Container transfer device, system and container processing method

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a container transfer device, the container transfer device having opposing transfer arms (110) and a motor (120), at least one transfer arm configured to move along a lateral direction (G) relative to the remaining transfer arms to clamp one or more containers between the transfer arms (110) and limit relative movement between each transfer arm (110) and each container, each transfer arm (110) further configured to move along a transfer direction (C) to transport each clamped container, the motor drives the at least one transfer arm in the lateral direction (G), and drives each transfer arm (110) in the transfer direction (C), the transfer direction (C) being different from the lateral direction (G).

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a container transfer device, a system comprising such a device, and a method implemented with such a device and system. In this specification, the term "container" is understood to include containers having an upward opening that can be sealed, for example with a lid or a film. These containers include those commonly referred to as "trays" or "pots".

[0002] In particular, the present invention provides a system for transporting containers such as trays, deep containers, etc., with high throughput, reduced construction requirements, and high stability. Such a system and method is particularly suitable for use in the food packaging industry. [Background technology]

[0003] In the food industry, it is common to package foods such as fruits, vegetables, meats, and ready meals in sealed containers such as trays or tubs. During production, the containers are frequently transferred between machines, for example between conveyors and / or between processing units that inspect or change conveyors.

[0004] Factories are demanding an increase in the production volume of packaging containers. One way to increase throughput is to increase the operating speed of each device, including the container transfer device. However, existing systems that operate at high speeds are large and complex, and difficult to design, install, and maintain. Furthermore, as the speed increases, it becomes even more difficult to transfer containers accurately and reliably.

[0005] Additionally, increased speeds also increase the likelihood of spillage of the contents of containers transported in existing systems. Spillage is particularly problematic in the food packaging industry because, in addition to reducing the quality of the packaged product by losing food from the container, the spilled food can spoil or attract pests. Therefore, increased speeds can also lead to hygiene issues and increased cleaning requirements.

[0006] Additionally, increased speeds also increase the forces exerted on the container and its contents, which can cause damage to the container's contents, especially when packaging fragile foods such as baked goods.

[0007] Therefore, there is a need for devices, systems, and methods that improve the throughput of containers passing through the system and help alleviate at least some of the problems discussed above. Summary of the Invention

[0008] According to one aspect of the present invention, a container transfer device is provided, comprising opposing transfer arms, at least one of which is configured to move along a lateral direction relative to the remaining transfer arms to secure one or more containers between the transfer arms and limit relative movement between each transfer arm and each container, each transfer arm further comprising a transfer arm moving along a transfer direction to transport each secured container, and a motor driving the at least one transfer arm in a lateral direction and driving each transfer arm in a transfer direction, the transfer direction being different from the lateral direction.

[0009] The container transfer apparatus, particularly the food container transfer apparatus, according to the present invention is inexpensive, compact, and easy to install and maintain. The apparatus is suitable for use in food packaging facilities.

[0010] By closing the transfer arms in unison laterally, the container can be secured and transported by the device in the transfer direction, whereas by opening the transfer arms the container is released (i.e. ejected).

[0011] Preferably, the container is a food container and the apparatus is a food container transfer apparatus. The apparatus is suitable for transferring containers having an upward opening which may be sealed (for example) with a lid or film. These containers include what are commonly referred to as "trays" and "deep containers". The containers may contain (i.e. hold) or be configured to contain food, including both liquid and solid foods.

[0012] Motors are particularly large, heavy and expensive components. By providing a single motor configured to actuate the transfer arm in both the conveying and lateral directions, space, cost, installation and maintenance requirements are reduced. Additionally, having a single motor configured to drive the transfer arm in both the lateral and conveying directions reduces the software and control requirements of the apparatus.

[0013] A motor typically generates rotational motion about a single axis (i.e., torque) or linear motion along a single axis (i.e., linear force). In a preferred example, the motor generates torque about a single drive axis. Thus, the device converts force and torque (i.e., power) from the motor in a single direction or about a single axis into motion in both the lateral and translational directions.

[0014] In particular, the apparatus preferably comprises a motor-driven mechanism configured to move the transfer arms alternately in the lateral direction and in the conveying direction and to move the transfer arms back and forth in each of these directions. Thus, the mechanism may be configured to simultaneously close the transfer arms, move them along the conveying direction, open the transfer arms and return them along the conveying direction to a starting position. This allows the transfer arms to repeatedly grip, move and release the containers. Such a mechanism may comprise a drive belt configured to move in at least one of the lateral direction or the conveying direction. The drive belt may be configured to contact each transfer arm and move each transfer arm in the direction of movement, for example via a shuttle mounted on the drive belt. Furthermore, the drive belt may be configured to drive a lead screw, a rotor screw and / or a rack and pinion type gear to drive the transfer arms in opposite directions.

[0015] The container transfer device may be configured to transfer containers between different conveyors and / or between a conveyor and a container processing device. For example, the device is suitable for use with container processing devices that fill, seal, label, weigh, batch, package, and / or inspect the containers. The device preferably transfers batches of containers, i.e., multiple containers that are transferred and processed together.

[0016] As previously mentioned, each transfer arm secures a container disposed therebetween. By "securing" and "securing" it will be understood that the transfer arms close together to surround and / or grip or engage the container. Securing the container in this manner limits or prevents relative movement between the container and the transfer arm. As a result, the container moves with the transfer arm in the transfer direction when the transfer arm is driven by the motor.

[0017] Preferably, by fixing the container between the transfer arms, the moment of movement of the container relative to the transfer arms at least in the transfer direction and / or in the lateral direction is limited. In a particularly preferred example, the transfer arms may be arranged to be adjacent to the container when the transfer arms are closed in the lateral direction, but not in contact with the container and / or not to apply significant forces to the container. In such an example, the transfer arms surround the container but do not directly engage it. Thus, the movement of the container relative to the transfer arms in the transfer direction and / or in the lateral direction is limited, but the container is free to move in the lateral direction and in a direction substantially perpendicular to the transfer direction (e.g. vertically). However, this is not essential.

[0018] Indeed, in a further example, the transfer arms may contact the container and close together to grip the container therebetween. Gripping or securing the container in this manner may limit relative movement in all directions between the container and the transfer arms.

[0019] By "opposing" it will be understood that the transfer arms are provided on opposite sides of the containers to be transported and on opposite sides of the path along which the containers are transported by the apparatus. Thus, opposing transfer arms face each other.

[0020] The apparatus may include two opposing transfer arms configured to close around or grip a container. Multiple containers may be transported simultaneously by the two transfer arms, although this is not required. For example, the apparatus may include three, four or more transfer arms.

[0021] Preferably, each opposing transfer arm moves laterally towards the remaining transfer arm and any containers located therebetween, thereby minimizing forces applied to the containers as they are secured between the transfer arms, reducing damage to or spillage of the containers and their contents, although alternatively, one or more transfer arms may be stationary and the remaining arm(s) may move towards or away from the stationary arm(s).

[0022] Preferably, the motor is configured to drive the transfer arms alternately in the lateral direction and in the transport direction. In this manner, the apparatus moves at least one transfer arm in the lateral direction and each transfer arm in the transport direction, either sequentially or independently. Alternating the transfer arms in this manner further minimizes forces on the container and reduces the risk of improperly securing the container at high speeds.

[0023] Preferably, the movement of at least one transfer arm towards the remaining transfer arms (i.e. closing the transfer arms) can be reversed so that the transfer arms move apart (i.e. opening the transfer arms) to release the container therebetween, which is then free to move relative to the transfer arms at least in the transfer direction.

[0024] In a particularly preferred embodiment, at least one transfer arm is configured to reciprocate along a lateral direction relative to one or more opposing transfer arms, thereby alternately closing and releasing the containers, and / or each transfer arm reciprocates along the transfer direction. By reciprocating the transfer arms in both the conveying direction and the lateral direction, the container transfer device can return the transfer arms to their initial positions. Such cyclical movement of the transfer arms enables the device to transfer multiple batches of containers in sequence. Thus, the device can be repeatedly operated to transfer a continuous stream of containers.

[0025] Preferably, the transport direction is approximately perpendicular to the lateral direction. For example, the lateral direction and the transport direction may define an angle of less than 45 degrees, more preferably less than 30 degrees, and even more preferably less than 15 degrees. In use, the lateral direction and the transport direction may each be approximately horizontal. However, this is not required. In use, the lateral direction and / or the transport direction may be within 45 degrees of a horizontal plane, more preferably within 30 degrees, and even more preferably within 15 degrees of a horizontal plane. In general, the transport direction may be longitudinal through the wider container processing system, parallel to the path along which the containers are transported.

[0026] Preferably, the center of mass of the motor is located below the center of mass of each transfer arm. Preferably, the motor is located below the transfer arm and / or below the path or plane along which the containers are transported by the transfer arm. More preferably, the motor is located below the surface of the conveyor and / or the surface of the container handling device along which the containers are transported by the apparatus. Each transfer arm thus transports the containers in the transport direction along a path that runs above the motor. The term "below" is understood to mean a substantially vertical lower position when the apparatus is in use or in its intended orientation.

[0027] Mounting the motor, a large and heavy component, at a relatively low position compared to the container path and other components of the equipment offers significant advantages. Importantly, it makes the equipment easier and safer to operate, inspect and maintain. Workers can observe and access the moving parts of the equipment and the container itself without the motor getting in the way. In addition, less structure is needed to support the motor, eliminating the need to lift it during production. The center of gravity of the entire equipment is significantly reduced, making it easier to handle and install. Furthermore, the lowering of the center of gravity improves the dynamic stability of the equipment, improving the accuracy of container transfer at high speeds.

[0028] A transmission component such as a gearbox may be provided to transmit motion between the motor and the transfer arm (although this is not required). Such a transmission component such as a gearbox is also preferably located below the path or plane along which the containers are transported by the transfer arm. For example, the center of gravity of the gearbox may be below the center of gravity of the transfer arm and / or below the surface of the conveyor or container handling equipment along which the containers are transported by the apparatus when the apparatus is in use or in its intended orientation. This provides similar advantages as discussed above with respect to lowering the center of gravity of the motor.

[0029] Preferably, the container transfer device includes a drive belt, and the motor drives the transfer arm in the lateral and transfer directions using the drive belt. Such a drive belt is an efficient means of transmitting motion and power from the motor to the transfer arm, although other means of transmitting motion (such as gear assemblies or chains) may also be used. For example, the drive belts described herein may be replaced by chains without substantially affecting the operation of the device. Again, the use of a single drive belt to actuate the transfer arm in both the lateral and transfer directions simplifies the manufacture of the device and reduces the need for spare parts.

[0030] In a preferred embodiment, the drive belt extends in a single plane, for example it may extend in a plane substantially parallel to the transport direction, preferably in a substantially vertical plane parallel to the conveying direction and perpendicular to the transverse direction, which is particularly space-efficient.

[0031] A motor may drive the rollers and transmit the motion to the drive belt. Transmission components, such as a gearbox, may be provided between the motor and the rollers and / or between the motor and the drive belt. As previously mentioned, such a gearbox is preferably located below the path or plane along which the containers are transported by the transfer arm. For example, the center of gravity of the gearbox may be below the center of gravity of the transfer arm in use and / or below the surface of the conveyor or container handling device along which the containers are transported by the device.

[0032] Preferably, the drive belt is formed into a continuous loop and may be an endless drive belt. Motion from the drive belt may be transferred to the transfer arm by one or more rollers, although this is not required and the drive belt may be attached directly to the transfer arm. In each instance, the drive belt may include a tensioning device that may define, measure and / or adjust tension in the drive belt. A motor may be configured to reciprocate the drive belt to achieve reciprocating motion of the transfer arm.

[0033] Preferably, the motor and / or drive belt are laterally offset from the path along which each container is transported by each transfer arm. Furthermore, the motor and / or drive belt may be located on the same side of the path along which the containers are transported by the transfer arms. This simplifies both inspection and maintenance. The motor and drive belt can be accessed for maintenance from the side of the device on which they are located (i.e., the side of the path along which the containers are transported), while the flow of containers through the device and the movement of the transfer arms can be easily observed from the side of the device opposite the motor and / or drive belt, without the belt or motor getting in the way. Duplication of drive mechanisms on both sides of the transfer arm and container path is avoided.

[0034] The drive belt preferably extends along and may move within a plane parallel to the transport direction, such as a generally vertical plane that includes the transport direction.

[0035] Preferably, the apparatus further comprises a mechanism for converting the rotational motion of the drive belt about an axis substantially parallel to the lateral direction into a motion of at least one transfer arm along the lateral direction. For example, the mechanism may comprise a lead screw, a ball screw, a rotor screw and / or a rack and pinion type gear. Each of these options is suitable for converting rotational motion into linear motion. Thus, the drive belt extends and moves only in the transfer direction, but can also drive the lateral movement of the transfer arm.

[0036] Such an arrangement provides greater efficiency since the transfer arm (or arms) typically moves a greater distance along the transfer direction to transport the container compared to the lateral direction to secure and release the container.

[0037] However, in alternative arrangements, the drive belt may extend in a plane parallel to the lateral direction (e.g., a vertical plane that includes the lateral direction). In such cases, the apparatus may include a mechanism configured to translate rotational motion of the drive belt about an axis parallel to the drive belt's transport direction into motion of the transport arm in the transport direction. This mechanism may include a lead screw, a ball screw, a rotor screw, and / or a rack and pinion type gear, as described above.

[0038] Alternatively, the apparatus may include other means or mechanisms for converting or varying the output from a single motor between lateral and transport direction motion. For example, the apparatus may include a clutch and gear system that engages and disengages belts and / or other mechanisms that provide motion in each direction.

[0039] The drive belt may include a tensioning device that allows the tension in the drive belt to be adjusted. Thus, the operational life of the drive belt may be extended. For example, the length of the drive belt may increase with use. The tensioning device may be used to shorten the length of the drive belt to accommodate this change and maintain an appropriate predetermined tension in the drive belt. It will thus be appreciated that the tension of the drive belt may be adjusted while the drive belt is mounted within the container transfer device, for example around rollers within the container transfer device.

[0040] Additionally or alternatively, the drive belt may include a tensioning device configured to apply a predetermined tension to the drive belt. Thus, during use (e.g., when the drive belt is installed around rollers of the container transfer device), the drive belt may be positioned at a safe tension selected by the designer. For example, the tensioning device may be configured to apply a single tension and / or multiple discrete tensions to the drive belt. As a result, the skill required to install the drive belt may be reduced, improving the safety and reliability of the device.

[0041] Preferably, at least 50%, preferably at least 60%, more preferably 75% of the length of the drive belt is located beneath each transfer arm. By having most of the length of the drive belt beneath the transfer arms, access to the transfer arms and vessels (for inspection, maintenance, etc.) is improved.

[0042] Preferably, each transfer arm is mounted on a carriage that moves in the transfer direction. Mounting the transfer arms on a single carriage ensures that the transfer arms move simultaneously (i.e. in unison or in tandem). This helps prevent mishandling and spillage of the containers. The drive belt may be configured to impart motion to (i.e. drive) the carriage to move the transfer arms laterally. For example, the apparatus may comprise one or more shuttles coupled to or forming part of the drive belt, the one or more shuttles being configured to contact the carriage and drive the carriage laterally. Alternatively, the apparatus may not comprise a carriage. For example, the drive belt may be directly coupled to the transfer arms to move the transfer arms in at least one direction.

[0043] The apparatus may comprise one or more rails extending in the transport direction along which the carriage is configured to run. For example, the carriage may comprise wheels configured to slide and / or run along each rail. Preferably, at least one of the rails is located below each transfer arm, thereby improving access for inspection and / or maintenance. In a particularly preferred arrangement, all rails on at least one side of the transfer arm and / or the path along which the containers are conveyed in the transport direction are located below the position of the transfer arm, thereby simplifying access from this at least one side.

[0044] Preferably, each transfer arm extends in the transfer direction and is attached to the carriage at a respective end in the transfer direction, which provides increased stability compared to attaching the transfer arms to a central point along the transfer arm, thus improving the accuracy of container transfer and reducing spillage, especially during high speed operation. However, various alternative approaches for attaching the transfer arms to the carriage, including central points, may be implemented.

[0045] Preferably, the container transfer device comprises a first latch mechanism that limits or prevents movement of each transfer arm in the transfer direction while at least one transfer arm moves laterally, and / or a second latch mechanism that limits or prevents each transfer arm from moving laterally relative to each other when each transfer arm moves in the transfer direction.

[0046] By providing a mechanical latching mechanism, the lateral and transport direction transfer arm motions can be decoupled so that the separate directional movements occur independently or sequentially, preventing the transfer arm from moving in the transport direction before the container has been properly transferred, or preventing the container from being released in the wrong position, thus improving container handling accuracy and reducing spillage.

[0047] For example, when the transfer arm is closed, a first latch mechanism may prevent movement of the transfer arm in the transfer direction until a container is surrounded and / or grasped by the transfer arm. Similarly, when the transfer arm is carrying a container in the transfer direction, a second latch mechanism may prevent the transfer arm from opening and prematurely releasing the container before the container reaches the intended release location.

[0048] Such latching mechanisms provide particular advantages when using drive belts as described above at high speeds. As speeds increase, the torque required to open and close the transfer arm may become similar to the torque required to drive the carriage or transfer arm in the transfer direction. This may result in the transfer arm closing prematurely or the carriage starting to move in the transfer direction prematurely, which may result in the container not being caught up with, being mistransferred, or being damaged. The latch provides a mechanical solution to these problems. However, such latching mechanisms may not be necessary when operating the device at lower speeds where the torque levels are not as similar.

[0049] The first and second latch mechanisms, which isolate the lateral and transport direction movement of the transfer arm, may be automatically actuated by the motion of the apparatus and / or may be actively controlled by the controller.

[0050] In a preferred example, the latch may selectively engage and disengage depending on the position and / or movement of the carriage and the transfer arm thereon. For example, the second latch mechanism may prevent movement of the drive belt relative to the carriage and the transfer arm when the carriage is decelerating and / or when the carriage is positioned away from its furthest position in the transport direction (i.e., the respective opposite positions where the carriage is stationary and cannot move further in the transport direction).

[0051] As an alternative to a first latch mechanism that prevents movement of the transfer arms in the transfer direction while the at least one transfer arm moves laterally, the lead screw, ball screw, rotor screw and / or rack and pinion type gears may be provided with physical limits or stops that prevent further movement of the nuts or gears along the mechanism, however, this requires more energy and tends to wear relatively quickly as the nuts or gears are tightened against these fasteners more frequently.

[0052] Preferably, each transfer arm secures (i.e., surrounds and / or grips) each container at and above its center of mass, which improves stability of the container during transport, especially at high speeds and when transporting food containers containing liquid foods such as soups, yogurt, etc., thus reducing spillage.

[0053] Preferably, each transfer arm has an upstream transfer section and a downstream transfer section, the transfer sections being spaced apart along the transfer direction, the upstream transfer section of each transfer arm being configured to transport containers of the upstream batch from an input position to an intermediate position, and the downstream transfer section of each transfer arm being configured to transport containers of the downstream batch from the intermediate position to an unloading position.

[0054] Here, the terms "upstream" and "downstream" can be understood with reference to the path along which the containers are transported by the container transfer device. Thus, the containers of the downstream batch are positioned ahead of the containers of the upstream batch along the transfer direction along which the containers are transferred, and are received by the container transfer device before the containers of the upstream batch. Similarly, the downstream transfer section is positioned ahead of the upstream transfer section in the transfer direction. The upstream transfer sections may move or close laterally in unison to secure the containers initially located at the input position. Meanwhile, the downstream transfer sections may move or close laterally in unison to secure the containers initially located at the intermediate position.

[0055] In a preferred example, the containers may be processed at the intermediate location. For example, the containers may be filled, sealed, labeled, weighed, packaged, boxed, and / or inspected. This processing is preferably performed automatically by a machine (i.e., the container processing device), but in some examples, the processing is performed manually and with the containers placed on a surface at the intermediate location. A separate transfer section may thus be configured to transfer new containers to the intermediate location for processing (e.g., by an operator or the container processing device) and to transfer processed containers away from the intermediate location. The intermediate location may thus form part of a container processing device, such as a filler, tray sealer, labeller, weigher, packaging machine, boxer, or inspection device.

[0056] The input and output locations may be locations at which containers are received and output by the device, respectively. The input location may be a location on an input conveyor configured to receive and transport containers towards the container transfer device, while the output location may be a location on an output conveyor that outputs containers from the container transfer device.

[0057] Preferably, the containers of the upstream and downstream batches are contiguous with no intervening containers. Each batch of containers may comprise multiple containers that are transported and / or processed together. The upstream and downstream transport parts of the transport arm may be adjacent or spaced apart along the transport direction.

[0058] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the upstream transfer section and the downstream transfer section simultaneously transport containers of the downstream batch and the upstream batch. Thus, the upstream transfer section is configured to transport containers of the upstream batch from the input position to the intermediate position, and the downstream transfer section simultaneously transports containers of the downstream batch from the intermediate position to the discharge position. This reduces idle time at the intermediate position (e.g., time when there are no containers at the intermediate position), thereby significantly improving processing capacity.

[0059] In such an example, the transfer arms may be brought together laterally (i.e., closed) and the upstream and downstream transfer sections may simultaneously surround and / or grab the respective batches of containers located therebetween. Then, as the transfer arms move in the transfer direction, both batches are transported simultaneously. Finally, the transfer arms are separated (i.e., open) and the batches are released simultaneously. If the transfer arms are configured to return to their initial positions in the transfer direction when the containers at the intermediate positions are processed, idle time of the container processing equipment or personnel at the intermediate positions can be further reduced.

[0060] As an alternative to a transfer arm with multiple transfer sections spaced apart along the transfer direction capable of transferring multiple batches of containers simultaneously, a two-stage transfer process can also be performed by an apparatus according to the present invention having a set of multiple opposing transfer arms spaced apart along the transfer direction, each operating in the manner described herein, or by a system having multiple transfer processing devices, each according to the present invention, arranged in sequence.

[0061] According to a further aspect of the present invention, there is provided a system including a container transfer device including any of the features described above with reference to the previous aspects of the invention, and a container processing device for modifying and / or inspecting containers, the container transfer device transporting containers to and / or from the container processing device.

[0062] A system according to the present invention shares the features of the previously described devices and may provide similar advantages. Preferably, the system is a food packaging system, receiving and processing food containers.

[0063] A container processing device is understood as a machine that automatically processes containers and / or the contents of the containers. For example, the container processing device may be configured to fill, seal, label, batch, package, box, and / or inspect each container. A variety of machines capable of performing these tasks are known within and outside the food packaging industry. For example, the container processing device may be a filler, a sealer (such as a tray sealer), a labeler, a printer, a batcher, a box maker, an inspection device (such as a camera or an x-ray inspection device), or any other device suitable for inspecting or modifying the contents of the container.

[0064] For example, the container processing apparatus may include a tray sealer having a heat sealing tool. The heat sealing tool may have a lower tool part or platen on which the container(s) such as the tray(s) to be sealed are placed, and an upper tool part that typically includes a contoured heating element or plate. The lower and upper tool parts are brought together to sandwich a heat sealable film between the container(s) and the upper tool part, with the upper tool part engaging the heat sealable film with an edge of each container. The upper tool part may then be heated to bond the film to the edge(s) of the tray(s). The sealed container(s) is then removed from the apparatus.

[0065] In this manner, the apparatus may transfer unsealed containers to the tray sealer for sealing and / or transfer sealed containers from the tray sealer. Such a tray sealer may provide a secure and reliable seal across the container opening, including a liquid-tight and air-tight seal. Thus, the tray sealer is suitable for sealing food containers filled with food, although other sealing apparatus may be provided.

[0066] As mentioned above, the upper and lower tool parts of the tray sealer are brought together to seal containers, such as trays, placed therebetween. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the lower tool part is movable. Preferably, the lower tool part is raised to engage each tray thereon with the upper tool part. Additionally or alternatively, the lower tool part is lowered so that the container secured by the transfer arm is supported by the transfer arm above the lower tool part. In such an arrangement, a vertical gap is formed between the suspended container and its underside, allowing the container to be conveyed in the transfer direction by the transfer arm above the lower tool part without the container coming into contact with the lower tool part. Lowering the tool part reduces the forces on the container and its contents, compared to simply dragging the container over the surface of the lower tool part. In particular, the forces at the interface or gap between the lower tool part and the upstream or downstream machine through which the container must pass are significantly reduced. Thus, spillage and damage to the container's contents are reduced.

[0067] In a particularly preferred embodiment, movement of the lower tool part may be arranged to activate one or more of the latch mechanisms discussed above. Raising or lowering the lower tool part may actuate a latch, thus taking advantage of the movement within the system.

[0068] Preferably, the system further comprises a supply conveyor for transporting each container towards the container processing device, the container transfer device comprising a supply conveyor for transporting each container from the supply conveyor to the container processing device, and / or a discharge conveyor for transporting each container away from the container processing device, the container transfer device comprising a discharge conveyor for conveying each container from the container processing device to the discharge conveyor. The container transfer device may be configured to receive and secure the container at an input position on the supply conveyor and / or to release the container at a discharge position on the discharge conveyor. Conveyors suitable for use as the supply conveyor or discharge conveyor include belt conveyors, roller conveyors, chain conveyors, slat conveyors, etc. Alternatively, further examples of container transfer devices according to the present invention may receive the containers manually or using an alternative container processing device.

[0069] Preferably, the system is a food packaging system, and more preferably, the container processing device is a traysealer.

[0070] According to a further aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for handling containers, performed by any of the devices or systems described above with reference to the previous aspects of the present invention, comprising the steps of moving at least one transfer arm along a lateral direction towards one or more remaining transfer arms to fix one or more containers located between the transfer arms and limit relative movement between each transfer arm and each container, and moving the transfer arm in a transfer direction to transport the fixed container.

[0071] A method according to the invention may comprise any of the steps or features discussed above with reference to the previous aspects of the invention, with similar advantages.

[0072] The method preferably includes repeating the steps described herein to transfer multiple batches of containers along the transfer direction. For example, as described above, the transfer arms may cyclically reciprocate in both the transfer direction and the lateral direction to transfer multiple batches of containers. Preferably, the method further includes moving at least one transfer arm along the lateral direction away from the remaining one or more transfer arms to release the one or more containers, and returning each transfer arm to its respective initial position in the transfer direction.

[0073] Similarly, as mentioned above, preferably the steps of moving at least one of the transfer arms along a lateral direction towards the remaining transfer arms and moving the transfer arms in the transfer direction are performed sequentially rather than simultaneously to reduce the risk of mishandling of the container which could result in spillage or damage to the contents of the container.

[0074] Preferably, the apparatus comprises a first latch mechanism and the method comprises the step of operating the first latch mechanism to limit movement of each transfer arm in the transfer direction while at least one transfer arm moves in the transfer direction, and / or the apparatus comprises a second latch mechanism and the method comprises the step of operating a second latch mechanism to limit movement of each transfer arm in the transfer direction relative to each other in the transfer direction as each transfer arm moves in the transfer direction.

[0075] Preferably, the method comprises the step of receiving one or more containers from a supply conveyor and / or discharging one or more containers onto a discharge conveyor.

[0076] The method preferably comprises processing the containers. Particularly preferably, the method comprises processing each container at an intermediate location as described above. As previously mentioned, processing may include inspecting and / or modifying the container or its contents. For example, processing may include filling, sealing, labeling, weighing, packaging, batching, printing, and / or inspecting the containers. This processing may be performed automatically by a container processing device, suitable examples of which are described above, or may be performed manually.

[0077] Preferably, the method further comprises returning each transfer arm to its respective initial position in the transfer direction while one or more containers are being processed, thereby reducing downtime for an operator or container processing equipment. As containers are processed, the position of the transfer arm may be changed and the method effectively repeated, thereby increasing throughput of processed containers.

[0078] Preferably, the step of moving at least one transfer arm laterally toward the remaining one or more transfer arms to secure the one or more containers includes a step of using an upstream transfer portion of each transfer arm to secure the containers of the upstream batch at an input position while simultaneously using a downstream transfer portion of each transfer arm to secure the containers of the downstream batch at an intermediate position, and the step of moving each transfer arm in the transfer direction to transport the one or more containers includes a step of transporting the containers of the upstream batch to the intermediate position while simultaneously transporting the containers of the downstream batch to an ejection position.

[0079] The method may further comprise receiving the containers of the further batch at the input position, the containers of the further batch being the batch immediately upstream of the containers of the upstream batch (i.e. the further batch and the upstream batch are consecutive). The method may then comprise fixing (i.e. surrounding and / or gripping) the containers of the further batch at the input position using the upstream transport part of the transfer arm while fixing (i.e. surrounding and / or gripping) the containers of the upstream batch at an intermediate position using the downstream transport part of the transfer arm and further transporting the containers of the upstream batch to the discharge position while transporting the containers of the further batch at the intermediate position. In other words, the previous steps are repeated, but the steps described above with reference to the containers of the downstream batch are performed for the containers of the upstream batch, and the steps described above with reference to the containers of the upstream batch are performed for the containers of a further batch.

[0080] As mentioned above, the containers are preferably processed at an intermediate location. The transfer arm therefore transfers containers of an unprocessed batch to the processing unit while simultaneously transferring containers of a processed batch from the intermediate location. This reduces idle time of the container processing equipment and personnel at the intermediate location and increases throughput. Further efficiency gains are achieved by returning the transfer arms to their respective initial positions in the transport direction while one or more containers are being processed at the intermediate location, as mentioned above.

[0081] Preferably, the method is performed continually as a new container or batch of containers is received. Thus, preferably, the above steps are performed repeatedly to repeatedly or sequentially transport and process containers.

[0082] Preferably, the method is a method for handling food containers. The method provides a convenient and efficient approach for handling and processing food and food containers at high throughput. Thus, the method may comprise receiving a container containing food and / or filling the container with food.

[0083] The described apparatus, systems, and methods allow increased throughput of packaged containers from a factory without increasing system complexity, maintenance and cleaning requirements, or compromising product quality. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0084] The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the following drawings. [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a container transfer device according to the present invention. [Diagram 2] 2a to 2d are perspective views showing progressive stages of a container handling process according to the invention carried out using the apparatus of FIG. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a system including a container transfer device according to the present invention. [Figure 4]4a to 4d show progressive stages in a container handling process according to the invention which is carried out using the system of FIG. [Diagram 5] 5a and 5b show a latch mechanism for use in a container transfer device according to the present invention. [Figure 6] Figures 6a and 6b show a further latch mechanism for use in a container transfer device according to the present invention. [Figure 7] 7a to 7d are schematic diagrams showing successive steps of a method for treating a container according to the present invention. [Figure 8] 8a to 8d are schematic diagrams showing successive steps of a method for treating a container according to the present invention. [Figure 9] 9a to 9d are schematic diagrams showing successive steps of a method for treating a container according to the present invention. [Figure 10] Figures 10a and 10b show a further latch mechanism for use in a container transfer device according to the present invention. [Figure 11] 11a and 11b are cross-sectional views of a tension adjustment mechanism for a container transfer device according to the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0085] Figures 1 and 2a-2d show a container transfer device 100 according to the present invention. Features of the device 100 will first be described with reference to the reference numbers shown in Figure 1, and then the method will be described with reference to the successive views of Figures 2a-2d.

[0086] The apparatus 100 comprises two transfer arms 110 (also referred to as "gripping arms") that are opposed and capable of gripping and / or encircling a container between them. Securing a container in this manner restricts movement of the container relative to the transfer arms 110. Each transfer arm 110 can move laterally (parallel to the y-axis as shown) to secure a container, and can move in a transfer direction (parallel to the x-axis as shown) to transfer the container.

[0087] Figures 1 and 2c show the transfer arms 110 in an open configuration, where the transfer arms 110 are laterally spaced apart from one another, while Figures 2a and 2b show the transfer arms in a closed configuration, where the transfer arms 110 are laterally spaced closely together such that the transfer arms 110 can surround and / or grasp a container (not shown).

[0088] The transfer arm 110 includes a number of transfer protrusions 111 configured to secure and separate adjacent containers received by the device 100, although such transfer protrusions 111 may not be necessary depending on the containers in question. As shown, the transfer protrusions 111 are spaced apart along the length of the transfer arm 110 in the transfer direction (parallel to the x-axis) and are arranged in two transfer sections, an upstream transfer section 112 and a downstream transfer section 113. Each transfer section 112, 113 is capable of securing a batch of containers of three containers each.

[0089] Respective ends 110 a , 110 b of the transfer arm 110 are mounted to a carriage 160 .

[0090] The carriage 160 is configured to move only in the transport direction (parallel to the x-axis) and travels along two parallel rails: a lower rail 170 and an upper rail (not shown in Figures 1 and 2, but shown as reference number 190 in Figure 3). The lower rail 170 and the upper rail 190 each extend in the transport direction and are located laterally on opposite sides of the carriage. A sliding bracket 161 of the carriage 160 moves freely within the lower rail 170 and slides across on freely rotating wheels 171 mounted within the lower rail 170. The carriage 160 is provided with two wheels 162 configured to run along the upper rail 190. The lower rail 170 is located below the transport arm 110 to allow access to the transport arm 110 (and any containers) for inspection, cleaning or maintenance. Each rail 170, 190 limits the movement of the carriage 160 in a direction perpendicular to the transport direction. As previously mentioned, although rails 170, 190 are provided on either side of carriage 160, this is not required and examples without rails are possible as well. In a further example, wheels may be provided on carriage 160 rather than on rails.

[0091] The carriage 160 further includes four lead screws 163a, 163b, 164a, and 164b. These lead screws 163a, 163b, 164a, and 164b convert rotary motion into linear motion. Specifically, the lead screws 163a, 163b, 164a, and 164b are arranged such that the longitudinal axis of the screw extends in the horizontal direction parallel to the y-axis, and the lead screws 163a, 163b, 164a, and 164b are configured to convert horizontal rotary motion into horizontal linear motion. More specifically, the lead screws 163a, 163b, 164a, and 164b are arranged in pairs, 163a and 164a, and 163b and 164b, at both ends of the carriage 160 in the transport direction. The threads of each pair of lead screws 163a, 164a, and 163b, 164b are collinear and rotate together along the same longitudinal axis.

[0092] Each end of the transfer arm 110 is mounted to the carriage 160 by a nut on a corresponding lead screw 163a, 163b, 164a, 164b. As the lead screws 163a, 163b, 164a, 164b rotate, the nuts advance along the longitudinal axes of the lead screws 163a, 163b, 164a, 164b (i.e., advance laterally), causing the transfer arm 110 to move laterally relative to the carriage 160.

[0093] The two screws in each pair of lead screws 163a, 164a and 163b, 164b are collinear. However, the lead screws have opposite or opposite threads. That is, one lead screw in each pair of lead screws 163a, 164a and 163b, 164b is a left-hand thread and the other is a right-hand thread. Thus, when the screws in each pair of lead screws 163a, 164a and 163b, 164b rotate, the nuts move in opposite directions. Thus, rotating the screws closes or opens the nuts and the attached transfer arm 110, i.e., moves them toward or away from each other along the lateral direction. The position of the nuts of the lead screws 163a, 163b, 164a, 164b relative to the carriage is fixed in the conveying direction. Thus, each transfer arm 110 and each container fixed between them moves in the conveying direction together with the carriage 160.

[0094] The longitudinal screw in each of leadscrews 163a, 164a and 163b, 164b has a diameter of 20 mm and a lead of 90 mm. This long lead (axial advance of the threads during a 360 degree rotation) compared to the screw diameter allows relatively small rotations of the screws in leadscrews 163a, 164a and 163b, 164b to be translated into large movements of the transfer arm 110.

[0095] It will be appreciated that there are various alternatives to the lead screws 163a, 163b, 164a, 164b. For example, the lead screws 163a, 163b, 164a, 164b may be replaced with alternative mechanisms configured to convert rotational motion to linear motion, such as ball screws, rotor screws, and / or rack and pinion type gears. In yet another example, the lead screws 163a, 163b, 164a, 164b, as described above, in which the screw is laterally fixed and the nut (and connected transfer arm) moves laterally, may be replaced with lead screws in which the screw moves laterally and the nut is fixed relative to the carriage. In a further example, one movable transfer arm may be attached to a lead screw at either end and move laterally, while the other transfer arm may be mounted (i.e., attached) to the carriage and fixed such that it cannot move laterally relative to the carriage. It will be appreciated that in this last method, the movable transfer arm can be manipulated toward or away from the fixed transfer arm to close or open the transfer arm to secure or release each container.

[0096] The transfer arm 110 and carriage 160 are driven by a motor 120 (e.g., an electric motor). Motion is transmitted from this single motor 120 to the carriage 160 by a drive belt 140. A gearbox 130 is provided between the motor 120 and the drive belt 140 (although in alternative embodiments a gearbox may not be required).

[0097] In this manner, movement of the transfer arm 110 in both the lateral and transport directions is driven by a single motor 120. The motor 120 provides a rotational force (torque) about one axis. This rotational force is converted into linear motion by a drive belt 140 that extends in a single plane (the xy plane, which extends parallel to the transfer direction as shown). Similarly, the linear motion of the drive belt 140 is mechanically converted by the carriage mechanism into movement of the transfer arm 110 in both the lateral and transport directions. This simple method eliminates the need for multiple motors (which can be expensive and heavy) and / or electrical, pneumatic or hydraulic actuators and their associated control means.

[0098] The drive belt 140 extends endlessly around a number of rollers, including a belt drive roller 151 that transfers motion from the motor 120 and gearbox 130 to the drive belt 140, a pair of lead screw drive rollers 152 mounted on a carriage 160 that transfer rotation from the drive belt 140 to the long screw pairs of lead screws 163a and 164a, and 163b and 164b, four free-rotating carriage rollers 153 mounted on a carriage and free to rotate, and a distal roller 154 at the end of the device 100 that is free to rotate. The drive belt 140 extends generally in the transport direction and along a plane that is perpendicular to the lateral direction and defined by the transport direction and the vertical direction (the Z direction as shown). Although Figures 1 and 2 show a particular arrangement of rollers, it will be understood that a wide variety of roller arrangements are possible without departing from the core objective of the invention.

[0099] The drive belt 140 comprises two shuttles 141, 142 which transmit the movement in the transport direction from the drive belt 140 to the carriage 160. These shuttles are separated along the length of the drive belt 140 and are an upstream shuttle 141 and a downstream shuttle 142. Furthermore, the shuttles 141, 142 restrict the movement of the carriage 160 in the transport direction. The shuttles 141, 142 are free to move between two shuttle stops 165, 166 on the carriage. More specifically, the upstream shuttle 141 and the downstream shuttle 142 are configured to contact the upstream shuttle stop 165 and the downstream shuttle stop 166 on the carriage, respectively, such that when the drive belt 140 is driven by a motor, the carriage 160 (and the attached transport arm 110 and the container fixed therebetween) is driven in the transport direction. Thus, the shuttles 141, 142 and shuttle stops 165, 166 together define the limits of travel of the carriage 160 and attached transfer arm 110 relative to the drive belt 140. In Figure 1, the upstream shuttle 141 can be seen abutting the upstream shuttle stop 165.

[0100] Drive belt 140 further includes a tensioner 143 that allows the tension of drive belt 140 to be adjusted (e.g., to accommodate stretching of the drive belt over time during use and / or to prevent over-tensioning of the drive belt). For example, the tensioner may be a spring-type tensioner or may include a ratchet mechanism. A particularly preferred tensioner is described below with reference to Figures 11a and 11b.

[0101] As can be seen in FIG. 1, the motor 120, the gearbox 130, the drive roller 151, the distal roller 154, and most of the drive belt 140 are located below the transfer arm 110. In particular, the center of mass of each of these components is below the center of mass of the transfer arm 110. Thus, the container path along which the device 100 conveys containers extends above (i.e., on) most of the motor 120, the gearbox 130, the drive roller 151, the distal roller 154, and the drive belt 140. In this way, the center of gravity of the device 100 is quite low due to the large mass of the motor 120 and the gearbox 130. As a result, the dynamic stability of the device 100 is improved and the device remains stable even at high speeds. Furthermore, good access and visibility to the transfer arm 110 and any containers within the device 100 is provided. This simplifies cleaning, inspection, and maintenance operations.

[0102] The motor 120, gearbox 130 and drive belt 140 of the container transfer apparatus are laterally offset from the carriage 160 and transfer arm 110. That is, the motor 120, gearbox 130 and drive belt 140 are laterally offset from the path along which containers are transported by the apparatus 100. This improves access to the motor 120, gearbox 130 and drive belt 140, simplifying cleaning, inspection and maintenance.

[0103] The arrangement of rails 170, 190 further simplifies cleaning, inspection, and maintenance. Lower rail 170 is located below transfer arm 110. Thus, the container path along which apparatus 100 transports each container extends above (i.e., on) lower rail 170, allowing an operator or technician to easily view and access any container within transfer arm 110 or apparatus 100.

[0104] Also shown in Figure 1 are second latch mechanisms 181, 182 which prevent lateral movement of the transfer arms 110 relative to one another as the transfer arms 110 are moved in the transfer direction. In particular, the second latch mechanisms 181, 182 prevent the transfer arm 110 from moving laterally when the carriage 160 reaches the end of its travel and is decelerated. The operation of the second latch mechanisms 181, 182 is described in more detail below with reference to Figures 6a and 6b.

[0105] The container transfer device 100 further includes first latch mechanisms, which are not shown in Fig. 1 but will be described later with reference to Figs. 5a and 5b. These first latch mechanisms prevent the carriage 160 and the transfer arm 110 from moving in the transfer direction when the transfer arm 110 is opened or closed.

[0106] In the container transfer device 100 shown in Figure 1, each transfer arm 110 is configured to move laterally such that the transfer arms 110 move toward and away from each other in unison, securing and releasing containers in between. However, this is not required and instead, one transfer arm may remain laterally stationary while the opposing transfer arm moves laterally to close and open a gap between the transfer arms. In such a configuration, the fixed transfer arm (i.e., the transfer arm that is fixed laterally) may be considered the "slave" arm and the movable transfer arm (i.e., the transfer arm that can move laterally) may be considered the "master" arm.

[0107] Additionally, the container transfer device 100 shown in Figure 1 includes rails 170, 190 that are fixed in position and along which the carriage 160 moves in the transfer direction, although it will be appreciated that this is not required and in further examples the carriage may be fixed relative to a moveable rail or shaft that is reciprocated by a motor.

[0108] Additionally, further container transfer devices may comprise alternative configurations of transfer arms, for example devices with three or four transfer arms that can be opened and closed in unison.

[0109] A method of operating the container transfer device 100 will now be described with reference to Figure 1 and Figures 2a-2d. Figures 2a-2d each show the container transfer device 100 of Figure 1. This device 100 comprises all the features described above with reference to Figure 1, but for the sake of clarity, the reference symbols have been simplified in these figures. For the sake of clarity, these figures also omit the container.

[0110] In a first step, the device 100 is provided in the configuration shown in Figure 1. The transfer arms 110 are spaced apart and in an open configuration. The carriage 160 is in an initial upstream position in the transport direction, as can be seen in Figure 1, where the carriage is located closer to the motor 120 and belt drive roller 151 than the distal roller 154. In this position, the device 100 can receive each container (e.g., from a conveyor) that is located between the transfer arms 110.

[0111] The transfer arms 110 are then closed laterally (parallel to the y-axis) to clamp one or more containers located between them. The layout of the apparatus 100 after this process is shown in Figure 2a. This transfer movement is performed while the carriage 160 is stationary. To operate the transfer arms 110 in this manner, the motor 120 drives the drive belt 140 (via the gearbox 130 and the belt drive rollers 151) in a clockwise direction. This movement of the drive belt 140 is indicated by the dashed arrows in Figure 2a.

[0112] As drive belt 140 moves clockwise, lead screw drive roller 152 also rotates clockwise about an axis parallel to the lateral direction, as indicated by arrow R. Lead screw drive roller 152 transmits this rotation to the threads of lead screws 163a, 163b, 164a, and 164b.

[0113] When the threads of the lead screws 163a, 163b, 164a, 164b rotate, the nuts of the lead screws 163a, 163b, 164a, 164b move linearly in the lateral direction as shown by the arrow N. Thus, the transfer arms 110, which are fixed to the nuts of the lead screws 163a, 163b, 164a, 164b, move laterally toward each other as shown by the arrow G. In this manner, the transfer arms 110 are closed relative to each other. In the closed state, the transfer arm 110 and its transfer protrusion 11 contact and engage a container therebetween, gripping the container and limiting the movement of the container at least in the transfer direction (x-direction) relative to the transfer arm 110 and the carriage 160.

[0114] While the transfer arms 110 move towards each other (i.e., close), the carriage 160 remains stationary. However, the shuttles 141, 142 are attached (i.e., mounted) to the drive belt 140 and are therefore free to move relative to the carriage 160. The apparatus 100 is arranged such that the shuttles 141, 142 are free to move within the carriage 160 when the transfer arms are closed. Thus, the shuttle arms do not transmit any motion to the carriage 160. This motion of the shuttles is illustrated by the arrow S in Figure 2a. Specifically, when the drive belt 140 is driven by the motor 120, the shuttles 141, 142 move in the transport direction.

[0115] 1 and 2a, the shuttles 141, 142 move from a position where the upstream shuttle 141 is adjacent the upstream shuttle stop 165 to a position where the downstream shuttle 142 is adjacent the downstream shuttle stop 166. Thus, further clockwise movement of the drive belt 140 does not cause the transfer arms to close further, but instead forces the downstream shuttle 142 against the downstream shuttle stop 166, propelling the carriage 160 in the transfer direction.

[0116] Once a container (not shown) is secured by the transfer arm 110, the carriage 160, transfer arm 110 and secured container move in the transport direction (parallel to the x-axis). A subsequent configuration of the apparatus 100 with the carriage 160 in the downstream position and the transfer arm 110 still in the closed state is shown in Figure 2b. The transfer arms 110 remain laterally close together in the closed state as they move in the transport direction.

[0117] As shown in Figure 2b, motor 120 continues to operate to drive drive belt 140 in a clockwise direction, thereby moving carriage 160 and transfer arm 110 in the transfer direction. Again, motion from motor 120 is transferred to drive belt 140 via gearbox 130 and belt drive rollers 154. This movement of drive belt 140 is illustrated by the dashed arrows in Figure 2b.

[0118] The carriage 160 is driven linearly by the downstream shuttle 142 on the drive belt 140 along upper and lower rails 170, 190 that extend in the transport direction. As the drive belt 140 is driven clockwise by the downstream shuttle 142, the downstream shuttle 142 contacts the downstream shuttle stop 166, driving the carriage 160, the transfer arm 110, and any containers gripped by the device 100 towards the distal roller 154. This movement of the carriage 160 is shown by arrow C in Figure 2b, while the movement of the shuttle is shown by arrow S'. Between Figures 2a and 2b, the shuttle 142 and carriage 160 can be seen moving together.

[0119] It will be appreciated that during this process, drive belt 140 remains substantially stationary relative to carriage 160, and that (for example) lead screw drive roller 152 is not significantly rotated by drive belt 140 as carriage 160 moves in the transport direction. This can be seen pictorially by comparing the dashed arrows shown in the cross section of drive belt 140 between carriage roller 153 and lead screw drive roller 152 in Figure 2a (showing the relative movement of drive belt 140 and lead screw drive roller 152 when transfer arm 110 is closed) with the absence of such dashed arrows in Figure 2b (where drive belt 140 and carriage 160 move together and are substantially stationary relative to each other).

[0120] With the carriage 160 in a downstream position adjacent the distal roller 154, the device 100 can eject the transferred container by opening the transfer arm 110. The open transfer arm 110 is shown in Figure 2c.

[0121] To open the transfer arm 110, the motor 120 is actuated to drive the drive belt 140 in a counterclockwise direction (opposite the direction used to close the transfer arm 110). This movement of the drive belt 140 is also shown by the dashed arrows in Figure 2c. As the drive belt 140 moves counterclockwise, the lead screw drive roller 152 rotates counterclockwise about an axis parallel to the lateral direction, as shown by arrow R' in Figure 2c.

[0122] Therefore, each of the lead screws 163a, 163b, 164a, and 164b rotates counterclockwise, and each of the nuts of the lead screws 163a, 163b, 164a, and 164b is linearly driven in the opposite direction as shown in Fig. 2a. Specifically, each of the nuts of the lead screws 163a, 163b, 164a, and 164b and the transfer arm 110 attached to these nuts move away from each other along the lateral direction as shown by arrow N'. The container fixed between the transfer arms 110 is released as the transfer arms 110 and the transfer protrusions 111 are disengaged from each other.

[0123] As the transfer arms 110 move apart, the carriage 160 remains substantially stationary. Furthermore, during this process, the shuttles 141, 142 on the drive belt 140 move relative to the stationary carriage 160. As can be seen by comparing Figures 2b and 2c, the shuttles 141, 142 move from a position where the downstream shuttle 142 is adjacent the downstream shuttle stop 166 to a position where the upstream shuttle 141 is adjacent the upstream shuttle stop 165. This movement is also indicated by the arrow S" in Figure 2c. As a result, further counterclockwise movement of the drive belt 140 does not further open the transfer arms 110, but instead forces the upstream shuttle 141 against the upstream shuttle stop 165, driving the carriage 160 in a transfer direction away from the distal roller 154 towards the initial upstream position shown in Figures 1 and 2d.

[0124] The container released from the transfer arm 110 is ejected from the container transfer device 100 and transported. For example, the container may be discharged onto a discharge conveyor.

[0125] After securing, transferring and releasing the container, the apparatus 100 may be returned to the initial position shown in Figures 1 and 2d, or the process may be repeated, for example with additional containers.

[0126] To this end, it drives carriage 160 and each transfer arm 110 in the transport direction towards belt drive roller 151. Motor 120 continues to drive drive belt 140 counterclockwise such that carriage 160 (and attached transfer arm 110) is pushed in the transport direction by upstream shuttle 121 contacting upstream shuttle stop 165 of carriage 160. This movement of drive belt 140 is also illustrated by respective dashed arrows in Figure 2d. The movement of shuttles 141, 142 is illustrated by arrow S''' in Figure 2d, and the movement of the carriage is illustrated by arrow C'.

[0127] During this process, carriage 160 and shuttles 141, 142 move together. There is substantially no relative motion between drive belt 140 and leadscrew drive rollers 152. This is seen by the absence of dashed arrows in Figure 2d adjacent the portion of drive belt 140 between carriage roller 153 and leadscrew drive roller 152, which are freely rotating.

[0128] Once the carriage 160 and each transfer arm 110 reach an arrangement in an initial upstream position, the method may be repeated to transfer additional containers. As the method is repeated, it can be seen that the transfer arms reciprocate in both the lateral direction and the transfer direction, although the transfer arm movements in each direction alternate separately and are asynchronous. Moreover, the reciprocating movement of the transfer arm 110 is achieved using a single motor 120 that exerts a rotational force about a single axis and a drive belt 140 that extends along a single plane that is generally parallel to the transfer direction and generally perpendicular to the lateral direction. The motor 120 is configured to alternately drive the drive shaft clockwise and counterclockwise to drive (i.e. rotate) the drive belt 140 in the opposing direction.

[0129] It will be appreciated that such alternating, asynchronous movement of the transfer arm 110 is mechanically defined by the arrangement of the shuttles 141, 142 and shuttle stops 165, 166, and the movement of the nuts of the lead screws 163a, 163b, 164a, 164b. The relative positions of the shuttles 141, 142 and shuttle stops 165, 166, the thread angles and lengths of the lead screws 163a, 163b, 164a, 164b, and the diameter of the lead screw drive roller 152 are carefully selected so that the distance between the upstream shuttle stops 165, 166 and the downstream shuttle stop 165 minus the distance between the upstream shuttle 141 and the downstream shuttle 142, i.e., the distance traveled by the drive belt 140 and shuttles 141, 142 relative to the carriage 160, is substantially the same as the distance that the drive belt 140 must travel to drive the transfer arm 110 from the open position (shown in Figures 1, 2c, 2d) to the closed position (shown in Figures 2a, 2b) and vice versa. The distance that the drive belt 140 must travel to open or close the transfer arm 110 may be controlled by varying the thread angle of the leadscrews 163a, 163b, 164a, 164b, the distance that the nuts of the leadscrews 163a, 163b, 164a, 164b must travel, and / or the diameter of the leadscrew drive rollers 152. It will be appreciated that a variety of arrangements can be used to meet this requirement. Each container secured by the apparatus 100 will be transported the distance that the drive belt 140 travels minus the relative movement of the drive belt 140 and shuttle with respect to the carriage 160.

[0130] The above method provides a simple and robust mechanical approach to allow independent movement of each transfer arm 110 in the lateral and transfer directions while operating only a single motor 120. The above mechanism minimizes the control requirements of the apparatus 100. Additionally, the single motor makes the apparatus less expensive to manufacture and operate. Notwithstanding these advantages, the desired functionality of independently moving each transfer arm 110 in different directions can be achieved in other ways, for example, by actively controlling the movement of the transfer arms 110 (e.g., using actuators) during the transfer process.

[0131] In the method described above with reference to Figure 2, each container secured by the transfer arm 110 has been described as being gripped by the transfer arm 110. In this manner, the transfer arm 110 contacts or engages each container and applies a force to the container that limits relative movement between the container and the transfer arm 110. In this closed configuration, the transfer arms 110 are spaced apart by a distance equal to or less than the width of each container. However, this is not required and in a further example, the transfer arm 110 (and the transfer protrusions 111 described above) may surround or encircle the container in order to secure it, preventing relative movement in the lateral and transfer directions without applying significant lateral force to the container.

[0132] A system 200 incorporating the container transfer apparatus 100 of Figure 3 is shown in Figure 3. The system 200 transports containers, such as trays T, through the system 200 from an upstream opening 201a in an end panel 201 of the system 200 to a downstream opening 202a in an end panel 202 of the system 200 (i.e., along the x-direction as shown). The path of the trays T extends along a longitudinal transport direction (the x-direction).

[0133] Each tray T has an upward opening and an interior volume in which a product (e.g., food) can be provided. Each tray T has edges for handling and / or sealing the tray.

[0134] In FIG. 3, the transfer arms 110 of the container transfer device 100 are shown in a closed position, approaching each other in the lateral direction (y direction), with each tray T fixed therebetween.

[0135] In addition to the container transfer device 100, the system includes an input conveyor 210, an input conveyor 220, a tray sealer 230, and a discharge conveyor 240. The input conveyor, input conveyor, and discharge conveyor are belt conveyors, although other types of conveyors may be used instead. The input conveyor 210 receives trays T via an upstream opening 201a and transports the trays T to the input conveyor 220. The input conveyor 220 receives trays T from the input conveyor 210 and transports the trays T to the container transfer device 100 described above. The container transfer device 100 receives trays T from the input conveyor 220, transports the containers through the tray sealer 230, and releases the trays T onto the discharge conveyor 240. The discharge conveyor 240 discharges the trays from the system 200 via a downstream opening 202a.

[0136] The drive mechanisms of the container transfer device 100, the conveyors 210, 220, 240 and the lower tool part 230b are compactly arranged at the base of the system and are protected by respective covers 250. These covers 250 provide additional safety and prevent users from touching the mechanisms therein. The mass of the system 200 is carried by supports 260.

[0137] Tray sealer 230 is an example of a container processing device that modifies trays T (or other containers) by heat sealing them, thus closing openings in trays T to create a waterproof and / or airtight seal.

[0138] The tray sealer 230 comprises a heat sealing tool. The heat sealing tool comprises an upper tool part 230a and a lower tool part 230b. The upper tool part 230a comprises a heating element or plate that forms a contour, and the lower tool part 230b comprises a surface that receives each tray T to be sealed from the container transfer device 100. When sealing the tray T, the lower tool part 230b and the upper tool part 230a sandwich a heat sealable film between the tray (or trays) T and the upper tool part 230a, and the upper tool part 230a engages the heat sealable film with an edge of each tray T. The upper tool part 230a is then heated, bonding the film to the edge (or edges) of the tray (or trays) T. A seal is provided around the edge of each tray T, closing the upward opening of each tray T. The upper and lower tool parts 230a, 230b are then separated and the sealed tray (or trays) T is removed from the tray sealer 230 by the container transfer apparatus 100 and discharged onto a discharge conveyor 240.

[0139] Trays T (or other containers) received by system 200 may be pre-filled with product (e.g., food) and sealed by tray sealer 230 before being packaged or boxed (e.g., for storage, distribution, and / or sale).

[0140] In the system 200 of Figure 3, the lower tool part 230a is movable and is configured to rise to engage and seal with the upper tool part 230b with each tray T placed thereon. For example, the lower tool part 230a may be raised and lowered by a motor or a piston-based actuator such as a hydraulic or pneumatic ram, although this is not required. Alternatively, the upper tool part 230a may be movable and configured to lower to engage the tray below.

[0141] The lower tool part 230b is further lowered relative to the container transfer device 100 before the tray T is transferred in the transfer direction (x-direction) by the container transfer device 100. After the tray T is secured by the transfer arm 110 of the container transfer device 100, the lower tool part 230b is lowered so that the tray T is supported by the transfer arm 110 of the device 100 above the lower tool part 230b. Each tray T is then transferred in the transfer direction by the container transfer device 100 without contacting the lower tool part 230b in the lowered position. In other words, each tray T is transferred in a plane above and transverse to the lower tool part 230b in the lowered position. The lower tool part 230b can then be raised to support a batch of trays thereon, and each tray T is released and sealed on the lower tool part 230b by the transfer arm 110 of the container transfer device 100.

[0142] This method significantly reduces the occurrence of spillage and damage to the contents that is common when moving open containers at high speeds. In other cases, containers may be dragged or pushed through gaps or interfaces with adjacent machinery (such as conveyors or tray sealers). As the container passes through such gaps, significant forces are exerted on the container. These forces can cause damage to the container and its contents, or cause the contents to leak or spill from the container.

[0143] By lowering the lower tool part 230a relative to the container transfer apparatus 100 so that each tray T is suspended above the lower tool part 230a, the trays T can be transferred to and from the lower tool part 230a without contacting the lower tool part 230a. This significantly reduces the forces on the container contents compared to systems in which containers are dragged or pushed between different machines. This significantly reduces the risk of containers spilling or being damaged.

[0144] Tray T (or other container) may be supported by a gripping force applied by transfer arm 110 and / or by a protrusion, such as a lip, extending outwardly from tray T.

[0145] Preferably, the container supporting surfaces of the input conveyor 220 and / or discharge conveyor 240 are also movable so as to lower relative to the container transfer apparatus 100 before each tray T is conveyed in the transport direction in a manner similar to the lower tool portion 230b of the tray sealer 230. For example, the input conveyor 220 and / or discharge conveyor 240 may be raised and lowered using a motor or piston.

[0146] In such an example, after the tray T is supported by the transfer arm 110 of the container transfer device 100, the container support surface of the input conveyor 220 and / or the discharge conveyor 240 is lowered so that the tray T is supported above the container support surface of the conveyors 220, 240. The tray T is then conveyed in the transfer direction without contacting the underlying machinery, reducing the forces on the tray T and its contents. In fact, the ability to raise and lower the container support surface of the input conveyor 220 provides more advantages compared to the discharge conveyor 240, since the tray T is not sealed on the input conveyor 220. On the other hand, the tray T transferred to the discharge conveyor 240 is already sealed by the tray sealer 230, so there is less chance of spillage.

[0147] By "lowering" and "raising" it is understood that the lower tool part 230b and the container supporting surfaces of the input conveyor 220 and / or discharge conveyor 240 move downwards and upwards at least in a vertical direction (z-axis as shown) i.e., the input conveyor and platen container supporting surfaces move from a raised position to a lowered position during lowering and from a lowered position to a raised position during raising.

[0148] As described above, the container transfer apparatus 100 simultaneously transports two batches of containers (trays T) that are consecutive in the transfer direction. Thus, in operation of the system 200 shown in Figure 3, the container transfer apparatus 100 simultaneously transfers an upstream batch of trays T from the input conveyor 210 to the tray sealer 230 for sealing, and transfers a downstream batch of sealed trays T from the tray sealer 230 to the discharge conveyor 240.

[0149] Thus, the input conveyor 220 defines an input position where containers (e.g., trays T) are initially received and secured by the container transfer apparatus 100, the tray sealer 230 defines an intermediate position where the containers are processed (e.g., sealed), and the output conveyor 240 defines a output position where the containers are output from the container transfer apparatus 100 and the containers are transported away from the container transfer apparatus 100.

[0150] In the alternative, the tray sealer 230 may be replaced with alternative container processing equipment, such as a filler, a sealer (such as a tray sealer), a labeler, a printer, a batcher, a box maker, an inspection device (such as a camera or x-ray inspection device), or other equipment suitable for inspecting or altering the contents of the container. Alternatively, the containers may be processed manually.

[0151] The process for operating the system 200 will now be described in more detail with reference to Figures 4a to 4d. The arrangement of the container transfer apparatus 100 and the operation of each component of the apparatus 100 of Figures 4a to 4d correspond to the respective arrangements and operations shown in Figures 2a to 2d and described above with reference to Figures 2a to 2d.

[0152] In Figure 4a, a first batch B1 of trays T is positioned in the tray sealer 230. A second batch B2 of trays T is on the input conveyor 220. Each batch B1, B2 consists of three trays T. The opposing transfer arms 110 of the container transfer device 100 are in an open configuration and separated from each other with a tray T between them.

[0153] In this arrangement, the tray sealer 230 is operated to seal the first batch B1 of trays T downstream, for example by raising the lower tool portion of the tray sealer so that the trays of the first batch B1 engage and are sealed against the upper tool portion.

[0154] The transfer arms 110 are then closed and moved laterally (y direction as shown) towards each other. The transfer arms 110 thus secure the trays T of the first batch B1 and the second batch B2, as shown in Fig. 4b, limiting or preventing relative movement between these trays and the transfer arms 110. The downstream transfer section 113 of the transfer arms 110 secures the downstream first batch B1 in the tray sealer 230, while the upstream transfer section 112 secures the upstream second batch B1.

[0155] Optionally, the lower tool portion 230b of the tray sealer 230, the container support surface of the input conveyor 220 and / or the container support surface of the discharge conveyor 240 are lowered so that the tray T secured by the transfer arm 110 is supported above these components.

[0156] Next, the transfer arm 110 is moved along a transfer direction (x direction) extending from the input conveyor 220 towards the discharge conveyor 240, so that the first downstream batch B1 is transferred from the tray sealer 230 to the discharge conveyor 240, and at the same time the second upstream batch B2 is transferred from the input conveyor 220 to the tray sealer 230. This results in the arrangement shown in Figure 4c.

[0157] If previously lowered, the lower tool portion 230b of the tray sealer 230, the container supporting surface of the input conveyor 220 and / or the container supporting surface of the output conveyor 240 are raised to support each batch above.

[0158] The clamped trays T of the first batch B1 and the second batch B2 are released by opening the transfer arm 110 and moving it laterally away. This is shown in Figure 4d, where the clamped arm 110 is clear of the trays T therebetween. Thus, the clamped arm 110 moves back and forth laterally (y direction) to clamp and release the trays T.

[0159] After releasing the batches B1, B2 of trays T, the first batch B1 of downstream sealed trays T may be discharged from the system (e.g., for distribution or sale) using a discharge conveyor 240. The tray sealer 230 is operable to seal the second batch B2 of trays T upstream, as described above. This is an example of processing trays T in the tray sealer 230.

[0160] During this process, the trays T of the second upstream batch B2 are transferred to and released at the same positions within the tray sealer 230 where the trays T of the first downstream batch B1 were previously secured and transferred from. As can be seen in the figures, the transfer arm 110 moves in the transfer direction a distance of approximately half its length.

[0161] To repeat this process, the transfer arm 110 of the container transfer device 100 is returned to its initial position in the transfer direction and moves from adjacent the discharge conveyor 240 to adjacent the input conveyor 220. The system may then return to the configuration shown in Figure 4a to receive a further batch of trays T (e.g. from the input conveyor 210) on the input conveyor 220 and cyclically repeat the above process. For example, as shown in Figure 4d, a subsequent batch B3 of unlidded trays T to be transferred by the container transfer device 100 and sealed by the tray sealer 230 is received on the input conveyor 220.

[0162] The return of the transfer arm 110 to its initial position is preferably coincident with the sealing of a tray T in the tray sealer 230 and / or the arrival of a subsequent batch of trays T on the input conveyor 210. This avoids downtime of the components in the system 200.

[0163] Three potential latching mechanisms suitable for use with the container transfer device 100 and system 200 described above will now be described with reference to Figures 5a and 5b, 6a and 6b, and 10a and 10b.

[0164] Figures 5a and 5b show an example of a first latch mechanism 190 configured to limit or prevent movement of the transfer arm in the transfer direction when the transfer arm is laterally opened or closed. Specifically, Figure 5a shows the mechanism in a first position in which movement of the transfer arm in the transfer direction is blocked, and Figure 5b shows the mechanism in a second position in which movement of the transfer arm is permitted.

[0165] The first latch mechanism 190 is shown in Figures 5a and 5b as part of the system 200 of Figures 3 and 4a-4d, although it will be appreciated that the first latch mechanism 190 may be incorporated into a variety of devices and systems and that a variety of alternative latch arrangements are possible.

[0166] As the operating speed of a container transfer apparatus, such as the apparatus 100 shown in FIG. 1 or the system 200 shown in FIG. 3, increases, the torque applied by the drive motor 120 increases. As a result, the torque applied to drive the leadscrews 163a, 163b, 162a, 164b becomes approximately the same as the torque required to move the carriage 160. This can cause the carriage 160 to move faster than intended, potentially causing the carriage 160 or transfer arm 110 to fail to catch up with or unintentionally contact the container. The first latch mechanism 190 prevents such an erroneous operation from occurring.

[0167] The first latch mechanism 190 comprises a carriage protrusion 191 attached to the upstream end of the carriage 160 and a tray sealer protrusion 231 attached to the lower tool part 230b of the tray sealer 230 shown in Figures 3 and 4a-4d. The carriage protrusion 191 extends from the carriage 160 towards the tray sealer 230, and the tray sealer protrusion 231 extends from the lower tool part 230b towards the carriage 160.

[0168] The tray sealer protrusion 231 contacts the carriage protrusion 191 to prevent the carriage 160 from moving in the transfer direction relative to the tray sealer 230 when the transfer arms 110 are closed (i.e., the transfer arms are moved together). The tray sealer protrusion 230 rises and falls together with the movable lower tool part 230b.

[0169] A comparable first latch mechanism may be provided at the downstream end of carriage 160 to prevent carriage 160 from moving in the transport direction when transfer arm 110 is opened (ie, moved apart).

[0170] Figure 5a shows the lower tool part 230b in a neutral position, the position when a container on the lower tool part 230b is secured by the transfer arm 110, or when a container is released onto the lower tool part 230b by the transfer arm 110. In this position, when the transfer arm 110 is opened or closed, the traysealer projection 231 is aligned adjacent to the carriage projection 191, preventing movement of the carriage 160 in the transport direction (parallel to the x-axis as shown).

[0171] Figure 5a, on the other hand, shows the lower tool part 230b in a lowered position. With the lower tool part 230b lowered, containers can be transferred to and from the tray sealer 230 without contacting the lower tool part 230b, reducing forces on the container and its contents. This movement causes the tray sealer projections 231 to lower (as shown by arrow L in Figure 5b), misaligning the tray sealer projections 231 with the carriage projections 191 and allowing the carriage 160 to move in the transport direction (parallel to the x-axis as shown).

[0172] Similarly, when the lower tool part 230b is raised from the neutral position shown in Figure 5b (e.g. to seal a container between the tray sealer upper and lower tool parts 230a and 230b and the tray sealer projection 231), the tray sealer projection 231 is raised out of alignment with the carriage projection 191. In such an arrangement, the carriage 160 is also free to move in the transport direction.

[0173] In this manner, the first latch mechanism 190 is actuated by movement of the lower tool part 230b, conveniently utilizing existing motion within the system. However, it will be appreciated that the first latch mechanism may be implemented in a variety of alternative ways. For example, the tray sealer protrusion 231 may be replaced by an actuator that is controlled to raise and / or lower in the same manner as the lower tool part 230b described above.

[0174] Figures 6a and 6b are detailed views of the second latch mechanism 181 located at the upstream end of the carriage 160 shown in Figure 1. Figure 6a shows the inside of the carriage 160 and Figure 6b shows the outside of the carriage 160.

[0175] This second latch mechanism 181 is suitable for limiting the movement of the upstream shuttle 141 on the drive belt 140 relative to the carriage 160 of the container transfer device 100 when the carriage 160 is decelerated at the end of the traverse in the transport direction to its initial upstream position (movement between Figures 2c and 2d). The illustrated second latch mechanism 181 is identical to the mechanism 182 shown at the downstream end of the carriage 151 in Figure 1 and serves to prevent movement of the downstream shuttle 142 relative to the carriage 160 when the carriage 160 is decelerated to the downstream position shown in Figure 2b.

[0176] The second latching mechanisms 181, 182 are beneficial because, to achieve higher processing speeds, the carriage 160 is actively slowed down at the end of its traverse by tensioning the drive belt 140 using the motor 120. Particularly at higher speeds, the torque required to sufficiently slow the carriage 160 is similar to the torque required to rotate the lead screw drive roller 152. If the lead screw drive roller 152 were to be rotated rather than slowing the carriage 160, the transfer arm could move laterally (potentially releasing or closing the container too early) and the carriage 160 could overrun its intended end position or unintentionally strike the drive roller 151 or distal roller 154.

[0177] To prevent this, the second latch mechanisms 181, 182 ensure that the shuttles 141, 142 and drive belt 140 remain in the same position relative to the carriage 160 as the carriage 160 decelerates, preventing the drive belt 140 from rotating their respective lead screw drive rollers 152 and from moving laterally relative to the transfer arm 110 as it moves in the transfer direction.

[0178] As can be seen in Figure 6a, mechanism 181 comprises a hooked latch 183 (i.e. a hooked lever arm) having a shuttle retaining projection 184 at its distal end adapted to engage shuttle 141 to prevent movement of shuttle 141 relative to carriage 160. Hooked latch 183 is free to rotate about pivot 185, via which it connects to a weighted arm 186 (shown in Figure 6b) which has a cylindrical weight 186a at its distal end.

[0179] When carriage 160 is stationary, gravity causes weighted arm 186 to hang down in a generally vertical direction, as shown in Figure 6b. As a result, hooked latch 183 is in a raised position and hooked latch 183 and its shuttle retaining portion 184 do not engage shuttle 141, as shown in Figure 6a. Thus, in this arrangement, shuttle 141 and drive belt 140 are free to move relative to carriage 160. Drive belt 140 can therefore drive lead screw drive roller 152 when carriage 160 is stationary.

[0180] On the other hand, when carriage 160 decelerates, the deceleration force applied to carriage 160 causes weighted arm 186 to swing forward in the direction of travel and rotate about pivot 185. This rotation is indicated by arrow A1 in FIG. 6b. As weighted arm 186 rotates about pivot 185, hook latch 183 rotates (as indicated by arrow A2 in FIG. 4a) and shuttle retainer 184 engages shuttle 141, restricting movement of shuttle 141. Thus, during deceleration, movement of shuttle 141 relative to carriage 160 is restricted.

[0181] This second mechanical latch mechanism 181, 182 provides a simple and reliable means for preventing lateral movement of the transfer arm 110 of the container transfer device 100 as it conveys containers in the transfer direction, although it will be appreciated that a variety of alternative approaches can be used to achieve this effect, including the use of active control systems such as actuated latches.

[0182] In this manner, the second latch mechanism 181 selectively prevents relative movement between the upstream shuttle 141 and the carriage 160 in response to the acceleration of the carriage 160. The second latch mechanism 181 is mechanical and does not require a control means.

[0183] The third latch mechanism 281 shown in Figures 10a and 10b provides an alternative to the second latch mechanisms 181, 182 shown in Figures 1, 2 and 6. For clarity, the transfer arm 110 has been omitted from Figures 10a and 10b, but is coupled to a fixed point 167 on the carriage 160.

[0184] This third latch mechanism 281 is also suitable for limiting the movement of the upstream shuttle 141 on the drive belt 140 relative to the carriage 160 of the container transfer device 100 when the carriage 160 is decelerated at the end of the traverse in the transport direction to its initial upstream position (movement between Figures 2c and 2d). Similarly, a substantially identical third latch mechanism may be provided on the upstream side of the carriage 160 to prevent movement of the upstream shuttle 142 relative to the carriage 160 when the carriage is decelerated to its downstream position (e.g. as shown in Figure 2b).

[0185] The third latch mechanism 281 selectively prevents relative movement between the upstream shuttle 141 and the carriage 160 depending on the position of the carriage 160. Thus, the third latch mechanism 281 prevents unintended lateral movement of the transfer arm 110 when the transfer arm 110 is moving in the transfer direction. Like the second latch mechanism 181, the third latch mechanism 281 is mechanical and does not require a control means.

[0186] The third latch mechanism 281 comprises a hooked lever arm 283 (i.e., a hooked latch) which is similar to the corresponding hooked lever arm 183 of the second latch mechanism 181 shown in Figure 6a. This hooked lever arm 283 is partially hidden by other components in Figures 10a and 10b and is shown partially in dashed lines in those figures. The hooked lever arm 283 can also be seen in the underside views shown in Figures 11a and 11b.

[0187] A hooked lever arm 283 is mounted to the carriage 160 and is rotatable about a pivot 285. The hooked lever arm includes a hooked shuttle retaining portion 284 configured to engage the upstream shuttle 141 to prevent relative movement between the shuttle 141 and the carriage 160. Rotating the hooked lever arm 283 closes the hook portion 284 and lifts it off the upstream shuttle. Thus, rotation of the hooked lever arm 283 opens and closes the third latch mechanism 283, which can selectively retain and release the upstream shuttle 140.

[0188] The third latch mechanism 281 further comprises a rotating plate 287 attached to a hooked lever arm 283 by a pivot 285 and to the carriage by a hooked spring 288. The rotating plate 287 and hooked lever arm 283 rotate between a closed configuration in which the hooked lever arm 283 secures the shuttle 140 (as shown in Figure 10a) and an open position in which the hooked lever arm 283 is lifted to release the shuttle 140 (as shown in Figure 10b).

[0189] A hooked spring 288 acts on the pivot plate 287 to bias the hooked lever arm 283 and the latch mechanism 283 to a closed position when the carriage 160 is away from the initial upstream position (as shown in FIG. 10a). In FIGS. 10a and 10b, the hooked spring 288 is partially obscured by other components of the carriage 160 and is shown in dashed lines in the obscured area.

[0190] The rotating plate 287 contacts and is rotated by the fixed plate catch 289 when the carriage 160 is in the initial upstream position. The contact between the plate catch 289 and the rotating plate 287 rotates the rotating plate 287 and the hooked lever arm 283 to the open position. The hooked lever arm 283 is lifted, releasing the shuttle 140. Thus, the plate catch 289 is positioned in a fixed position such that it contacts the rotating plate 287 when the carriage 160 is in the upstream position.

[0191] The plate stopper 289 may be rigid, but in the preferred embodiment shown in Figs. 10a and 10b, it comprises a spring-loaded plunger 289a. When the carriage 160 reaches the upstream position, the spring-loaded plunger 289a is compressed, but the internal spring acts to resist this compression. The spring-loaded plunger 289a thus distributes (i.e., damps) the force between the rotating plate 287 and the plate stopper 289. Thus, the force between the carriage 160 and the stationary components of the device 100 is also damped. This reduces wear on the device 100 and also reduces noise during operation of the device. Furthermore, the spring-loaded plunger 289a accommodates a larger change in the position of the rotating plate 287. Thus, a wider range of manufacturing tolerances is obtained, simplifying the manufacture and installation of the device 100. Additionally, the spring in the spring loaded piston 289a of the plate retainer 289 must be stiffer than the hook spring 288 configured to bias the third latch mechanism to the closed position to retain the shuttle 141, prevent movement between the carriage 160 and the drive belt 140, and prevent lateral movement of the transfer arm 110.

[0192] 10a and 10b further show an optional upstream carriage stop 290 configured to contact the carriage 160 when the carriage 160 is in the upstream position and prevent further movement of the carriage 160 in the x-axis direction upstream beyond this position. Optionally, the carriage stop 290 includes a compressible buffer 291. The compressible buffer 291 may be made of a soft, resilient material such as rubber, silicone, or other polymers. The compressible buffer 291 absorbs and distributes forces between the carriage 160 and the carriage stop 290, thereby reducing noise and wear. Further carriage stops may be located downstream of the carriage. Thus, the movement of the carriage 160 and the transfer arm 110 in the transfer direction may be defined by the position of these carriage stops. Also shown in FIGS. 10a and 10b are the lower rail 170 on which the carriage moves and the wheels 171 on which the carriage 160 rolls.

[0193] The operation of the second latch mechanism 283 can be understood by comparing the respective arrangements shown in Figures 10a and 10b.

[0194] Figure 10a shows carriage 160 on its way back to its initial upstream position as shown in Figure 2a. This movement is indicated by arrow C' along the x-axis (similar to the movement shown in Figure 2d). To move carriage 160, drive belt 140 is moving counterclockwise, but is slowing down as carriage 160 approaches carriage stop 290.

[0195] During deceleration, the third latch mechanism 283 is in a closed configuration under the biasing action of the spring 288. In this configuration, the hooked lever arm 283 lowers to prevent movement of the upstream shuttle 141 relative to the moving carriage 160. Thus, movement of the drive belt 140 and premature movement of the transfer arm 110 relative to the carriage 160 is prevented while the carriage 160 is decelerating.

[0196] When the carriage 160 reaches the limit of its range of travel in the upstream position, the carriage body contacts the carriage stop 290. At the same time, the pivot plate 287 contacts the plate stop 289. The pivot plate 287 and the hooked lever arm 283 rotate about the pivot 285 and the third latch mechanism 281 is in the open configuration. The movement of the pivot plate 287 is shown by arrow B1. The movement of the hooked lever arm 283 is shown by arrow B2. In this open configuration, the upstream shuttle 141 is released.

[0197] After the upstream shuttle 141 is released, the drive belt 140 and shuttle 141 can move relative to the carriage 140. The drive belt 140 is actuated to move clockwise. This action rotates the lead screws 163a, 163b, 164a, 164b, which closes the transfer arm 110 (not shown in Figures 10a and 10b).

[0198] From the above, it will be appreciated that the second and third latch mechanisms have a similar purpose, namely, to selectively prevent relative movement between the drive belt 140 and the carriage 160 based on the acceleration and / or position of the carriage 160, particularly when the carriage is decelerating. As discussed above, relative movement between the drive belt 140 and the carriage 160 during movement of the carriage 160 can cause the leadscrews 163a, 163b, 164a, 164b to unintentionally rotate and the transfer arm 110 to unintentionally open or close.

[0199] The second and third latch mechanisms 181, 281 are entirely mechanical assemblies and do not require active control. Thus, no electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic (or other) actuators are required, and no associated control systems are required. This simplifies manufacture, reduces operational costs, and reduces the complexity of the control system required.

[0200] However, other suitable types of locking mechanisms may be used to prevent relative movement between the carriage 160 and the drive belt 140 while the carriage 160 is moving between the upstream and downstream positions. These mechanisms may be actuated by electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic actuators, or other suitable means. For example, the carriage 160 may be provided with a mechanical brake that operates to close around the drive belt 140 and prevent movement between these components using friction. Such a brake may be controlled to engage when the carriage 160 is moving. Alternatively, the hooked lever arm (hooked latch) 183, 283 may be actively controlled by an actuator to rotate and open or close the mechanism.

[0201] An exemplary tensioning device 300 will now be described with reference to Figures 11a and 11b. The tensioning device 300 may be used to quickly and accurately achieve the correct tension in the drive belt 140 without the need for complex training or equipment.

[0202] In the embodiment shown in these figures, the endless drive belt 140 is formed from a belt having two ends 140a, 140b that are connected (i.e. joined) by a tensioning device 300. The tensioning device 300 is an assembly that includes an upstream shuttle 141, a tensioning block 310, and a connecting rod 320. During manufacture, a first end 140a of the drive belt 140 is attached to the shuttle 141 and a second end 140b of the drive belt 140 is attached to the tensioning block 310.

[0203] As shown, a strong bond between the shuttle 141 and tension block 310 and each end 140a, 140b of the drive belt can be obtained by forming grooves in the surface of the drive belt 140 that engage ridges 140c formed on the inside surface of the respective slots in the shuttle 140 and tension block 310. However, this method of attachment is not required and other placement means and devices (adhesives, fasteners, etc.) for connecting the belt and tensioning device can be used.

[0204] A connecting rod 320 extends between and connects the shuttle 141 and the tension block 310, joining the two ends 140a, 140b to form the endless drive belt 140. More specifically, the connecting rod 320 is adjustably attached to the shuttle 141 and the tension block 310 such that the distance between the shuttle 141 and the tension block 310 can be adjusted. By adjusting the distance between the shuttle 141 and the tension block 310, the length of the drive belt 140, and therefore the tension in the drive belt 140, can be varied.

[0205] Specifically, one end 321 of the connecting rod 320 has a threaded surface 321a, and by moving it into the threaded hole 141a of the shuttle 141, the distance between the shuttle 141 and the tension block 310 can be shortened. Thus, by moving the tension rod 320 into the shuttle 141, the length of the drive belt 140 is shortened and the tension in the drive belt 140 is increased.

[0206] The tension rod 310 is piston-shaped and has a radial projection 322a at its end 322 opposite the threaded surface 321. The diameter of this radial projection 322a is larger than the rest of the connecting rod 320. The connecting rod 320 extends into a hole 311 in the tension block 310, and the end 322 with the radial projection is received within a cavity 312 in the tension body 310. The diameter of the hole 311 in the tension block 310 is smaller than the radial projection 322a of the connecting rod 320, but larger than the rest of the connecting rod. Thus, the connecting rod 320 can move longitudinally through the hole 311 in the tension block 310, but cannot separate from the tension block 310 longitudinally (i.e., in the direction in which the connecting rod 320 extends).

[0207] A tension spring 340 is disposed within the cavity 311 of the tension block 310 between the radial projection 322a of the connecting rod 320 and the wall of the tension block in which the hole 312 is provided. The spring biases the connecting rod 320 away from the hole 312 of the tension block 310. The tension spring 340 thus acts to push the connecting rod 320 away from the tension block 310, thereby tensioning the drive belt 140 and acting to absorb vibrations and forces propagating along the drive belt 140 (thereby reducing noise and wear) and to accommodate a wider range of manufacturing tolerances.

[0208] The tension block 310 is formed with a through hole 314 and the connecting rod 320 is formed with a corresponding through hole 324 to provide the proper tension in the drive belt 140. The clamping bolt 330 can be inserted into the two through holes 314, 324 only if they are aligned. The clamping bolt may have a smooth outer surface or may have threads configured to engage with corresponding threads on the inner surface of the through holes 314, 324.

[0209] For example, Figure 11a illustrates an arrangement in which the drive belt 140 is insufficiently tensioned. In this arrangement, the drive belt 140 is too long and the through holes 314, 324 in the connecting rod 320 and tension block 310 are misaligned to allow for the insertion of the clamping bolt 330. However, once the connecting rod 320 is threaded into the shuttle 140 such that the through holes 314, 324 are aligned and the clamping bolt 330 is inserted, the length of the drive belt 140 can be shortened, thereby increasing the tension in the drive belt 140.

[0210] Thus, using the length and material of the drive belt 140, the location of the rollers 151, 152, 153, 154 around which the drive belt extends, the stiffness of the tension spring 340, and the dimensions of the tension adjustment device 310, including the positioning of the through holes 314, 324 of the connecting rod 320 and tension block 310, the designer of the container transfer device 100 can predetermine the configuration of the container transfer device 100 where the through holes 314, 324 will align at the appropriate drive belt 140 tension. It will be appreciated that by selecting these values, which determine the ratio between the length of the drive belt 140 and the length of the path through which the drive belt 140 extends, virtually any appropriate tension can be achieved. This ratio determines the extent to which the drive belt 140 needs to be installed, and therefore the tension in the belt. Thus, the designer can ensure that the drive belt 140 is always properly tensioned when installing the container transfer device 100, since the tightening bolt 330 can only be inserted in a single configuration with a single tension. This reduces the skill required to install the drive belt 140.

[0211] It will be appreciated that the tension adjustment device 300 shown in Figures 11a and 11b is a specific example suitable for use with the device 100 described above. However, various modifications and variations are possible that achieve similar effects. For example, in some cases, the tension spring 340 may not be required. Similarly, while the upstream shuttle 140 forms part of the adjustment device 300 assembly, this is not required. Alternatively, the upstream shuttle 140 could be located along the length of the drive belt 140, and another component could be located at the end of the belt, including a threaded hole 141a that receives the threaded surface of the connecting rod 320. Furthermore, in some cases, the connecting rod 320 may be permanently attached to the shuttle 140 and / or a component that replaces the shuttle.

[0212] Additionally, the tension adjustment device 300 shown in FIGS. 11a and 11b and described above is configured to allow the drive belt 140 to be installed at a single tension when installed on the container transfer device 100. However, this is not required. In some examples, the connecting rod 320 may have multiple through holes 324 and / or the tension block 310 may have multiple through holes 314. In such cases, the tension block and connecting rod may be secured together at a corresponding series of positions to provide various lengths of the drive belt 140. This allows the drive belt 140 to be installed at a series of discrete tensions, which may also be predefined by design. For example, in some embodiments, the tension adjustment device may allow the drive belt to be installed at 1 to 5 discrete tensions.

[0213] Similarly, alternative means of tensioning the drive belt 140 may be used. For example, a row of ratchets may be placed within the drive belt 140 to continuously vary the tension in the drive belt 140. Similarly, movable rollers may be provided that can be repositioned to affect the length of the path traveled by the drive belt 140, thereby varying the tension in the drive belt 140. Unlike the tension adjustment device 300 shown in Figures 11a and 11b, these options allow the tension in the drive belt 140 to be continuously adjusted after the device 100 has been designed and installed.

[0214] It will also be appreciated that any of the tension adjustment devices described above may be manufactured and supplied separately from the container transfer devices described herein.

[0215] Preferred arrangements of containers and transfer mechanisms, and methods of using the transfer mechanisms to secure and support the containers above an underlying surface, are specifically described below with reference to Figures 7a-7d, 8a-8d, and 9a-9d, which may be combined with any of the systems or methods described above.

[0216] Each figure is a schematic cross-sectional view of a container 40, 50, 60 on a movable container support surface 45, 55, 65 (e.g. a container support surface of a lower tool part or a conveyor as mentioned above). The containers 40, 50, 60 are, for example, containers enclosing an internal volume 40a, 50a, 60a for receiving a product (or products). The width of each container 40, 50, 60 (i.e. the dimension of the container 40, 50, 60 in the x-direction) increases from a bottom surface 41, 51, 61 (adjacent to the respective container support surface 45, 55, 65) to a free top surface 42, 52, 62 of the container 40, 50, 60. In particular, the container 40 of Figures 7a-4d is provided with a draft angle θ such that the side wall 43 of the container 43 is angled. The width of the container 40 therefore increases continuously from its bottom surface 41 to its top surface 42. Container 50 of Figures 8a-8d includes stepped sides with protrusions 53a extending outwardly from each sidewall 53 of container 50 and a lip 52a extending around the periphery of top surface 52 of container 50, such that the width of container 50 increases discontinuously along its height. Finally, container 60 of Figures 9a-9d includes a draft angle θ, such that sidewall 63 is angled relative to the base and lip 65 of container 60.

[0217] Thus, when the container support surface 45, 55, 65 is lowered by the method steps shown in each of the series of successive figures, each container is supported by a transfer arm of the container transfer mechanism and lifted from the underlying container support surface 45, 55, 65. The container transfer device comprises a transfer arm 46, 56, 66. In Fig. 4b, 5b and 6b, the transfer arm 46, 56, 66 is arranged on either side of the container 40, 50, 60 at a distance greater than the width of this portion of the container 40, 50, 60, so that the transfer arm 46, 56, 66 does not contact the container 40, 50, 60 but has a width less than the maximum width of the container 40, 50, 60. In this way the container 40, 50, 60 is fixed and its lateral movement relative to the transfer arm 46, 56, 66 is limited.

[0218] Thereafter, the container support surfaces 45, 55, 65 are lowered to bring the transfer arms 46, 56, 66 into contact with the containers 40, 50, 60, so that the containers 40, 50, 60 can be supported by the transfer arms 46, 56, 66 (see Figures 7c, 8c, and 9c). The container support surfaces 45, 55, 65 are further lowered, and the containers 40, 50, 60 are supported (i.e., suspended) above the container support surfaces 45, 55, 65 by the transfer mechanism.

[0219] As can be seen, the process of lowering the container support surface 45, 55, 65 has two stages. In the first stage (between Figs. 7b, 8b, 9b and 7c, 8c, 9c), the container 40, 50, 60 is lowered by the container support surface 45, 55, 65 so that the weight of the container 40, 50, 60 is transferred to the transfer arm 46, 56, 66. In effect, the container 40, 50, 60 settles on the stationary transfer arm 46, 56, 66. In the second stage (between Figs. 7c, 8c, 9c and 7d, 8d, 9d), the container support surface 45, 55, 65 continues to lower so that a gap is formed between the container 40, 50, 60 and the container support surface 45, 55, 65. Thus, the container 40, 50, 60 is supported on or above the container support surface 45, 55, 65. In a preferred embodiment, during each of the first and second stages the container support surface 45, 55, 65 is lowered by 10 mm, and during the entire lowering process the container support surface 45, 55, 65 is lowered a total of 20 mm.

[0220] After being secured to and lifted from the container support surface 45, 55, 65, the containers 40, 50, 60 can be transported by the transfer arms 46, 56, 66 in the manner described above.

[0221] It will be appreciated that in the above process, substantially no lateral or horizontal forces are applied to the container 40, 50, 60 or its contents both when (a) the container 40, 50, 60 is surrounded by the transfer arm 46, 56, 66 and (b) when the weight of the container 40, 50, 60 is transferred to the transfer arm 46, 56, 66. The transfer mechanism can then move the container 40, 50, 60 laterally without contact between the container 40, 50, 60 and the underlying container support surface 45, 55, 65. This further minimizes lateral forces applied to the container 40, 50, 60 and its contents.

[0222] Containers with a draft angle (e.g., the examples of Figures 4 and 6) are particularly preferred because if there is a misalignment between the container and the transfer arm, this misalignment tends to be corrected as the container support surface lowers and the container settles onto (i.e., engages) the transfer arm of the transfer mechanism.

[0223] The process shown in each figure can also be reversed to lift the respective container 40, 50, 60 away from the transfer arm 46, 56, 66. Specifically, a container support surface (such as the illustrated container support surface 45, 55, 65) is raised to contact the container 40, 50, 60 and the container 40, 50, 60 is lifted away from the transfer arm 46, 56, 66. This process is performed after the container 40, 50, 60 has been transferred as described above. Again, this method avoids substantial lateral movement or forces. The transfer arm 46, 56, 66 may then be moved away from either side of the container 40, 50, 60 to, for example, process or transfer the container.

[0224] In each of Figures 7d, 8d and 9d, it can be seen that each container 40, 50, 60 is secured and supported by the transfer arm 46, 56, 66 at a position closer to the top surface 42, 52, 62 than to the respective bottom surface 41, 51, 61 (i.e., at a position farther than half the distance from the bottom surface 41, 51, 61 to the top surface 42, 52, 62). In effect, in such an arrangement, the container 40, 50, 60 is held above its center of mass and (in most cases) supported and secured above the center of mass of the container 40, 50, 60 and its respective contents. This improves the stability of the container 40, 50, 60 as it is transferred laterally by the transfer mechanism. Similar arrangements in which the container is secured by a transfer mechanism located closer to its top surface than to its bottom surface and above its center of mass are also shown in Figures 1c, 1d, 1h, 1i and 2c. Such an arrangement further reduces the risk of the contents of the container spilling out when the containers are being transported, especially when the speed at which the containers are processed is increased.

[0225] In the example shown in Figures 7, 8b and 9b, the transfer arms 46, 56, 66 are initially closed around the containers 40, 50, 60, with the transfer arms 46, 56, 66 adjacent to the containers 40, 50, 60. In this arrangement, the transfer arms 46, 56, 66 restrict the movement of the containers 40, 50, 60 in a lateral direction (e.g., in the x-axis as shown), so that the containers are fixed, but the containers 40, 50, 60 can move vertically relative to the transfer arms 46, 56, 66, so that when the container support surfaces 45, 55, 65 are lowered, the containers 40, 50, 60 can rest gently on the transfer arms 46, 56, 66. This avoids the transfer arms exerting large lateral forces on the containers, although this is not essential. In fact, as described above, the transfer arms may close in unison laterally, so that they contact and grip the containers between them. For example, the distance between the transfer arms is equal to or less than the width of the container to be transferred. Gripping the container in this manner restricts movement of the container in any direction relative to the transfer arms. The underlying container support surface (e.g., the container support surface of an input conveyor or platen) is then lowered, and the gripped container is supported above the container support surface and can be transported laterally without contact. It will be appreciated that during this lowering process, the gripped container cannot move relative to the transfer arms, so that the weight of the container is quickly transferred to the transfer mechanism.

[0226] The described apparatus, system, and container processing method allow for increased throughput of packaged containers from a factory without increasing system complexity, maintenance and cleaning requirements, or compromising product quality. Furthermore, the container transfer apparatus, system, and container processing method according to the present invention are inexpensive, compact, and convenient to install and maintain. The apparatus is suitable for use in food packaging facilities.

Claims

**Claim 1**: A plurality of transfer arms arranged opposite to each other, wherein at least one transfer arm moves along a lateral direction with respect to the remaining transfer arms to fix one or more containers between the transfer arms and limit relative movement between the plurality of transfer arms and each container, and the plurality of transfer arms further includes a transfer arm that moves along a transfer direction to convey each fixed container, a motor that drives the at least one transfer arm in the lateral direction and drives the plurality of transfer arms in the transfer direction. A container transfer device, wherein the transfer direction is different from the lateral direction. **Claim 2** The container transfer device according to claim 1, wherein the motor alternately drives the at least one transfer arm in the lateral direction and drives the plurality of transfer arms in the transfer direction. **Claim 3** The at least one transfer arm reciprocates along the lateral direction with respect to one or more opposing transfer arms, thereby alternately fixing and releasing one or more containers arranged between the transfer arms, The container transfer device according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of transfer arms reciprocate along the transfer direction. **Claim 4** The container transfer device according to claim 1, wherein the transfer direction is substantially perpendicular to the lateral direction. **Claim 5** The container transfer device according to claim 1, wherein the center of mass of the motor is arranged below the center of mass of the plurality of transfer arms. **Claim 6** The container transfer device according to claim 1, further comprising a drive belt, and the motor drives the at least one transfer arm in the lateral direction and drives the plurality of transfer arms in the transfer direction using the drive belt. **Claim 7** The container transfer device according to claim 1, wherein the motor and / or the drive belt is laterally displaced from the path along which each container is conveyed by the plurality of transfer arms. **Claim 8** The container transfer device according to claim 6, further comprising a mechanism that converts the rotational movement of the drive belt around an axis substantially parallel to the lateral direction into the movement of the at least one transfer arm along the lateral direction. **Claim 9** The container transfer device according to claim 8, wherein the mechanism includes a feed screw, a ball screw, a rotary screw, and / or a rack and pinion type gear. **Claim 10** The container transfer device according to claim 6, wherein at least 50%, preferably at least 60%, more preferably 75% of the length of the drive belt is disposed below the plurality of transfer arms.

11. The container transfer device according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of transfer arms are attached to a carriage that moves in the transfer direction.

12. The container transfer device according to claim 11, wherein each of the transfer arms extends in the transfer direction and is attached to the carriage at each end in the transfer direction.

13. A first latch mechanism that restricts the movement of the plurality of transfer arms in the transfer direction while at least one of the transfer arms moves in the lateral direction, and / or A second latch mechanism that restricts the relative movement of the plurality of transfer arms in the lateral direction when the plurality of transfer arms move in the transfer direction, the container transfer device according to claim 1.

14. The container transfer device according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of transfer arms fix the one or more containers at the position of the center of mass or above it.

15. Each of the transfer arms includes an upstream transfer part and a downstream transfer part, and the transfer parts are arranged at intervals along the transfer direction. The upstream transfer part of the plurality of transfer arms is configured to convey the containers of the upstream batch from the loading position to the intermediate position, and the downstream transfer part of the plurality of transfer arms conveys the containers of the downstream batch from the intermediate position to the discharge position, the container transfer device according to claim 1.

16. The container transfer device according to claim 15, wherein the upstream transfer part and the downstream transfer part convey the containers of the downstream batch and the upstream batch simultaneously.

17. A system comprising the container transfer device according to claim 1 and a container processing device that changes and / or inspects each container or its contents, The container transfer device conveys each container to and / or from the container processing device, the system.

18. The container processing device according to claim 17, wherein the container processing device fills, seals, labels, batch processes, packages, boxes, and / or inspects each container.

19. A supply conveyor that conveys each container toward the container processing apparatus, wherein the container transfer device conveys each container from the supply conveyor to the container processing apparatus, and / or A discharge conveyor that transfers each container away from the container processing apparatus, wherein the container transfer device further includes a discharge conveyor that conveys each container from the container processing apparatus to the discharge conveyor, the system according to claim 17. **Claim 20** The system is a food packaging system, and preferably, the container processing apparatus is a tray sealer, the system according to claim 17. **Claim 21** A container processing method executed by the system according to claim 1, comprising: Moving the at least one transfer arm along the lateral direction toward the remaining one or more transfer arms, fixing one or more containers located between the transfer arms, and restricting relative movement between the plurality of transfer arms and each container; Moving the transfer arm in the transfer direction to convey the fixed container, a container processing method comprising. **Claim 22** Moving the at least one transfer arm along the lateral direction away from the remaining one or more transfer arms to release the one or more containers; The container processing method according to claim 21, further comprising returning the plurality of transfer arms to their respective initial positions in the transfer direction. **Claim 23** The container transfer device includes a first latch mechanism, and the container processing method includes operating the first latch mechanism that restricts movement of the plurality of transfer arms in the transfer direction while the at least one transfer arm moves in the lateral direction, and / or The container transfer device includes a second latch mechanism, and the container processing method includes operating the second latch mechanism that restricts relative movement of the plurality of transfer arms in the lateral direction when the plurality of transfer arms move in the transfer direction, the container processing method according to claim 21. **Claim 24** The container processing method according to claim 21, further comprising receiving the one or more containers from a supply conveyor and / or discharging the one or more containers to a discharge conveyor. **Claim 25** The container processing method according to claim 21, further comprising processing the one or more containers with a container processing apparatus. **Claim 26** The container processing method according to claim 25, further comprising a step of returning the plurality of transfer arms to their respective initial positions in the transfer direction while processing the one or more containers.

27. The step of moving the at least one transfer arm along the lateral direction toward the remaining one or more transfer arms and fixing one or more containers between the transfer arms includes a step of fixing the containers of the upstream batch at the input position using the upstream transfer part of the plurality of transfer arms, and at the same time, fixing the containers of the downstream batch at the intermediate position using the downstream transfer part of the plurality of transfer arms. The step of moving the plurality of transfer arms in the transfer direction to convey the one or more fixed containers includes a step of conveying the containers of the upstream batch to the intermediate position and at the same time, conveying the containers of the downstream batch to the discharge position. The container processing method according to claim 21.

28. The container processing method according to any one of claims 21 to 27, wherein each container is a food container.

Images