An engagement device, a system and a method for packaging an object
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- US · United States
- Patent Type
- Applications(United States)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2024-01-23
- Publication Date
- 2026-08-13
Smart Images
Figure US20260233871A1-D00000_ABST
Abstract
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present disclosure is in the technical field of engagement devices. More particularly, the present disclosure is directed to an engagement device comprising a suction device and a pressor element coupled to each other.BACKGROUND
[0002] Suction devices and pressor units and their use are known in the state of the art. The suction devices of the prior art comprise a suction cup, that, when coupled to a vacuum source, is configured to engage and hold a surface portion of an object. In particular, when the vacuum source draws a vacuum inside the suction cup, the suction cup applies a traction force to the engaged surface portion of the object and hold it. The suction cup of the prior art allows the suction device to hold and move an object away and towards different given locations. The object can be a shipping container, e.g., a cardboard box, to be packed. The suction devices of the art may engage the shipping container during one of more of the steps of a packaging process. For example, the known suction devices are used to hold in a given location the shipping container when the top of the container is closed by a lid. To correctly bond the lid to the container, an adhesive is used, e.g., a pressure-sensitive glue, a solvent-based adhesive, a polymer dispersion adhesive or other.
[0003] In the state of the art, a pressor unit is used to press the lid against the container such that the adhesive interposed between the two is distributed by compression. In detail, the pressor unit of the prior art is a different module with respect to the suction cup. For example, when the suction device keeps the container steady, a pressor unit is used to press and maintain the lid against the surface portion of the container for a sufficient amount of time such that the adhesive, which is interposed between the two, dries and makes a strong bond.
[0004] Therefore, during the packaging process a suction device with a suction cup is used to hold the shipping container steady while the pressor unit acts on the lid to close the top of the container. Since the suction device and the pressor unit are distinct units, in the state of the art, two control and actuation systems are needed. Having two different devices and respective control and actuation systems, causes the prior art systems to have several complications and drawbacks.
[0005] A drawback of the prior art is the number of machined parts that are included in the entire system. Indeed, each suction device and each pressor unit include many mechanical parts that are expensive, subjected to wear and of difficult assembly.
[0006] In addition, since the suction device and the pressor unit are distinct units, it happens that the two systems are not well synchronized, thus causing problems and interruptions in the packaging process. For example, it happens that the pressure that the pressor unit applies to the lid to compress the adhesive and bonding it to the container overcomes the traction force applied by the suction device to hold the container. This causes the container to be deformed and the engagement device to lose the grip from the container.OBJECT OF DISCLOSURE
[0007] One object of the present disclosure is to solve the drawbacks and / or limitations of the above prior art.
[0008] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide an engagement device which includes less machined parts, and which is more efficient.
[0009] Another object of the disclosure is to provide an engagement device which is mechanically simpler.
[0010] A further object of the present disclosure is to provide an engagement device which is more compact and whose assembly requires less time.
[0011] A further object of the present disclosure is to provide an engagement device which is more versatile in its applications and compatible with already existing packaging machines.
[0012] A further object of the disclosure is to provide an engagement device which is cheaper.SUMMARY
[0013] This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This summary is not intended to identify key features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.
[0014] In a 1st aspect, an engagement device comprises a suction device, the suction device comprising a port and an engagement end coupled to each other, the engagement end being configured to contact a first surface portion of an object to define a chamber, the port being fluidly couplable to a vacuum source to place the vacuum source in fluid communication with the chamber,
[0015] characterized in that the engagement device comprises a pressor element coupled to the suction device, the pressor element comprising an abutment surface arranged to contact a second surface portion of the object,
[0016] wherein, when the port is in fluid communication with the vacuum source and the vacuum source establishes a reduced pressure level through the chamber, the reduced pressure level in the chamber causes:
[0017] the suction device to apply a traction force to at least part of the first surface portion of the object, and
[0018] the pressor element to apply a compression force to at least part of the second surface portion of the object through the abutment surface.
[0019] In a 2nd aspect according to the preceding aspect, the second surface portion of the object is distinct from the first surface portion of the object.
[0020] In a 3rd aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the engagement end presents an engagement surface, the engagement end being configured to contact the first surface portion of the object through the engagement surface, and wherein the engagement surface is at least partly movable along a direction of motion.
[0021] In a 4th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the engagement surface and the abutment surface are at least in part located respectively along a first plane and a second plane, optionally the first plane and the second plane being parallel to each other and / or the first plane and the second plane being coincident when the chamber is at atmospheric pressure.
[0022] In a 5th aspect according to either the 3rd aspect or to the 4th aspect when combined with the 3rd aspect, the suction device is capable of transitioning between a first configuration, in which the engagement surface is at a first distance along the direction of motion from the abutment surface, and a second configuration, in which the engagement surface is at a second distance along the direction of motion from the abutment surface, the first distance being greater than the second distance.
[0023] In a 6th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the suction device comprises a first body and a second body coupled to each other, the engagement end being defined at the first body, the port being at the second body, the pressor element being coupled to the first body or the second body of the suction device.
[0024] In a 7th aspect according to the preceding aspect, the pressor element is fixed to the first body or to the second body of the suction device.
[0025] In an 8th aspect according to either the preceding aspect 6th or 7th, the second body comprises an interior fluidly couplable to the vacuum source through the port to place the vacuum source in fluid communication with the chamber, the first body being located at least in part within the interior, the first body being capable of sliding within the interior of the second body, preferably between a retracted position and an extended position.
[0026] In a 9th aspect according to any one of aspects from the 6th to the 8th, the first body comprises a compressible element at the engagement end defining at least in part the engagement surface.
[0027] In a 10th aspect according to the preceding aspect, the compressible element defines the engagement surface such that a compression of the compressible element causes the suction device to transition between the first configuration and the second configuration.
[0028] In a 11th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects from the 8th to the 9th when combined with the 5th aspect, wherein the pressor element is fixed to the second body, the first body being configured to slide within the interior of the second body as the suction device transitions from the first configuration to the second configuration and vice versa.
[0029] In a 12th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the pressor element extends from a first end to a second end, the abutment surface being at the first end, the pressor element being coupled to the suction device at the second end.
[0030] In a 13th aspect according to the preceding aspect, the pressor element comprises a coupling element at the second end, the suction device and the pressor element being coupled to each other through the coupling element.
[0031] In a 14th aspect according to the preceding aspect, the pressor element comprises a through hole at the second end, the through hole at least in part defining the coupling element.
[0032] In a 15th aspect according to the preceding aspect when combined with the 6th aspects, the first body and / or the second body of the suction device is configured to slide through the through hole of the pressor element as the suction device transitions from the first configuration to the second configuration and vice versa.
[0033] In a 16th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the abutment surface and / or the first surface portion of the object and / or the second surface portion of the object is planar.
[0034] In a 17th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the compression force is parallel to the traction force.
[0035] In a 18th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the compression force is opposite to the traction force.
[0036] In a 19th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the first surface portion and the second surface portion are defined at a same surface of the object.
[0037] In a 20th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the first surface portion and the second surface portion are defined respectively at a first surface and at a second surface of the object.
[0038] In a 21st aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the engagement surface and the abutment surface are at least in part located respectively along a first plane and a second plane.
[0039] In a 22nd aspects according to the preceding aspect, the first plane and the second plane are parallel to each other.
[0040] In a 23rd aspect according to either the preceding aspects 21st or 22nd, the first plane and the second plane are coincident when the chamber is at atmospheric pressure.
[0041] In a 24th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects from the 6th to the 23rd when combined with the 6th aspect, the suction device comprises a cylinder and a piston, the first body being defined at least in part by the piston, the second body being defined at least in part by the cylinder, optionally the piston and the cylinder being respectively the first body and the second body.
[0042] In a 25th aspect according to the preceding aspect when combined with the 8th aspect, the piston comprises a distal end and a bore, wherein the bore is in fluid communication with the interior of the cylinder, the suction device comprising a biasing mechanism configured to bias the piston to the retracted position, wherein the piston has a reduced diameter compared to a diameter between the engagement end and distal end such that, when the port is coupled to the vacuum source and the vacuum source draws a vacuum through the interior of the cylinder and the bore of the piston, the reduced diameter of the piston causes the pressure in the interior to be reduced to exert a force on the piston that is greater than a force of the biasing mechanism so that the piston extends from the retracted position to the extended position.
[0043] In a 26th aspect according to the preceding aspect, the biasing mechanism is a compression spring located in the interior of the cylinder.
[0044] In a 27th aspect according to the preceding aspect, the compression spring is wound around the piston.
[0045] In a 28th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects from the 25th to the 27th, the suction device comprises an O-ring located in the interior of the cylinder, wherein the O-ring is positioned in the interior of the cylinder so that the piston is in contact with the O-ring when the piston is in the extended position.
[0046] In a 29th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects from the 25th to the 28th, the reduced diameter of the piston at the engagement end is at least 1 mm smaller than the diameter between the engagement end and distal end.
[0047] In a 30th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects from the 25th to the 29th, the piston comprises a first piece and a second piece that are coupled together, wherein the reduced diameter of the piston is located in the first piece, and wherein the diameter between the engagement end and distal end is in the second piece.
[0048] In a 31st aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects from the 25th to the 30th, the suction device comprises a bearing located between the cylinder and the piston, wherein the piston is configured to slide through the bearing while sliding between the retracted position and the extended position.
[0049] In a 32nd aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects from the 25th to the 31st, the bore of the piston is in fluid communication with the interior of the cylinder via a via hole in the piston.
[0050] In a 33rd aspect according to the preceding aspect, the reduced diameter of the piston is a diameter of the via hole in the piston.
[0051] In a 34th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects from the 25th to the 33rd, the reduced diameter is located at the engagement end of the piston.
[0052] A 35th aspect concerns a system which comprises one or more engagement devices, each one according to any one of the preceding aspects. The system further comprises a vacuum source in fluid communication with each one of the engagement devices, wherein the vacuum source is optionally configured to establish a reduced pressure level individually or collectively through the chamber of each of the one or more engagement devices.
[0053] In a 36th aspect according to the preceding aspect, the engagement devices are arranged in a single direction such that the abutment surfaces of each engagement device are coplanar.
[0054] In a 37th aspect according to the 35th aspect, the engagement devices are a first group of engagement devices and a second group of engagement devices, wherein:
[0055] the engagement devices of the first group are arranged in a first direction such that the abutment surfaces of each engagement device of the first group are coplanar to each other,
[0056] the engagement devices of the second group are arranged in a second direction such that the abutment surfaces of each engagement device of the second group are coplanar to each other.
[0057] In a 38th aspect according to the preceding aspect, the first direction is transverse to the second direction
[0058] In a 39th aspect according to the preceding aspect, the first direction is perpendicular to the second direction.
[0059] A 40th aspect concerns a method for packaging an object comprising the steps of:
[0060] providing an engagement device according to any one of the preceding aspects from the 1st aspect to the 34th aspect;
[0061] coupling a vacuum source to the port,
[0062] contacting the first surface portion of the object with the engagement end,
[0063] establishing a reduced pressure level through the chamber, optionally the reduced pressure level being lower than atmospheric pressure level,
[0064] applying a traction force to at least part of the first surface portion of the object through the suction device,
[0065] applying a compression force to at least part of the second surface portion of the object through the abutment surface.
[0066] In a 41st aspect according to the preceding aspect, the steps of applying a traction force and applying a compression force are at least partly simultaneous.
[0067] In a 42nd aspect according either to the 40th aspect or to the 41st aspect, the method comprises the step of moving the engagement surface and / or the engagement end relative to the abutment surface,
[0068] wherein the step of moving the engagement surface and / or the engagement end relative to the abutment surface is at least partly simultaneous to the step of contacting the first surface portion and / or to the step of applying a compression force at the second surface portion and / or to the step of applying a traction force at the first surface portion.
[0069] In a 43rd aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects from the 40th aspect to the 42nd aspect, the method comprises the steps of:
[0070] controlling the reduced pressure level through the chamber such that the traction force to the at least part of the first surface portion and the compression force to the at least part of the second surface portion are applied for a duration of time,
[0071] wherein a modulus of the traction force and / or a modulus of the compression force is based on the reduced pressure level.
[0072] In a 44th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects from the 40th to 43rd, the method comprises the step of receiving properties data representative of a material property, wherein the reduced pressure level and / or the duration of time is based on the properties data.
[0073] In a 45th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects from the 40th to the 44th aspect, the object comprises a main body and a lid coupled to each other, the first surface portion being defined at least in part by the main body and the second surface portion being defined at least in part by the lid, and
[0074] wherein the method comprises the step of providing an adhesive material configured to bind together the main body and the lid, the adhesive material being at a bonding zone of the main body and / or of the lid such that at the step of applying a traction force and / or at the step of applying a compression force is at least in part compressed.
[0075] In a 46th aspect according to the preceding aspect when combined with the 44th aspect, properties data are representative of a chemical and / or physical property of the adhesive, preferably the properties data are representative of a time of drying of the adhesive and / or of a viscosity of the adhesive.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING
[0076] Some embodiments and some aspects of the invention are described hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, provided only for illustrative and, therefore, non-limiting purposes, in which:
[0077] FIG. 1 depicts a perspective view of an engagement device, in accordance with the embodiments described herein;
[0078] FIG. 2 depicts a lateral view of the engagement device of FIG. 1;
[0079] FIG. 3 depicts a cross-sectional view of the engagement device of FIG. 1;
[0080] FIG. 4 depicts a lateral view of a detail of the engagement device of FIG. 1 with some parts hidden to better show others;
[0081] FIGS. 5 and 6 depict respectively a perspective and a cross-sectional view of the detail of FIG. 4;
[0082] FIGS. 7A, 7B, 8A, 8B depict lateral view of the engagement device of FIG. 1 in different configurations with some parts removed to better show others;
[0083] FIG. 9 depict a lateral view of the engagement device of FIG. 1 in an in-use condition with some parts removed to better show others;
[0084] FIG. 10 depicts a perspective view of an object, as a cardboard box, with which embodiments of the engagement device described herein may be jointly used;
[0085] FIG. 11 depicts a lateral view of an engagement device in accordance with the embodiments described herein;
[0086] FIG. 12 depicts a cross-sectional view of the engagement device of FIG. 11;
[0087] FIG. 13 depicts a perspective view of an embodiment of a system that comprises multiple engagement devices, in accordance with the embodiments described herein;
[0088] FIG. 14 depicts a perspective view of a system that is capable of engaging objects in multiple dimensions, in accordance with the embodiments described herein;
[0089] FIGS. 15 and 16 depict cross-sectional view of a suction device, in accordance with the embodiments described herein.CONVENTIONS
[0090] It should be noted that in the present detailed description, corresponding parts illustrated in the various figures are indicated by the same reference numerals. The figures may illustrate the object of the invention by representations that are not in scale; therefore, parts and components illustrated in the figures relating to the object of the invention may relate solely to schematic representations.DETAILED DESCRIPTIONEngagement Device
[0091] The present disclosure describes an engagement device 1. The engagement device 1 comprises a suction device 2 and a pressor element 3 that are coupled to each other. The suction device 2 comprises a port 4 and an engagement end 5 coupled to each other.
[0092] The engagement end 5 is configured to contact a first surface portion 6a of an object 6 to define a chamber. In particular, the chamber being defined by the engagement end 5 and by the first surface portion of the object 6.
[0093] In particular, the object may be a carboard box having a main body 15 and a lid 16. In detail, the main body 15 present an opening and the lid 16 is configured to be coupled to the main body 15 to close the opening. An adhesive material 17 may be interposed between the main body 15 and the lid 16 such that the adhesive 17 bonds the lid to the main body. The adhesive material 17 may comprise glue lines located at the opening of the main body. The glue lines may be multiple groups of glue lines arranged and spaced from each other along the opening, preferably the glue lines are arranged perpendicular to an edge of the object. The glue lines may be a single group of glue lines extending all along the opening, preferably parallel to an edge of the object. The adhesive may be a pressure-sensitive glue, a solvent-based adhesive, a polymer dispersion adhesive or other.
[0094] In particular, in use, the lid 16 is pressed against the main body 15 for a duration of time such to allow the adhesive 17 to dry and to distribute ensuring the correct bonding between the lid and the main body.
[0095] The port 4 of the suction device 2 is fluidly couplable to a vacuum source to place the vacuum source in fluid communication with the chamber. In detail, the vacuum source is capable of controlling the pressure level within the chamber. In some embodiments, the port of the suction device may be fluidly couplable to multiple vacuum sources such that each one of the vacuum sources is able to control the pressure level within the chamber.
[0096] The pressor element 3 comprises an abutment surface 3a arranged to contact a second surface portion 6b of the object 6. In detail, the second surface portion 6b of the object 6 may be distinct from the first surface portion 6a. The first surface portion 6a may be a portion of surface of the main body 15 of the object 6. The second surface portion 6b may be a portion of surface of the lid 16 of the object 6. In detail, in use, the engagement end 5 contacts an external surface of the main body while the abutment surface 3a contacts an external surface of the lid such that the adhesive interposed between the lid and the main body is compressed.
[0097] When the port 4 is in fluid communication with the vacuum source and the vacuum source establishes a reduced pressure level through the chamber, the reduced pressure level in the chamber causes:
[0098] the suction device 2 to apply a traction force T to at least part of the first surface portion 6a of the object 6, and
[0099] the pressor element 3 to apply a compression force C to at least part of the second surface portion 6b of the object 6 through the abutment surface 3a.
[0100] In other words, when the port 4 is in fluid communication with the vacuum source and the vacuum source establishes a reduced pressure level through the chamber the suction device 2 is configured to apply a traction force T to at least part of the first surface portion 6a of the object 6, and the pressor element 3 is configured to apply a compression force C to at least part of the second surface portion 6b of the object 6 through the abutment surface 3a.
[0101] Advantageously, the engagement device is able to hold an object by applying a traction force while applying a compression force to the same object. This makes it possible to use a single engagement device to hold and move the object and to press the lid against the main body of the object to ensure a contact bonding between the two.
[0102] In detail, the reduced pressure level is below a pressure level of the environment surrounding the engagement device 1. The reduced pressure level may be below the atmospheric pressure level.
[0103] More in detail, a modulus of the traction force T and a modulus of the compression force C are function of the reduced pressure level. The modulus of traction force T may be equal to the modulus of compression force C. In detail, the compression force C may be parallel to the traction force T. More in detail, the compression force C may be opposite to the traction force T.
[0104] In an embodiment, the engagement end 5 presents an engagement surface 5a. The engagement end 5 being configured to contact the first surface portion 6a of the object 6 through the engagement surface 5a.
[0105] In particular, the engagement surface 5a may be at least in part movable along a direction of motion X. In detail, the reduced pressure level causes the engagement surface 5a to move along the direction of motion X. The engagement surface 5a may be movable along the direction of motion X towards and away from the abutment surface 3a. In other words, an interposed distance between the engagement surface and the abutment surface increases and decreases as the engagement surface moves along the direction of motion X.
[0106] In an embodiment, the suction device 2 is capable of transitioning between a first configuration and a second configuration. In other words, the suction device is designed to transition from a first configuration to a second configuration and vice versa. In particular, when the suction device 2 is in the first configuration, the engagement surface 5a is at a first distance LI along the direction of motion from the abutment surface 3a. When the suction device 2 is in the second configuration, the engagement surface 5a is at a second distance L2 along the direction of motion X from the abutment surface 3a. In detail, the first distance L1 is greater than the second distance L2.
[0107] For example, FIGS. 7A and 7B, showing the first and second distances as arrows, depict respectively the engagement device in the second configuration and in the first configuration.
[0108] It is to be noted that the first distance L1 or the second distance L2 may be null. For example, FIGS. 8A and 8B show respectively the engagement device in the first configuration, in which the first distance L1 value is higher than zero, and in the second configuration, in which the second distance L2 is null.
[0109] In detail, the suction device 2 is capable of transitioning from the first configuration to the second configuration and vice versa. In particular, the motion of the engagement surface 5a along the direction of motion causes the suction device 2 to transition between the first and second configurations. In detail, the reduced pressure level causes the suction device to transition from the first configuration to the second configuration and vice versa.
[0110] In an embodiment, the suction device 2 comprises a first body 7 and a second body 8 coupled to each other. In particular, the engagement end 5 and the port 4 are respectively at the first body 7 and at the second body 8. In detail, the first body 7 at least in part defines the engagement end 5.
[0111] The pressor element 3 may be coupled to the first body 7 or the second body 8 of the suction device 2. In detail, the pressor element 3 may be fixed to the first body 7 or to the second body 8 of the suction device 2.
[0112] In some embodiments, the pressor element 3 is fixed to the first body 7 as shown, for example, in FIGS. 1 to 3. In other embodiments, the pressor element 3 is fixed to the second body 8 as shown, for example, in FIGS. 11 and 12.
[0113] In an embodiment, the second body 8 comprises an interior 9 fluidly couplable to the vacuum source through the port 4 to place the vacuum source in fluid communication with the chamber. In particular, the chamber being at least in part within the interior. In detail, the first body 7 may be located at least in part within the interior 9. In particular, the first body 7 is capable of sliding within the interior 9 of the second body 8. More in detail, the first body 7 is capable of sliding within the interior of the second body between an extended position and a retracted position. For example, FIGS. 15 and 16 show cross-sectional views of the suction device respectively wherein the first body is in the retracted position and in the extended position.
[0114] In some embodiments, the first body 7 is configured to slide within the interior of the second body along the direction of motion X. In particular, the engagement surface 5a may be able to move along the direction of motion X without a motion of the first body along the direction of motion.
[0115] In some embodiments, the first body 7 may be configured to slide within the interior 9 of the second body 8 as the suction device 2 transitions from the first configuration to the second configuration and vice versa. In detail, the motion of the first body 7 causes the suction device 2 to transition from the first configuration to the second configuration and vice versa.
[0116] In detail, the distance between the engagement surface 5a and the abutment surface 3a along the direction of motion X is a function of the relative position of the first body with respect to the second body of the suction device. For example, the suction device 2 may be in the first configuration when the first body is in the extended position, and the suction device 2 may be in the second configuration when the first body is in the retracted position. In other words, the first and second configurations may respectively correspond to the extended and retracted positions.
[0117] In some embodiments, the first body 7 may comprise a compressible element 10 at the engagement end 5 defining at least in part the engagement surface 5a such that a compression of the compressible element 10 causes the suction device 2 to transition between the first configuration and the second configuration. The compressible element 10 may be a suction cup defining the engagement end of the first body.
[0118] In particular, the compression force C and / or the reduced pressure level causes the compression of the compressible element 10. The compression of the compressible element 10 may causes the motion of the engagement surface 5a along the direction of motion X. The compression of the compressible element 10 causes the suction device 2 to transition between the first and second configurations, particularly from the first configuration to the second configuration.
[0119] In an embodiment, the pressor element 3 extends from a first end 11 to a second end 12. The abutment surface 3a is at the first end 11. In detail, the pressor element 3 is coupled to the suction device 2 at the second end 12. In detail, the pressor element 3 extends from the first end to the second end in a direction transverse to the direction of motion.
[0120] In an embodiment, the pressor element 3 comprises a coupling element 13 at the second end 12. In particular, the suction device 2 and the pressor element 3 are coupled to each other through the coupling element 13. The coupling element 13 may be any mean suitable for coupling the pressor element and the suction device, such as a counter-thread adapted to couple with a thread on the suction device.
[0121] In an embodiment, the pressor element 3 comprises a through hole 14 at the second end 12. In detail, the through hole 14 at least in part defines the coupling element 13.
[0122] In some embodiments, the first body 7 and / or the second body 8 of the suction device 2 is configured to slide through the through hole 14 of the pressor element 3 as the suction device 2 transitions from the first configuration to the second configuration and vice versa. In detail, when the pressor element is fixed to the second body, the first body 7 may be configured to slide through the through hole of the pressor element as moving between the retracted position and the extended position.
[0123] In some embodiments, the abutment surface 3a and / or the engagement surface 5a and / or the first surface portion 6a of the object 6 and / or the second surface portion 6b of the object 6 is planar. In detail, the abutment surface and the second surface portion may be parallel to each other. The engagement end and the first surface portion may be parallel to each other.
[0124] In some embodiments, the engagement surface 5a and the abutment surface 3a are at least in part located respectively along a first plane FP and a second plane SP. In addition, the first plane FP and the second plane SP may be parallel to each other. The first distance L1 and the second distance L2 may be defined as the distance of the first plane FP to the second plane SP in the first and second configuration.
[0125] In particular, the first plane FP and the second plane SP may be distinct one from the other or they may be coincident. In some embodiments, the first plane FP and the second plane SP are coincident when the chamber is at atmospheric pressure. In other embodiments, the first plane FP and the second plane SP are not coincident when the chamber is at atmospheric pressure, therefore the first plane is at a distance from the second plane.
[0126] For example, in FIGS. 7A, 7B and 8A the first plane and the second plane are distinct one from the other. On the other hand, in FIG. 8B the first plane and the second plane are coincident and, therefore, the distance between the two is null.
[0127] In an embodiment, the compression force C is parallel and opposite to the traction force T. In detail, the modulus of the compression force and the modulus of the traction force are equal. More in detail, the compression force C and / or the traction force T are normal to the first plane and / or to the second plane.
[0128] In an embodiment, the first surface portion 6a and the second surface portion 6b are defined at a same surface of the object 6. In other words, the first surface portion and the second surface portion may be different portions of the same surface of the object.
[0129] In an embodiment, the first surface portion 6a and the second surface portion 6b are defined respectively at a first surface and at a second surface of the object 6. In other words, the first surface portion and the second surface portion are portions of respective surfaces of the object. For example, the first surface portion may be a portion of a first surface of the main body 15 and the second surface portion may be a portion of a second surface of the lid 16. The first surface of the main body and the second surface of the lid may be an external surface respectively of the main body and of the lid.
[0130] The suction device 2 of the present disclosure may be constituted by the engagement device described in the patent application U.S. 63 / 389,023.
[0131] In detail, the suction device 2 comprises a cylinder 202 and a piston 204. In detail, the first body 7 and the second body 8 are respectively defined by the piston and the cylinder. The piston may be the first body 7 and the cylinder may be the second body 8.
[0132] It is to be noted that all the features described herein with reference to the first body and to the second body may be detectable or identifiable respectively on the piston and the cylinder and vice versa.
[0133] In an embodiment, the piston comprises a distal end and a bore 218, which is in fluid communication with the interior of the cylinder. In particular, the bore 218 of the piston is fluidly couplable to the vacuum source through the interior of the cylinder and the port. In addition, the suction device 2 may comprise a biasing mechanism 214 configured to bias the piston to the retracted position.
[0134] In detail, the piston may have a reduced diameter compared to a diameter between the engagement end and distal end such that, when the port of the cylinder is coupled to the vacuum source and the vacuum source draws a vacuum through the interior of the cylinder and the bore 218 of the piston, the reduced diameter of the piston causes the pressure in the interior of the cylinder to be reduced to exert a force on the piston that is greater than a force of the biasing mechanism 214 so that the piston moves from the retracted position to the extended position.
[0135] In some embodiments, the biasing mechanism 214 is a compression spring located in the interior of the cylinder. In detail, the compression spring may be wound around the piston.
[0136] In addition, the suction device may comprise an O-ring 216 located in the interior of the cylinder. In detail, the O-ring 216 is positioned in the interior of the cylinder so that the piston is in contact with the O-ring 216 when the piston is in the extended position.
[0137] In some embodiments, the reduced diameter of the piston at the engagement end is at least 1 mm smaller than the diameter between the engagement end and distal end. In some embodiments, the diameter of the reduced diameter of the piston is less than or equal to one or more of 2 mm, 1.5 mm, 1.0 mm, or 0.5 mm.
[0138] In an embodiment, the piston comprises a first piece 220 and a second piece 222 that are coupled together. In detail, the reduced diameter of the piston is located in the first piece 220 and the diameter between the engagement end and distal end is in the second piece 222.
[0139] In some embodiments, the suction device 2 comprises a bearing 230 located between the cylinder and the piston. The piston may be configured to slide through the bearing 230 while sliding between the retracted position and the extended position.
[0140] In some embodiments, the bore 218 of the piston is in fluid communication with the interior of the cylinder via a via hole 228 in the piston. In detail, the reduced diameter of the piston is the diameter of the via hole 228 in the piston which is reduced compared to the diameter of the bore 218 between the distal and engagement ends of the piston. More in detail, the reduced diameter may be located at the engagement end of the piston.System
[0141] The present disclosure is also related to a system 100 that comprises multiple engagement devices 1 in accordance with embodiments described herein.
[0142] The system 100 comprises a vacuum source in fluid communication with each one of the engagement devices. In some embodiments, the system may comprise one or more vacuum sources such that an engagement device of the multiple engagement devices may be fluidly coupled to a single vacuum source or to multiple vacuum sources.
[0143] In detail, the vacuum source is configured to establish a reduced pressure level through the chamber of each engagement device such as the suction device 2 applies a traction force T to at least part of the first surface portion 6a and the pressor element 3 applies a compression force C to at least part of the second surface portion 6b.
[0144] In particular, the vacuum source is configured to establish the reduced pressure level individually or collectively through the chamber of each one of the engagement devices. In other words, the vacuum source may establish the reduced pressure level either through the chamber of each one of the engagement devices or through the chamber of a group of the engagement devices, or through the chamber of a single engagement device of the engagement devices.
[0145] Advantageously, the vacuum source may establish the reduced pressure level only in those engagement devices needed to hold and contact the object. Thanks to the ability of individually control the reduced pressure level through the chamber of the engagement devices, a system may comprise active engagement devices and inactive engagement devices without reducing the performance and efficiency of the system.
[0146] In an embodiment, the engagement devices are arranged in a single direction Y such that the abutment surfaces 3a of each engagement device are coplanar. FIG. 12 shows a system that comprises four engagement devices arranged along the single direction Y.
[0147] In an embodiment, the engagement devices 1 are a first group 101 of engagement devices and a second group 102 of engagement devices. In detail, the engagement devices of the first group 101 are arranged in a first direction A such that the abutment surfaces 3a of each engagement device of the first group 101 are coplanar to each other. The engagement devices of the second group 102 are arranged in a second direction B such that the abutment surfaces 3a of each engagement device of the second group 102 are coplanar to each other.
[0148] The system may comprise a first vacuum source and a second vacuum source fluidly coupled to respective pluralities of engagement devices. In detail, the first vacuum source may be fluidly coupled to the engagement devices of the first group and the second vacuum source is fluidly coupled to the engagement devices of the second group. Advantageously, the first and second vacuum source allow a precise control of the two groups of engagement devices. For example, the first vacuum source may establish the reduced pressure level through the chambers of the engagement devices of the first group whereas the second vacuum source is inactive, and therefore no reduced pressure level is established in the respective fluidly coupled engagement devices, or vice versa. Also, it may be that the first and the second vacuum sources establish different levels of reduced pressure level through the chambers of the engagement devices respectively of the first and second groups.
[0149] FIG. 14 shows an example of a system that comprises a first group 101 and a second group 102 of engagement devices, each one comprising five engagement devices. Advantageously, the system 100 comprising a first group and a second group of engagement devices arranged in two different direction is capable of engaging objects in multiple dimensions.
[0150] In some embodiments, the first direction A is transverse to the second direction B. In detail, the first direction A is perpendicular to the second direction B.
[0151] In some embodiments, the system comprises a control unit in signal communication with the vacuum source. Moreover, the control unit may be in signal communication with one or more vacuum sources. The control unit is configured to control the operation of the one or more vacuum sources. Advantageously, the control unit allows to individually control the operation of each of the one or more vacuum sources.
[0152] In an embodiment, the control unit comprises:
[0153] a receiving unit configured to receive properties data representative of a material property, preferably of a chemical and / or physical property of the adhesive material;
[0154] a processing unit in signal communication with the receiving unit to receive the properties data. In detail, the processing unit is configured to generate a control signal representative of a functioning of the vacuum source. For example, the control signal may be representative of a duration of functioning of the vacuum source.
[0155] In particular, the control unit is configured to control the operation of the vacuum source based on the control signal.
[0156] In some embodiments, the receiving unit is configured to receive operation data representative of a number or of a group of engagement devices fluidly coupled to the one or more vacuum sources and in which establishing the reduced pressure level. The processing unit may be further configured to receive the operation data from the receiving unit. In detail, the control signal generated by the processing unit may be representative of a functioning of the vacuum source, optionally of each of one or more vacuum sources. Advantageously, the control unit may individually control each vacuum source, and in addition, it may individually control the establishment of the reduced pressure level within the chamber of each of the one or more engagement devices. In other words, the control unit may activate or inactivate the vacuum sources fluidly coupled to one or more engagement devices to establish a reduced pressure level within the chamber of each engagement devices of the plurality.Method for Packaging
[0157] The present disclosure is also related to a method comprising the step of providing an engagement device 1 according to the embodiments described herein. In some embodiments, the method comprises the step of providing multiple engagement devices, each one according to the embodiments described herein.
[0158] The method comprises the steps of:
[0159] coupling a vacuum source to the port 4 of the suction device 2,
[0160] contacting the first surface portion 6a of the object 6 with the engagement end 5.
[0161] In detail, the step of contacting the first surface portion 6a may comprise the step of moving the first body of the suction device between the retracted position and the extended position. More in detail, the step of contacting the first surface portion 6a may comprise the step of moving the first body from the retracted position to the extended position within the interior of the second body of the suction device.
[0162] Moreover, the step of coupling a vacuum source may comprise the step of fluidly coupling a first vacuum source to the port of the suction device and the step of fluidly coupling a second vacuum source to the port of the suction device.
[0163] The method comprises the step of establishing a reduced pressure level through the chamber. In detail, the step of establishing a reduced pressure level is performed at least by the vacuum source that draws the vacuum within the chamber. In particular, the reduced pressure level is lower than atmospheric pressure level.
[0164] The method also comprises the steps of:
[0165] applying a traction force T to at least part of the first surface portion 6a of the object 6 through the suction device 2,
[0166] applying a compression force C to at least part of the second surface portion 6b of the object 6 through the pressor element 3, particularly through the abutment surface 3a.
[0167] In an embodiment, the steps of applying a traction force T and applying a compression force C are at least partly simultaneous. In particular, the step of applying a traction force T is performed before and during the step of applying a compression force C. In other words, in use, the compression force C is applied after the traction force is applied to the first surface portion of the object. The compression force C may be maintained applied to the second surface portion of the object for all the time the traction force T is applied.
[0168] The modulus of the traction force T may be equal to the modulus of the compression force C. In some embodiments, the modulus of the compression force is a function of the modulus of the traction force. The compression and traction forces may be opposite one to the other. In other words, the traction force helps in maintaining the object close to the engagement device while the compression force acts on the object in the opposite direction. Advantageously, the traction force helps in maintaining the object while the compression force causes a compression of the lid and of the adhesive placed between the lid and the main body.
[0169] In an embodiment, the method comprises the step of moving the engagement surface 5a relative to the abutment surface 3a. In particular, during the step of moving the engagement surface 5a, the engagement end 5 is moved towards or away from the abutment surface 3a. The motion of the engagement end 5 may be function of the traction force T, in particular of the reduced pressure level within the chamber.
[0170] More in detail, the step of moving the engagement surface 5a relative to the abutment surface 3a comprises moving the engagement end 5 along a direction of motion between a first position and a second position.
[0171] When the engagement end 5 is at the first position, the suction device is in the first configuration and the engagement surface 5a is at the first distance LI along the direction of motion from the abutment surface 3a.
[0172] When the engagement end 5 is at the second position, the suction device is in the second configuration and the engagement surface 5a is at the second distance L2 along the direction of motion from the abutment surface 3a.
[0173] In some embodiments, the step of moving the engagement surface 5a relative to the abutment surface 3a is at least partly simultaneous to the step of contacting the first surface portion 6a and / or to the step of applying a compression force C at the second surface portion 6b and / or to the step of applying a traction force T at the first surface portion 6a.
[0174] In an embodiment, the method comprises the step of controlling the reduced pressure level through the chamber such that the traction force T to the at least part of the first surface portion 6a and the compression force C to the at least part of the second surface portion 6b are applied for a duration of time. In detail, a modulus of the traction force T and / or a modulus of the compression force C is based on the reduced pressure level.
[0175] In an embodiment, the method comprises the step of receiving properties data representative of a material property. In detail, the reduced pressure level and / or the duration of time is based on the properties data.
[0176] In some embodiments, properties data are representative of a chemical and / or physical property of the adhesive. In detail, the properties data are representative of a time of drying of the adhesive and / or of a viscosity of the adhesive. Thanks to the fact that the reduced pressure level and / or the duration of time and / or the moduli of the traction force and of the compression force depends on the properties data, it is possible to hold the object and compress the lid and / or the adhesive in such a way that the adhesive is dried and distributed and the lid correctly bonded to the main body of the object.
[0177] In some embodiments, the object 6 comprises a main body 15 and a lid 16 coupled to each other. The first surface portion 6a and the second surface portion may be defined respectively at least in part by the main body 15 and at least in part by the lid 16.
[0178] In detail, the method may comprise the step of providing an adhesive material 17 configured to bind together the main body 15 and the lid 16. In particular, the adhesive material 17 may be located at a bonding zone of the main body 15 and / or of the lid 16 such that at the step of applying a traction force T and / or at the step of applying a compression force C is at least in part compressed. In use, the adhesive material 17 is interposed between an external surface of the main body and an internal surface of the lid such that the engagement device is able to compress the adhesive by applying a compression force at an external surface of the lid.Example Lid and Main Body
[0179] FIGS. 17A and 17B depict bottom views of an embodiment of a lid 300 that can be used to cover the top of a main body. As can be seen in FIG. 17A, the lid 300 has flaps 302, each of which is rotatably coupled to the main portion of the lid 300 by a folding line (e.g., a crease, a fold, a perforated line, etc.). In some embodiment, the main panel of the lid 300 is substantially similar in size to a top of a main body such that the main panel of the lid 300 can be placed on top of the main body and the flaps 302 of the lid can be folded down onto the sides of the main body. In FIG. 17B, an adhesive material 304 has been applied to the bottom sides of the flaps 302 of the lid 300. The adhesive material 304 (e.g., glue, epoxy, etc.) is configured to couple the flaps 302 of the lid 300 to side of a main body.
[0180] FIGS. 18A and 18B depict perspective views of the lid 300 and a main body 306. In FIG. 18A, the lid 300 is located above the main body 306. The top of the lid 300 is visible. The lid 300 has the adhesive material 304 applied to the bottom sides of the flaps 302, although the adhesive material 304 is not visible in FIG. 18A. The main body 306 has been arranged with flaps 308 of the main body 306 folded on top of the main body 306. In FIG. 18B, the lid 300 has been lowered down onto the top of the main body 306. The flaps 302 of the lid 300 has been folded down to come into contact with the sides of the main body 306. The adhesive material 304 coupled the lower sides of the flaps 302 of the lid 300 to the sides of the main body 306.
[0181] As noted above, application of pressure on the outer sides of the flaps 302 can ensure proper coupling of the lid 300 to the main body 306 as the adhesive material 304 cures. Further, in order to minimize the size of containers used to ship objects, it would be useful to form containers from main bodies and lids of different sizes. It would be advantageous for a single system to be capable of adhering lids on main bodies of different sizes.System and Process for Lidding Main Bodies of Different SizesFIG. 19 depicts a system 310 that is capable of adhering lids on main bodies of different sizes. The system 310 includes engagement devices 312. In some embodiments, the engagement devices can include any of the engagement devices and / or suction devices described herein. The view shown in FIG. 19 shows only some of the engagement devices 312, which will be described in greater detail below. The system 301 further includes an elevator 314. The elevator 314 is configured to lift the main body 306 toward the engagement devices 312. The elevator 314 can be positioned along a conveyance system configured to convey the main body 306.
[0183] At the instance shown in FIG. 19, the main body 306 does not have a lid. The lid 300 is held by the system 310 above the elevator 314. The elevator 314 is configured to lift the main body 316 so that the top of the main body 306 comes into contact with the bottom side of the lid 300 and then the main body 306 and the lid 300 are positioned so that the engagement devices 312 can exert a force on the flaps 302 of the lid 300 while the adhesive material 304 adheres to the main body 306.
[0184] FIGS. 20A to 20C depict top views of the system 310 and a series of instances of the system 310 being used to adhere the lid 300 to the main body 306. In the depicted embodiment, the engagement devices 312 include four sets of engagement devices: engagement devices 3121, engagement devices 3122, engagement devices 3123, and engagement devices 3124. The engagement devices 3121 and 3122 are positioned along opposites sides of the length of the main body 306 and the engagement devices 3123 and 3124 are positioned along opposites sides of the width of the main body 306. Each of the engagement devices 312 is independently controllable such that, at any point, each of the engagement devices 312 can be used to secure the lid 300 to the main body 306 or any subset of the engagement devices 312 can be used to secure the lid 300 to the main body 306 depending on the size of the main body 306.
[0185] In FIG. 20A, the main body 306 has been positioned on the elevator 314 such that the main body 306 is substantially centered on the elevator 314. In the top view shown in FIG. 20A, the flaps 308 of the main body 306 are visible. In some embodiments, the system 310 includes one or more sensors configured to detect a size of the main body 306, such as the length and width of the main body 306. In some embodiments, the system 300 is configured to determine which of the engagement devices 312 will be used to secure the lid 300 to the main body 306 based on the size of the main body 306 sensed by the one or more sensors. In the depicted embodiment, the system 300 can determine to use all of the engagement devices 3121, 3122, 3123, and 3124 based on the size of the main body 306.
[0186] In FIG. 20B, the system 310 holds the lid 300 so that that lid 300 is positioned to be secured to the main body 306. In particular, the system 310 holds the lid 300 above the main body 306 on the elevator 314 and below the engagement devices 312. From the instance shown in FIG. 20B, the elevator 314 can raise the main body 306 upward so that the flaps 308 of the main body 306 come into contact with the main portion of the lid 300. The elevator 314 can lift the main body 306 farther so that the flaps 302 of the lid 300 are folded downward toward the sides of the main body 306 by the engagement devices 312.
[0187] In FIG. 20C, the engagement devices 3121, 3122, 3123, and 3124 have engaged the sides of the main body 306 and the flaps 302 of the lid 300 to exert an inward force on each of the flaps 302 of the lid 300. The system 310 can cause the engagement devices 3121, 3122, 3123, and 3124 to remain engaged for a predetermined time to cause sufficient curing of the adhesive material 304 to couple the lid 300 to the main body 306. At that point, the engagement devices 3121, 3122, 3123, and 3124 can disengage and the elevator 314 can be lowered away from the engagement devices 312. From there, the main body 306 with the lid 300 coupled thereon can be further conveyed for additional handling and / or shipping.
[0188] As noted above, the system 310 is capable of adhering lids on main bodies of different sizes. FIGS. 20A to 20C show how the system 310 can adhere the lid 300 to the main body 306. FIGS. 21A to 21D show how the system 310 can adhere a lid 320 to a main body 326, where the lid 320 and the main body 326 are smaller than the lid 300 and the main body 306, respectively.
[0189] FIGS. 21A to 21D depict top views of the system 310 and a series of instances of the system 310 being used to adhere the lid 320 to the main body 326. In FIG. 21A, the main body 326 has been positioned on the elevator 314 such that the main body 326 is substantially centered on the elevator 314. In the top view shown in FIG. 21A, flaps 328 of the main body 326 are visible. As can be seen, the length and width of the main body 326 are smaller than the length and width of the main body 306.
[0190] In some embodiments, the system 310 includes one or more sensors configured to detect a size of the main body 326, such as the length and width of the main body 326. In some embodiments, the system 320 is configured to determine which of the engagement devices 312 will be used to secure the lid 320 to the main body 326 based on the size of the main body 326 sensed by the one or more sensors. In the depicted embodiment, the system 320 can determine to use all of the engagement devices 3121, 3122, 3123, and 3124 based on the size of the main body 326. In FIG. 21B, the system 310 has moved a subset of each of the engagement devices 3121, 3122, 3123, and 3124 to a position where they can be used to adhere the lid 320 to the main body 326. In the particular example shown in FIG. 21B, four of the engagement devices 3121 and four of the engagement devices 3122 have been moved inward to a positions on opposite sides of the length of the main body 326. Similarly, two of the engagement devices 3123 and two of the engagement devices 3124 have been moved inward to a positions on opposite sides of the width of the main body 326. It will be noted that any number of the engagement devices 3121, 3122, 3123, and 3124 can be moved forward based on a detected size of the main body 326.
[0191] In FIG. 21C, the system 310 holds the lid 320 so that that lid 320 is positioned to be secured to the main body 326. In particular, the system 310 holds the lid 320 above the main body 326 on the elevator 314 and below the engagement devices 312. From the instance shown in FIG. 21C, the elevator 314 can raise the main body 326 upward so that the flaps 328 of the main body 326 come into contact with the main portion of the lid 320. The elevator 314 can lift the main body 326 farther so that the flaps of the lid 320 are folded downward toward the sides of the main body 326 by the engagement devices 312.
[0192] In FIG. 21D, the engagement devices 3121, 3122, 3123, and 3124 have engaged the sides of the main body 326 and the flaps 322 of the lid 320 to exert an inward force on each of the flaps of the lid 320. The system 310 can cause the engagement devices 3121, 3122, 3123, and 3124 to remain engaged for a predetermined time to cause sufficient curing of the adhesive material 324 to couple the lid 320 to the main body 326. At that point, the engagement devices 3121, 3122, 3123, and 3124 can disengage and the elevator 314 can be lowered away from the engagement devices 312. From there, the main body 326 with the lid 320 coupled thereon can be further conveyed for additional handling and / or shipping.
[0193] For purposes of this disclosure, terminology such as “upper,”“lower,”“vertical,”“horizontal,”“inwardly,”“outwardly,”“inner,”“outer,”“front,”“rear,” and the like, should be construed as descriptive and not limiting the scope of the claimed subject matter. Further, the use of “including,”“comprising,” or “having” and variations thereof herein is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items.
[0194] Unless limited otherwise, the terms “connected,”“coupled,” and “mounted” and variations thereof herein are used broadly and encompass direct and indirect connections, couplings, and mountings. Unless stated otherwise, the terms “substantially,”“approximately,” and the like are used to mean within 5% of a target value.
[0195] The principles, representative embodiments, and modes of operation of the present disclosure have been described in the foregoing description. However, aspects of the present disclosure which are intended to be protected are not to be construed as limited to the particular embodiments disclosed. Further, the embodiments described herein are to be regarded as illustrative other than restrictive.
Claims
1. -24. (canceled)25. An engagement device comprising a suction device, the suction device comprising a port and an engagement end coupled to each other, the engagement end being configured to contact a first surface portion of an object to define a chamber, the port being fluidly couplable to a vacuum source to place the vacuum source in fluid communication with the chamber,wherein the engagement device comprises a pressor element coupled to the suction device, the pressor element comprising an abutment surface arranged to contact a second surface portion of the object distinct from the first surface portion,wherein, when the port is in fluid communication with the vacuum source and the vacuum source establishes a reduced pressure level through the chamber, the reduced pressure level in the chamber causes:the suction device to apply a traction force to at least part of the first surface portion of the object, andthe pressor element to apply a compression force to at least part of the second surface portion of the object through the abutment surface.
26. The engagement device of claim 25, wherein the engagement end presents an engagement surface, the engagement end being configured to contact the first surface portion of the object through the engagement surface, and wherein the engagement surface is at least in part movable along a direction of motion.
27. The engagement device of claim 26, wherein the suction device is capable of transitioning between a first configuration, in which the engagement surface is at a first distance along the direction of motion from the abutment surface, and a second configuration, in which the engagement surface is at a second distance along the direction of motion from the abutment surface, the first distance being greater than the second distance.
28. The engagement device of claim 25, wherein the suction device comprises a first body and a second body coupled to each other, the engagement end being at the first body, the port being at the second body, the pressor element being coupled to the first body or the second body of the suction device.
29. The engagement device of claim 28, wherein the second body comprises an interior fluidly couplable to the vacuum source through the port to place the vacuum source in fluid communication with the chamber, the first body being located at least in part within the interior, the first body being capable of sliding within the interior of the second body.
30. The engagement device of claim 25, wherein the pressor element extends from a first end to a second end, the abutment surface being at the first end, the pressor element being coupled to the suction device at the second end.
31. The engagement device of claim 30, wherein:the pressor element comprises a coupling element at the second end,the suction device and the pressor element are coupled to each other through the coupling element,the pressor element comprises a through hole at the second end, andthe through hole at least in part defines the coupling element.
32. The engagement device of claim 25, wherein at least one of the abutment surface, the first surface portion of the object, and the second surface portion of the object is planar.
33. The engagement device of claim 25, wherein the engagement surface and the abutment surface are at least in part located respectively along a first plane and a second plane.
34. The engagement device of claim 25, wherein the compression force is parallel and opposite to the traction force.
35. The engagement device of claim 25, wherein the first surface portion and the second surface portion are defined either:at a same surface of the object, orrespectively at a first surface and at a second surface of the object.
36. A system comprising a plurality of engagement devices and a vacuum source in fluid communication with each of the plurality of engagement devices, wherein each of the plurality of engagement devices is the engagement device of claim 25.
37. The system of claim 36, wherein the plurality of engagement devices are arranged either:in a single direction such that the abutment surfaces of each engagement device are coplanar, orin a first group of engagement devices and a second group of engagement devices, wherein the first group are arranged in a first direction such that the abutment surfaces of each engagement device of the first group are coplanar to each other and the engagement devices of the second group are arranged in a second direction such that the abutment surfaces of each engagement device of the second group are coplanar to each other.
38. The system of claim 37, wherein the first direction is perpendicular to the second direction.
39. A method for packaging an object comprising the steps of:providing the engagement device of claim 25,coupling a vacuum source to the port of the engagement device,contacting the first surface portion of the object with the engagement end,establishing a reduced pressure level through the chamber, where the reduced pressure level is lower than atmospheric pressure level,applying a traction force to at least part of the first surface portion of the object through the suction device, andapplying a compression force to at least part of the second surface portion of the object through the abutment surface.
40. The method of claim 39, wherein the steps of applying a traction force and applying a compression force are performed at least partly simultaneous.
41. The method of claim 40, wherein:the engagement end presents an engagement surface,the engagement end being configured to contact the first surface portion of the object through the engagement surface,the engagement surface is at least in part movable along a direction of motion, andthe method further comprises moving the engagement surface relative to the abutment surface at least partly simultaneous with one or more of the step of contacting the first surface portion, the step of applying a compression force at the second surface portion, and the step of applying a traction force.
42. The method of claim 39, further comprising:controlling the reduced pressure level through the chamber such that the traction force to the at least part of the first surface portion and the compression force to the at least part of the second surface portion are applied for a duration of time,wherein at least one of a modulus of the traction force or a modulus of the compression force is based on the reduced pressure level.
43. The method of claim 39, wherein:the object comprises a main body and a lid coupled to each other, the first surface portion being defined at least in part by the main body and the second surface portion being defined at least in part by the lid, andthe method comprises providing an adhesive material configured to bind together the main body and the lid, the adhesive material being at a bonding zone of at least one of the main body and of the lid.
44. The method of claim 39, further comprising the step of receiving properties data representative of a material property, preferably the properties data are representative of a chemical and / or physical property of an adhesive material, more preferably of a time of drying of the adhesive material and / or of a viscosity of the adhesive material, wherein the reduced pressure level and / or the duration of time is based on the properties data.