Device and method for changing conveyance form of absorbent articles

Abstract

To provide a device and method for changing the form of conveyance for absorbent articles, which can reduce the installation costs and area required for the processing device when processing absorbent articles conveyed in multiple rows.SOLUTION: The device (100) for changing the form of conveyance for absorbent articles (20) comprises a first conveying section (110), a second conveying section (120), and a moving section (200). The first conveying section conveys absorbent articles arranged in multiple rows in a first direction (CD1) along a first conveying direction (MD1) orthogonal to the first direction. The second conveying section conveys the absorbent articles in a single row along a second conveying direction (MD2). The moving section transfers the absorbent articles conveyed by the first conveying section to the second conveying section.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a device and a method for changing the transport form of an absorbent article. [Background technology]

[0002] As disclosed in Patent Document 1 (JP 60-225554 A), an absorbent article manufacturing apparatus is known that manufactures absorbent articles arranged in multiple rows. By using such a manufacturing apparatus, it is possible to manufacture absorbent articles while reducing the installation cost and installation area of ​​the manufacturing apparatus. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 60-225554 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, when absorbent articles are transported in multiple rows, for example when some kind of processing is to be performed on the absorbent articles, it is necessary to provide equipment to perform that processing on the absorbent articles in each row, which may lead to an increase in the installation costs and installation area of ​​the processing equipment. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] According to one aspect of the present invention, an apparatus for changing the transport form of absorbent articles includes a first transport section, a second transport section, and a moving section. The first transport section transports absorbent articles arranged in multiple rows in a first transport direction perpendicular to the first direction. The second transport section transports the absorbent articles in a single row along the second transport direction. The moving section moves the absorbent articles transported by the first transport section to the second transport section.

[0006] A method for changing the transport form of absorbent articles according to one aspect of the present invention includes a first transport step, a second transport step, and a moving step. In the first transport step, absorbent articles arranged in multiple rows in a first direction are transported in a first transport path in a first transport direction perpendicular to the first direction. In the second transport step, absorbent articles are transported in a single row along the second transport direction in the second transport path. In the moving step, the multiple rows of absorbent articles transported on the first transport path are moved to the second transport path. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to one aspect of the present invention, the device for changing the transport form of absorbent articles rearranges absorbent articles that are transported in multiple rows into a single row for transport. Therefore, when performing some kind of processing on the absorbent articles, the device for changing the transport form of absorbent articles according to one aspect of the present invention can reduce the installation cost and installation area of ​​the device that performs the processing.

[0008] In a method for changing the conveyance form of absorbent articles according to one aspect of the present invention, absorbent articles that are conveyed in a state where they are arranged in multiple rows are rearranged into a single row for conveyance. Therefore, in the method for changing the conveyance form of absorbent articles according to one aspect of the present invention, when some kind of processing is performed on the absorbent articles, it is possible to reduce the installation cost and installation area of ​​the device that performs the processing. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic view of a conveying form changing device according to a first embodiment of the present invention, viewed in a direction perpendicular to the conveying surface of absorbent articles. [Figure 2] 2 is a schematic view of the conveying form changing device of FIG. 1, viewed in a first direction perpendicular to the first conveying direction, ie, the direction in which rows of absorbent articles are lined up in the first conveying section. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a control block diagram of the conveyance mode changing device of FIG. 1; [Figure 4] 2 is an example of a flowchart of a transportation mode changing method of the transportation mode changing device of FIG. 1. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a first example of a change in conveyance mode in the conveyance mode changing device. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a second example of a change in the transport mode in the transport mode changing device. [Figure 7] 10 is a diagram showing a third example of a change in the transport mode in the transport mode changing device. FIG. [Figure 8A] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a first example of a change in conveying mode when the number of rows of absorbent articles conveyed through the first conveying section is four. [Figure 8B] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a second example of a change in conveying form when the number of rows of absorbent articles conveyed through the first conveying section is four. [Figure 8C] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a third example of a change in conveying form when the number of rows of absorbent articles conveyed through the first conveying section is four. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a schematic view of a conveying form changing device according to a second embodiment of the present invention, viewed in a direction perpendicular to the conveying surface of absorbent articles. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a control block diagram of the conveyance form changing device of FIG. 9. [Figure 11] 10 is an example of a flowchart of a transportation mode changing method of the transportation mode changing device of FIG. 9. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010]

[0019] Hereinafter, with reference to the drawings, an embodiment of an apparatus and a method for changing the transport form of an absorbent article according to the present invention will be described. Note that the embodiment described below is merely an example of the present invention and does not limit the scope of the present invention. Those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications can be made to the following embodiment without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention as defined in the claims.

[0011] First Embodiment (1) Overall overview A conveying form changing device 100 according to a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2. FIG. 1 is a schematic view of the conveying form changing device 100 as viewed in a direction perpendicular to the conveying surface of absorbent articles 20. Here, the conveying surface of absorbent articles 20 refers to the belt surface 111a of the conveyor belt 111 of the first conveyor section 110, which will be described later, and the belt surface 121a of the conveyor belt 121 of the second conveyor section 120. FIG. 2 is a schematic view of the conveying form changing device 100 as viewed in a first direction CD1 that is perpendicular to the first conveying direction MD1. In other words, FIG. 2 is a schematic view of the conveying form changing device 100 as viewed in the direction in which rows of absorbent articles 20 are arranged in the first conveyor section 110, which will be described later.

[0012] First, we will explain the absorbent article 20, the object of which carrying form is changed by the carrying form changing device 100. The absorbent article 20 is an article that absorbs and retains liquid. Examples of the absorbent article 20 include sanitary napkins, incontinence pads, and disposable diapers. Absorbent articles 20 such as sanitary napkins, incontinence pads, and disposable diapers absorb and retain bodily fluids excreted by the wearer using an absorbent body.

[0013] In this embodiment, the absorbent article 20, the transportation form of which is changed by the transportation form changing device 100, is the absorbent article 20 that is compactly folded and housed in a packaging film. Hereinafter, the expression "package P" indicating the absorbent article 20 housed in a packaging film may be used as an expression equivalent to the expression "absorbent article 20".

[0014] Note that the object whose transport form is changed by the transport form changing device 100 is not limited to the absorbent article 20 contained in a packaging film, but may be an absorbent article 20 that is not contained in a packaging film. Also, the object whose transport form is changed by the transport form changing device 100 may be an absorbent article 20 that is not in a folded state.

[0015] In summary, the conveying form changing device 100 is a device that rearranges absorbent articles 20 that are conveyed in a first conveying direction MD1 on a first conveying path R1 in multiple rows in a first direction CD1 into a single row while moving them to a second conveying path R2, and conveys the absorbent articles 20 in a single row along the second conveying direction MD2 on the second conveying path R2 (see Figure 1).

[0016] Here, the conveying direction of the absorbent articles 20 by the first conveying section 110 (described later) is referred to as the first conveying direction MD1, and the conveying direction of the absorbent articles 20 by the second conveying section 120 (described later) is referred to as the second conveying direction MD2. The direction perpendicular to the first conveying direction MD1 is referred to as the first direction CD1. Also, here, the path along which the first conveying section 110 conveys the absorbent articles 20 is referred to as the first conveying path R1. The path along which the second conveying section 120 conveys the absorbent articles 20 is referred to as the second conveying path R2.

[0017] The conveying mode changing device 100 mainly includes a first conveying section 110, a second conveying section 120, a moving section 200, and a control section 400 (see FIG. 1).

[0018] The first conveying section 110 receives absorbent articles 20 (packages P in the following embodiment) manufactured in multiple rows by an absorbent article manufacturing apparatus such as that disclosed in Patent Document 1 (JP 60-225554 A), and conveys them in a direction approaching the moving section 200. The first conveying section 110 conveys the packages P, which are arranged in multiple rows in a first direction CD1, in a first conveying direction MD1 that is perpendicular to the first direction CD1.

[0019] The second conveying unit 120 is a device that conveys the absorbent articles 20 (packages P) in a single row along the second conveying direction MD2. The second conveying unit 120 conveys the packages P to a process subsequent to the conveying form changing device 100, for example, to a counting device that counts the number of packages P. If the packages P in each row conveyed by the first conveying unit 110 are counted individually by a counting device, the number of counting devices required is the same as the number of rows of packages P conveyed by the first conveying unit 110. In contrast, the conveying form changing device 100 can rearrange the packages P that are conveyed in multiple rows into a single row, thereby making it possible to count the packages P without installing multiple counting devices.

[0020] The moving section 200 moves the absorbent articles 20 (packages P) conveyed by the first conveying section 110 to the second conveying section 120. Details of the moving section 200 will be described later.

[0021] The control unit 400 controls the operations of various components of the conveying form changing device 100 .

[0022] (2) Details The details of the conveying form changing device 100 and the conveying form changing method for the absorbent article 20 will be described with further reference to Figures 3 and 4. Figure 3 is an example of a control block diagram of the conveying form changing device 100. Figure 4 is an example of a flowchart of the conveying form changing method of the conveying form changing device 100.

[0023] (2-1) First conveying section The first conveying section 110 receives multiple rows of absorbent articles 20 (packages P) (arranged in multiple rows in the first direction CD1) conveyed from the upstream side. The first conveying section 110 then conveys the packages P arranged in multiple rows in the first direction CD1 toward the moving section 200 in a first conveying direction MD1 that is perpendicular to the first direction CD1 (see FIG. 1).

[0024] The first conveying section 110 conveys the packaging items P in the first conveying direction MD1 while the packaging items P are arranged in a generally straight line in the first direction CD1. In other words, the first conveying section 110 conveys each row of packaging items P in the first conveying direction MD1 so that the packaging items P in each row approach the moving section 200 at generally the same time.

[0025] Here, an example will be described in which the first conveying unit 110 conveys packaging bodies P arranged in three rows in the first direction CD1 in the first conveying direction MD1. However, the number of rows of packaging bodies P conveyed by the first conveying unit 110 is not limited to three and may be four or more rows. Furthermore, the number of rows of packaging bodies P conveyed by the first conveying unit 110 may be two rows.

[0026] The first conveyor 110 is, for example, a belt conveyor. The first conveyor 110 mainly includes a conveyor belt 111, rollers 111b around which the conveyor belt 111 is wound, and a first conveyor driver 112 that drives one of the rollers 111b. The first conveyor driver 112 includes, for example, a motor that rotates one of the rollers 111b. The first conveyor 110 drives the roller 111b with the motor, thereby conveying the packages P placed on the belt surface (conveying surface) 111a of the conveyor belt 111 in a first conveying direction MD1.

[0027] The type of device of the first conveying section 110 may be a conveying device of a type other than a belt conveyor, as long as it can convey the packages P arranged in multiple rows in the first direction CD1 in the first conveying direction MD1.

[0028] 1, the first conveying unit 110 conveys three rows of packaging bodies P on one conveyor belt 111, but the manner in which the first conveying unit 110 conveys the packaging bodies P is not limited to this. For example, the first conveying unit 110 may convey each row of packaging bodies P on a different conveyor belt.

[0029] (2-2) Second conveying section The second conveying section 120 receives the absorbent articles 20 (packages P) moved from the first conveying section 110 by the moving section 200, and conveys the absorbent articles 20 in the second conveying direction MD2 while they are lined up in a row along the second conveying direction MD2 (see FIG. 1). The second conveying section 120 conveys the absorbent articles 20 to a subsequent process of the conveying form changing device 100.

[0030] The second conveying unit 120 is, for example, a belt conveyor. The second conveying unit 120 mainly includes a conveyor belt 121, rollers 123 around which the conveyor belt 121 is wound, and a second conveying drive unit 122 that drives one of the rollers 123. The second conveying drive unit 122 includes, for example, a motor that rotates one of the rollers 123. The second conveying unit 120 drives the roller 123 with the motor, thereby conveying the packages P placed on the belt surface (conveying surface) 121a of the conveyor belt 121 in a second conveying direction MD2.

[0031] The type of device of the second conveying section 120 may be a conveying device of a type other than a belt conveyor, as long as it is capable of conveying the packages P in the second conveying direction MD2.

[0032] (2-3) Moving part The moving section 200 is a mechanism that receives the absorbent articles 20 (packages P) from the first conveying section 110, which conveys the absorbent articles 20 arranged in multiple rows in the first direction CD1, and moves the absorbent articles 20 to the second conveying section 120, which conveys the absorbent articles 20 in a single row along the second conveying direction MD2.

[0033] The moving section 200 is disposed downstream of the first conveying section 110 in the first conveying direction MD1 and adjacent to the first conveying section 110. The moving section 200 is disposed upstream of the second conveying section 120 in the second conveying direction MD2 and adjacent to the second conveying section 120.

[0034] The moving unit 200 mainly includes a drum 210, an arm 220, a holder 300, a rotation drive unit 212, a suction drive unit 350, and a holder drive unit 360 (see FIGS. 2 and 3).

[0035] 1 and 2, the drum 210 is a cylindrical member whose axial direction is the first direction CD1. The drum 210 rotates in a rotation direction RD around a central axis of the drum 210 that extends parallel to the first direction CD1 (see FIG. 2). The drum 210 is driven by a rotation drive unit 212 such as a motor.

[0036] As shown in Fig. 2, the arms 220 extend radially outward from the cylindrical drum 210. The arms 220 are cylindrical, although this is not intended to limit the shape of the arms 220. On the outer surface of the drum 210, multiple arms 220 are arranged at approximately equal intervals along the circumferential direction of the cylindrical drum 210 (see Fig. 2).

[0037] The holding unit 300 is attached to the end of each arm 220 (the end on the radially outer side of the drum 210). Each holding unit 300 receives one package P from each row of packages P in the first direction CD1 conveyed by the first conveying unit 110, and holds the received group of packages P. In the example of Fig. 1, each holding unit 300 holds three packages P received one from each row of the three rows of packages P conveyed by the first conveying unit 110.

[0038] Specifically, the holding unit 300 has a holding surface F in which an opening (not shown) is formed through which a suction drive unit 350 such as a vacuum pump or a vacuum ejector sucks air. The holding unit 300 is attached to the arm 220 so that the holding surface F of the holding unit 300 faces outward in the radial direction of the drum 210. The moving unit 200 drives the suction drive unit 350 with the holding surface F of the holding unit 300 facing the packaging material P, thereby suction-holding the packaging material P by the negative pressure generated by the suction drive unit 350.

[0039] The manner in which the holding unit 300 receives the package P from the first conveying unit 110, holds the package P, and delivers the package P to the second conveying unit 120 will be described.

[0040] As the drum 210 rotates, at a certain timing, the holder 300 provided at the end of one arm 220 passes near the first conveyor 110 (position A1 in FIG. 1 ) with its holding surface F facing the first conveyor 110. At this time, the holder 300 adsorbs the packages P by the negative pressure generated by the suction drive unit 350 and receives the packages P from the first conveyor 110. Note that, at the timing of receiving the packages P from the first conveyor 110, the holding surface F of the holder 300 faces substantially the entire belt surface 111a of the conveyor belt 111 of the first conveyor 110 in the first direction CD1 (see FIG. 1 ). The holding surface F of the holder 300 then receives one package P from each of the three rows of packages P on the first conveyor 110 and holds the received three packages P together.

[0041] Thereafter, as the drum 210 rotates, the holder 300, which is attached to the end of the arm 220 and holds the packaging P, gradually moves away from the first conveyor 110 and gradually approaches the second conveyor 120. At a certain timing, the holder 300, which is attached to the end of the arm 220 and holds the packaging P, passes near the first conveyor 110 (position A2 in FIG. 2 ) with its holding surface F facing the first conveyor 110. At this time, the opening in the holding surface F that sucks air is not connected to the suction drive unit 350, causing the holder 300 to release its hold on the packaging P. The second conveyor 120 is, for example, a suction conveyor in which an opening that communicates with a suction drive unit (not shown) is provided on the belt surface 121a of the conveyor belt 121, and receives the packaging P that the holder 300 has released from its hold.

[0042] At the timing when the second conveyor 120 receives the packages P, the holding unit 300 changes the conveyance mode of the packages P so that the absorbent articles 20 (packages P) it holds are lined up in a row along the second conveyance direction MD2 instead of the first direction CD1. In other words, at the time when the holding unit 300 receives the packages P from the second conveyor 120, the packages P are lined up in the axial direction of the drum 210 (first direction CD1), whereas at the time when the second conveyor 120 receives the packages P, the packages P held by the holding unit 300 are lined up in the circumferential direction of the drum 210. By lining up the packages P held by the holding unit 300 in the circumferential direction of the drum 210, three packages P are delivered to the conveyor belt 121 of the second conveyor 120 at staggered times. As a result, the second conveying section 120 can convey the absorbent articles 20 in the second conveying direction MD2 while they are lined up in a row along the second conveying direction MD2. How the conveying form of the packages P in the moving section 200 is changed (rearrangement from multiple rows to a single row) will be described later.

[0043] As the drum 210 continues to rotate, the holding unit 300, which has handed over the packaging items P to the second conveying unit 120, gradually moves away from the second conveying unit 120 and gradually approaches the first conveying unit 110. When the holding unit 300, which has handed over the packaging items P to the second conveying unit 120, reaches position A1, the holding unit 300 receives the packaging items P from the first conveying unit 110 again.

[0044] The holder drive unit 360 is an example of an alignment unit that lines up the group of absorbent articles 20 (packages P) held by the holder 300 in a line along the second conveying direction MD2 of the second conveyor 120. Note that lining up the group of packages P held by the holder 300 in a line along the second conveying direction MD2 means lining up the group of packages P held by the holder 300 along the second conveying direction MD2 when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the conveying surface of the second conveyor 120 (the belt surface 121a of the conveyor belt 121 of the second conveyor 120).

[0045] The holder driving unit 360 moves at least a portion of the holder 300 relative to the drum 210, thereby arranging the group of packages P held by the holder 300 in a line along the second conveying direction MD2 of the second conveying unit 120. A specific example of a change in the conveying mode will now be described.

[0046] <First example> A first example of a mode of changing the conveying form in the conveying form changing device 100 will be described with reference to Fig. 5. In Fig. 5, the holding surface F of the holding member 310 is viewed from a direction perpendicular to the holding surface F while the drum 210 is rotating in the rotation direction RD from position A1 (see Fig. 2) to position A2 (see Fig. 2).

[0047] In a first example, the holder driving unit 360 is a driving unit such as a motor or an air cylinder that rotates the cylindrical arm 220 around a rotation axis O that extends axially through the center of the cylindrical arm 220 (in other words, extends radially of the drum 210). By rotating the arm 220 around the rotation axis O, the holder driving unit 360 arranges the group of packages P held by the holder 300 in a line along the second conveying direction MD2 of the second conveying unit 120. Details will be described below.

[0048] In a first example of the modified transport mode, the holding section 300 has a holding member 310 having a holding surface F for holding the package P.

[0049] Holding member 310 is attached to the end in the axial direction of cylindrical arm 220. For example, holding member 310 is attached to the end of arm 220 so that the position of the center of gravity of holding surface F of holding member 310 and the position of the center of cylindrical arm 220 coincide when viewed along the axial direction of arm 220.

[0050] When the holding surface F of the holding member 310 is viewed along the axial direction of the arm 220 perpendicular to the holding surface F of the holding member 310 (when viewed along the radial direction of the drum 210), the holding surface F of the holding member 310 has a rectangular shape. When the holding surface F of the holding member 310 is viewed along the axial direction of the arm 220, the length of the long side LS (see FIG. 5) of the holding surface F is approximately the same as the length of the belt surface 111a of the conveyor belt 111 of the first transfer unit 110 in the first direction CD1. Furthermore, when the holding surface F of the holding member 310 is viewed along the axial direction of the arm 220, the length of the short side SS (see FIG. 5) of the holding surface F is approximately the same as the length of the belt surface 121a of the conveyor belt 121 of the second transfer unit 120 in the width direction (the direction perpendicular to the second transfer direction MD2).

[0051] However, the size of the holding surface F of the holding member 310 is an example, and the size of the holding surface F may be determined appropriately as long as the holding surface F is able to receive all rows of packages P in the first direction CD1 on the conveyor belt 111 at once and hold the received group of packages P when the holding surface F receives the packages P from the conveyor belt 111 of the first transport unit 110 in a manner described below. The shape of the holding surface F of the holding member 310 is also an example, and the shape of the holding surface F may be determined appropriately as long as the holding surface F is able to receive all rows of packages P in the first direction CD1 on the conveyor belt 111 at once and hold the received group of packages P when the holding surface F receives the packages P from the conveyor belt 111 of the first transport unit 110 in a manner described below.

[0052] In a first example of a mode of changing the conveying form, the holding section drive section 360 rotates the arm 220 around the rotation axis O, thereby rotating the holding member 310 around the rotation axis (rotation axis O) extending in a direction perpendicular to the holding surface F, thereby arranging the group of packages P held by the holding member 310 in a row along the second conveying direction MD2 in the second conveying section 120.

[0053] Specifically, when the holding member 310 is positioned at position A1 in Fig. 2, the direction in which the long side LS of the holding surface F of the holding member 310 extends coincides with the first direction CD1 (see the holding member 310 at the right end in Fig. 5). As the drum 210 rotates and the holding member 310 approaches the second transfer section 120, the holding section driver 360 rotates the arm 220 around the rotation axis O (see Fig. 5). Then, when the holding member 310 is positioned at position A2 in Fig. 2, the holding section driver 360 operates the arm 220 so that the direction of the long side LS of the holding surface F of the holding member 310 coincides with the second transfer direction MD2 (see the holding member 310 at the left end in Fig. 5). In other words, when the holding member 310 is positioned at position A2 in Figure 2, the holding unit drive unit 360 rotates the arm 220 by 90 degrees based on the position when the holding member 310 is positioned at position A1 in Figure 2 (see the holding member 310 at the left end in Figure 5).

[0054] In reality, the holding member 310 does not move horizontally but moves along the circumferential direction of the drum 210 as the drum 210 rotates, and therefore the long side LS of the holding surface F of the holding member 310 extends in a direction tangent to the circumferential direction of the drum 210. When the holding member 310 is disposed at the position A2 in Fig. 2, the direction of the long side LS of the holding surface F of the holding member 310 coincides with the second conveying direction MD2 when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the belt surface 121a of the conveyor belt 121 of the second conveying section 120.

[0055] By rotating the holding member 310 in this manner using the holding unit drive unit 360, the three packages P are delivered at staggered times to the conveyor belt 121 of the second conveyor unit 120. As a result, the second conveyor unit 120 can convey the absorbent articles 20 in the second conveyor direction MD2 while they are lined up in a row along the second conveyor direction MD2.

[0056] When the transfer of the packages P from the holding member 310 to the second conveying section 120 is completed, the holding section driving section 360 rotates the arm 220 around the rotation axis O in synchronization with the rotation of the drum 210. When the holding member 310 is again placed at position A1 in FIG. 2, the holding section driving section 360 operates the arm 220 so that the direction of the long side LS of the holding surface F of the holding member 310 coincides with the first direction CD1.

[0057] <Second example> A second example of the conveying mode change mode in the conveying mode changing device 100 will be described with reference to Fig. 6. In Fig. 6, the holding surfaces F of the holding members 322, 324, and 326 are viewed from a direction perpendicular to the holding surfaces F while the drum 210 is rotating in the rotation direction RD from position A1 (see Fig. 2) to position A2 (see Fig. 2).

[0058] In a second example of the modified conveying mode, the holding units 300 attached to each arm 220 do not have a single holding member 310 as in the first example, but have holding members 322, 324, 326 in the same number as the number of rows of packages P in the first direction CD1 on the first conveying unit 110 (three in the example of FIG. 1) (see FIG. 6). The arm 220 supports the holding units 300 (three holding members 322, 324, 326) attached to that arm 220. In this embodiment, holding members 322, 326 are connected to holding member 324, and holding member 324 is attached to the end of arm 220.

[0059] Each of the three holding members 322, 324, and 326 has a holding surface F that holds one package P (see FIG. 6). While the shape of the holding surface F is not limited to this, when the holding members 322, 324, and 326 are viewed along the axial direction of the arm 220 to which the holding unit 300 is attached (in other words, along the radial direction of the drum 210), the holding surface F of each of the holding members 322, 324, and 326 has a square shape. Using FIG. 1 as an example, the holding surface F of the holding member 322 picks up and holds the package P in the top row in FIG. 1 (the package P located on the far right when facing the first conveying direction MD1) of the row of packages P transported along the first conveying unit 110. The holding surface F of the holding member 324 picks up and holds the package P in the center row in FIG. 1 of the row of packages P transported along the first conveying unit 110. The holding surface F of the holding member 326 picks up and holds the packaging body P in the bottom row in Figure 1 (the packaging body P positioned on the far left when facing the first conveying direction MD1) of the row of packaging bodies P conveyed through the first conveying section 110.

[0060] Note that holding member 322 and holding member 324 are connected by, for example, hinge 325, and holding member 322 is configured to be rotatable relative to holding member 324 about rotation axis O2 shown in Fig. 6. As a result, holding member 322 can be in a state where holding member 322 and holding member 324 are aligned in first direction CD1 (see holding section 300 at the right end in Fig. 6) and a state where holding member 322 and holding member 324 are aligned along second conveying direction MD2 (see holding section 300 at the left end in Fig. 6). Furthermore, holding member 324 and holding member 326 are connected by, for example, hinge 325, and holding member 326 is configured to be rotatable relative to holding member 324 about rotation axis O1 shown in Fig. 6. As a result, the holding member 326 can be in a state where the holding member 326 and the holding member 324 are aligned in the first direction CD1 (see the holding portion 300 at the right end of Figure 6), and a state where the holding member 326 and the holding member 324 are aligned along the second conveying direction MD2 (see the holding portion 300 at the left end of Figure 6).

[0061] In the second example of the conveying form change mode, unlike the first example of the conveying form change mode, the cylindrical arm 220 only rotates together with the drum 210, and does not rotate around the axial direction of the arm 220. In the second example, a holder drive unit 360 (an example of an alignment unit) moves the holding members 322 and 326 relative to the holding member 324 (an example of a first holding member), thereby aligning the group of packages P held by the holder 300 in a row along the second conveying direction MD2. Details will be described below.

[0062] 2 approaching the first conveyer 110, holding members 322, 324, and 326 are aligned in the first direction CD1 as shown in FIG. 6. In other words, when holding member 310 is positioned at position A1 in FIG. 2 approaching the first conveyer 110, holding members 322, 324, and 326 are each positioned at a position corresponding to the position of the row of packages P on the first conveyer 110 from which they will receive packages P. In this state, holding members 322, 324, and 326 receive packages P from the corresponding row of packages P on the first conveyer 110.

[0063] Then, as drum 210 rotates and holding member 310 approaches second conveying section 120, the motor and air cylinder serving as holding section drive section 360 rotates holding member 322 about rotation axis O2 and rotates holding member 326 about rotation axis O1 relative to holding member 324, which is an example of a first holding member. When holding member 310 is disposed at position A2 in Fig. 2, holding section drive section 360 causes holding member 322 and holding member 324 to be aligned along second conveying direction MD2, and causes holding member 326 and holding member 324 to be aligned along second conveying direction MD2 (see Fig. 6).

[0064] In reality, the holding unit 300 does not move horizontally but moves along the circumferential direction of the drum 210 as the drum 210 rotates, and therefore, when the holding members 322, 324, 326 are positioned at the position A2 in Fig. 2, the holding members 322, 324, 326 are aligned in a direction tangential to the circumferential direction of the drum 210. When the holding members 322, 324, 326 are positioned at the position A2 in Fig. 2, the holding members 322, 324, 326 are aligned in a direction tangential to the circumferential direction of the drum 210, and as a result, the packages P held by the holding members 322, 324, 326 are aligned in a row in the second conveying direction MD2 when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the belt surface 121a of the conveyor belt 121 of the second conveying unit 120.

[0065] 2, the moving unit 200 does not need to align the holding members 322, 324, and 326 in the order of holding member 322, holding member 324, and holding member 326 from the side closest to the second transport unit 120 as shown in FIG. 6. For example, when the holding members 322, 324, and 326 are positioned at the position A2 in FIG. 2, the moving unit 200 may align the holding members 322, 324, and 326 in the order of holding member 326, holding member 324, and holding member 322 from the side closest to the second transport unit 120. This can be achieved by rotating the holding members 322 and 326 in the opposite direction to that shown in FIG. 6. To avoid redundancy, detailed description will be omitted.

[0066] As described above, the holder drive unit 360 rotates the holder members 322 and 326 relative to the holder member 324, so that the three packages P are delivered at staggered times to the conveyor belt 121 of the second conveyor unit 120. As a result, the second conveyor unit 120 can convey the absorbent articles 20 in the second conveyor direction MD2 while they are lined up in a row along the second conveyor direction MD2.

[0067] When the transfer of packages P from holding member 310 to second conveyor 120 is complete, holding section drive section 360 moves holding members 322 and 326 relative to holding member 324 in the opposite direction to the previous direction in accordance with the rotation of drum 210. When holding member 310 is again positioned at position A1 in FIG. 2, holding section drive section 360 moves holding members 322 and 326 relative to holding member 324 so that holding members 322, 324, and 326 are aligned in first direction CD1.

[0068] <Third example> A second example of the conveying mode change mode in the conveying mode changing device 100 will be described with reference to Fig. 7. In Fig. 7, the holding surfaces F of the holding members 332, 334, and 336 are viewed from a direction perpendicular to the holding surfaces F while the drum 210 is rotating in the rotation direction RD from position A1 (see Fig. 2) to position A2 (see Fig. 2).

[0069] In the third example of the modified conveying form, similar to the second example, the holding unit 300 has holding members 332, 334, and 336 in the same number (three in the example of FIG. 1) as the number of rows of packages P in the first direction CD1 on the first conveying unit 110 (see FIG. 7). However, unlike the second example, the holding members 332, 334, and 336 are each supported by an arm 220. That is, in this embodiment, one of the three holding members 332, 334, and 336 is attached to the end of the arm 220. Of the arms 220, the arm 220 that holds the holding member 332 (referred to as arm 220a) and the arm 220 that holds the holding member 336 (referred to as arm 220b) are configured to be movable in the axial and circumferential directions of the drum 210.

[0070] Each of the three holding members 332, 334, and 336 has a holding surface F that holds one package P (see FIG. 7). While the shape of the holding surface F is not limited to this, when the holding members 332, 334, and 336 are viewed along the axial direction of the arm 220 to which the holding unit 300 is attached (in other words, along the radial direction of the drum 210), the holding surface F of each of the holding members 332, 334, and 336 has a square shape. Using FIG. 1 as an example, the holding surface F of the holding member 332 picks up and holds the package P in the top row in FIG. 1 (the package P located on the far right when facing the first conveying direction MD1) of the row of packages P transported along the first conveying unit 110. The holding surface F of the holding member 334 picks up and holds the package P in the center row in FIG. 1 of the row of packages P transported along the first conveying unit 110. The holding surface F of the holding member 336 picks up and holds the packaging body P in the bottom row in Figure 1 (the packaging body P positioned on the far left when facing the first conveying direction MD1) of the row of packaging bodies P conveyed through the first conveying section 110.

[0071] In the third example, unlike the first example, the holder driver 360 serving as an aligner does not rotate the cylindrical arm 220 about the axis of the arm 220. Instead, the holder driver 360 moves the arms 220a and 220b in the axial and circumferential directions of the drum 210. In the third example of the modified conveying form, similar to the second example, the holder driver 360 moves the holding members 332 and 336 relative to the holding member 334 serving as the first holding member, thereby aligning the group of packages P in a row along the second conveying direction MD2. However, in the third example of the modified conveying form, the manner in which the holding members 332 and 336 move relative to the holding member 334 differs from the manner in which the holding members 324 and 326 move relative to the holding member 324. Details will be described.

[0072] 2 approaching the first conveyor 110, holding members 332, 334, and 336 are aligned in the first direction CD1 as shown in FIG. 7. In other words, when holding member 310 is positioned at position A1 in FIG. 2 approaching the first conveyor 110, holding members 332, 334, and 336 are each positioned at a position corresponding to the position of the row of packages P on the first conveyor 110 from which they will receive packages P. In this state, each of holding members 332, 334, and 336 receives a package P from the corresponding row of packages P on the first conveyor 110.

[0073] As the drum 210 rotates and holding member 310 approaches second conveyance section 120, the motor and air cylinder serving as holder drive section 360 move arm 220a supporting holding member 332 relative to arm 220 supporting holding member 334 in the rotational direction of drum 210 so that holding member 332 is positioned downstream of holding member 334 in the rotational direction of drum 210 (see holding section 300 in the center in FIG. 7). Also, as the drum 210 rotates and holding member 310 approaches second conveyance section 120, the motor and air cylinder serving as holder drive section 360 move arm 220b supporting holding member 336 relative to arm 220 supporting holding member 334 in the direction opposite to the rotational direction of drum 210 so that holding member 336 is positioned upstream of holding member 336 in the rotational direction of drum 210 (see holding section 300 in the center in FIG. 7).

[0074] Furthermore, as the drum 210 rotates and holding member 310 approaches second transfer section 120, the motor and air cylinder serving as holder drive section 360 move arm 220a supporting holding member 332 relative to arm 220 supporting holding member 334 in the axial direction of drum 210 so that holding member 332 is positioned at the same position as holding member 334 in the axial direction of drum 210 (see holding section 300 at the left end in FIG. 7). Furthermore, as the drum 210 rotates and holding member 310 approaches second transfer section 120, the motor and air cylinder serving as holder drive section 360 move arm 220b supporting holding member 336 relative to arm 220 supporting holding member 334 in the axial direction of drum 210 so that holding member 336 is positioned at the same position as holding member 334 in the axial direction of drum 210 (see holding section 300 at the left end in FIG. 7).

[0075] By being configured in this manner, when the holding section 300 of the moving section 200 is positioned at position A2 in Figure 2, the holding section drive section 360 causes the holding members 332 and 334 to be aligned along the second conveying direction MD2, and the holding members 336 and 334 to be aligned along the second conveying direction MD2 (see Figure 7).

[0076] In reality, the holding unit 300 does not move horizontally but moves along the circumferential direction of the drum 210 as the drum 210 rotates, so when the holding members 332, 334, 336 are positioned at the position A2 in Fig. 2, the holding members 332, 334, 336 are aligned in a direction tangential to the circumferential direction of the drum 210. When the holding members 332, 334, 336 are positioned at the position A2 in Fig. 2, the holding members 332, 334, 336 are aligned in a direction tangential to the circumferential direction of the drum 210, so that the packages P held by the holding members 332, 334, 336 are aligned in a line in the second conveying direction MD2 when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the belt surface 121a of the conveyor belt 121 of the second conveying unit 120.

[0077] As described above, the holder driving unit 360 moves the arms 220 (220a, 220b) supporting the holding members 332 and 336 relative to the arm 220 supporting the holding member 334, whereby the three packages P are delivered at staggered times to the conveyor belt 121 of the second conveying unit 120. As a result, the second conveying unit 120 can convey the absorbent articles 20 in the second conveying direction MD2 while they are lined up in a row along the second conveying direction MD2.

[0078] Note that, although the case where the holder driver 360 first moves the arms 220a and 220b in the circumferential direction of the drum 210 and then moves them in the axial direction of the drum 210 has been described as an example, the order in which the arms 220a and 220b move is not limited to this order. For example, the holder driver 360 may first move the arms 220a and 220b in the axial direction of the drum 210 and then move them in the circumferential direction of the drum 210. Furthermore, the holder driver 360 may simultaneously move the arms 220a and 220b in the axial and circumferential directions of the drum 210, as long as no malfunction occurs, such as the holder member 332 or the holder member 336 coming into contact with the holder member 334.

[0079] 2, the moving unit 200 does not need to align the holding members 332, 334, and 336 in the order of holding member 332, holding member 334, and holding member 336, starting from the side closest to the second conveying unit 120. For example, when the holding unit 300 is positioned at the position A2 in FIG. 2, the moving unit 200 may align the holding members 332, 334, and 336 in the order of holding member 336, holding member 334, and holding member 332, starting from the side closest to the second conveying unit 120. This can be achieved by moving the holding members 322 and 322 in the circumferential direction of the drum 210 in the opposite direction to that shown in FIG. 7. To avoid redundancy, detailed description will be omitted.

[0080] When the transfer of packages P from holding member 310 to second conveyor 120 is complete, holding section drive section 360 moves holding members 322 and 326 relative to holding member 324 in the opposite direction to the previous direction in accordance with the rotation of drum 210. When holding member 310 is again positioned at position A1 in FIG. 2, holding section drive section 360 moves holding members 332 and 336 relative to holding member 334 so that holding members 332, 334, and 336 are aligned in first direction CD1.

[0081] (2-4) Control unit The control unit 400 is a device that controls the operations of various components of the conveying form changing device 100.

[0082] The control unit 400 mainly includes a CPU, a storage unit including a ROM, a RAM, an auxiliary storage device (e.g., a flash memory), an input / output interface, and a communication interface. Note that the control unit 400 does not have to realize all of its functions by software, and some of the functions described below may be realized by hardware such as a logic circuit. Furthermore, the control unit 400 may be realized by one device or by multiple devices.

[0083] The control unit 400 is electrically connected to the first transfer drive unit 112, the second transfer drive unit 122, the rotation drive unit 212, the suction drive unit 350, and the holder drive unit 360. The control unit 400 controls the operations of the first transfer drive unit 112, the second transfer drive unit 122, the rotation drive unit 212, the suction drive unit 350, and the holder drive unit 360.

[0084] <How to change the transport method> With reference to the flowchart of Figure 4, we will explain how the control unit 400 of the conveying form changing device 100 controls the operation of various components of the conveying form changing device 100, thereby changing the conveying form of the absorbent article 20 (packaging body P).

[0085] In the conveying form changing device 100, the first conveying unit 110 and the second conveying unit 120 sequentially convey the packages P. However, for the sake of simplicity, the conveying form changing method will be described assuming that only three packages P are conveyed by the first conveying unit 110 while lined up in the first direction CD1.

[0086] The control unit 400 operates the first conveyor drive unit 112, causing the first conveyor unit 110 to convey the absorbent articles 20 (packages P) arranged in multiple rows in the first direction CD1 on the first conveying path R1 in a first conveying direction MD1 perpendicular to the first direction CD1 (step S1). In particular, here, the first conveyor unit 110 conveys the packages P arranged in three rows in the first direction CD1 on the first conveying path R1 in the first conveying direction MD1 perpendicular to the first direction CD1. Step S1 is an example of a first conveying step.

[0087] Next, the control unit 400 controls the rotation drive unit 212, the suction drive unit 350, and the holder drive unit 360, so that the holder 300 of the moving unit 200 picks up one package P from each row in the first direction CD1 of the packages P conveyed along the first conveying path R1 as in step S1, and holds them as a group of packages P (step S2). Step S2 is an example of a holding step.

[0088] Next, the control unit 400 controls the holder driving unit 360 to arrange the group of packages P held by the holder 300 in a line along the second conveying direction MD2 (step S3). Step S3 is an example of an aligning step.

[0089] For example, in the first example of the change in conveying form described above, the control unit 400 controls the holding unit drive unit 360 to rotate the arm 220 around the rotation axis O, thereby rotating the holding member 310 of the holding unit 300 around a rotation axis extending in a direction perpendicular to the holding surface F of the holding member 310, thereby arranging the group of packaging bodies P in a row along the second conveying direction MD2.

[0090] For example, in the second example of the conveying form change described above, the control unit 400 controls the holder drive unit 360 to move the holding member 322 and the holding member 326, which are separate from the holding member 324, relative to the holding member 324, thereby arranging the group of packages P in a line along the second conveying direction MD2. In particular, in the second example of the conveying form change described above, the control unit 400 controls the holder drive unit 360 to rotate the holding member 322 relative to the holding member 324 about the rotation axis O2, and to rotate the holding member 326 relative to the holding member 324 about the rotation axis O1, thereby arranging the group of packages P in a line along the second conveying direction MD2.

[0091] For example, in the third example of the conveying mode change described above, the control unit 400 controls the holder drive unit 360 to move the holding members 332 and 336, which are separate from the holding member 334, relative to the holding member 334, thereby arranging the group of packages P in a line along the second conveying direction MD2. In particular, in the third example described above, the control unit 400 controls the holder drive unit 360 to move the holding members 332 and 336 relative to the holding member 334 in the circumferential and axial directions of the drum 210 to which the arm 220 supporting the holding members 332, 334, and 336 is attached, thereby arranging the group of packages P in a line along the second conveying direction MD2.

[0092] Note that step S3 may be performed while the rotation of drum 210 is stopped. However, from the viewpoint of processing efficiency, it is preferable that control unit 400 perform step S3 while rotating drum 210 by controlling rotation drive unit 212.

[0093] The control unit 400 rotates the drum 210 using the rotation drive unit 212, and when the holder 300 holding the packaging material P reaches the position indicated by A2 in Fig. 2, the control unit 400 controls the suction drive unit 350 and a suction drive unit (not shown) of the second transport unit 120, which is a suction conveyor, to move the packaging material P held by the holder 300 to the second transport path R2 (step S4). Note that the series of steps from step S2 to step S4 is an example of a moving step.

[0094] When the packaging bodies P move to the second conveying path R2, the control unit 400 operates the second conveying drive unit 122, causing the second conveying unit 120 to convey the packaging bodies P in a single file along the second conveying direction MD2 on the second conveying path R2 (step S5). As a result, the packaging bodies P are conveyed to a subsequent process (not shown). Step S5 is an example of a second conveying step.

[0095] (3) Features (3-1) The absorbent article conveyance form changing device 100 of the first embodiment has a first conveying section 110, a second conveying section 120, and a moving section 200. The first conveying section 110 conveys absorbent articles 20 (packages P) arranged in multiple rows in the first direction CD1 in a first conveying direction MD1 perpendicular to the first direction CD1. In the above embodiment, the first conveying section 110 conveys packages P arranged in three rows in the first direction CD1 in the first conveying direction MD1 perpendicular to the first direction CD1. The second conveying section 120 conveys the packages P in a single row along the second conveying direction MD2. The moving section 200 moves the packages P conveyed by the first conveying section 110 to the second conveying section 120.

[0096] This conveying form changing device 100 rearranges packages P that are conveyed in multiple rows into a single row for conveyance. Therefore, when some processing is to be performed on the packages P, the conveying form changing device 100 can reduce the installation cost and installation area of ​​the device that performs the processing.

[0097] (3-2) In the absorbent article conveyance form changing device 100 of the first embodiment, the moving unit 200 has a holding unit 300 and a holding unit drive unit 360 as an example of an alignment unit. The holding unit 300 takes one package P from each row of packages P conveyed by the first conveyor 110 in the first direction CD1 and holds them as a group of packages P. The holding unit drive unit 360 aligns the group of packages P held by the holding unit 300 in a single row along the second conveyance direction MD2.

[0098] In this conveying form changing device 100, the holding section 300 holds the packages P and then arranges the packages P, so that the packages P can be arranged in an orderly manner.

[0099] (3-3) In the first example of the modified conveying form described above, the holding unit 300 has a holding surface F that holds the group of packages P. In the first example, the holding unit 300 has, for example, a single holding member 310, and the holding member 310 has a holding surface F that holds the group of packages P. The holding unit driver 360 rotates the holding unit 300 around a rotation axis that extends in a direction perpendicular to the holding surface F, thereby arranging the group of packages P in a line along the second conveying direction MD2.

[0100] In the above-described first example of changing the conveying form, packages P that are conveyed in a state of being arranged in multiple rows can be rearranged into a single row with a relatively simple structure.

[0101] (3-4) In the second example of the conveying form change, the holding unit 300 has a plurality of holding members 322, 324, and 326. Each of the holding members 322, 324, and 326 individually holds one of the group of packages P. The plurality of holding members 322, 324, and 326 includes the holding member 324, which is an example of a first holding member. In the second example of the conveying form change, the holding unit driver 360 moves the holding members 322 and 326, which are different from the holding member 324, relative to the holding member 324, thereby arranging the group of packages P in a row along the second conveying direction MD2.

[0102] In the third example of the modified conveying form, the holding unit 300 has a plurality of holding members 332, 334, and 336. Each of the holding members 332, 334, and 336 individually holds one of the group of packages P. The plurality of holding members 332, 334, and 336 includes the holding member 334, which is an example of a first holding member. In the third example of the modified conveying form, the holding unit driver 360 moves the holding members 332 and 336, which are different from the holding member 334, relative to the holding member 334, thereby arranging the group of packages P in a line along the second conveying direction MD2.

[0103] In the second or third example of the change in conveying form, packages P that are conveyed in a state of being arranged in multiple rows can be rearranged into a single row with a relatively simple structure.

[0104] (3-5) In the second example of the above-mentioned change in conveying form, the holding unit drive unit 360 rotates the holding members 322, 326, which are separate from the holding member 324, around the holding member 324, thereby arranging the group of packaging bodies P in a row along the second conveying direction MD2.

[0105] The conveying form changing device 100 of the second example described above has a relatively simple structure and can rearrange packages P that are conveyed in a state of being arranged in multiple rows into a single row.

[0106] (3-6) The conveying form changing method of the above embodiment includes a first conveying step (step S1), a second conveying step (step S5), and a moving step (steps S2 to S4). In the first conveying step, on the first conveying path R1, the packages P arranged in multiple rows in the first direction CD1 are conveyed in a first conveying direction MD1 perpendicular to the first direction CD1. Particularly in the above embodiment, in the first conveying step, on the first conveying path R1, the packages P arranged in three rows in the first direction CD1 are conveyed in the first conveying direction MD1. In the second conveying step, on the second conveying path R2, the packages P are conveyed in a single row along the second conveying direction MD2. In the moving step, the multiple rows of packages P conveyed on the first conveying path R1 are moved to the second conveying path R2.

[0107] In this method of changing the conveying form, packaging materials P that are conveyed in multiple rows are rearranged into a single row and conveyed, so that when some processing is to be performed on the packaging materials P, the installation costs and installation area of ​​the equipment that performs the processing can be reduced.

[0108] (3-7) In the conveying mode changing method of the above embodiment, the moving step includes a holding step (step S2) and an aligning step (step S3). In the holding step, the holding unit 300 receives one package P from each row of packages P conveyed along the first conveying path R1 in the first direction CD1, and holds the received group of packages P. In the aligning step (step S3), the group of packages P held by the holding unit 300 is aligned in a row along the second conveying direction MD2.

[0109] In this method of changing the transport form, the holding unit 300 holds the packages P and then arranges the packages P, so that the packages P can be arranged in an orderly manner.

[0110] (3-8) In the first example of the above-described modified conveying form, the holding unit 300 has a holding surface F that holds a group of packages P. In the aligning step, the holding unit 300 is rotated around a rotation axis that extends in a direction perpendicular to the holding surface F, and the group of packages P is aligned in a row along the second conveying direction MD2.

[0111] This method of changing the conveying form can rearrange packages P that are conveyed in a state of being arranged in multiple rows into a single row using a relatively simple structure.

[0112] (3-9) In the second example of the modified conveying mode, the holding section 300 has a plurality of holding members 322, 324, and 326. Each of the holding members 322, 324, and 326 individually holds one of the group of packages P. The plurality of holding members 322, 324, and 326 includes the holding member 324, which is an example of a first holding member. In the aligning step, the holding members 322 and 326, which are different from the holding member 324, move relative to the holding member 324, thereby arranging the group of packages P in a row along the second conveying direction MD2.

[0113] In the third example of the modified conveying mode, the holding section 300 has a plurality of holding members 332, 334, and 336. Each of the holding members 332, 334, and 336 individually holds one of the group of packages P. The plurality of holding members 332, 334, and 336 includes the holding member 334, which is an example of a first holding member. In the aligning step, the holding members 332 and 336, which are different from the holding member 334, move relative to the holding member 334, thereby arranging the group of packages P in a row along the second conveying direction MD2.

[0114] These methods for changing the conveying form can rearrange the packages P that are conveyed in a state of being arranged in multiple rows into a single row using a relatively simple structure.

[0115] (3-10) In the second example of the above-mentioned change in conveying form, in the alignment step, holding members 322, 326, which are separate from holding member 334, rotate relatively around holding member 324, thereby arranging a group of packaging bodies P in a row along the second conveying direction MD2.

[0116] This method of changing the conveying form can rearrange packages P that are conveyed in a state of being arranged in multiple rows into a single row using a relatively simple structure.

[0117] (4) Variations Modifications of the above embodiment will be described below. The following modifications may be combined as appropriate within the scope of not contradicting each other.

[0118] (4-1) Variation A In the above embodiment, an example was described in which the number of rows in the first direction CD1 of the packaging bodies P transported through the first conveying section 110 is three, but as mentioned above, the number of rows in the first direction CD1 of the packaging bodies P transported through the first conveying section 110 may be two or four or more.

[0119] For example, referring to Figures 8A to 8C, a brief description will be given of a change in conveying form when the number of rows of packages P in the first direction CD1 conveyed through the first conveying unit 110 is four. Figure 8A is a diagram showing a first example of a change in conveying form when the number of rows of packages P in the first direction CD1 conveyed through the first conveying unit 110 is four, which corresponds to the first example of a change in conveying form in the embodiment described above. Figure 8B is a diagram showing a second example of a change in conveying form when the number of rows of packages P in the first direction CD1 conveyed through the first conveying unit 110 is four, which corresponds to the second example of a change in conveying form in the embodiment described above. Figure 8C is a diagram showing a third example of a change in conveying form when the number of rows of packages P in the first direction CD1 conveyed through the first conveying unit 110 is four, which corresponds to the third example of a change in conveying form in the embodiment described above.

[0120] In a first example of a change in conveying form, as shown in Figure 8A, the holding unit drive unit 360 rotates the cylindrical arm 220 supporting the holding unit 300 around its axial direction, thereby rotating the holding unit 300 around a rotation axis (rotation axis O) extending in a direction perpendicular to the holding surface F that holds the group of packaging bodies P, thereby arranging the group of packaging bodies P held by the holding unit 300 in a row along the second conveying direction MD2.

[0121] In a second example of the modified conveying mode, as shown in FIG. 8B , the holder 300 includes holding members 322, 324, 326, and 328 that individually hold one of a group of packages P. As shown in FIG. 8B , the holder driver 360 rotates the holding member 322 about a rotation axis O2 relative to the holding member 324, and rotates the holding members 326 and 328 about a rotation axis O1 relative to the holding member 324. Furthermore, the holder driver 360 rotates the holding member 328 about a rotation axis O3 relative to the holding member 326. In this manner, the holder driver 360 aligns the holding members 322, 324, 326, and 328 in this order along the circumferential direction of the drum 210, as shown in FIG. 8B . As a result, the group of packages P held by the holding section 300 (holding members 322, 324, 326, 328) is arranged in a line along the second conveying direction MD2.

[0122] In a third example of the modified conveying mode, as shown in Fig. 8C , the holding unit 300 includes holding members 332, 334, 336, and 338 that individually hold one of the group of packages P. As shown in Fig. 8C , the holding unit driver 360 moves the holding members 332, 336, and 338 relative to the holding member 334 in the circumferential and axial directions of the drum 210, thereby aligning the holding members 332, 334, 336, and 338 in this order along the circumferential direction of the drum 210. As a result, the group of packages P held by the holding unit 300 (holding members 332, 334, 336, and 338) are lined up in a row along the second conveying direction MD2.

[0123] Second Embodiment (1) Overall overview A conveying form changing device 100a according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 9 and 10. FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram of the conveying form changing device 100a as viewed in a direction perpendicular to the conveying surfaces of absorbent articles 20 (packages P) (belt surfaces 113f, 114f, and 115f of conveyor belts 113a, 114a, and 115a of a first conveying section 110a, and a belt surface 121a of a conveyor belt 121 of a second conveying section 120, which will be described later). Note that, to avoid complicating the description, FIG. 9 depicts only a portion of the packages P conveyed by the first conveying section 110a and the second conveying section 120. FIG. 10 is an example of a control block diagram of the conveying form changing device 100a.

[0124] First, the absorbent article 20 (package P) for which the conveying form of the conveying form changing device 100a is changed is the same as in the first embodiment, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted here.

[0125] The conveying form changing device 100a mainly includes a first conveying unit 110a, a second conveying unit 120, a guide 130, and a control unit 400a (see FIG. 1). Unlike the conveying form changing device 100 of the first embodiment, the conveying form changing device 100a does not include a moving unit 200.

[0126] The first conveying section 110a receives absorbent articles 20 (packages P in the following embodiment) manufactured in multiple rows by an absorbent article manufacturing apparatus such as that disclosed in Patent Document 1 (JP 60-225554 A), and conveys them in a direction approaching the second conveying section 120. The first conveying section 110a conveys the packages P, which are arranged in multiple rows in a first direction CD1, in a first conveying direction MD1 that is perpendicular to the first direction CD1.

[0127] The main structural difference between first conveyor 110a and first conveyor 110 of the first embodiment is that first conveyor 110a has multiple row conveyor units. Each row conveyor unit is a mechanism that conveys one row of packages P in the first conveying direction MD1 out of multiple rows of packages P lined up in the first direction CD1 on first conveyor 110a. In particular, in this embodiment, first conveyor 110a has three row conveyor units 113, 114, and 115, as shown in FIG.

[0128] The second transport section 120 is similar to the second transport section 120 of the first embodiment.

[0129] The guide 130 is a member that guides the packages P conveyed by the first conveying section 110a to the second conveying section 120.

[0130] The control unit 400a is a device that controls the operation of various components of the conveying form changing device 100a. The physical configuration of the control unit 400a is similar to the physical configuration of the control unit 400 of the first embodiment. However, as will be described later, the control unit 400a and the control unit 400 of the first embodiment execute different processes.

[0131] (2) Details The conveying form changing device 100a and the conveying form changing method for the absorbent article 20 will be described in detail with further reference to Fig. 11. Fig. 11 is an example of a flowchart of the conveying form changing method of the conveying form changing device 100a.

[0132] (2-1) First conveying section The first conveyor 110a receives multiple rows of absorbent articles 20 (packages P) (arranged in multiple rows in the first direction CD1) conveyed from an upstream process. The first conveyor 110a then conveys the packages P arranged in multiple rows in the first direction CD1 in a first conveying direction MD1 that is perpendicular to the first direction CD1 (see FIG. 9).

[0133] Here, an example will be described in which the first conveying unit 110a conveys packages P arranged in three rows in the first direction CD1 in the first conveying direction MD1. However, the number of rows of packages P conveyed by the first conveying unit 110 is not limited to three and may be four or more rows. Furthermore, the number of rows of packages P conveyed by the first conveying unit 110 may be two rows.

[0134] The first transport section 110a mainly includes a front-stage transport section 116, a first row transport section 113, a second row transport section 114, and a third row transport section 115.

[0135] The front-stage conveying section 116 is disposed at the most upstream position in the conveying direction of the first conveying section 110a, receives absorbent articles 20 (packages P) arranged in multiple rows in the first direction CD1 and conveyed from a process upstream of the first conveying section 110a, and conveys the packages P in the first conveying direction MD1 while still arranged in multiple rows in the first direction CD1. Note that the front-stage conveying section 116 is not an essential component, and the packages P may be delivered directly from the upstream process to the downstream row conveying sections 113, 114, 115.

[0136] The first row conveying unit 113, the second row conveying unit 114, and the third row conveying unit 115 are disposed downstream of the preceding conveying unit 116 in the conveying direction of the first conveying unit 110a. The first row conveying unit 113, the second row conveying unit 114, and the third row conveying unit 115 each receive one row of packages P from the preceding conveying unit 116, which are arranged in multiple rows in the first direction CD1, and convey them in the first conveying direction MD1. The first row conveying unit 113, the second row conveying unit 114, and the third row conveying unit 115 collectively convey the packages P arranged in multiple rows (three rows) in the first direction CD1 in the first conveying direction MD1. The first row conveying unit 113, the second row conveying unit 114, and the third row conveying unit 115 convey the packages P toward the guide 130. In addition, for ease of understanding, in the following, the packaging P transported by the first row conveying section 113 may be referred to as packaging P1, the packaging P transported by the second row conveying section 114 as packaging P2, and the packaging P transported by the third row conveying section 115 as packaging P3.

[0137] Although the type of device of the conveying section is not limited, for example, the front-stage conveying section 116, the first row conveying section 113, the second row conveying section 114, and the third row conveying section 115 are all belt conveyors similar to the first conveying section 110 of the first embodiment.

[0138] Although detailed description will be omitted, the front-stage conveying section 116 mainly includes a conveyor belt 116a and a front-stage conveying driver 116b for driving one of the rollers (not shown) around which the conveyor belt 116a is wound. The front-stage conveying driver 116b includes a motor. The first-row conveying section 113 mainly includes a conveyor belt 113a and a first-row conveying driver 113b for driving one of the rollers (not shown) around which the conveyor belt 113a is wound. The second-row conveying section 114 mainly includes a conveyor belt 114a and a second-row conveying driver 114b for driving one of the rollers (not shown) around which the conveyor belt 114a is wound. The third-row conveying section 115 mainly includes a conveyor belt 115a and a third-row conveying driver 115b for driving one of the rollers (not shown) around which the conveyor belt 115a is wound. In this embodiment, the first line transport driver 113b, the second line transport driver 114b, and the third line transport driver 115b each have a variable speed motor.

[0139] The front-stage conveying section 116 conveys the packaging pieces P in the first conveying direction MD1 while the packaging pieces P are arranged in a generally straight line in the first direction CD1. In other words, the front-stage conveying section 116 conveys the packaging pieces P in the first conveying direction MD1 so that each row of packaging pieces P is handed over at roughly the same time to the downstream row conveying sections 113, 114, and 115 corresponding to each row of packaging pieces P. Furthermore, the front-stage conveying section 116 conveys each row of packaging pieces P in the first conveying direction MD1 at the same speed.

[0140] The first column conveyor 113, the second column conveyor 114, and the third column conveyor 115 each convey a row of packages P along the first conveyance direction MD1. The first column conveyor 113, the second column conveyor 114, and the third column conveyor 115 physically have generally the same configuration, but the conveyance speeds of the packages P by the first column conveyor 113, the second column conveyor 114, and the third column conveyor 115 are different from each other. For example, if the conveyance speed of the package P by the first column conveyor 113 is represented by V1, the conveyance speed of the package P by the second column conveyor 114 is represented by V2, and the conveyance speed of the package by the third column conveyor 115 is represented by V3, then they are in the relationship of V1 > V2 > V3. However, the relationship of the conveyance speeds of the first column conveyor 113, the second column conveyor 114, and the third column conveyor 115 is not limited to V1 > V2 > V3. For example, there may be a relationship of V1 < V2 < V3 or a relationship of V1 > V3 > V2 among the values of V1, V2, and V3.

[0141] (2-2) Second Conveyor The second conveyor 120 receives the absorbent article 20 (package P) moved from the first conveyor 110a and conveys the package P in a state where the packages are arranged in a row along the second conveyance direction MD2 in the second conveyance direction MD2. More specifically, the second conveyor 120 receives the package P moved from the first conveyor 110a via the guide 130 and conveys the package P in a state where the packages are arranged in a row along the second conveyance direction MD2 in the second conveyance direction MD2. The second conveyor 120 conveys the package P to the subsequent process of the conveyance form changing device 100a.

[0142] In addition, when the guide 130, like the guide 130 described later, moves the package P conveyed by the first conveyor 110a to the second conveyor 120 by gravity, the second conveyor 120 is arranged at a position lower than the downstream end of the first column conveyor 113, the second column conveyor 114, and the third column conveyor 115 in the first conveyance direction MD1.

[0143] For example, the second conveyor 120 conveys the package P in the same direction as the first conveyor 110a. However, the second conveyance direction MD2 of the second conveyor 120 may be a direction different from the first conveyance direction MD1 of the first conveyor 110a.

[0144] The configuration of the second transport section 120 is the same as that of the first embodiment, and therefore a detailed description of the second transport section 120 will be omitted.

[0145] (2-3) Guide The guide 130 constitutes a part of the moving unit in the claims. The guide 130 guides the packages P conveyed by the first row conveying unit 113, the second row conveying unit 114, and the third row conveying unit 115 to a predetermined position on the belt surface 121a of the conveyor belt 121 of the second conveying unit 120.

[0146] The guide 130 is disposed adjacent to the downstream ends of the first row conveying section 113, the second row conveying section 114, and the third row conveying section 115 in the first conveying direction MD1. The guide 130 is also disposed adjacent to the position where the second conveying section 120 receives the supply of packages P.

[0147] The guide 130 is a member that is, for example, wider on the side of the row conveying units 113-115 than on the side of the second conveying unit 120 of the row conveying units 113-115 and is inclined so as to become lower from the side of the row conveying units 113-115 toward the side of the second conveying unit 120. The width of the guide 130 on the side of the row conveying units 113-115 is approximately equal to the width in the first direction CD1 of the first conveying path R1 along which the packages P are conveyed (the width from the edge of the first row conveying unit 113 on the side not adjacent to the second row conveying unit 114 to the edge of the third row conveying unit 115 on the side not adjacent to the second row conveying unit 114). The width of the guide 130 on the side of the second conveying unit 120 is approximately equal to the size of the packages P (the length of one side of the square-shaped packages P). When the packages P are delivered from the row conveying sections 113 to 115 to the guide 130, the packages P slide along the guide 130 and are guided by the guide 130 to a predetermined position on the belt surface 121a of the conveyor belt 121 of the second conveying section 120.

[0148] The configuration for moving the packaging material P from the first conveying section 110a to the second conveying section 120 is not limited to the illustrated guide 130, and other configurations may be adopted as long as they are capable of moving the packaging material P conveyed at different speeds (at different times) by the first row conveying section 113, the second row conveying section 114, and the third row conveying section 115 to the second conveying section 120.

[0149] (2-4) Control unit The control unit 400a is a device that controls the operations of various components of the conveying form changing device 100a.

[0150] The control unit 400a functions as part of a moving unit that moves the packages P conveyed by the first conveying unit 110a to the second conveying unit 120. The control unit 400a has the function of rearranging the packages P conveyed on the first conveying path R1 in a state of being lined up in the first direction CD1 so that they are conveyed in a single line on the second conveying path R2. How the control unit 400a rearranges the packages P conveyed on the first conveying path R1 in a state of being lined up in the first direction CD1 so that they are conveyed in a single line on the second conveying path R2 will be described later.

[0151] The control unit 400a mainly includes a CPU, a storage unit including a ROM, a RAM, an auxiliary storage device (e.g., a flash memory), an input / output interface, and a communication interface. Note that the control unit 400a does not have to realize all of its functions by software, and some of the functions described below may be realized by hardware such as a logic circuit. Furthermore, the control unit 400a may be realized by one device or by multiple devices.

[0152] The control unit 400a is electrically connected to the front-stage transport drive unit 116b, the first row transport drive unit 113b, the second row transport drive unit 114b, the third row transport drive unit 115b, and the second transport drive unit 122. The control unit 400 controls the operations of the front-stage transport drive unit 116b, the first row transport drive unit 113b, the second row transport drive unit 114b, the third row transport drive unit 115b, and the second transport drive unit 122.

[0153] As a characteristic control, the control unit 400a operates the first row conveying drive unit 113b, the second row conveying drive unit 114b, and the third row conveying drive unit 115b so that the first row conveying unit 113, the second row conveying unit 114, and the third row conveying unit 115 convey the packages P at different conveying speeds. Specifically, the control unit 400a operates variable speed motors serving as the row conveying drive units 113b to 115b at different rotational speeds so that the row conveying units 113 to 115 convey the packages P at different conveying speeds.

[0154] In addition, the description that the control unit 400a operates the column conveying drive units 113b to 115b so that the column conveying units 113 to 115 convey the packaging material P at different conveying speeds is not limited to the embodiment in which the variable speed motors serving as the column conveying drive units 113b to 115b are controlled to rotate at different rotational speeds.

[0155] For example, the motors serving as the row conveyor drivers 113b to 115b may all be constant-speed motors, and the rotational speeds of the motors serving as the row conveyor drivers 113b to 115b may have the following relationship: rotational speed of the constant-speed motor serving as the first row conveyor driver 113b > rotational speed of the constant-speed motor serving as the second row conveyor driver 114b > rotational speed of the constant-speed motor serving as the third row conveyor driver 115b. The description that the control unit 400a causes the row conveyors 113 to 115 to convey the packages P at different conveying speeds may also include an embodiment in which the control unit 400a simply operates the constant-speed motors serving as the row conveyor drivers 113b to 115b to cause the row conveyors 113 to 115 to convey the packages P at different conveying speeds.

[0156] The effect of the row conveying sections 113 to 115 conveying the packages P at different conveying speeds will be described.

[0157] By each of the column conveying units 113-115 conveying the packages P at different conveying speeds, the column conveying units 113-115 can supply the packages P (packages P1, P2, P3) conveyed by the preceding conveying unit 116 in a line in the first direction CD1 to the guide 130 at staggered timing (in the order of packages P1, P2, P3). As a result, the packages P (packages P1, P2, P3) conveyed by the preceding conveying unit 116 in a line in the first direction CD1 are supplied to the second conveying unit 120 in the order of package P1, package P2, package P3, and the second conveying unit 120 can convey the packages P1, P2, and P3 in a line in the second conveying direction MD2. In other words, the control unit 400a functions as part of the moving unit by operating the first row conveying drive unit 113b, the second row conveying drive unit 114b, and the third row conveying drive unit 115b so that the first row conveying unit 113, the second row conveying unit 114, and the third row conveying unit 115 each convey the packaging material P at different conveying speeds, and can rearrange the packaging materials P that are conveyed along the first conveying path R1 in multiple rows in the first direction CD1 into a single row in the second conveying direction MD2.

[0158] <How to change the transport method> With reference to the flowchart of Figure 11, we will explain how the control unit 400a of the conveying form changing device 100a controls the operation of various components of the conveying form changing device 100a, thereby changing the conveying form of the absorbent article 20 (packaging body P).

[0159] In the conveying form changing device 100a, the first conveying section 110a and the second conveying section 120 convey the packaging bodies P one after another, but here, for the sake of simplicity, the conveying form changing method will be explained assuming that only three packaging bodies P (P1, P2, P3) are conveyed by the first conveying section 110a while lined up in the first direction CD1.

[0160] First, the control unit 400a operates the front-stage conveying drive unit 116b, causing the front-stage conveying unit 116 to convey the absorbent articles 20 (packages P) arranged in multiple rows in the first direction CD1 on the first conveying path R1 in a first conveying direction MD1 perpendicular to the first direction CD1 (step S11). The front-stage conveying unit 116 conveys three packages P arranged in a single row in the first direction CD1. Of the three packages P conveyed by the front-stage conveying unit 116, package P1 is delivered to the first row conveying unit 113, package P2 to the second row conveying unit 114, and package P3 to the third row conveying unit 115.

[0161] Next, the control unit 400a operates the first row conveying driver 113b, the second row conveying driver 114b, and the third row conveying driver 115b, and the first row conveying unit 113, the second row conveying unit 114, and the third row conveying unit 115 convey the packages P arranged in multiple rows in the first direction CD1 (step S12). Note that in step S12, the control unit 400a operates the multiple row conveying units 113, 114, and 115 so that the multiple row conveying units 113, 114, and 115 convey the packages P at different conveying speeds. Specifically, if the conveying speed of the package P1 by the first row conveying unit 113 is represented by V1, the conveying speed of the package P2 by the second row conveying unit 114 is represented by V2, and the conveying speed of the package P3 by the third row conveying unit 115 is represented by V3, then the relationship V1>V2>V3 holds. Step S12 is an example of a first transport step, and also forms part of a movement step.

[0162] When the packages P conveyed by the first row conveying unit 113, the second row conveying unit 114, and the third row conveying unit 115 reach the guide 130, the packages P are moved via the guide 130 from the first row conveying unit 113, the second row conveying unit 114, and the third row conveying unit 115 to the second conveying unit 120, which is an example of a collecting conveying unit (step S13). As described above, the conveying speed V1 of the package P1 in the first row conveying unit 113, the conveying speed V2 of the package P2 in the second row conveying unit 114, and the conveying speed V3 of the package P3 in the third row conveying unit 115 have the relationship V1>V2>V3, so the packages P are delivered to the second conveying unit 120 in the order of package P1, package P2, and package P3. Step S13 constitutes part of the moving step.

[0163] Next, the control unit 400a operates the second conveying drive unit 122, so that the second conveying unit 120 conveys the packages P in a single file along the second conveying direction MD2 on the second conveying path R2 (step S14). Specifically, the second conveying unit 120 conveys the three packages P in a single file along the second conveying direction MD2 in the order of package P1, package P2, and package P3. The packages P conveyed by the second conveying unit 120 are transported to a process not shown. Step S14 is an example of a second conveying step.

[0164] (3) Features (3-1) The absorbent article conveyance form changing device 100a has a first conveying section 110a, a second conveying section 120, and a moving section. In this embodiment, the guide 130 and the control section 400a function as the moving section. The first conveying section 110a conveys absorbent articles 20 (packages P) arranged in multiple rows in the first direction CD1 in a first conveying direction MD1 perpendicular to the first direction CD1. In particular, in the above embodiment, the first conveying section 110a conveys packages P arranged in three rows in the first direction CD1 in the first conveying direction MD1 perpendicular to the first direction CD1. The second conveying section 120 conveys the packages P in a single row along the second conveying direction MD2.

[0165] The moving unit moves the packages P conveyed by the first conveying unit 110a to the second conveying unit 120. Specifically, in the conveying form changing device 100a, the guide 130 moves the packages P, which are lined up in multiple rows in the first direction CD1 conveyed by the first conveying unit 110a, to the second conveying unit 120. The control unit 400a controls the operation of the first conveying unit 110a and varies the timing at which the packages P reach the guide 130 for each row in the first direction CD1, so that the second conveying unit 120 can convey the packages P lined up in a single row in the second conveying direction MD2.

[0166] This conveying form changing device 100a rearranges the packages P that are conveyed in multiple rows into a single row for conveyance. Therefore, when some processing is to be performed on the packages P, the conveying form changing device 100a can reduce the installation cost and installation area of ​​the device that performs the processing.

[0167] (3-2) In the absorbent article conveying form changing device 100a, the first conveying unit 110a has a plurality of row conveying units 113, 114, and 115. Each of the row conveying units 113, 114, and 115 conveys one row of packages P among the packages P arranged in a plurality of rows in the first direction CD1. The moving unit includes a control unit 400a that controls the operation of the plurality of row conveying units 113, 114, and 115. The control unit 400a operates the multiple row conveying units 113, 114, 115 so that each row conveying unit 113, 114, 115 conveys the packaging body P at a different conveying speed, thereby varying the positions to which the multiple row conveying units 113, 114, 115 move the packaging body P relative to the second conveying unit 120 (more specifically, the positions to which the packaging body P is moved on the belt surface 121a of the conveyor belt 121 of the second conveying unit 120) for each of the multiple row conveying units 113, 114, 115.

[0168] This conveying form changing device 100a can rearrange packaging materials P that are conveyed in multiple rows into a single row mainly through the operation of the first conveying section 110a (in other words, without having to provide a moving section 200 configured as in the first embodiment).

[0169] (3-3) The conveying form changing method of the above embodiment includes a first conveying step (step S12), a second conveying step (step S14), and a moving step (steps S12 to S13). In the first conveying step, on the first conveying path R1, the packages P arranged in multiple rows in the first direction CD1 are conveyed in a first conveying direction MD1 perpendicular to the first direction CD1. Particularly in the above embodiment, in the first conveying step, on the first conveying path R1, the packages P arranged in three rows in the first direction CD1 are conveyed in the first conveying direction MD1. In the second conveying step, on the second conveying path R2, the packages P are conveyed in a single row along the second conveying direction MD2. In the moving step, the multiple rows of packages P conveyed on the first conveying path R1 are moved to the second conveying path R2.

[0170] In this method of changing the conveying form, packaging materials P that are conveyed in multiple rows are rearranged into a single row and conveyed, so that when some processing is to be performed on the packaging materials P, the installation costs and installation area of ​​the equipment that performs the processing can be reduced.

[0171] (3-4) In the conveying mode changing method of the above embodiment, in a first conveying step (step S12), on the first conveying path R1, each of the plurality of row conveying units 113, 114, 115 conveys one row of packages P out of the plurality of rows of packages P lined up in the first direction CD1. In the moving step, the plurality of row conveying units 113, 114, 115 are operated so that they convey the packages P at different conveying speeds, whereby the plurality of row conveying units 113, 114, 115 move the packages P to different positions relative to the second conveying unit 120 as an example of a collecting conveying unit that conveys the packages P on the second conveying path R2 (more specifically, relative to the belt surface 121a of the conveyor belt 121 of the second conveying unit 120).

[0172] In this method of changing the conveying form, packages P that are conveyed in a state of being arranged in multiple rows can be rearranged into a single row mainly by controlling the conveying operation.

[0173] Finally, the technical ideas that can be understood from the above-described embodiment and other examples (modifications) will be additionally described below.

[0174] According to a first aspect of the present invention, an apparatus for changing the transport form of absorbent articles includes a first transport section, a second transport section, and a moving section. The first transport section transports absorbent articles arranged in multiple rows in a first transport direction perpendicular to the first direction. The second transport section transports the absorbent articles in a single row along the second transport direction. The moving section moves the absorbent articles transported by the first transport section to the second transport section.

[0175] The device for changing the transport form of absorbent articles according to a first aspect of the present invention rearranges absorbent articles that are transported in multiple rows into a single row for transport. Therefore, when performing some kind of processing on the absorbent articles, the device for changing the transport form of absorbent articles according to the first aspect of the present invention can reduce the installation cost and installation area of ​​the device that performs the processing.

[0176] A second aspect of the present invention is an apparatus for changing the transport form of absorbent articles, which is the apparatus for changing the transport form of absorbent articles of the first aspect, wherein the moving unit has a holding unit and an aligning unit. The holding unit takes one absorbent article from each row of absorbent articles in the first direction transported by the first transport unit and holds them as a group of absorbent articles. The aligning unit arranges the group of absorbent articles held by the holding unit in a single row along the second transport direction.

[0177] In the device for changing the transport form of absorbent articles according to the second aspect of the present invention, the absorbent articles are arranged after the holding section holds the absorbent articles, so that the absorbent articles can be arranged in an orderly manner.

[0178] A third aspect of the present invention provides an apparatus for changing the transport form of absorbent articles according to the second aspect, wherein the holding unit has a holding surface that holds the group of absorbent articles, and the aligning unit rotates the holding unit around a rotation axis that extends in a direction perpendicular to the holding surface to align the group of absorbent articles in a row along the second transport direction.

[0179] The device for changing the conveyance form of absorbent articles according to the third aspect of the present invention has a relatively simple structure and can rearrange absorbent articles that are conveyed in a state of being arranged in multiple rows into a single row.

[0180] A fourth aspect of the present invention relates to the device for changing the transport form of absorbent articles of the second aspect, wherein the holding unit has a plurality of holding members. Each holding member individually holds one of the group of absorbent articles. The plurality of holding members includes a first holding member. The aligning unit moves a holding member other than the first holding member relative to the first holding member, thereby aligning the group of absorbent articles in a row along the second transport direction.

[0181] The device for changing the conveyance form of absorbent articles according to the fourth aspect of the present invention has a relatively simple structure and can rearrange absorbent articles that are conveyed in a state of being arranged in multiple rows into a single row.

[0182] A fifth aspect of the present invention is a device for changing the transport form of absorbent articles, which is the fourth aspect of the present invention, wherein the alignment section rotates a holding member other than the first holding member relatively around the first holding member, thereby arranging the group of absorbent articles in a row along the second transport direction.

[0183] The device for changing the conveying form of absorbent articles according to the fifth aspect of the present invention has a relatively simple structure and can rearrange absorbent articles that are conveyed in a state of being arranged in multiple rows into a single row.

[0184] A sixth aspect of the present invention provides an absorbent article transport form changing device according to the first aspect, wherein the first transport unit has a plurality of row transport units. Each row transport unit transports one row of absorbent articles arranged in a plurality of rows in a first direction. The moving unit includes a control unit that controls the operation of the plurality of row transport units. The moving unit controls the control unit to operate the plurality of row transport units so that the plurality of row transport units transport the absorbent articles at different transport speeds, thereby varying the positions to which the plurality of row transport units move the absorbent articles relative to the second transport unit for each of the plurality of row transport units.

[0185] In the device for changing the conveying form of absorbent articles according to the sixth aspect of the present invention, absorbent articles that are conveyed in a state of being arranged in multiple rows can be rearranged into a single row mainly by the operation of the first conveying section.

[0186] A seventh aspect of the present invention is a device for changing the transport form of absorbent articles according to any one of the first to sixth aspects, wherein the first transport section transports absorbent articles arranged in three or more rows in the first direction in the first transport direction.

[0187] In the device for changing the conveyance form of absorbent articles according to the seventh aspect of the present invention, absorbent articles that are conveyed in a state of being arranged in multiple rows of three or more can be rearranged into a single row.

[0188] A method for changing the conveying form of absorbent articles according to an eighth aspect of the present invention comprises a first conveying step, a second conveying step, and a moving step. In the first conveying step, absorbent articles arranged in multiple rows in a first direction are conveyed in a first conveying direction perpendicular to the first direction on a first conveying path. In the second conveying step, absorbent articles are conveyed in a single row along the second conveying direction on the second conveying path. In the moving step, the multiple rows of absorbent articles conveyed on the first conveying path are moved to the second conveying path.

[0189] In the method for changing the conveyance form of absorbent articles according to an eighth aspect of the present invention, absorbent articles that are conveyed in a state where they are arranged in multiple rows are rearranged into a single row for conveyance. Therefore, in the method for changing the conveyance form of absorbent articles according to the eighth aspect of the present invention, when some kind of processing is performed on the absorbent articles, it is possible to reduce the installation cost and installation area of ​​the device that performs the processing.

[0190] A method for changing the transport form of absorbent articles according to a ninth aspect of the present invention is the method for changing the transport form of absorbent articles according to the eighth aspect, wherein the moving step includes a holding step and an aligning step. In the holding step, a holder receives one absorbent article from each row in the first direction of the absorbent articles transported along the first transport path, and holds the received group of absorbent articles. In the aligning step, the group of absorbent articles held by the holder is lined up in a row along the second transport direction.

[0191] In the method for changing the transportation form of absorbent articles according to the ninth aspect of the present invention, the absorbent articles are arranged after the holding parts hold the absorbent articles, so that the absorbent articles can be arranged in an orderly manner.

[0192] A method for changing the transport form of absorbent articles according to a tenth aspect of the present invention is the method for changing the transport form of absorbent articles according to the ninth aspect, wherein the holding section has a holding surface that holds the group of absorbent articles. In the aligning step, the holding section is rotated around a rotation axis that extends in a direction perpendicular to the holding surface, and the group of absorbent articles is aligned in a row along the second transport direction.

[0193] In the method for changing the transport form of absorbent articles according to the tenth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to rearrange absorbent articles that are transported in a state of being arranged in multiple rows into a single row using a relatively simple structure.

[0194] A method for changing the transport form of absorbent articles according to an eleventh aspect of the present invention is the method for changing the transport form of absorbent articles according to the ninth aspect, wherein the holding section has a plurality of holding members. Each holding member individually holds one of the group of absorbent articles. The plurality of holding members includes a first holding member. In the aligning step, a holding member other than the first holding member moves relative to the first holding member, thereby arranging the group of absorbent articles in a row along the second transport direction.

[0195] In the method for changing the transport form of absorbent articles according to the eleventh aspect of the present invention, it is possible to rearrange absorbent articles that are transported in a state of being arranged in multiple rows into a single row using a relatively simple structure.

[0196] A method for changing the transport form of absorbent articles according to a twelfth aspect of the present invention is the method for changing the transport form of absorbent articles according to the eleventh aspect, wherein in the alignment step, a holding member other than the first holding member rotates relatively around the first holding member, thereby arranging the group of absorbent articles in a row along the second transport direction.

[0197] In the method for changing the transport form of absorbent articles according to the twelfth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to rearrange absorbent articles that are transported in a state of being arranged in multiple rows into a single row using a relatively simple structure.

[0198] A method for changing the conveyance form of absorbent articles according to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention is the method for changing the conveyance form of absorbent articles according to the eighth aspect, wherein in the first conveying step, on the first conveying path, each of the plurality of row conveying units conveys one row of absorbent articles among the absorbent articles lined up in multiple rows in the first direction. In the moving step, the plurality of row conveying units are operated so that each of the plurality of row conveying units conveys the absorbent articles at a different conveying speed, whereby the plurality of row conveying units move the absorbent articles to different positions relative to the collecting conveying unit that conveys the absorbent articles on the second conveying path.

[0199] In the method for changing the transport form of absorbent articles according to the thirteenth aspect of the present invention, the transport operation mainly in the first transport step can rearrange absorbent articles that are transported in multiple rows into a single row.

[0200] A method for changing the transport form of absorbent articles according to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention is a method for changing the transport form of absorbent articles according to any one of the eighth to thirteenth aspects, wherein in a first transport step, absorbent articles arranged in three or more rows in a first direction are transported in the first transport direction on a first transport path.

[0201] In the method for changing the transport form of absorbent articles according to the fourteenth aspect of the present invention, absorbent articles that are transported in a state of being arranged in multiple rows of three or more can be rearranged into a single row. [Explanation of symbols]

[0202] 20 Absorbent articles 100, 100a Conveying form changing device 110, 110a First conveying section 112 First row transport unit (row transport unit) 114 Second row transport unit (row transport unit) 116 Third row transport section (row transport section) 120 Second conveying section (collecting conveying section) 130 Guide (moving part) 200 Mobile Unit 300 Holding part 322, 324, 326, 328 Retaining member 332, 334, 336, 338 Retaining member 360 Holding unit drive unit (alignment unit) 400a Control unit (moving unit) CD1 1st direction F Holding surface MD1 First conveying direction MD2 Second conveying direction O Rotation axis P Packaging (absorbent articles)

Claims

1. a first conveying section that conveys the absorbent articles arranged in a plurality of rows in a first direction in a first conveying direction perpendicular to the first direction; a second conveying section that conveys the absorbent articles in a single file along a second conveying direction; a transfer unit that transfers the absorbent articles transferred by the first transfer unit to the second transfer unit; An apparatus for changing the transport form of an absorbent article, comprising:

2. The moving unit is a holding unit that takes one absorbent article from each row of the absorbent articles in the first direction conveyed by the first conveying unit and holds the absorbent articles as a group; an alignment unit that arranges the group of absorbent articles held by the holding unit in a line along the second conveyance direction; having The apparatus for changing the transport form of an absorbent article according to claim 1.

3. the holding portion has a holding surface that holds the group of absorbent articles, the aligning unit rotates the holding unit around a rotation axis extending in a direction perpendicular to the holding surface to align the group of absorbent articles in a line along the second conveyance direction. The apparatus for changing the transport form of an absorbent article according to claim 2.

4. the holding section has a plurality of holding members each individually holding one of the group of absorbent articles; the plurality of holding members include a first holding member, the aligning unit moves the holding member different from the first holding member relative to the first holding member to align the group of absorbent articles in a line along the second conveyance direction. The apparatus for changing the transport form of an absorbent article according to claim 2.

5. the aligning unit rotates the holding member different from the first holding member relatively around the first holding member, thereby arranging the group of absorbent articles in a row along the second conveyance direction. The apparatus for changing the transport form of an absorbent article according to claim 4.

6. the first transport unit includes a plurality of row transport units configured to transport one row of the absorbent articles arranged in the plurality of rows in the first direction; the moving unit includes a control unit that controls operations of the plurality of column transport units, the control unit operates the plurality of column transport units so that the plurality of column transport units transport the absorbent articles at different transport speeds, thereby varying positions to which the plurality of column transport units move the absorbent articles relative to the second transport unit for each of the plurality of column transport units; The apparatus for changing the transport form of an absorbent article according to claim 1.

7. The first conveying section conveys the absorbent articles arranged in three or more rows in the first direction in the first conveying direction. The device for changing the transport form of an absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. a first conveying step of conveying, on a first conveying path, absorbent articles arranged in a plurality of rows in a first direction, in a first conveying direction perpendicular to the first direction; a second conveying step of conveying the absorbent articles in a single file along a second conveying direction on a second conveying path; a moving step of moving the absorbent article transported on the first transport path to the second transport path; A method for changing the transport form of an absorbent article, comprising:

9. The moving step includes: a holding step in which a holding unit receives the absorbent articles one by one from each row in the first direction of the absorbent articles transported along the first transport path and holds the received group of absorbent articles; an aligning step of arranging the group of absorbent articles held by the holding section in a line along the second conveyance direction; Including, The method for changing the transport form of an absorbent article according to claim 8.

10. the holding portion has a holding surface that holds the group of absorbent articles, In the aligning step, the holding unit is rotated around a rotation axis extending in a direction perpendicular to the holding surface, and the group of absorbent articles is aligned in a row along the second conveyance direction. The method for changing the transport form of an absorbent article according to claim 9.

11. the holding section has a plurality of holding members each individually holding one of the group of absorbent articles; the plurality of holding members include a first holding member, In the aligning step, the holding member different from the first holding member moves relative to the first holding member, thereby arranging the group of absorbent articles in a line along the second conveyance direction. The method for changing the transport form of an absorbent article according to claim 9.

12. In the aligning step, the holding member other than the first holding member rotates relatively around the first holding member, thereby arranging the group of absorbent articles in a row along the second conveyance direction. The method for changing the transport form of an absorbent article according to claim 11.

13. In the first transport step, each of a plurality of row transport units transports one row of the absorbent articles arranged in the plurality of rows in the first direction on the first transport path, In the moving step, the plurality of row transport units are operated so that each of the row transport units transports the absorbent articles at a different transport speed, whereby the plurality of row transport units move the absorbent articles to different positions relative to a collecting transport unit that transports the absorbent articles on the second transport path. The method for changing the transport form of an absorbent article according to claim 8.

14. In the first transport step, the absorbent articles arranged in three or more rows in the first direction are transported in the first transport direction on the first transport path. A method for changing the transport form of an absorbent article according to any one of claims 8 to 13.

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