior space, and the position of the pressure element and / or cutter and / or feed element is adjusted relative to the support guide depending on the thickness of the paper. The adjustment device itself may form part of the head. In one embodiment, the adjustment device is manually operable (e.g., using a knob). In one embodiment, the adjustment device comprises a controlled actuator.

[0024] The molding machine includes a pair of crossbars extending in a longitudinal direction parallel to a horizontal plane, and a pair of crossbar guides extending in a lateral direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction and parallel to the horizontal plane. Each of the multiple heads is linked to the pair of crossbars in the longitudinal direction and moves along the crossbars in the longitudinal direction, and the crossbars in the longitudinal direction are movable in the lateral direction (to switch) along the respective guides.

[0025] The present disclosure further relates to a forming method for forming a box from a paper or corrugated board (box) blank, the (box) blank having a base configured to define a box base wall and side panels connected to the base and foldable to define the box side walls.

[0026] The box forming method is performed via a forming machine. In this respect, the present disclosure further provides a method for using the forming machine and / or a method for constructing the forming machine. In particular, the method for forming a box may include steps relating to constructing the forming machine and / or using the forming machine.

[0027] A method of forming a box comprises positioning a (box) blank in a work area and folding side panels of the (box) blank so that the side panels are oriented vertically parallel with lateral peripheries of each side panel juxtaposed to form vertical edges of side walls of the box, such that the side panels of the blank define an interior space for the box.

[0028] The method of forming the box includes sealing the vertical edges, the sealing step being performed using a plurality of presser feet, and more preferably using a corresponding plurality of cutters and a corresponding plurality of feeders.

[0029] Preferably, the sealing step comprises, for each vertical end, a step of supplying a piece of sealing tape facing the vertical end by a supply part (forming part of the head). Preferably, the sealing step comprises, for each vertical end, a step of applying a piece of sealing tape to the vertical end outside the box interior space by a presser foot (forming part of the head) positioned outside the box interior space and moving towards the vertical end. Preferably, the sealing step comprises, for each vertical end, a step of cutting the sealing tape and separating the cut piece from the head by a cutter (forming part of the head).

[0030] The method of forming the box includes providing a plurality of support posts and vertically moving each support post such that each vertical end is operatively positioned between a corresponding pressure element and a corresponding one of the plurality of support posts during the sealing process.

[0031] The box forming method includes a switching step including a step of moving the support sections toward and away from each other in a horizontal plane perpendicular to the vertical direction. Preferably, the support sections move in coordination (synchronized).

[0032] The folding step may involve moving the (box) blank vertically. Preferably, the step of moving the (box) blank is performed by a plurality of support members, each of which abuts against a base of the blank and moves vertically to push the blank vertically. During the movement of the blank, the side panels interact with (and are folded vertically by) a plurality of folders positioned in the working area outside the support members.

[0033] During the folding process, each of the support columns is integral with a plate (along the horizontal direction) and moves vertically as the plate is raised and lowered. During the folding process, the plate restricts the movement of each of the support columns in the horizontal plane. On the other hand, during switching, each of the support columns is detached from the plate. During switching, each support column moves in the horizontal plane (and the distance between the support columns changes). Preferably, each support column is associated with a head (which may further mount a presser foot and / or a cutter), and during switching, each support column moves in the horizontal plane as the head moves.

[0034] Thus, in the folding process, each strut is attached to a plate and moves along a vertical direction, and in the switching position, each strut is attached to a head and moves in a horizontal plane.

[0035] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a forming machine includes a movement system that receives horizontally oriented box blanks and moves them vertically, and as each box blank moves vertically, folders interact with the side panels to fold the side panels vertically. The movement system of the forming machine includes a plurality of support members, and thus the plurality of support members are configured to move the (box) blank vertically. Specifically, each support member abuts against the base of the (box) blank received in the forming machine and is movable vertically to push the box blank vertically. As the (box) blank moves vertically, each folder is configured to interact with the side panels to fold the side panels vertically.

[0036] The present disclosure further relates to a production line for producing a coated corrugated box (or a plurality of coated corrugated boxes), the production line comprising a forming machine according to any aspect of the present disclosure.

[0037] The production line comprises a gluing unit (which may itself be an object of the present disclosure) configured to receive a (paper) cover blank and to spread adhesive on said cover blank.

[0038] The cover blank comprises a base, a plurality of panels connected to the base, and a plurality of fold-back strips connected to the plurality of panels, wherein the cover blank is preferably made of a material having a tensile strength of 250 g / m 2 More preferably, the basis weight of the cover blank is 275 g / m or more. 2 or more (e.g., 300 g / m 2 The thickness of the covering blank is preferably 1 mm to 2 mm (e.g., 1.5 mm). These figures for basis weight and / or thickness indicate a paper covering blank that is heavy enough to cover any imperfections in the sealing tape and / or to facilitate embossing.

[0039] In one embodiment, the gluing unit comprises a roller configured to spread adhesive evenly on the surface of the cover blank that contacts the box.

[0040] In one embodiment, this adhesive unit is of the kind forming part of the device described in Italian patent 0001422093 (application number BO2013A000660) in the name of the applicant, which is incorporated herein by reference, and it is clear that all functional and structural features of the device of Italian patent 0001422093 are applicable to the adhesive unit of this embodiment.

[0041] In particular, the gluing unit may comprise at least one delivery nozzle configured to selectively deliver hot-melt adhesive (at a high temperature) onto different portions of a cover blank, the cover blank comprising a base and a plurality of side panels connected to the base, the at least one nozzle configured to selectively deliver hot adhesive onto different portions of a surface of each of the plurality of side panels.

[0042] The covering blank further comprises a plurality of flaps connected to the longitudinal panels, and the gluing unit is preferably configured to discharge the pre-adhesive covering blank with the flaps not being adhesively applied thereto.

[0043] The production line comprises a positioning device (which may itself be an object of the present disclosure) configured to receive the box from the forming machine and the cover blank from the gluing unit and to position the box on the cover blank so that the base wall of the box is on the base of the cover blank.

[0044] Preferably, the positioning device comprises a belt configured to receive the cover blank (from the gluing unit) and transport it along the feed direction.

[0045] The positioning device comprises a positioning element movable between a receiving position (from the forming machine) for receiving a box and a position for placing the box in a predetermined position on a cover blank being transported by the belt.

[0046] The positioning device comprises a control unit (although preferably the production line comprises a line control unit and the control unit of the positioning device may be integrated into the line control unit).

[0047] The positioning element comprises a pressing element that acts on the inner surface of the base wall of the box and is movable along a vertical direction. The pressing element may comprise (or consist of) a die or may comprise a plurality of support members (similar to those described for the forming machine). The positioning device further comprises one or more strips that act on the outer surface of the base wall of the box (specifically, at least two strips that act on both sides of the outer surface of the base wall), the one or more strips being movable from a horizontally oriented closed position to support the box to a vertically oriented open position so that the pressing element can cover the box and move downward to a positioning position on the blank. The positioning device further comprises one or more actuators configured to move the one or more strips from the closed position to the open position, or vice versa. For example, the one or more strips may be driven by a mechanical actuator (piston), a hydraulic actuator, or a pneumatic actuator. Preferably, the control unit synchronizes the opening of the strips with the downward movement of the pressing element. This prevents the box from being torn and improves positioning accuracy.

[0048] Additionally, one or more of the strips may be movable in a horizontal plane to accommodate the size of the box.

[0049] The positioning device includes at least one camera that captures an image of the cover blank positioned on the belt and is connected to a control unit. The control unit is configured to compare the image captured by the camera with a pre-stored reference model, and the control unit instructs the placement element to correct its placement position in response to the comparison between the image captured by the camera and the reference image. Specifically, if the image captured by the camera significantly differs from the reference model, the control unit instructs the placement element to move so as to correct the placement position of the box on the cover blank and / or correct the timing at which the placement element places the box on the cover blank. The reference model may be defined by a previously stored image.

[0050] Specifically, the positioning device includes a first pair of cameras and a second pair of cameras. The first pair of cameras and the second pair of cameras define at least one camera. The belt has at least a first portion of a first color and a second portion of a second color different from the first color. The belt is configured to transport the cover blanks in a feed direction. Both the first portion and the second portion extend in the feed direction and are juxtaposed in the feed direction. The first pair of cameras is configured to capture images of various portions of the cover blanks located on the first portion of the belt, and the second pair of cameras is configured to capture images of various portions of the cover blanks located on the second portion of the belt. The control unit is configured to selectively activate the first pair of cameras or the second pair of cameras to capture the respective images. For example, the control unit may selectively activate the first pair of cameras or the second pair of cameras in response to a user selection and / or the contrast of the images captured by the cameras. Typically, the camera pair used is a camera pair facing a portion of the belt that has a greater contrast with the cover blank. For example, if the cover blank is light in color, the control unit activates a camera pair facing a portion of the blank located in a darker portion, while if the blank is dark in color, the control unit activates a camera pair facing a portion of the blank located in a lighter portion. Specifically, each camera of the first and second pairs is directed toward each end of the cover blank. The control unit sequentially activates two cameras of the activated camera pair.

[0051] The positioning device may include one or more illuminators configured to illuminate the cover blanks positioned on the belt (specifically, the portions of the blanks observed by the cameras). In one embodiment, the positioning device includes an illuminator for each camera, and the control unit is configured to selectively activate pairs of cameras and corresponding pairs of illuminators.

[0052] The production line (particularly the positioning device) may further include a belt lighting system, which illuminates the belt area within the camera's field of view. Preferably, the belt is backlit by one or more lighting elements positioned on the opposite side of the camera from the belt illumination area (so that the belt illumination area is located between the lighting elements and the camera). For example, the lighting elements may be attached to a frame supporting the belt.

[0053] The production line (specifically the positioning device) may comprise a screen connected to the control unit and configured to display images captured by at least one camera (specifically the images captured by the two cameras of the activated pair), so that an operator (user) can see on the screen the actions performed by the placement element.

[0054] The screen may be a touch screen or connected to a keyboard, allowing the operator to change operating parameters and stop and start the production line.

[0055] Preferably, the production line includes a line control unit that can be connected to a remote service system via the Internet, in particular the control unit is configured to allow an operator to adjust lighting and cameras and / or respond to alarms from a remote (and / or local) workstation.

[0056] The line controller may also be configured to generate a report (e.g., for a day or a week of work) containing one or more of the following information items: box and / or cover blank size, number of rejected items, and alarms, if any. The control unit may also enable an operator to order spare parts over the internet. The control unit may also be connected to a memory (local or remote) containing one or more of the following sources of information: user and maintenance manuals for the machines in the production line, electrical wiring diagrams for the machines in the production line, and tutorial videos or 3D animations showing how to maintain or install special kits.

[0057] The production line further comprises a covering device (which may itself be an object of the present disclosure) configured to receive a box coupled with a corresponding covering blank from the positioning device and fold the covering blank into contact with the box so as to cover it.

[0058] In one embodiment, the covering device is of the kind described in Italian patent 0001422094 (application number BO2013A000661) in the name of the applicant, which is incorporated herein by reference. It is clear that all functional and structural features of the covering device of Italian patent 0001422094 are applicable to the covering device of this embodiment.

[0059] Specifically, the covering device has a plate that can move along the vertical direction, and receives the covering blank and the box with the base of the covering blank and the base wall of the box connected, and the longitudinal side walls of the box received by the plate are aligned along a longitudinal vertical plane parallel to the vertical direction and the longitudinal direction, and the lateral side walls are aligned along a lateral vertical plane parallel to the vertical direction and the lateral direction.

[0060] The underside of the plate of the covering device is provided with a suction pad configured to hold the inner surface of the base wall of the box. The covering device includes a suction unit. The suction pad is connected to the suction unit. The plate further includes a plurality of spacers fixed to the suction surface of the suction pad, preferably adjacent to corners of the suction pad, each spacer configured to abut against the inner surface of the base wall of the box. The spacers may be suction cup-shaped.

[0061] The covering device includes a first folding station that folds the longitudinal sides of the covering blank and positions them in a longitudinal vertical plane so that the longitudinal panels contact the outer surfaces of the corresponding longitudinal side walls of the box. The covering device includes a second folding station that folds the transverse sides of the covering blank and positions them in a transverse vertical plane so that the transverse panels contact the outer surfaces of the corresponding transverse side walls of the box. The covering device includes a plurality of intermediate folders, each of which folds a corresponding fold-up piece from the longitudinal vertical plane to the transverse vertical plane so as to position it in contact with the transverse side wall of the box.

[0062] Specifically, the first and second folding stations each include a folder for folding a panel (longitudinal or transverse) of the covering blank and placing the lower wing in a vertical position with the panel in contact with the corresponding side wall of the box, the first and second folding stations further include a folder for folding the upper wing of the blank from an upright position to a horizontal position toward the inside of the box, and the first and second folding stations each include a folder for folding the upper wing of the side of the blank so that it contacts the inner surface of the corresponding side wall of the box. Preferably, the first and second folding stations each include, for each side wall of the box, a presser foot for pressing the upper and lower wings of the blank toward each other, which are respectively bonded to the inner and outer surfaces of the side wall itself. Each presser includes an abutment plate arranged outside the box to prevent the corresponding side wall of the box arranged to contact it from being pressed outward, and a pressing element movable relative to the corresponding abutment plate by translation along a horizontal direction parallel to the base of the box and insertable into the box, and when the pressing element is inside the box, it moves toward and parallel to the corresponding abutment plate to press the side wall of the box interposed between the abutment plate and the corresponding pressing element.

[0063] Preferably, the intermediate folders are movable between a retracted position where they are spaced apart from each other and an advanced position where they are close to each other. Specifically, the intermediate folders are movable along a diagonal movement direction including a vertical component along the vertical direction and a transverse component parallel to the transverse direction. In this way, in the retracted position, the intermediate folders are at a first vertical height, and in the advanced position, they are at a second vertical height different from the first vertical height (preferably lower than the first vertical height). That is, when moving from the retracted position to the advanced position, each intermediate folder moves downward toward the box, and when moving from the advanced position to the retracted position, each intermediate folder moves upward. This allows the intermediate folders to remain in the advanced position in contact with the fold-up strips of the cover blank for a relatively long time until the folders of the second folding station fold the lower transverse panels onto the fold-up strips. This prevents the fold-up strips from separating from the box before being covered by the lower transverse panels. This is particularly useful if the flaps have not been pre-applied with adhesive (e.g., to increase smoothness, the flaps are not covered with adhesive to prevent them from becoming too stiff).

[0064] The first folding station and the second folding station are positioned at respective heights, offset along the vertical direction, and the second vertical height of each intermediate folder is between the height of the first folding station and the height of the second folding station.

[0065] The present disclosure further relates to a method for manufacturing a covered box (or multiple covered boxes). The method for forming a covered box includes forming a box from a corrugated cardboard box blank. The forming step is performed by a forming machine according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. The (box) blank includes a base configured to define a box base wall and side panels connected to the base and foldable to define the box side walls. Preferably, the forming step involves moving the box blank along a vertical direction while the base of the box blank is oriented horizontally and the side panels interact with folders that fold the side panels vertically.

[0066] A method for manufacturing a covering box includes a gluing step of spreading adhesive on a covering blank including a base, a plurality of panels connected to the base, and a plurality of flaps connected to the plurality of panels, the gluing step being performed by a gluing unit according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure.

[0067] A method for manufacturing a covered box includes positioning the box on a covering blank such that a base wall of the box is on a base of the covering blank, the positioning being performed by a positioning device according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure.

[0068] The method for manufacturing a covered box includes a covering step in which a cover blank is folded into contact with the box.

[0069] Preferably, during the forming process, the box blank is moved by a plurality of support posts that extend vertically and move vertically to abut against the base wall of the box blank and press the box blank vertically.

[0070] Preferably, the method for manufacturing a covering box includes a size changeover step in which each support member is moved, in a horizontal plane perpendicular to the vertical direction, between a first position for molding a box of at least a first size and a second position for molding a box of a second size different from the first size.

[0071] In at least one embodiment, the bonding process selectively applies a high temperature adhesive to various portions of the cover blank.

[0072] The forming step of the method of manufacturing the coated box may further comprise one or more of the aspects described above with respect to the method of forming the box. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0073] These and other features of the invention will become more apparent from the following description of preferred embodiments, illustrated by way of non-limiting example in the accompanying drawings, in which: [Figure 1]FIG. 1 illustrates a manufacturing line for producing a covered box according to the present disclosure. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 shows a box blank. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 shows a cover blank. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a molding machine according to the present disclosure. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a detailed view of the molding machine of FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 5 is a detailed view of the molding machine of FIG. [Figure 7A] FIG. 5 is a detailed view of the molding machine of FIG. 4 during a size changeover. [Figure 7B] FIG. 5 is a detailed view of the molding machine of FIG. 4 during a size changeover. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 illustrates a positioning device according to the present disclosure with the belt removed. [Figure 8A] 9 is a cutaway view of the positioning device of FIG. 8 with the belt partially removed and the positioning element removed. [Figure 9] 1 illustrates a covering device according to the present disclosure. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a detailed view of the covering device of FIG. 9. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0074] The present disclosure provides a production line 1 for manufacturing a covering box 8 .

[0075] The production line 1 comprises a forming machine 2. The forming machine 2 is configured to receive a corrugated box blank 6 and fold the blank to form a box 60 (without a cover).

[0076] Box blank 6 comprises a base 6a and side panels 6b, 6c, 6d, and 6e connected to base 6a. Base 6a forms the base wall of box 60. Side panels 6b, 6c, 6d, and 6e are foldable to form the side walls of box 60.

[0077] The forming machine 2 includes a work area configured to receive a blank 6 .

[0078] The forming machine 2 is located in a work area and includes a plurality of folders 21 configured to interact with the side panels 6b, 6c, 6d, and 6e of the blank 6i. Each folder 21 remains stationary during the folding of the side panels 6b, 6c, 6d, and 6e. Each folder 21 may be moved in a horizontal plane (by a corresponding actuator) to accommodate the size of the box 60 to be formed.

[0079] The forming machine 2 includes a movement system that moves the blank 6 in a vertical direction V while maintaining the base 6a of the blank 6 in a horizontal orientation. Specifically, the movement system moves the box blank 6 from a first vertical height (where the box blank 6 is received within the work area) to a second vertical height that is lower than the first vertical height. When moving from the first vertical height to the second vertical height, the side panels 6b, 6c, 6d, and 6e of the box blank 6 interact with the folder 21 and are folded as they move to a certain vertical position.

[0080] The molding machine 2 has multiple heads 22 (specifically, if the molding machine 2 is a four-corner fixing machine that molds a box 60 having four vertical ends, the molding machine 2 has four heads 22).

[0081] Each head 22 includes a supply 221 configured to dispense and position a strip of sealing tape near a vertical end of the box 60 .

[0082] Each head 22 includes a pressure pad 222 configured to press a piece of sealing tape onto a corresponding vertical end from outside the interior space of the box 60 .

[0083] Each head 22 is provided with a cutter 223 for cutting the sealing tape to separate the cut piece from the head.

[0084] However, the pressure foot 222 is positioned at a vertical height that is lower than the height of the box blank 6 as it is fed into the forming machine 2. In practice, the pressure foot is configured to interact with the vertical edges of the box 60 when the side walls of the box 60 are in an upright position (parallel to the vertical direction V).

[0085] The moving system includes a plurality of support columns 23 (specifically, if the forming machine 2 is a four-corner fixing machine that forms a box 60 having four vertical ends, the forming machine 2 includes four support columns 23). Each support column 23 extends in a vertical direction V. The moving system includes a plate 25 located above the support columns 23 and removably fixable to the support columns 23 (particularly, to their upper ends). The plate 25 extends along a horizontal plane perpendicular to the vertical direction V. Although the term "plate" is used in this disclosure, any element (not necessarily plate-shaped) that can be removably fixed to the support columns 23 can be used instead of a plate.

[0086] The movement system includes a plate actuator 251 configured to raise and lower the plate 25. The plate actuator 251 includes a rack (along the vertical direction) and a pinion movable on the rack.

[0087] The upper end of each post 23 is provided with a magnet 231 that can be magnetically attached to the plate 25 .

[0088] The molding machine 2 can operate in a working configuration in which each support section 23 is fixed to the plate 25 and moves back and forth in the vertical direction V, and in a dimension switching configuration in which each support section 23 is detached from the plate 25 and is at the lowest vertical height due to the influence of gravity.

[0089] Each head 22 is provided with a guide 224 along the vertical direction, and the corresponding support portion 23 is slidably coupled to this guide 224. In the size switching configuration, each support portion 23 moves toward and away from the head 22.

[0090] Each head 22 includes a beam 225 connecting the heat seal unit, which includes the cutter 223, the presser foot 222, and the feed unit 221, to the guide 224. Preferably, the beam 225 is double T-shaped (to enhance mechanical strength). Preferably, the beam 225 extends between a first end that connects to the heat seal unit (i.e., the cutter 223, the presser foot 222, and the feed unit 221) and a second end that connects to the guide 224, the second end being at a higher vertical position than the first end.

[0091] In each head 22, the heat seal unit (including cutter 223 and pressure foot 222) is preferably movable relative to the beam toward and away from the other head 22. The heat seal unit is movable relative to the beam 225 by a corresponding actuator (preferably pneumatic). In practice, the beam 22 moves during switching but remains stationary during operation (i.e., while the blank is being folded). During operation, the heat seal unit moves forward to interact with the vertical edge of each box 60 to seal the edge, and then moves back to eject the box 60 once sealing is complete.

[0092] Preferably, each head 22 is provided with an adjustment device for changing the horizontal distance between the guide 224 of the support part 23 and the heat sealing part. This adjustment is effective when taking into account the thickness of paper or cardboard.

[0093] The molding machine 2 includes a plurality of crossbars 26 (specifically, first and second crossbars). Each crossbar 26 extends along a crossbar direction perpendicular to the vertical direction V. Each head 22 is attached to the crossbar 26 and is slidable on the crossbar 26 (by an actuator). Preferably, the crossbars 26 are parallel to each other. Specifically, two heads 22 are attached to each of the first and second crossbars 26.

[0094] The molding machine 2 further includes a plurality of guides 27 for the crossbars 26. Each guide 27 extends in a direction perpendicular to the crossbar direction. Each crossbar 26 is slidably coupled to a guide 27 and moves in a direction perpendicular to the crossbar direction. Therefore, each head 22 can move in a horizontal plane by movement of the head 22 itself on the crossbar 26 and movement of the crossbar 26 on the guide 27.

[0095] The molding machine 2 further includes a plurality of guides 28 for feeding the blanks 6. The guides 28 are parallel to one another. Each guide 28 is located vertically at a midpoint between the guide 224 of the support column 23 and the presser foot 222.

[0096] The production line 1 comprises a gluing unit 3. The gluing unit 3 is configured to receive a cover blank 7 and to spread adhesive on the cover blank 7. In particular, the gluing unit 3 is configured to selectively spread adhesive on each portion 70 of the cover blank 7.

[0097] The cover blank 7 comprises a base 7a and a plurality of side panels 7b, 7c, 7d, and 7e connected to the base 7a. Specifically, the cover blank 7 comprises a pair of longitudinal side panels 7b and 7c and a pair of lateral side panels 7d and 7e. The base 7a has a pair of longitudinal peripheries to which the longitudinal side panels 7b and 7c are connected, and a pair of lateral peripheries to which the lateral side panels 7d and 7e are connected.

[0098] The panels 7b, 7c, 7d, 7e each have a lower wing portion 7b', 7c', 7d', 7e' connected to the base portion 7a, and upper wing portions 7b", 7c", 7d", 7e" connected to the lower wing portions 7b', 7c', 7d', 7e', respectively. The covering blank 7 further has a plurality of fold pieces 7f, 7g, 7h, 7i connected to the longitudinal panels 7b, 7c. Specifically, the fold pieces 7f, 7g, 7h, 7i are connected to the lower wing portions 7b', 7c' of the longitudinal panels 7b, 7c. In practice, each lower wing 7b', 7c' comprises a first longitudinal periphery connected to the base 7a, a second longitudinal periphery opposite the first longitudinal periphery and connected to the upper wing 7b", 7c", a first transverse periphery connected to the first flap 7f, 7h, and a second transverse periphery opposite the first transverse periphery and connected to the second flap 7g, 7i. Note that the longitudinal panels 7b, 7c together with the flap 7f, 7g, 7h, 7i form the longitudinal sides of the covering blank 7. The transverse panels 7d, 7e form the transverse sides of the covering blank 7.

[0099] The portions 70 where the adhesive unit 3 spreads the adhesive are located on the upper wings 7b'', 7c'', 7d'', 7e'' (both longitudinal and transverse) and on the transverse wings 7e' and 7d' of the lower wings.

[0100] The production line 1 includes a positioning device 4. The production line (positioning device 4) includes a belt 41. The belt 41 is configured to receive a cover blank 7 and transport it along a feed direction A. The belt 41 includes a first portion 41A of a first color and a second portion 41B of a second color different from the first color. The cover blank 7 is received by the positioning device 4 with the first portion of the blank located on the first portion 41A of the belt 41 and the second portion of the blank located on the second portion 41B of the belt 41.

[0101] The production line (positioning device 4) includes a frame 44. The frame 44 has a function of supporting the belt 41. The frame 44 has a box-shaped main body defining an internal space therein. The frame 44 has an upper surface 44A and a lower surface. A hole 45 is provided in at least one (first) portion of the upper surface of the frame 44. Note that, for convenience of illustration, the hole 45 shown in FIG. 8 is only shown in a limited portion of the upper surface of the frame, but in reality, the hole 45 is formed over a wider surface of the upper surface of the frame 44.

[0102] The production line (positioning device 4) is equipped with a suction pump or compressor for generating negative pressure in the inner space of the frame 44 to create a suction effect through the holes 55. The belt 41, which is slidably arranged on the upper surface of the frame 44, then passes air through, so that the air flow generated by the holes 45 makes it easier for the belt 41 to adhere to the blank.

[0103] At least one (second) portion 46 of the top surface of frame 44 is transparent. Preferably, holes 45 do not extend through transparent portion 46 (although they may extend through the remainder of the top surface of frame 44).

[0104] The production line (positioning device 4) may further include one or more lighting bodies 47 for illuminating the belt 41. In one embodiment, the frame 44 includes one or more lighting bodies 47 configured to illuminate the belt 41 from below, i.e., from the side opposite the cameras 43A and 43B. For example, the lighting bodies 47 may be disposed inside the frame 44 (e.g., inside its interior space). Preferably, the lighting bodies 47 are configured to generate light beams that pass through a transparent portion 46 (on the upper surface) of the frame. For example, the transparent portion 46 is (operatively) inserted between the cameras 43A and 43B and the lighting body 47. In an exemplary embodiment, the transparent portion 46 may also be provided with a hole 45.

[0105] Belt 41 may be backlit to enhance the color contrast of images captured by cameras 43A and 43B (eg, in embodiments including illuminator 47 described above).

[0106] The backlighting may be continuous or strobed. The backlighting may be at various frequencies (i.e., various wavelengths), for example, in the visible, ultraviolet, or infrared spectrum.

[0107] The positioning device 4 further comprises a first pair of cameras 43A arranged on the first portion 41A of the belt 41 for capturing an image of the first portion of the cover blank 7, and a second pair of cameras 43B arranged on the second portion 41B of the belt 41 for capturing an image of the second portion of the cover blank 7. The positioning device 4 comprises a control unit for selectively activating the first or second pair of cameras 43A, 43B and successively capturing two images of the first or second portion of the cover blank 7 by the activated pair of cameras 43A, 43B.

[0108] The positioning device 4 includes a placement element 42 including a pressing element 421. The pressing element 421 is movable along the vertical direction. Specifically, the placement element 42 includes an actuator configured to raise and lower the pressing element 421. The actuator of the placement element 42 may include, for example, a vertical rail and a shoe slidable on the rail and integral with the pressing element 421. The pressing element 421 interacts with the base wall of the box 60, covering the base wall and moving it to a placement position on the base 7a of the blank 7.

[0109] The production line 1 further comprises a covering device 5 which receives boxes 60 to be joined to each covering blank 7 from the positioning device 4 and folds the covering blanks 7 into contact with the boxes 60 to cover the boxes, thereby producing coated boxes 8.

[0110] The covering device 5 comprises a plate movable along a vertical direction V. The plate is configured to receive the covering blanks 7 and boxes 60 and move them from top to bottom along the vertical direction V. The covering device 5 comprises a plate actuator that moves the plate along the vertical direction V. The plate actuator comprises, for example, a vertical rail and a shoe slidably coupled to the rail (in this case, the plate is connected to the shoe).

[0111] The covering device 5 comprises a first folding station 51 which interacts with the longitudinal sides of the covering blank 7 (while the covering blank 7 and the box 60 move downwards) to position the longitudinal sides in a longitudinal vertical plane and bring the longitudinal panels 7b, 7c (in particular the lower wing portions 7b', 7c' of the longitudinal panels 7b, 7c) into contact with the outer surfaces of the corresponding longitudinal side walls of the box 60.

[0112] The first folding station 51 further comprises a folder for folding the upper wings 7b", 7c" of the covering blank 7 from an upright position to a horizontal position towards the inside of the box. The first folding station 51 further comprises a folder (which may be identical to the folder described above) for folding the upper wings 7b", 7c" of the longitudinal panels of the blank so that they come into contact with the inner surface of the corresponding side wall of the box. The first folding station 51 further comprises, for each side wall of the box, a presser foot for pressing the upper and lower wings of the blank towards each other, which are respectively bound to the inner and outer surface of the longitudinal side wall itself. Each presser comprises an abutment plate 54 arranged outside the box 60 to prevent the corresponding side wall of the box 60 it is arranged to contact from being pressed outward, and a pressing element 55 movable relative to the corresponding abutment plate 54 by translation along a horizontal direction parallel to the base of the box and insertable into the box 60, so that when the pressing element 55 is inside the box 60, it moves towards and parallel to the corresponding abutment plate 54 to press against the longitudinal side wall of the box 60 interposed between the abutment plate 54 and the corresponding pressing element 55.

[0113] The covering device 5 includes a plurality of intermediate folders 53, each of which folds a corresponding fold-over piece 7f, 7g, 7h, 7i from a longitudinal vertical plane to a transverse vertical plane and positions it in contact with the transverse side wall of the box 60.

[0114] The intermediate folders 53 are movable between a retracted position where they are spaced apart from each other and an advanced position where they are close to each other and interact with the folding pieces 7f, 7g, 7h, 7i. The intermediate folders 53 are movable along diagonal movement directions D1, D2, D3, D4 that include a vertical component parallel to the vertical direction V and a short-side component parallel to the short-side direction T. As a result, in the retracted position, the intermediate folders 53 are at a first vertical height, and in the advanced position, they are at a second vertical height that is lower than the first vertical height.

[0115] The covering device 5 includes a separate actuator 531 for each intermediate folder 53, which moves the intermediate folder 53 between the retracted position and the proximal position. Preferably, the actuator 531 of the intermediate folder 53 is driven by a brushless motor.

[0116] The covering device 5 comprises a second folding station 52 which folds the short sides of the covering blank 7 and places them in a short vertical plane, bringing the short panels 7d, 7e (in particular the lower wing portions 7d', 7e' of the longitudinal panels 7d, 7e) into contact with the outer surfaces of the corresponding short side walls of the box 60 (and the fold-back pieces 7f, 7g, 7h, 7i already folded by the intermediate folder 53).

[0117] The second folding station 52 further comprises folders for folding the upper wings 7d", 7e" of the covering blank 7 from an upright position to a horizontal position towards the inside of the box 60. The second folding station 52 further comprises folders (which may be identical to the folders described above) for folding the upper wings 7d", 7e" of the longitudinal panels of the blank into contact with the inner surfaces of the corresponding side walls of the box 60. The second folding station 52 further comprises, for each longitudinal side wall of the box, pressers for pressing the upper and lower wings of the blank towards each other, which are respectively bound to the inner and outer surfaces of the shorter side walls themselves. Similar to those of the first folding station 51, each presser foot of the second folding station 52 comprises an abutment plate 56 arranged outside the box to prevent the corresponding side wall of the box 60 it is arranged to contact from being pressed outward, and a pressing element 57 movable relative to the corresponding abutment plate 56 by translation along a horizontal direction parallel to the base of the box and insertable into the box 60, so that when the pressing element 57 is inside the box 60, it moves towards and parallel to the corresponding abutment plate 57 to press the short side wall of the box 60 interposed between the abutment plate 56 and the corresponding pressing element 57.

[0118] The intermediate folder 53 is inserted in the vertical direction V between the first folding station 51 and the second folding station 52 .

[0119] Preferably, the changeover is performed by exchanging the folders (and, if necessary, the plates) of the first folding station 51 and the second folding station 52. However, it is not necessary to change the intermediate folder 53 during the changeover.

[0120] The following paragraphs, listed in alphanumeric order for reference, are non-limiting exemplary modes for describing the present invention.

[0121] A0. A forming machine for forming a box from a paper or corrugated board blank, the blank having a base and configured to define a base wall of the box and side panels foldable to connect to the base and form side walls of the box, the forming machine comprising: a work area for receiving blanks; - a plurality of folders disposed within the work area, the side panels of which are folded and aligned vertically with their lateral peripheries juxtaposed to interact with the side panels of the blank to form vertical edges of the side walls of the box, such that the blank side panels define an interior space for the box; - a plurality of columns extending in a vertical direction and movable in a vertical direction, each column being capable of being positioned within the interior space of the box and abutting against a corresponding vertical end.

[0122] A. A molding machine as described in paragraph A0, comprising a plurality of heads, each of the plurality of heads comprising a presser configured to abut a corresponding vertical end from outside the space inside the box, and a plurality of support portions each of which can be positioned at a forward position of the corresponding presser portion in the interior space of the box so as to abut a corresponding vertical end of a side wall of the box, the vertical end being operatively interposed between the support portion itself and the presser.

[0123] A1. The molding machine described in paragraph A, wherein the plurality of heads are capable of moving toward and away from each other.

[0124] A1.1. The molding machine according to paragraph A, wherein the plurality of heads are synchronously movable toward and away from each other.

[0125] A1.2. A molding machine as described in paragraph A1 or paragraph A1.1, wherein each of the multiple heads is movable in a horizontal plane perpendicular to the vertical direction between a retracted position in which it does not interfere with a box placed in the work area and an advanced position in which it acts on the corresponding vertical end of the box.

[0126] A1.3. The molding machine of paragraph A1 or A1.2, wherein each of the plurality of heads is configured to move the associated support column in a horizontal plane.

[0127] A2. The molding machine according to any one of paragraphs A to A1.1, wherein each of the plurality of heads is a supply section for disposing a piece of sealing tape facing each vertical end; a cutter that cuts the sealing tape and separates the cut piece from the head; The presser foot is configured to press the sealing tape strips against the corresponding vertical ends from outside the interior space of the box.

[0128] A3. The molding machine according to any one of paragraphs A to A2, wherein each of the plurality of support columns is linked to a corresponding one of the plurality of heads.

[0129] A3.1. The molding machine according to paragraph A3, wherein each of the heads includes a guide along the vertical direction, and each of the support columns is slidably coupled to the guide of the corresponding head.

[0130] A3.1.1. The molding machine of paragraph A3.1, wherein for each of the plurality of heads, the guide is located at a different vertical height than the corresponding foot pressure.

[0131] A3.1.1.1. The molding machine of paragraph A3.1.1, wherein for each of the plurality of heads, the guide is positioned at a higher vertical height than the corresponding pressure foot.

[0132] A4. A molding machine as described in any of paragraphs A0 to A3.1.1.1, comprising a plate that is vertically movable and positioned above each support column, and each of the multiple support columns can be detachably connected to the plate so that the molding machine can operate in a working configuration in which each support column is connected to the plate and moves vertically together with the plate, and a switching configuration in which each support column is detached from the plate and can move horizontally together with the head section.

[0133] A4.1. A molding machine as described in paragraph A4, comprising a plurality of heads, each head having a vertical guide, a plurality of support columns each slidably coupled to the guide of a corresponding head, and a plate located above each guide.

[0134] A4.2. The molding machine of paragraph A4 or A4.1, wherein the plate comprises a ferromagnetic material, and each of the plurality of support posts has a magnet at its upper end that can be magnetically coupled to the plate.

[0135] A4.2.1. The machine according to paragraph A4.2, further comprising, for each support column, an electrical circuit including an electrical winding that can be energized to generate a magnetic force capable of counteracting and canceling the magnetic force inherent in the respective magnet, the magnetic force being the force of attraction between the magnet and the plate.

[0136] A5. A molding machine as described in any of paragraphs A to A4.2.1, wherein each of the plurality of heads has a vertical guide to which a corresponding one of the plurality of support sections is connected, and a cutter configured to cut the sealing tape, and for each of the plurality of head sections, the corresponding guide is located at a predetermined distance from each cutter in the horizontal movement direction of the cutter when in an advanced position toward the corresponding guide of another head section of the plurality of head sections.

[0137] A5.1. The molding machine described in paragraph A5, further comprising an adjustment device for changing the predetermined distance between the guide and the corresponding cutter for each of the plurality of heads.

[0138] B. A method for forming a box from a paper or corrugated blank (or a method using a box forming machine to form a box from a paper or corrugated blank), wherein the blank has a base and is configured to define a base wall of the box and side panels that are foldable to connect to the base and form side walls of the box; - positioning the blank in a work area; - folding the side panels of the blank so that the side panels are oriented parallel to the vertical with their lateral peripheries juxtaposed to form vertical edges of the side walls of the box, so that the side panels of the blank define an interior space for the box; - sealing the vertical ends with a plurality of presses, the step comprising at least one substep of pressing the vertical ends with a plurality of presses operatively disposed outside the box interior space; This method is - providing a plurality of support posts (23); - moving each support part (23) in the vertical direction (V) so that each vertical end part is placed between a corresponding one of the plurality of support parts (222) and a corresponding one of the plurality of support parts (23) during the sealing step.

[0139] B1. The method of paragraph B, wherein the presser feet move closer to each other during the sealing process.

[0140] B1.1. The method of paragraph B1, wherein the presser feet move synchronously toward each other during the sealing process. do.

[0141] B1.2. The method according to any one of paragraphs B to B1.1, wherein the sealing step further comprises the sub-step of supplying, for each vertical end, a piece of sealing tape facing the vertical end by a supply part forming a part of the head; a sub-step of applying a piece of sealing tape to the outer vertical edge of the box interior space by a presser foot positioned outside the box interior space and moving toward the vertical edge of the box; and a sub-step of cutting the sealing tape using a cutter that forms part of the head to separate the cut piece from the head.

[0142] B2. The method according to any one of paragraphs B to B1.2, wherein in the folding step, the plurality of support columns are each integral with a plate and move vertically as the plate is raised and lowered.

[0143] B2.1. A method according to paragraph B, wherein during the folding process, each of the plurality of support sections is restrained from moving in the horizontal plane by a plate to which each support section is fixed.

[0144] B3. The method according to any one of paragraphs B to B2.1, further comprising a dimension changing step including a step of moving the support portions toward and away from each other in a horizontal plane perpendicular to the vertical direction.

[0145] B3.1. A method as described in paragraph B3, wherein in the folding process, each of the multiple support columns is integrated with a plate and moves along the vertical direction by raising and lowering the plate, and in the dimension changing process, each of the multiple support columns is detached from the plate and moves along the horizontal plane.

[0146] B3.1.1. The method of paragraph B3.1, wherein in the size changeover step, each support section is moved in a horizontal plane by a corresponding sealing head, and each sealing head is attached to one of the pressure plates.

[0147] B4. A method according to any one of paragraphs B to B3.1.1, wherein the folding process involves moving the blank vertically using a plurality of support members that abut against the base of the blank and move vertically, pushing the blank vertically, and while the blank is moving, the side panels interact with a plurality of folders positioned within a working area outside the plurality of support members.

[0148] C. An adhesive unit that receives a cover blank and spreads adhesive on the cover blank, the cover blank having a base, a plurality of panels connected to the base, and a plurality of flaps connected to the plurality of panels.

[0149] C1. The bonding unit of paragraph C, including a delivery nozzle that selectively covers and delivers hot adhesive onto various portions of the blank.

[0150] C1.1. An adhesive unit as described in paragraph C1, wherein the cover blank comprises a base and a plurality of side panels connected to the base, and at least one nozzle selectively applies hot adhesive onto various portions of a surface of each of the plurality of side panels.

[0151] C1.1.1. An adhesive unit as described in paragraph C1.1, wherein the covering blank further comprises a plurality of fold pieces connected to the longitudinal panels, and at least one nozzle delivers hot adhesive onto various portions of the covering blank that are not the fold pieces, so that the fold pieces of the covering blank are free of adhesive when they leave the adhesive unit.

[0152] D. A positioning device that receives the formed box and the cover blank and positions the box on the cover blank so that the base wall of the box is on the base of the cover blank.

[0153] D1. The positioning device of paragraph D, a belt for receiving the cover blanks and conveying them along a feed direction; - a positioning element movable between a collection position for receiving a box and a position for placing the box in a predetermined position on a cover blank being transported by the belt; a control unit; - at least one camera for capturing images of the cover blanks located on the belt and connected to a control unit, the control unit comparing the image captured by the camera with a pre-stored reference model and correcting the placement position of the placement element depending on the comparison between the image captured by the camera and the reference image.

[0154] D1.1. A positioning device as described in paragraph D1, wherein the positioning device comprises a first pair of cameras and a second pair of cameras defining at least one camera, and wherein the control unit selectively activates the first pair of cameras or the second pair of cameras to capture images.

[0155] D1.1.1. A positioning device as described in paragraph D1.1, wherein the belt has at least a first portion having a first color and a second portion having a second color different from the first color, and a first pair of cameras capture images of various portions of the cover blank located on the first portion of the belt, and a second pair of cameras capture images of various portions of the cover blank located on the second portion of the belt.

[0156] D2. The positioning device of any of paragraphs D-D1.1.1, further comprising a screen connected to the control unit and displaying images captured by the at least one camera.

[0157] E. A covering device that receives a box joined to a corresponding covering blank with the base wall of the box resting on the covering blank, and folds the covering blank into contact with the box so as to cover the box.

[0158] E1. The covering device of paragraph E, wherein the covering blank comprises a base and a plurality of side panels connected to the base, the plurality of side panels comprising longitudinal panels connected to the base along longitudinal sides of the base and transverse panels connected to the base along shorter sides of the base, the covering blank further comprising a plurality of fold strips connected to the longitudinal panels, the covering device comprising: a plate movable along a vertical direction, which receives the cover blank and the box in a state in which the base of the cover blank and the base wall of the box are coupled together, and the longitudinal side walls of the box received by the plate are aligned along a longitudinal vertical plane parallel to the vertical direction and the longitudinal direction, and the lateral side walls are aligned along a lateral vertical plane parallel to the vertical direction and the lateral direction; a first folding station for folding longitudinal sides of the cover blanks and positioning them in a longitudinal vertical plane with the longitudinal panels in contact with the outer surfaces of corresponding longitudinal side walls of the box; a second folding station for folding the short sides of the cover blanks and positioning them in a short vertical plane with the short panels in contact with the outer surfaces of the corresponding short side walls of the box; and a plurality of intermediate folders, each intermediate folder having a corresponding fold-back piece folded from a longitudinal vertical plane to a transverse vertical plane and positioned to contact a transverse side wall of the box.

[0159] E1.1. The covering device according to paragraph E1, wherein the intermediate folder is movable along a diagonal movement direction including a vertical component along the vertical direction and a lateral component parallel to the lateral direction.

[0160] E1.2. The covering device of paragraph E1 or E1.1, wherein each intermediate folder is movable between a retracted position in which they are spaced apart from each other and an advanced position in which they are close to each other.

[0161] E1.2.1. The covering device of paragraph E1.2, wherein in the retracted position, the intermediate folder is at a first vertical height, and in the advanced position, the intermediate folder is at a second vertical height different from the first vertical height.

[0162] E1.2.1.1. A covering device according to paragraph E1.2.1, wherein the first and second folding stations are positioned at respective heights offset along the vertical direction, and the second vertical height of each intermediate folder is between the height of the first folding station and the height of the second folding station.

[0163] E1.3. The covering device of any of paragraphs E.1 through E1.2.1.1, wherein the plate of the covering device comprises a suction pad that holds against the inner surface of the base wall of the box.

[0164] E2. The enclosing device of any of paragraphs E-E1.3, wherein each of the plurality of side panels includes a lower wing portion connected to the base and an upper wing portion connected to the lower wing portion, and the first and second folding stations fold the lower wing portions into contact with the side walls of the box, and the enclosing device further comprises: a third folding station for folding the upper wing portions toward the inside of the box and arranging them horizontally; a fourth folding station for folding the upper wing portions of the cover blank to place them in contact with the interior surfaces of the side walls of the box; and a presser for pressing the upper and lower wing portions, which are respectively connected to the inner and outer surfaces of the side wall of the box, toward each other.

[0165] F. A production line for producing coated boxes, - the forming machine of any of paragraphs A-A5.1, including a plurality of folders and a moving system for receiving horizontally oriented box blanks and moving them vertically, wherein the folders interact with the side panels to vertically fold the side panels as the box blanks move vertically; - an adhesive unit according to any of paragraphs C to C1.1.1; - the positioning device of any of paragraphs D-D2, receiving the box from the forming machine and the cover blank from the gluing unit; - a covering device according to any of paragraphs E-E2, which receives a box coupled with a corresponding covering blank from the positioning device.

[0166] F1. A manufacturing line as described in paragraph F, wherein the movement system of the molding machine includes a plurality of support members extending along the vertical direction and abutting against the base of a box blank received in the molding machine, and each of the plurality of support members is movable along the vertical direction to push the box blank vertically.

[0167] F1.1. A manufacturing line as described in paragraph F1, wherein each of the plurality of support columns is movable toward and away from each other in a horizontal plane perpendicular to the vertical direction between a first position for forming boxes of a first size and a second position for forming boxes of a second size different from the first size.

[0168] G. A method for manufacturing a coated box, comprising: - forming a box from a corrugated cardboard box blank, the box blank having a base and configured to define a base wall of the box and side panels connected to the base and foldable to define side walls of the box, the forming step comprising moving the box blank along a vertical direction while the base of the box blank is oriented horizontally and the side panels interact with folders that fold the side panels vertically; - a gluing step, spreading adhesive on a cover blank comprising a base, a plurality of panels connected to the base, and a plurality of flaps connected to the plurality of panels; - positioning the box on the covering blank so that the base wall of the box is on the base of the covering blank; a covering step of folding the covering blank into contact with the box.

[0169] G1. The method according to paragraph G, wherein during the forming process, the box blank is moved by a plurality of support members that extend vertically and move vertically to abut against the base wall of the box blank and press the box blank vertically.

[0170] G1.1. A method as described in paragraph G1, including a size switching step, in which each support section is moved in a horizontal plane perpendicular to the vertical direction between a first position for forming boxes of at least a first size and a second position for forming boxes of a second size different from the first size.

[0171] G2. The method of paragraph G or paragraph G1, wherein the bonding step selectively applies adhesive to various portions of the cover blank.

[0172] G2.1. The method of paragraph G2, wherein the cover blank comprises a base and a plurality of side panels connected to the base, and wherein adhesive is selectively applied at elevated temperature onto various portions of a surface of each of the plurality of side panels.

Claims

1. A production line for producing covering boxes, comprising: a forming machine configured to receive a cardboard box blank and fold the cardboard box blank to form a box, the cardboard box blank having a base defining a base wall of the box and a plurality of side panels connected to the base and foldable to define longitudinal and lateral side walls of the box, the forming machine comprising a plurality of folders and a transfer system for receiving the cardboard box blank in a horizontal orientation and transferring the cardboard box blank along a vertical direction, the folders interacting with the plurality of side panels to vertically fold the plurality of side panels; a gluing unit for receiving a paper cover blank and spreading adhesive on the paper cover blank, the paper cover blank having a base, a plurality of panels connected to the base, and a plurality of flap strips connected to the plurality of panels; a positioning device configured to receive the box from the forming machine and the paper cover blank from the gluing unit and to position the box on the paper cover blank such that a base wall of the box is on a base of the paper cover blank; a covering device for receiving the boxes coupled to each paper cover blank from the positioning device and folding the paper cover blank into contact with the boxes to cover the boxes; A production line characterized in that the movement system of the forming machine includes a plurality of support members extending along a vertical direction and abutting the base of the cardboard box blank received in the forming machine, each of the plurality of support members being movable along the vertical direction to push the cardboard box blank in the vertical direction.

2. 2. The production line according to claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of support portions is capable of being moved toward and away from each other in a horizontal plane perpendicular to the vertical direction between a first position for molding boxes of at least a first size and a second position for molding boxes of a second size different from the first size.

3. 3. The manufacturing line of claim 2, wherein the gluing unit comprises at least one delivery nozzle configured to selectively deliver hot melt adhesive onto different portions of the paper cover blank.

4. 4. The manufacturing line of claim 3, wherein the at least one delivery nozzle is configured to selectively deliver high temperature hot melt adhesive onto a limited portion of a surface of one or more of the plurality of side panels.

5. The side panels include longitudinal panels connecting to the base along a longitudinal side of the base and transverse panels connecting to the base along a transverse side of the base, the paper covering blank further including a plurality of foldback strips connecting to the longitudinal panels, the covering device comprising: a plate movable along a vertical direction, which receives the paper cover blank and the box in a state in which the base of the paper cover blank and the base wall of the box are connected, the longitudinal side walls of the box received by the plate being aligned along a longitudinal vertical plane parallel to the vertical direction and the longitudinal direction, and the transverse side walls being aligned along a transverse vertical plane parallel to the vertical direction and the transverse direction; a first folding station for folding longitudinal sides of the paper cover blanks and positioning them in a longitudinal vertical plane with the longitudinal panels in contact with the outer surfaces of corresponding longitudinal side walls of the box; a second folding station for folding the short sides of the paper cover blanks and positioning them in a short vertical plane with the short panels in contact with the outer surfaces of the corresponding short side walls of the box; 5. The manufacturing line of claim 4, further comprising a plurality of intermediate folders, each intermediate folder folding a corresponding flaps from a longitudinal vertical plane to a transverse vertical plane and placing the flaps in contact with a transverse side wall of the box.

6. 6. The manufacturing line according to claim 5, wherein the intermediate folders are movable between a retracted position in which they are spaced apart from each other and an advanced position in which they are adjacent to each other.

7. 7. The manufacturing line of claim 6, wherein the intermediate folder is movable along a diagonal movement direction including a vertical component along the vertical direction and a short component along the short direction, whereby, in the retreated position, the intermediate folder is at a first vertical height, and, in the advanced position, the intermediate folder is at a second vertical height different from the first vertical height.

8. 8. The manufacturing line of claim 7, wherein the first folding station and the second folding station are located at respective heights offset along a vertical direction, and the second vertical height of each intermediate folder is between the height of the first folding station and the height of the second folding station.

9. 6. The manufacturing line of claim 5, further comprising a suction pad on an underside of the plate of the covering device configured to hold an inner surface of a base wall of the box.

10. The positioning device is a belt for receiving the paper cover blank from the gluing unit and transporting it along a feed direction; a placement element movable between a collection position for receiving the box and a placement position for placing the box in a predetermined position on the paper cover blank being transported by the belt; A control unit; at least one camera connected to the control unit for capturing images of the paper cover blanks positioned on the belt; 2. The manufacturing line of claim 1, wherein the control unit compares the image captured by the camera with a pre-stored reference model and instructs the placement element to modify the placement position in response to the comparison between the image captured by the camera and the reference model.

11. the positioning device comprising a first pair of cameras and a second pair of cameras defining the at least one camera, the control unit configured to selectively activate the first pair of cameras or the second pair of cameras to capture images; 11. The manufacturing line of claim 10, wherein the belt has at least a first portion having a first color and a second portion having a second color different from the first color, the first pair of cameras capturing images of various portions of the paper cover blank located on the first portion of the belt, and the second pair of cameras capturing images of various portions of the paper cover blank located on the second portion of the belt.

12. 12. The manufacturing line of claim 11, further comprising a screen connected to the control unit of the positioning device and displaying images captured by the at least one camera.

13. 13. The production line according to any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein the placement element comprises a pressure element acting on an inner surface of the base wall of the box and movable along a vertical direction, and the positioning device further comprises one or more strips acting on an outer surface of the base wall of the box, the one or more strips being movable from a horizontally oriented closed configuration for supporting the box to a vertically oriented open configuration so that the pressure element can move the box downwards to the placement position on the paper cover blank, and the positioning device further comprises one or more actuators configured to move the one or more strips from the closed configuration to the open configuration or from the open configuration to the closed configuration.

14. The manufacturing line according to any one of claims 10 to 13, wherein the positioning device comprises an illumination body, the illumination body being configured to illuminate at least one section of the belt between the at least one camera and the illumination body.

15. 1. A method of manufacturing a covering box, comprising the steps of: forming a box from a cardboard box blank, the cardboard box blank having a base configured to define a base wall of the box and side panels connected to the base and foldable to define side walls of the box, the forming step comprising moving the cardboard box blank along a vertical direction while the base of the cardboard box blank is oriented horizontally and the side panels interact with a folder that folds the side panels vertically; a gluing step comprising spreading adhesive on a paper cover blank having a base, a number of panels connected to the base, and a number of flaps connected to the panels; positioning the box on the paper cover blank such that the base wall of the box is on the base of the paper cover blank; a covering step including folding the paper covering blank into contact with the box; The method, characterized in that during the process of forming the box, the cardboard box blank is moved by a plurality of support members extending vertically and moving vertically to abut against the base wall of the cardboard box blank and press the cardboard box blank vertically.

16. 16. The method of claim 15, further comprising a dimension switching step of moving each of the support columns in a horizontal plane perpendicular to the vertical direction so as to move toward and away from a first position for molding a box of at least a first size and a second position for molding a box of a second size different from the first size.

17. 17. A method according to claim 15 or 16, wherein the gluing step selectively applies a hot melt adhesive to various portions of the paper cover blank.

18. A production line for producing covering boxes, comprising:

1. A forming machine configured to receive a cardboard box blank and fold the cardboard box blank to form a box, the cardboard box blank having a base defining a base wall of the box and side panels connected to the base and foldable to define longitudinal and lateral side walls of the box, the forming machine comprising a plurality of folders and a movement system for receiving the cardboard box blank in a horizontal orientation and moving the cardboard box blank along a vertical direction, the folders interacting with the side panels to fold the side panels vertically, a forming machine, the movement system of the forming machine including a plurality of support members extending along a vertical direction and abutting against the base of the cardboard box blank received in the forming machine, the plurality of support members being movable along the vertical direction and configured to push the cardboard box blank in the vertical direction; a gluing unit for receiving a paper cover blank and spreading adhesive on the paper cover blank, the paper cover blank having a base, a plurality of panels connected to the base, and a plurality of flap strips connected to the plurality of panels; a conveyor having a belt for transporting the paper cover blank; A control unit; a positioning device configured to receive the box produced by the forming machine and position the box on the paper cover blank previously processed by the gluing unit with a base wall of the box on the base of the paper cover blank, the positioning device having a camera connected to the control unit to capture an image of the paper cover blank placed on the belt; a covering device configured to process the boxes coupled to each paper covering blank and to fold the paper covering blank into contact with the box to cover the box; Manufacturing line.

19. 20. The manufacturing line of claim 18, wherein the control unit is configured to compare images captured by the camera with a pre-stored reference model.

20. The positioning device includes a positioning element; 20. The manufacturing line of claim 19, wherein the control unit is further configured to set a placement position for the placement element as a function of a comparison of an image captured by the camera and the reference model.

Images