An apparatus for realizing at least two types of continuous cardboard strips of different widths for packaging by continuously joining a plurality of cardboard sheets of different widths to each other for packaging

Abstract

An apparatus (100) for realizing at least two types of continuous cardboard strips (N1, N2) for packaging, having different widths (W1, W2), by continuously joining to each other at least two plural cardboard sheets (C1, C2) for packaging having different widths (W1, W2) comprises: a first storage unit (M1) for containing a first stack (P1) of a first plural cardboard sheets (C1), each having a first width (W1); a second storage unit (M2) for containing a second stack (P2) of a second plural cardboard sheets (C2), each having a second width (W2). The second storage unit (M2) is arranged on the upstream side of the first storage unit (M1) at a height raised relative to the first storage unit (M1). The apparatus (100) further comprises a first operating station (O1) arranged above the first storage unit (M1), designed to join the sheets of the first stack (P1) to each other and to realize a first continuous cardboard strip (N1) having the first width (W1), and a second operating station (O2) arranged above the second storage unit (M2), designed to join the sheets of the second stack (P2) to each other and to realize a second continuous cardboard strip (N2) having the second width (W2).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of packing articles by wrapping the articles with a cardboard sheet for packing.

[0002] Specifically, the present invention relates to an apparatus for realizing at least two continuous cardboard strips for packing, having different widths, by continuously joining a plurality of cardboard sheets of different widths to each other for packing.

Background Art

[0003] Machines for packing articles using a continuous cardboard strip are known for carrying out the packing operation of articles.

[0004] For example, European Patent No. 2890554 discloses this type of machine.

[0005] The continuous cardboard strip is stored wound on a reel or stored in a fan-fold, i.e., a bellows state in which the cardboard strip is folded onto itself.

[0006] The cardboard strip is unwound from the reel or pulled out from the fan-fold and then cut based on the dimensions of the article to be packed in order to obtain a cardboard sheet having appropriate dimensions for wrapping around the article or group of articles to be packed.

[0007] However, supplying the cardboard strip stored in the reel or fan-fold for the operation of the packing machine is particularly expensive, so this aspect clearly constitutes a drawback for the users of these packing machines.

[0008] The storage section for inserting continuous cardboard strips is also very large, and the means necessary for extracting the continuous strips and guiding them towards the machine for cutting them into cardboard sheets for packing the relevant articles require a vast operating space.

[0009] International Publication No. 2018 / 73770 describes an apparatus for realizing continuous cardboard strips, which starts from a cardboard sheet all having a predetermined same width, is collected from the relevant storage section, and is joined to each other using an adhesive to form a continuous cardboard strip.

[0010] Next, the continuous cardboard strip is subsequently cut and obtained as a single cardboard sheet for packing the articles in appropriate dimensions so as to be used for packing these articles based on the dimensions and shapes of the articles to be packed.

[0011] However, the articles to be packed may have different dimensions and shapes, and once cut from the continuous cardboard strip, it is necessary to carry out various cutting operations, especially in terms of the width dimension, to adapt to the articles to be packed, and then a large amount of waste material is generated.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0012]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0013] The object of the present invention is constituted by removing the drawbacks as described in the preamble.

[0014] Specifically, the object of the present invention is to explain an apparatus for realizing at least two continuous cardboard strips having different widths for packaging by continuously joining a plurality of cardboard sheets having different widths to each other for packaging. Therefore, it can be used together with a packaging machine as the preparation of a single cardboard sheet having different widths so as to enable cost reduction, including adapting to the dimensions and shapes of the articles to be packaged, and is surely cheaper than the cost of strips stored in advance in a reel or fan-fold form, and also enables savings in terms of waste materials.

[0015] The described object is achieved, in accordance with the content of the claims, by using an apparatus for realizing at least two continuous cardboard strips for packaging having different widths by continuously joining a plurality of cardboard sheets having different widths to each other for packaging.

[0016] The preferred embodiments of the apparatus of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying diagrams.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0017]

Figure 1A

Figure 1B

Figure 1C

Figure 2A

Figure 2B

Figure 3A

Figure 3B

Figure 3C

Figure 4A

Figure 4B

Figure 4C

Figure 4D

Figure 4E

Figure 4F

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0018] Referring to the accompanying charts, reference numeral (100) indicates an apparatus for realizing at least two continuous cardboard strips of different widths for packaging by continuously joining a plurality of cardboard sheets of at least two different widths to each other for packaging, which is the overall object of the present invention.

[0019] The apparatus described in the present invention can join a first series of cardboard sheets having a first width (W1) to each other, and at the same time, can join a second series of cardboard sheets having a second width (W2) to each other. Thereby, the present apparatus makes available, for a machine for packing articles or groups of articles, a first continuous cardboard strip (N1) having a first width (W1) and a second continuous cardboard strip (N2) having a different second width (W2) that is greater than or less than the first width, simultaneously.

[0020] Since it is not the object of the present invention, a machine for packing articles is not shown in the various drawings. However, it will be arranged directly below the end part in the apparatus of the present invention. At this end part, as will be verified below, each cardboard sheet will be cut from the first continuous cardboard strip or the second continuous cardboard strip. These sheets have dimensions suitable for packing a defined article or group of articles.

[0021] Thus, using the apparatus of the present invention, according to the effective dimensions of the article or group of articles to be packed, in particular according to the effective dimensions of the extension of its rest base, it is possible to continuously cut corresponding cardboard sheets of suitable width, used for packing the article or group of articles, from either the first continuous cardboard strip or the second continuous cardboard strip, for example reducing the amount of waste material to a minimum.

[0022] The main features of the apparatus (100) of the present invention, in a preferred embodiment, shown in the drawings (see, for example, FIGS. 1A, 1B, 1C, 2A, 2B) are as follows.

[0023] The present apparatus (100) is: A first storage part (M1) configured to include a first plurality of cardboard sheets (C1), each having a first width (W1) and stacked on top of each other to form a first stack (P1); A second storage unit (M2) configured to include a second plurality of corrugated sheets (C2), each having a second width (W2) (which is smaller than, but may also be larger than, for example, the first width (W1) shown in the figure), stacked on top of each other to form a second stack (P2), arranged upstream of the first storage unit (M1), and raised higher than the first storage unit (M1) (the relative arrangement of the two storage units may be different, for example, the second storage unit (M2) may be downstream of the first storage unit (M1)). is made to include.

[0024] The apparatus (100) comprises: a first operation station (O1) arranged above the first storage unit (M1), and a second operation station (O2) arranged above the second storage unit (M2). The apparatus further comprises.

[0025] The first operating station (O1) is configured to cyclically collect the first sheet (F1) having the first width (W1) from the first stack (P1) of sheets, apply an adhesive to the first transverse end (E1) in the first sheet (F1), move the first sheet (F1) along the first longitudinal forward direction (L1) with respect to the first storage part (M1), position the first transverse end (E1) in the first sheet (F1) upstream, and position the first sheet (F1) on the downstream side of the first storage part (M1). Next, successively, the second sheet (F2) having the first width (W1) is configured to be collected from the first stack (P1) of sheets, apply an adhesive to the first transverse end (E2) in the second sheet (F2), move the second sheet (F2) along the first longitudinal forward direction (L1), and position the second transverse end (E3) in the second sheet (F2) on the opposite side of the first transverse end (E2) to which the adhesive is applied and on top of the first transverse end (E1) in the first sheet (F1) to which the adhesive is applied, so as to be positioned on the downstream side of the first storage part (M1). Next, the second transverse end (E3) in the second sheet (F2) is pressed against the first transverse end (E1) in the first sheet (F1) in a manner that fixes them to each other to form a first continuous cardboard strip (N1) having a width (W1) that is the same as the first width (W1) of the sheets (C1) present in the first stack (P1) in the first storage part (M1).

[0026] Similarly, the second operating station (O2) is configured to cyclically pick up the first sheet (G1) having the second width (W2) from the second stack (P2) of sheets, apply an adhesive to the first transverse end (E1 * ) in the first sheet (G1), move the first sheet (G1) along the second longitudinal forward direction (L2), arrange it longitudinally above the first forward direction (L1) and with respect to the second storage part (M2), and the first transverse end (E1 *) is arranged on the upstream side and configured to position the second sheet (G2) on the second downstream side of the second storage unit (M2). Thereby, continuously, the second sheet (G2) having the second width (W2) is configured to be collected from the second stack (P2) of sheets. The adhesive is applied to the first transverse end (E2 * ) of the second sheet (G2). The second sheet (G2) is moved along the second longitudinal forward direction (L2) so that the second transverse end (E3 * ) of the second sheet (G2) is on the opposite side of the first transverse end (E2 * ) to which the adhesive is applied and on top of the first transverse end (E1 * ) of the first sheet (G1) to which the adhesive is applied. The second sheet (G2) is configured to be positioned on the second downstream side of the second storage unit (M2) in such a way that the second transverse end (E2 * ) in the second sheet (G2) is fixed to the first transverse end (E1 * ) of the first sheet (G1) to form a second continuous corrugated strip (N2) having the same width as the second width (W2) of the sheets (C2) present in the second stack (P2) of the second storage unit (M2) by pressing.

[0027] Thus, since two operating stations exist simultaneously, the device of the present invention can simultaneously provide a first continuous corrugated strip and a second continuous corrugated strip having different widths from each other.

[0028] Furthermore, the device (100) of the present invention: A final cutting station (T) arranged downstream of the first storage unit (M1) and the second storage unit (M2) with respect to the first longitudinal forward direction (L1) and the second longitudinal forward direction (L2), and equipped with cutting means (T1) for cutting the corrugated sheet from the continuous corrugated strip; Arranged on the downstream side of the first storage unit (M1), configured to guide the first continuous cardboard strip (N1) in a manner that advances the first cardboard strip (N1) so that the front portion (N1A) of the first continuous cardboard strip (N1) is fed into and positioned at the final cutting station (T), a first guiding means (D1); Arranged on the downstream side of the second storage unit (M2), configured to guide the second continuous cardboard strip (N2) in a manner that advances the second cardboard strip (N2) so that the front portion (N2A) of the second continuous cardboard strip (N2) is fed onto and positioned on the front portion (N1A) of the first continuous cardboard strip (N1) at the final cutting station (T), a second guiding means (D2), Comprising.

[0029] Specifically, the apparatus (100) is: A first advancing means (A1) arranged at the final cutting station (T) and configured to contact the front portion (N1A) of the first continuous cardboard strip (N1); and A second advancing means (A2) arranged at the final cutting station (T) and configured to contact the front portion (N2A) of the second continuous cardboard strip (N2), Further comprising.

[0030] In this context, the apparatus (100) of the present invention is: Cutting means (T1), which is constituted by a cutting blade movable in the transverse direction of the cardboard strip, for example by a belt, is used to cut a first continuous cardboard strip (N1) and to obtain a first cardboard sheet for packaging having a first width (W1) so as to package each first article or group of first articles, or to cut a second continuous cardboard strip (N2) and to obtain a second cardboard sheet for packaging having a second width (W2) for packaging each second article or group of second articles. In a method of advancing the first continuous cardboard strip (N1) or the second continuous cardboard strip (N2) to the cutting means (T1), the first advancing means (A1) and the second advancing means (A2) are alternately operable, is configured.

[0031] Thus, in accordance with the effective dimensions of the articles or groups of articles to be packaged, and based on the effective extension of its rest base, as described above, the device of the present invention actuates the first advancing means (A1) or the second advancing means (A2). It is done in such a way as to make available to the cutting means (T1) a first continuous cardboard strip (N1) or a second continuous cardboard strip (N2) having a width appropriate to the dimensions of the articles or groups of articles to be packaged.

[0032] Thus, at the entrance of the packaging machine, it is possible to continuously obtain and make available a cardboard sheet having a width appropriate to the dimensions of the articles to be continuously packaged, as a result of which the amount of waste material is reduced as much as possible. That is, the dimensions and amount of cardboard to be discarded, which would be cut by the packaging machine to realize the packaging sheet, are reduced from the cardboard sheet supplied to the entrance of the device of the present invention.

[0033] Other advantageous features of the device of the present invention are described below.

[0034] The first guiding means (D1) includes a first forward roller (D10) and a series of first guiding plates (D11). The series of first guiding plates (D11) is arranged inclined to guide the first continuous corrugated strip (N1) formed downstream of the first storage section (M1) and to guide the first continuous corrugated strip (N1) from the first longitudinal forward direction (L1) towards the inlet of the final cutting station (T). On the other hand, similarly, the second guiding means (D2) includes a second forward roller (D20) and a series of second guiding plates (D21). The series of second guiding plates (D21) is arranged inclined to guide the second continuous corrugated strip (N2) formed downstream of the second storage section (M2) and to guide the second continuous corrugated strip (N2) from the second longitudinal forward direction (L2) towards the inlet of the final cutting station (T).

[0035] According to the preferred embodiments shown in the figures, such as FIG. 1A, FIG. 1C, FIG. 2A, etc., the first forward means (A1) includes at least one first closed-loop winding belt (A10), which is arranged at the final cutting station (T) so as to abut and contact, for example, above, the front part (N1A) of the first continuous corrugated strip (N1).

[0036] The first closed-loop winding belt (A10) is operable to advance the first continuous corrugated strip (N1) to the cutting means (T1).

[0037] Similarly, the second forward means (A2) includes at least one second closed-loop winding belt (A20), which is arranged at the final cutting station (T) so as to abut and contact, for example, above, the front part (N2A) of the second continuous corrugated strip (N2).

[0038] The second closed-loop winding belt (A20) is operable to advance the second continuous corrugated strip (N2) to the cutting means (T1).

[0039] In a preferred embodiment, the first storage unit (M1) is disposed above the first lifting means (S1), and the second storage unit (M2) is disposed above the second lifting means (S2). For example, both the first and second lifting means can be made to include respective support surfaces for supporting a stack of sheets that can be raised (lowered) by a pantograph structure.

[0040] Specifically, the first lifting means (S1) and the second lifting means (S2) are configured to raise and / or lower the first storage unit (M1) and the second storage unit (M2) according to the heights of the first stack (P1) of sheets and the second stack (P2) of sheets, and / or to set the top of the first stack (P1) of sheets at a first height from the ground and the top of the second stack (P2) of sheets at a second height higher than the first height from the ground.

[0041] According to a preferred but non-exclusive embodiment shown in the figures, the device of the present invention can be realized such that both the first operating station (O1) and the second operating station (O2), which serve to realize two continuous cardboard strips starting from cardboard sheets included in two stacks of two types of sheets located in two storage units, are made in the following manner.

[0042] Referring to FIGS. 3A - 3C and FIGS. 4A - 4F, the first operating station (O1) and the second operating station (O2) each have: A first support portion (1) which is disposed on the first upstream side in the first / second storage units (M1, M2) and is configured and pre-arranged to be able to receive statically the first transverse ends (E1, E1 * , E2, E2 * ) of the cardboard sheets (F1, F2, G1, G2); A second support part (2), arranged on the second downstream side in the first / second storage parts (M1, M2), which is opposite to the first upstream side, so as to be on the opposite side of the first support part (1) with respect to the first / second storage parts (M1, M2), and the first transverse direction ends (E1, E2, E1 * 、E2 * ) of the first cardboard sheets (F1, G1, F2, G2) are arranged and configured to receive the cardboard sheets (F1, G1, F2, G2) statically so as to protrude from the second support part (2) and face towards the first / second storage parts (M1, M2); the second support part (2); A third support part, arranged between the second support part (2) and the first / second storage parts (M1, M2), and a first raised configuration (S) in which a part (31) of the third support part (3) is raised with respect to the second support part (2), and a second lowered configuration (A) in which the part (31) of the third support part (3) is lowered with respect to the second support part (2), and the third support part (3) is movable between them; is realized and configured to include.

[0043] Each of the first operation station (O1) and the second operation station (O2) is: Gripping means (4), configured and arranged to pick up the first cardboard sheets (F1, G1) from the top of the first / second stacks (P1, P2) of cardboard sheets existing in the first / second storage parts (M1, M2), and move the first cardboard sheets (F1, G1) to the first support part (1) and position them so that the first transverse direction ends (E1, E1 * ) of the first cardboard sheets (F1, G1) rest on the first support part (1); the gripping means (4); Adhesive application means (5), configured and arranged to apply the adhesive to the upper surface of the first transverse direction ends (E1, E1 * ) of the first cardboard sheets (F1, G1) resting on the first support part (1); the adhesive application means (5); Moving means (6) for moving the first cardboard sheet (F1, G1) to which an adhesive is applied upward from the first / second storage parts (M1, M2) along the first / second longitudinal forward directions (L1, L2) toward the second support part (2), whereby the first cardboard sheet (F1, G1) maintains a protrusion toward the first / second storage parts (M1, M2) and maintains facing the upstream side and comes to rest on the second support part (2); * ) Pressurizing means (7) arranged and configured to be operable between the second support part (2) and the third support part (3); It further includes.

[0044] More specifically, each of the first operating station (O1) and the second operating station (O2) is moved by the moving means (6) from the first / second storage parts (M1, M2) along the first / second longitudinal forward directions (L1, L2) toward the second support part (2), and the third support part (3) is configured in such an operable manner that it guides and raises the second transverse end (E3, E3 * ) of the second cardboard sheet (F2, G2), and the second transverse end (E3, E3 * ) of the raised second sheet (F2, G2) is positioned above the first transverse end (E1, E1 * ) of the first cardboard sheet (F1, G1) protruding from the second support part (2) to which the adhesive is applied. Next, the third support part (3) is operable to be positioned in the second lowering configuration (A) so as to lower the second transverse end (E3, E3 * ) of the second sheet (F2, G2) and position the second transverse end (E3, E3 * ) of the second sheet (F2, G2) on the first transverse end (E1, E1 * ) of the first sheet (F1, G1) where the adhesive is present, whereby the two ends (E1, E1 * , E3, E3* ) are configured in such a way that they are in contact with each other.

[0045] Similarly, once the third support part (3) is positioned in the second lowered configuration (A), and the second transverse ends (E3, E3 * ) in the second sheet (F2, G2) overlap and are positioned on the first transverse ends (E1, E1 * ) in the first sheet (F1, G1) protruding from the second support part (2), the pressure boosting means (7) is operable transversely between the second support part (2) and the third support part (3) with respect to the two sheets (F1, G1, F2, G2), whereby the two overlapped ends (E1, E1 * , E3, E3 * ) are pressed and fixed to each other to form the first / second continuous cardboard strips (N1, N2).

[0046] For applying the adhesive, the first transverse end of the cardboard sheet is placed on top, and the special arrangement of the first support element (1) arranged upstream of the first of the first / second storage parts (M1, M2), and the arrangement of the second support part (2) and the third support part (3) where joining and fixing are carried out between the two cardboard sheets on the second downstream side, which is the opposite side of the first side of the first / second storage parts (M1, M2), makes the operation of realizing the two types of continuous cardboard strips quick and effective. Because the cardboard sheets taken from the first / second stacks of cardboard sheets present in the first / second storage parts (M1, M2) are moved linearly along the first / second longitudinal directions (L1, L2).

[0047] In another preferred embodiment, when the moving means (6) moves the first cardboard sheet (F1, G1) towards the second support part (2), the gripping means (4) picks up the second cardboard sheet (F2, G2) from the top of the first / second stacks (P1, P2) of the cardboard sheets (C1, C2) present in the first / second storage parts (M1, M2), and the first transverse end (E2, E2 * ) of the second cardboard sheet (F2, G2) is configured to move and position the second cardboard sheet (F2, G2) to the first support part (1) so as to be stationary on the first support part (1).

[0048] Furthermore, once the adhesive is applied by the adhesive applying means (5) to the first transverse end (E2, E2 * ) of the second sheet (F2, G2), the moving means (6) is configured to move the second cardboard sheet (F2, G2) towards the second support part (2), whereby the second transverse end (E3, E3 * ) of the second cardboard sheet (F2, G2) on the opposite side of the first transverse end (E2, E2 * ) to which the adhesive is applied is first lifted by the third support part (3) positioned in the first raised configuration (S), and then the third support part (3) is positioned in the second lowered configuration (A) so as to contact above the first transverse end (E1, E1 * ) of the first cardboard sheet (F1, G1) protruding from the second support element (2).

[0049] Thus, in order to obtain a continuous cardboard sheet by continuously joining two types of cardboard sheets simultaneously to form a first continuous cardboard strip and a second continuous cardboard strip, each of the first operating station (O1) and the second operating station (O2) is as follows: The gripping means (4) is configured to be operable periodically to pick up a single corrugated sheet continuously from the top of the stack (P) in the first / second stacks (P1, P2) of the corrugated sheets (C1, C2) present in the first / second storage sections (M1, M2), and to move the continuous single corrugated sheet in the first support section (1) periodically so that the first transverse end of the continuous single corrugated sheet is stationary on the first support section (1), and the adhesive application means (5) is configured to be moved and positioned periodically so as to apply the adhesive to the upper surface of the first transverse end; On the other hand, the moving means (6) is configured and pre-arranged to move the continuous single corrugated sheet with the adhesive applied thereon periodically towards the second support section (2). The third support section (3) is operable periodically to be first positioned in the first raising configuration (S) so as to guide and lift the second end of the continuous single sheet on the opposite side of the first transverse end to which the adhesive has been applied, whereby the second end of the continuous single sheet is positioned above the transverse end to which the adhesive has been applied in the preceding single sheet stationary on the second support section (2), and is operable to lower the second transverse end of the continuous single sheet so as to position the second transverse end at the said end to which the adhesive has been applied in the preceding single sheet, whereby the two ends come into contact with each other; Similarly, once the third support section (3) is positioned in the second lowering configuration (A) and the second transverse end of the continuous sheet is overlapped and positioned at the transverse end of the preceding sheet, the pressure increasing means (7) becomes operable periodically to press the two transverse ends in the two types of sheets against each other to form the first / second continuous corrugated strips (N1, N2).

[0050] In order to move the sheet more quickly and advantageously towards the second support part (2), i.e. towards the area where the sheets need to be joined together, once the adhesive has been applied, the gripping means (4) collect the cardboard sheet by suction from the top of the stack (P1, P2) of cardboard sheets (C1, C2) present in the first / second storage parts (M1, M2), and are configured to move this cardboard sheet towards the first support part (1) such that the first transverse end of the cardboard sheet rests on the first support part (1). Once the adhesive application means (5) apply the adhesive to the upper surface of the transverse end of the cardboard sheet resting on the first support part (1), the gripping element (4) moves the cardboard sheet in the direction of the second support part (2) by sliding the cardboard sheet in the first / second stack (P1, P2) of cardboard sheets, and then releases this cardboard sheet to enable the moving means (6) to move the cardboard sheet further towards the second support part (2).

[0051] In the preferred embodiment shown in the figure, the gripping means (4) comprise a series of suction gripping elements (41). The series of suction gripping elements (41) movably supported in the vertical direction are carried towards the first holding part (1) and the second holding part (2) by a first frame (42) operable in translation above the first / second stack (P1, P2) of sheets present in the first / second storage parts (M1, M2).

[0052] Next, for each of the first and second operating stations (O1, O2), also based on the preferred embodiment shown in the figure, the moving means (6) comprise a roller (61) attached to a shaft (62) rotatable by a motor. The shaft (62) is held by a second frame (63) movable in the vertical direction such that the roller (61) can be lowered in such a way that the roller (61) can abut against the cardboard sheet to which the adhesive has been applied. When rotated by the rotation of the shaft (62), the moving means (6) can move the cardboard sheet towards the second support part (2).

[0053] The second frame (63) is further movable vertically upward so that the roller (61) can be raised in relation to the passage of the portion of the cardboard sheet to which the adhesive is applied so that the roller (61) does not contact the adhesive. Specifically, the second frame (63) is disposed in advance between the third support portion (3) and the first / second storage portions (M1, M2).

[0054] The pressure boosting means (7) at each of the first / second operation stations (O1, O2) is adapted to include two counter rollers (71, 72). The first counter roller (71) is movable upward and in the transverse direction at two overlapped transverse ends of the two sheets to be joined, while the second counter roller (72) is movable downward and in the transverse direction at two overlapped ends of the two sheets on the opposite side of the first counter roller.

[0055] For example, as shown in FIGS. 4D and 4E, the two counter rollers (71, 72) are wound in a loop and carried by associated belts (710, 720) disposed in the transverse direction with respect to the second support portion (2) and the third support portion (3).

[0056] The function of the two counter rollers is not only to press and fix the overlapped portions of the two sheets with the adhesive, but also to reduce the thickness of the two overlapped portions, thereby obtaining a continuous cardboard strip of substantially uniform thickness including the joints between the various sheets forming the cardboard pieces.

[0057] In another preferred embodiment, the third support part (3) also includes a second part (32) inclined with respect to the part (31), and when the third support part (3) is positioned in the second lowering configuration (A), the second part (32) is adapted to support a second consecutive sheet that will be fixed to the preceding sheet disposed on the second support part (2), and the second end of the second consecutive sheet is arranged to contact above the end of the preceding first sheet where the adhesive is applied.

[0058] Each of the first operating station (O1) and the second operating station (O2) further includes a first abutting means (81). The first abutting means (81) is arranged above the third support part (3) so as to be movable in the vertical direction in such a way that it can abut against the upper part of the cardboard sheet moved towards the second support part (2) at the third support part (3), where the third support part (3) is in the first raising configuration (S).

[0059] The first abutting means (81) is further descendable to maintain contact with the cardboard sheet when the third support part (3) is brought into the second lowering configuration (A) in order to continue to unfold the cardboard during the operation of the pressure boosting means (7).

[0060] Therefore, the presence of the first abutting means (81) serves to accompany the cardboard sheet during the descent of the first abutting means (81), to stack the cardboard sheet on the preceding stationary cardboard sheet on the second support part (2), and further to continue to unfold the cardboard sheet during the operation of the pressure boosting means (7).

[0061] Similarly, each of the first and second operating stations (O1, O2) comprises second abutting means (82). The second abutting means (82) is arranged above the second support (2) and is movable in a vertical direction towards the cardboard sheet positioned on the second support (2) in order to continue stretching the cardboard sheet during the operation of the boosting means (7). The second abutting means (82) can be formed, for example, by a series of skate-shaped elements supported by an associated rod (84) connected to a piston (85).

[0062] Preferred embodiments of the first and second operating stations have been clearly described above and, according to other embodiments, can also be made for the purpose of joining continuous sheets to form continuous strips, all of which are within the scope of the present invention in any case.

Claims

Claim 1 An apparatus for realizing, by successively joining to each other at least two types of corrugated cardboard sheets (C1, C2) for packaging, which have different widths (W1, W2), at least two types of continuous corrugated cardboard strips (N1, N2) for packaging, which have different widths (W1, W2), comprising: A first storage unit (M1) configured to include a first plurality of corrugated cardboard sheets (C1), each having a first width (W1) and stacked on top of each other to form a first stack (P1); A second storage unit (M2) configured to include a second plurality of corrugated cardboard sheets (C2), each having a second width (W2) and stacked on top of each other to form a second stack (P2), the second storage unit (M2) being arranged upstream of the first storage unit (M1) and being at a certain elevated height relative to the first storage unit (M1). The first operating station (O1), which is arranged above the first storage part (M1), is configured to collect the first sheet (F1) having the first width (W1) from the first stack (P1) of sheets, apply an adhesive to the first transverse end (E1) of the first sheet (F1), move the first sheet (F1) along the first longitudinal forward direction (L1) with respect to the first storage part (M1), position the first transverse end (E1) of the first sheet (F1) upstream and on the downstream side of the first storage part (M1), and then successively collect the second sheet (F2) having the first width (W1) from the first stack (P1) of sheets, apply an adhesive to the first transverse end (E2) of the second sheet (F2), move it along the first longitudinal forward direction (L1), and position the second sheet (F2) on the downstream side of the first storage part (M1) in such a way that the second transverse end (E3) of the second sheet (F2) overlaps the opposite side of the first transverse end (E2) to which the adhesive is applied and above the first transverse end (E1) of the first sheet (F1) to which the adhesive is applied. Next, the second transverse end (E3) of the second sheet (F2) is fixed to the first transverse end (E1) of the first sheet (F1) to form a first continuous corrugated strip (N1) having a width (W1) equal to the first width (W1) of the sheet (C1) present in the first stack (P1) in the first storage part (M1). The first operating station (O1) is configured as such. The second operating station (O2), which is arranged above the second storage part (M2) and is configured to collect the first sheet (G1) having a second width (W2) from the second stack (P2) of sheets, apply an adhesive to a first transverse end (E1 ＊ ) of the first sheet (G1), move the first sheet (G1) along a second longitudinal forward direction (L2) which is arranged above the second storage part (M2) in the first longitudinal forward direction (L1), position the first transverse end (E1 ＊ ) of the first sheet (G1) on the upstream side, and position the first sheet (G1) on a second side which is the downstream side of the second storage part (M2). Next, continuously, the second sheet (G2) having the second width (W2) is configured to be collected from the second stack (P2) of sheets, and an adhesive is applied to a first transverse end (E2 ＊ ) of the second sheet (G2), move the second sheet (G2) along the second longitudinal forward direction (L2), and overlap the second transverse end (E3 ＊ ) of the second sheet (G2) with the first transverse end (E2 ＊ ) to which the adhesive is applied on the opposite side and above the first transverse end (E1 ＊ ) of the first sheet (G1) to which the adhesive is applied, and position the second sheet (G2) on the second side at the downstream side of the second storage part (M2). Next, the second transverse end (E2 ＊ ) of the second sheet (G2) is fixed to the first transverse end (E1 ＊ ) of the first sheet (G1) to form a second continuous corrugated strip (N2) having a width (W2) equal to the second width (W2) of the sheet (C2) existing in the second stack (P2) in the second storage part (M2). The second operating station (O2) The final cutting station (T), which is arranged on the downstream side of the first storage part (M1) and the second storage part (M2) with respect to the first longitudinal forward direction (L1) and the second longitudinal forward direction (L2), is provided with cutting means (T1) for cutting a corrugated sheet from a continuous corrugated sheet. A first guiding means (D1) disposed downstream of the first storage section (M1), configured to guide the first continuous cardboard strip (N1) in a manner that advances the first continuous cardboard strip (N1) such that a front portion (N1A) of the first continuous cardboard strip (N1) is fed into and positioned at the final cutting station (T). A second guiding means (D2) disposed downstream of the second storage section (M2), configured to guide the second continuous cardboard strip (N2) in a manner that advances the second continuous cardboard strip (N2) such that a front portion (N2A) of the second continuous cardboard strip (N2) is fed into and positioned on the front portion (N1A) of the first continuous cardboard strip (N1) at the final cutting station (T). A first advancing means (A1) disposed at the final cutting station (T) and configured to contact the front portion (N1A) of the first continuous cardboard strip (N1), and A second advancing means (A2) disposed at the final cutting station (T) and configured to contact the front portion (N2A) of the second continuous cardboard strip (N2). Comprising The first advancing means (A1) and the second advancing means (A2) are alternately operable in a manner that the cutting means (T1) advances the first continuous cardboard strip (N1) or the second continuous cardboard strip (N2) to the cutting means (T1) to obtain a first cardboard sheet for packaging having the first width (W1) for packaging a first article or a group of first articles by cutting the first continuous cardboard strip (N1), or to obtain a second cardboard sheet for packaging having the second width (W2) for packaging a second article or a group of second articles by cutting the second continuous cardboard strip (N2). Apparatus (100). Claim 2 The first guiding means (D1) includes a first forward roller (D10) and a series of first guiding plates (D11). The series of the first guiding plates (D11) are arranged in an inclined manner to guide the first continuous corrugated strip (N1) formed downstream of the first storage part (M1) and to guide the first continuous corrugated strip (N1) from the first longitudinal forward direction (L1) towards the inlet of the final cutting station (T). The second guiding means (D2) includes a second forward roller (D20) and a series of second guiding plates (D21). The series of the second guiding plates (D21) are arranged in an inclined manner to guide the second continuous corrugated strip (N2) formed downstream of the second storage part (M2) and to guide the second continuous corrugated strip (N2) from the second longitudinal forward direction (L2) towards the inlet of the final cutting station (T). The apparatus (100) according to claim 1.

3. The first advancing means (A1) includes at least one first closed-loop winding belt (A10). The first closed-loop winding belt (A10) is arranged at the final cutting station (T) so as to abut against and contact the front portion (N1A) of the first continuous corrugated strip (N1). The first closed-loop winding belt (A10) is operable to advance the first continuous corrugated strip (N1) to the cutting means (T1). The second advancing means (A2) includes at least one second closed-loop winding belt (A20). The second closed-loop winding belt (A20) is installed at the final cutting station (T) so as to abut against and contact the front portion (N2A) of the second continuous corrugated strip (N2). The second closed-loop winding belt (A20) is operable to advance the second continuous corrugated strip (N2) to the cutting means (T1). The apparatus (100) according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The first storage unit (M1) is arranged above the first lifting means (S1), the second storage unit (M2) is arranged above the second lifting means (S2), and the first lifting means (S1) and the second lifting means (S2) are configured to raise and / or lower the first storage unit (M1) and the second storage unit (M2) according to the height of the first stack (P1) of sheets and the height of the second stack (P2) of sheets, and / or to maintain the topmost part of the first stack (P1) of sheets at a first height from the ground and the topmost part of the second stack (P2) of sheets at a second height higher than the first height from the ground. The device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The first operating station (O1) and the second operating station (O2) each have The first support portion (1), which is arranged on the first upstream side in the first / second storage portions (M1, M2) and is configured and pre-arranged to be able to receive the first transverse end portions (E1, E1 ＊ , E2, E2 ＊ ) of the cardboard sheets (F1, F2, G1, G2) in a stationary manner, the first support portion (1), The second support portion (2), which is disposed on the second downstream side of the first / second storage portions (M1, M2), opposite to the first upstream side, so as to be on the opposite side of the first support portion (1) with respect to the first / second storage portions (M1, M2), and the first transverse direction end portions (E1, E2, E1 ＊ , E2 ＊ ) of the cardboard sheets (F1, G1, F2, G2) are configured and arranged to receive the cardboard sheets (F1, G1, F2, G2) at rest so as to protrude from the second support portion (2) and face the first / second storage portions (M1, M2). The second support portion (2) a third support part (3), which is arranged between the second support part (2) and the first / second storage parts (M1, M2), and a part (31) of the third support part (3) is raised relative to the second support part (2). A third support part (3) that is movable between a first raised configuration (S) and a second lowered configuration (A) in which a part (31) of the third support part (3) is lowered relative to the second support part (2). The gripping means (4) is arranged and configured to lift the first cardboard sheet (F1, G1) from the top of the first / second stacks (P1, P2) of the cardboard sheets present in the first / second storage parts (M1, M2), and the first transverse end portions (E1, E1 ＊ ) of the first cardboard sheet (F1, G1) are arranged and configured to move and position the first cardboard sheet (F1, G1) to the first support part (1) so as to rest on the first support part (1). An adhesive application means (5) for applying an adhesive to the upper surface at the first transverse end (E1, E1 ＊ ) of the first corrugated sheet (F1, G1) stationary on the first support portion (1), the adhesive application means (5) being arranged and configured as such. Moving means (6) for moving the first cardboard sheet (F1, G1) to which the adhesive has been applied above, from the first / second storage parts (M1, M2) along the first / second longitudinal forward directions (L1, L2) towards the second support part (2), whereby the first cardboard sheet (F1, G1) continues to project with the relevant first transverse end part (E1, E1 ＊ ) facing upstream towards the first / second storage parts (M1, M2) and stationary on the second support part (2), the moving means (6), and a pressure boosting means (7), which is arranged and configured to be operable between the second support part (2) and the third support part (3). It is realized and configured by a method comprising The second transverse direction end portions (E3, E3) in the raised second sheet (F2, G2) ＊ ), where the adhesive is applied and which protrude from the second support portion (2), are located above the first transverse direction end portions (E, E1) in the first cardboard sheet (F1, G1) ＊ ), and are moved by the moving means (6) from the first / second storage portions (M1, M2) along the first / second longitudinal forward directions (L1, L2) towards the second support portion (2). The third support portion (3) for guiding and raising the second transverse direction end portions (E3, E3) in the second cardboard sheet (F2, G2) is operable to be positioned in the first raising configuration (S). Next, the third support portion (3) is operable to be positioned in the second lowering configuration (A) so as to lower the second transverse direction end portions (E3, E3) in the second sheet (F2, G2). The second transverse direction end portions (E3, E3) in the second sheet (F2, G2) are positioned on the first transverse direction end portions (E1, E1) in the first sheet (F1, G1) where the adhesive is present, and the two end portions (E1, E1 ＊ ), E3, E3 ＊ ), are brought into contact with each other ＊ ), where the adhesive is present, in the first sheet (F1, G1). The two end portions (E1, E1 ＊ ), E3, E3 ＊ ), are brought into contact with each other ＊ ). Once the third support part (3) is positioned in the second lowered configuration (A), and the second transverse end portions (E3, E3 ＊ in the second sheet (F2, G2)) are positioned overlapping the first transverse end portions (E1, E1 ＊ in the first sheet (F1, G1) protruding from the second support part (2)), the pressure boosting means (7) is operable transversely between the second support part (2) and the third support part (3) with respect to the two sheets (F1, G1, F2, G2), whereby the overlapping end portions (E1, E1 ＊ of the two sheets (F1, G1, F2, G2), E3, E3 ＊ ) are pressed against each other to fix them to form the first / second continuous cardboard strips (N1, N2). the device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. When the moving means (6) moves the first cardboard sheet (F1, G1) toward the second support portion (2), the gripping means (4) picks up the second cardboard sheet (F2, G2) from the top of the first / second stacks (P1, P2) of the cardboard sheets (C1, C2) present in the first / second storage portions (M1, M2), and is configured to move and position the second cardboard sheet (F2, G2) on the first support portion (1) such that the first transverse end portions (E2, E2 ＊ of the second cardboard sheet (F2, G2) come to rest on the first support portion (1). Once the adhesive has been applied by the adhesive application means (5) to the first transverse end (E2, E2 ＊ ) in the second sheet (F2, G2), the moving means (6) moves the second cardboard sheet (F2, G2) towards the second support (2), whereby the first transverse end (E2, E2 ＊ ) to the second transverse end (E3, E3 ＊ ) in the second cardboard sheet (F2, G2), which is on the opposite side of the first transverse end (E2, E2 ＊ ) where the adhesive has been applied, can first be lifted by the third support (3) positioned in the first raised configuration (S), and then, after positioning the third support (3) in the second lowered configuration (A), it is positioned in contact above the first transverse end (E1, E1 ＊ ) of the first cardboard sheet (F1, G1) protruding from the second support element (2). The device (100) according to claim 5.

7. The gripping means (4) is configured to be periodically operable to pick up a continuous single corrugated sheet from the topmost part of the first / second stack (P1, P2) of corrugated sheets present in the first / second storage part (M1, M2), and to periodically move and position the continuous single corrugated sheet to the first support part (1), whereby a first transverse end portion of the continuous single corrugated sheet is stationary on the first support part (1), and the adhesive applying means (5) is configured to apply an adhesive to the upper surface of the first transverse end portion. The moving means (6) is configured and arranged to periodically move the continuous single corrugated sheet to which the adhesive is applied toward the second support portion (2). The third support portion (3) is periodically operable to be initially positioned in the first raising configuration (S) in order to guide and raise the second transverse end portion of the continuous single sheet on the opposite side of the first transverse end portion to which the adhesive is applied. Thereby, the second end portion of the continuous single sheet is positioned above the transverse end portion of the preceding single sheet that is stationary on the second support portion (2) and to which the adhesive is applied. Next, it is operable to be positioned in the second lowering configuration (A) and to lower the second transverse end portion of the continuous single sheet so that the second transverse end portion is positioned at the transverse end portion of the preceding single sheet to which the adhesive is applied, whereby the two end portions contact each other. Once the third support portion (3) is positioned in the second lowering configuration (A) and the second transverse end portion of the continuous sheet is overlapped and positioned at the transverse end portion of the preceding sheet, the pressure boosting means (7) becomes operable to press the two transverse end portions of the two types of sheets against each other to form the first / second continuous corrugated strips (N1, N2). The apparatus (100) according to claim 6.

8. The gripping means (4) is configured to collect the cardboard sheet by suction from the top of the first / second stacks (P1, P2) of the cardboard sheets (C1, C2) present in the first / second storage parts (M1, M2), and move the cardboard sheet towards the first support part (1), whereby the first transverse end of the cardboard sheet is stationary on the first support part (1). Once the adhesive applying means (5) applies the adhesive to the upper surface of the first transverse end of the cardboard sheet stationary on the first support part (1), the gripping element (4) moves the cardboard sheet on the first / second stacks (P1, P2) of the cardboard sheets (C1, C2) in a sliding manner, thereby moving the cardboard sheet in the direction of the second support part (2). Next, in order for the moving means (6) to further move the cardboard sheet along the first / second longitudinal forward directions (L1, L2) towards the second support part (2), the moving means (6) is configured to release the cardboard sheet. The device (100) according to claim 7.

9. The gripping means (4) comprises a series of suction gripping elements (41), and the vertically supported suction gripping elements (41) are carried towards the first support part (1) and the second support part (2) by a first frame (42) that can translate above the first / second stacks (P1, P2) of the sheets present in the first / second storage parts (M1, M2). The device (100) according to claim 8.

10. The moving means (6) comprises a roller (61) attached to a shaft (62) that can be rotated by a motor, and the shaft (62) is carried by a second frame (63) that is movable in the vertical direction so that the roller (61) can be lowered such that the roller (61) abuts against the cardboard sheet to which the adhesive has been applied. When the shaft (62) is rotated by rotation, the roller (61) moves the cardboard sheet towards the second support part (2). The device (100) according to any one of claims 5 to 9.

11. The second frame (63) is arranged between the third support part (3) and the first / second storage parts (M1, M2). The device (100) according to claim 10.

12. The apparatus (100) according to any one of claims 5 to 11, wherein the boosting means (7) comprises two counter rollers (71, 72).

13. The third support part (3) also includes a second part (32) inclined with respect to the part (31), and when the third support part (3) is positioned in the second lowering configuration (A), the second part (32) is adapted to support a second continuous sheet fixed to a preceding sheet disposed on the second support part (2), and the second end of the second continuous sheet is arranged to contact above an end in the preceding first sheet to which an adhesive is applied. The apparatus (100) according to any one of claims 5 to 12.

14. Each of the first operating station (O1) and the second operating station (O2) a first abutting means (81) disposed above the third support part (3) so as to be vertically movable in such a manner that it can abut on an upper part of the cardboard sheet moved toward the second support part (2) by the third support part (3), and further descendable so as to maintain contact with the cardboard sheet when the third support part (3) is brought into the second lowering configuration (A) in order to continuously unfold the cardboard sheet during the operation of the boosting means (7); a first abutting means (81); a second abutting means (82) disposed above the second support part (2) and vertically movable toward the cardboard sheet positioned on the second support part (2) so as to continuously stretch the cardboard sheet during the operation of the boosting means (7); a second abutting means (82); The apparatus (100) according to any one of claims 5 to 13, comprising.

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