Device and method for transferring containers

Abstract

The present invention relates to a device (1) for transferring containers (2), comprising: - a conveying means (3) which transports the containers (2) continuously, the containers (2) circulating therein one behind the other on at least two columns (21) parallel to one another in a first direction X; - at least one inlet conveyor (4) in the continuation of the conveying means (3); - at least one outlet conveyor (5) extending from the inlet conveyor (4), in a direction transverse to the first direction X; - a tool (6) for transferring the containers (2) from the inlet conveyor (4) to the outlet conveyor (5); - a selection station (7) able to group the containers (2) together in at least two rows (20) of containers (2) according to a predefined configuration; - a means (8) for positioning and aligning the containers (2) in a group (200) according to the predefined configuration, the group (200) comprising at least two ordered rows (20) of the containers (2), characterised in that the selection station (7) is located between the conveying means (3) and the inlet conveyor (4) and in that the tool (6) simultaneously transfers at least two ordered rows (20) of these containers (2). The present invention also relates to a method for transferring containers and to a container packaging facility.

Description

[0001] DESCRIPTION

[0002] Device and method for transferring containers

[0003] Technical field

[0004] The present invention falls within the field of conveying containers within a production line, preferably with a view to grouping and packaging said containers.

[0005] For the purposes of the present invention, the term "container" encompasses an individual object intended to contain, but not limited to, a fluid, a liquid, powders or granules, in particular of the food or cosmetic type. Such a container may be a bottle or flask, a brick, or even a can. A container may be made of any type of material, in particular plastic, cardboard, metal or even glass.

[0006] As is known, within an industrial line, containers can receive several different successive treatments, such as the manufacture of the container, for example during a plastic injection operation or stretch-blow molding in the case of a plastic bottle, followed by filling and then closing with a cap and labeling.

[0007] Cans are made from metal, especially metal foil, such as aluminum foil or steel foil, by a process of stamping and then crimping.

[0008] Cardboard bricks are made from coils that are cut and folded to form a brick.

[0009] Along a production line, on a packaging line, containers are filled with a solid, fluid, or liquid, particularly a beverage-type liquid such as water, juice, a soft drink, or beer. The container is then hermetically sealed, for example during a can sealing process or by applying a cap. Finally, the container is labeled, which may occur before capping.

[0010] At the end of these treatments, the containers are said to be "finished".

[0011] For handling, such containers are packaged in batches. Each batch comprises a group of several containers, assembled in a matrix arrangement, generally in a parallelepiped shape, often square or rectangular, in columns and rows. For example, a typical batch comprises six containers in two rows and three columns.

[0012] Once the groups of containers have been produced, each group will be packaged in a batch in order to hold the containers together and to facilitate the handling of such a batch thus obtained. Preferred examples of batches include groupings of containers held together by heat-shrinkable film, by strips of paper or by sheets of paper, by strap-type packaging means, or any other means of grouping containers together. Additionally, each group of containers or bottles may be held below, at the bottom of the bottles in their normal orientation, by means of a support forming a bottom, for example a cardboard tray.

[0013] As is known, an existing solution for forming groups, prior to their packaging in batches, consists of conveying the containers in a single-line fashion, one after the other. Such a configuration of the containers in a single line makes it possible, in particular, to adapt directly to the output of processing stations which generally deliver containers in a single-line fashion, following individual processing of each of said containers.

[0014] The containers are then transferred laterally, relative to their infeed direction, to an output conveyor. This right-angled transfer saves considerable space. In addition, it allows the container line to be transferred by moving successive rows. These successive rows are then grouped by a dedicated tool to form an ordered group of containers.

[0015] In other words, the group of containers is formed, before being packaged into a batch, on the one hand by the successive transverse transfer of containers in the form of a row, and on the other hand by the downstream use of a grouping tool, which will tighten at least two rows against each other. The successively formed groups are then supplied to a packaging station which produces the batches.

[0016] An example of a grouping tool is the feed cycler, which orders containers into groups ready for packaging. This solution has the advantage of supplying the groups at a sufficient rate. However, the groups thus formed are delivered with excessively large steps, i.e., they are too far apart from each other. The "step" is the sum of the length of the group of containers and the distance between two groups of products. It is understood that the length of the group of containers varies depending on the size of the group, i.e., the number of rows in the group, the type of container, and its format. The disadvantage of this transfer by successive row is therefore that the groups of containers subsequently formed by a dedicated tool are then several centimeters apart: the rows of containers must be grouped, even though the containers advance continuously.Alternatively, it is necessary to stop the conveyor on which the containers are located during grouping, and the gap between each group formed is then equivalent to the width of several rows.

[0017] Furthermore, this tool cannot easily adapt to format changes: the pitch cannot be adjusted according to the line speed, or according to the type or format of container. Thus, depending on the container formats, the pitch between the groups of containers supplied will be more or less important, without the possibility of modulating it.

[0018] The supply flow of groups of containers to the packaging station which will form the batch downstream depends in particular on the quantity of containers processed by the production line per unit of time, the dimensions of the group of containers, or even the distance between each group.

[0019] These different parameters make it possible to determine the speed of the conveyor system that brings the groups of containers to the packaging station. It is understood that, if the distance between each group of containers is too great, it is necessary to compensate by the supply speed, that is to say by the speed of the conveyor system that brings the groups of containers to the packaging station, in order to manage the supply flow optimally.

[0020] In fact, on a production line, the supply of groups of containers must be synchronized with the operating rate of the packaging station, and of the packaging line itself.

[0021] Thus, if the gap between two successive groups of containers is too large, the difference must be compensated for by a higher conveyor speed, in order to allow the packaging station to be supplied. If the supply speed of the groups of containers and the rate of the packaging station are not synchronized, the efficiency of the packaging line is directly impacted.

[0022] In addition, some packaging stations require the group of containers to be entered, which is incompatible with excessively high conveyor speed. This means slowing down the conveyor speed, which reduces the throughput of the packaging station, which must wait for a group of containers to arrive before processing it.

[0023] In order to optimize the operation of the line, and to best synchronize the arrival of a group of containers with the rate of the packaging station, the step between successive groups of containers must be as small as possible, ideally a few millimeters.

[0024] Existing solutions do not allow groups of containers to be supplied at a satisfactory pitch, in order to ensure optimal operation of the downstream packaging station.

[0025] There is therefore a need to provide a solution aimed at forming groups of containers which will be delivered at a very small pitch between two successively formed groups, to minimize the speed of advance of the conveyor means which supplies the packaging station, and therefore optimize the operation of the packaging installation.

[0026] Summary of the invention: The invention relates to a device for transferring containers conveyed in several parallel lines in a first feed direction from a feed conveyor to an output conveyor extending in a transverse direction. The invention also relates to a method for transferring containers for the purpose of packaging them.

[0027] The invention finally relates to an installation for packaging containers in batches. The invention aims to overcome the drawbacks of the state of the art by proposing a simultaneous transverse transfer of a group comprising at least two rows and at least two columns of containers, by the use of a selection station upstream of the input conveyor, capable of grouping at least two ordered rows of containers located one behind the other in at least two parallel lines. In other words, the transfer device, at each cycle, simultaneously transfers all the containers of the same group, the containers being ordered according to rows and columns.

[0028] It is then possible to optimally manage the supply flow of groups of containers, i.e. to supply groups of containers intended to form a batch to a downstream packaging station, at a satisfactory rate.

[0029] The fact that the containers are grouped into at least two rows and at least two columns before their transfer makes it possible to synchronize their supply with the rate of the packaging station. It is possible to deliver groups of containers to be packaged with a small spacing, of the order of a few millimeters, and therefore to optimize the operation of the installation.

[0030] The output conveyor, which supplies a downstream packaging station, then circulates the groups of containers at low speed, which allows the downstream station to operate at an optimal rate and to be synchronized with the arrival of the groups of containers.

[0031] The selection station will deliver groups of containers to the transfer device, which will be able to supply the downstream packaging station in order to adapt to its operating rate.

[0032] The invention firstly relates to a container transfer device comprising:

[0033] - a conveying means which continuously brings the containers, said containers circulating there one behind the other on at least two columns 21 parallel to each other in a first direction,

[0034] - at least one input conveyor in the extension of said conveying means,

[0035] - at least one output conveyor extending from said input conveyor, in a direction transverse to said first direction,

[0036] - a tool for transferring said containers from said input conveyor to said output conveyor,

[0037] - a selection station capable of grouping said containers together into at least two rows of containers according to a predefined configuration,

[0038] - means for positioning and aligning the containers in a group according to said predefined configuration, said group comprising at least two ordered rows of said containers.

[0039] The device according to the invention is characterized in that said selection station is located between said conveying means and said input conveyor and in that the tool simultaneously transfers at least two ordered rows of said containers. In other words, the tool transversely transfers at least two ordered rows of containers in the form of a group. Thus, the tool simultaneously transfers all the containers forming the same group.

[0040] According to one embodiment, the positioning and alignment means comprises a pusher and a stop which are embedded in the transfer tool to form a group of containers according to the predefined configuration.

[0041] According to a possible variant, the selection station comprises means for regulating the flow of containers to group together at least two ordered rows of containers and the positioning and alignment means is in the form of a feed cycler configured to take charge of the last row of the group of containers to be formed and which, as the case may be, groups it with the preceding row(s) according to the predefined configuration.

[0042] According to one embodiment, the container transfer device comprises means for adjusting the speed of the conveying means, and / or conveyors 4, 5, and / or regulation means, which means make it possible, in particular, to vary the speed of advancement of said regulation means to modify the rate of grouping of the rows in order to adapt the number of rows to be grouped according to the predefined configuration of the group of containers to be prepared.

[0043] According to one embodiment, the transfer tool has only two degrees of freedom of movement in a horizontal plane, in the first direction and in the direction transverse to said first direction.

[0044] According to a possible variant, the transfer device comprises a movable container retaining member to hold the at least two rows of containers during their transverse transfer.

[0045] In embodiments, the retaining member is mounted on the transfer tool. In embodiments, the conveying means is a multi-wire conveyor.

[0046] According to another possible variant, the conveying means comprises at least two single-line conveyors parallel to each other.

[0047] The invention also relates to a method for transferring containers, in which at least:

[0048] - the containers are brought one behind the other in a first direction in at least two columns parallel to each other, said containers forming successive rows transversely to said first direction,

[0049] - said containers are transferred in a direction transverse to said first direction, to at least one output conveyor,

[0050] - during the transfer, at least:

[0051] - the feeding of said containers is slowed down in said first direction, possibly to a stop, - said containers are moved by translation of said tool in a direction transverse to said first direction.

[0052] The method is characterized in that, prior to the transfer, at least two ordered rows of said containers are grouped together, and in that at least two of said rows of said containers are simultaneously transferred in the form of a group.

[0053] In embodiments, the groups of containers are formed from at least two rows of containers during their transfer.

[0054] In embodiments, the groups of containers are made from at least two of said rows before their transfer.

[0055] According to a possible variant, the containers are held at least transversely during their transfer.

[0056] The invention finally relates to a packaging installation comprising a transfer device as described above and at least one packaging station located downstream of the output conveyor.

[0057] In embodiments, at least one packaging station comprises a gripping member for gripping groups of containers on the output conveyor for feeding said packaging station.

[0058] Brief description of the figures: The invention will be better understood thanks to the description below, which is based on possible embodiments, explained in an illustrative and non-limiting manner, with reference to the appended figures, in which:

[0059] Figure 1 schematically represents an embodiment of a transfer device according to the invention;

[0060] Figure 2 schematically represents a side view of an embodiment of the transfer device, showing in particular the container selection station provided with regulation means and a cycler;

[0061] Figure 3 schematically represents a simplified top view of an embodiment of the transfer device, during a first step, showing in particular the transfer of a first group of products from the input conveyor to the output conveyor;

[0062] Figure 4 schematically represents a view similar to Figure 3, during a second stage, showing in particular the transfer of a second group and highlighting the return path of the transfer tool;

[0063] Figure 5 schematically represents a view similar to Figure 4, during a third step, showing in particular the positioning of the tool with a view to transferring a third group and Figure 6 schematically represents a view of the architecture of an installation equipped with a transfer device according to the invention, showing in particular the packaging of the group of containers in batches.

[0064] Detailed description of the invention: In the remainder of the description, elements having an identical structure or similar functions will be designated by the same reference. The invention firstly concerns a device 1 for transferring containers 2.

[0065] In the context of the invention, the container 2 is a bottle, a flask or even a brick or a can. It can be made of any material, in particular plastic, cardboard or even glass. Preferably, the container is made of polyethylene terephthalate, hereinafter PET. The container 2 can therefore be rigid or semi-rigid. It is intended to contain a fluid, a liquid, powders or granules, in particular of the food or cosmetic type. The container 2 can have any type of shape, symmetrical or not. It can have a rounded section, generally circular or ovoidal in shape, or else a polygonal section, in particular rectangular or square. Preferably, said containers 2 have a rounded section, in particular generally circular.

[0066] Containers 2 have a body and a bottom. The body of a container 2 includes a peripheral wall. In a normal orientation, the container 2 rests on its bottom and the main direction is vertical. The bottom may be generally flat, petal-shaped, or otherwise.

[0067] For the purpose of their handling, such finished containers 2 are packaged in batches 300. Each batch 300 therefore comprises several containers 2, assembled for example in a matrix arrangement, generally of a generally parallelepiped shape, often square or rectangular, according to columns 21 and rows 20.

[0068] Prior to their packaging in batches 300, the containers 2 are first grouped in an orderly manner according to a predefined configuration so as to form a group 200.

[0069] The 2 containers in a group of 200 must be aligned as precisely as possible in order to be packaged. Incorrect positioning of the 2 containers within a group of 200 causes problems during packaging and the resulting batch of 300 must then be destroyed.

[0070] In the context of the invention, a group 200 of containers 2 comprises at least two rows 20, or lines, and at least two columns 21, or lines.

[0071] The device 1 of the invention comprises a conveying means 3, which circulates the containers 2 one behind the other in a first direction X, in at least two columns, or rows.

[0072] Generally, the conveying means 3 is located downstream, directly or indirectly, of a container processing station 2. Such a processing station may for example be a filler, a capper, or even a labeler, or any container processing station 2 of a packaging line. Figure 1 shows an exemplary embodiment according to which the conveying means 3 circulates the containers 2 on three columns 21 parallel to each other.

[0073] In this illustrative example, the conveying means 3 is a multi-wire conveying means. A multi-wire conveyor is wide enough to convey several columns or rows of containers 2 parallel to each other. Preferably, the containers 2 are guided in longitudinal corridors.

[0074] The conveying means 3 can also be formed by several adjacent and mutually parallel single-line conveyors. A single-line conveyor has a width that can accommodate only one column or row of containers 2. In other words, the containers 2 are transported in a multi-line manner, aligned one after the other on different columns 21 parallel to each other.

[0075] The conveying means 3 plays the role of a feeding conveyor which continuously brings the containers 2 to be ordered.

[0076] The device 1 also comprises an input conveyor 4 for the containers 2, located downstream of the conveying means 3. Preferably, the conveying means 3 and the input conveyor 4 are aligned longitudinally one after the other in the first direction X. The input conveyor 4 is a multi-wire conveyor, which brings the containers 2 to a transfer tool 6.

[0077] According to the invention, and as visible in figure 1, the device 1 comprises a selection station 7, located between the conveying means 3 and the input conveyor 4. On a conveying path, the containers 2 are brought to the selection station 7 by the conveying means 3, and, once said containers 2 are grouped into at least two rows 20 by said selection station 7, they circulate by means of the input conveyor 4.

[0078] In other words, in embodiments, the conveying means 3, the selection station 7 and the input conveyor 4 extend longitudinally one after the other, in this order, along the first direction X.

[0079] In embodiments, the conveying means 3 and / or the input conveyor 4 comprises lateral guides for guiding the containers 2 and preventing them from falling. Preferably, these lateral guides are adjustable in width to be able to adapt to the type of containers 2.

[0080] The selection station 7 groups the containers 2 together in at least two rows 20 according to a predefined configuration.

[0081] The predefined configuration is decided by the operator of the installation 100 prior to commissioning. The predefined configuration relates to the group 200 of containers 2 to be formed according to the batch 300 to be produced downstream. This configuration determines the number of columns 21 and rows 20 that a group 200 must comprise for the purpose of its packaging in batch 300. For the purposes of the invention, a group 200 of containers 2 comprises at least two columns and at least two rows 20 or rows.

[0082] The selection station 7 therefore groups together the number of rows 20 which are necessary to form the group 200 of containers 2 according to the predefined configuration.

[0083] At the exit of the selection station 7, the grouping of the containers 2 may, however, not be compliant. The containers 2 form a pre-group, but are not sufficiently ordered and aligned to allow them to be packaged in a batch 300, or to be taken by a gripping member. After being picked up by such a system, the containers 2 may have to undergo a new grouping operation. Indeed, the container packaging stations have a very low tolerance for poor alignment, of the order of a few millimeters.

[0084] In the example illustrated in Figures 3 to 5, the selection station 7 groups four rows 20 of containers 2 together. The pre-groups form a disordered matrix: some containers 2 touch, some are aligned, others are not.

[0085] In embodiments, the selection station 7 comprises means 70 for regulating the flow of containers 2 to group together at least two of said ordered rows 20 of containers 2. This results in an alignment of the containers 2 on the same row 20 which is relatively satisfactory, the containers 2 circulating in corridors parallel to each other. However, the alignment of the containers on the same column 21 remains to be carried out, the space or gap between two successive containers 2 not having yet been regulated.

[0086] An example of embodiment of the regulation means 70 is described in patent EP2331433A1.

[0087] In this embodiment, illustrated in Figure 2, the regulation means 70 comprise a system of retractable stops 71 which are continuously movable longitudinally, which stops 71 are in the form of fingers which are inserted temporarily between the consecutive containers 2 of the same column 21, in order to create a gap between said containers 2 and to group rows 20.

[0088] Other embodiments of the regulation means 70 are conceivable for forming the rows 20, such as well-known systems of side brushes, indexing belts with the implementation of a speed differential between two conveyor belts, etc. These systems make it possible to brake the containers 2 to create a space and form an ordered row 20 of containers 2.

[0089] The device 1 of the invention also comprises a tool 6 for transferring the containers 2 from the input conveyor 4 to at least one output conveyor 5, said output conveyor 5 extending from said input conveyor 4, in a direction transverse to the first direction X. The tool 6 ensures the transfer of at least two rows 20 of containers 2 in a direction transverse to the first direction X.

[0090] Preferably, but not limited to, said transverse direction may be orthogonal to said first direction X. As visible in the examples of Figures 3 to 5, said transverse direction extends from bottom to top.

[0091] According to other embodiments, not shown, the transverse direction can extend in an angularly inclined manner relative to the first direction X of supply of the containers 2.

[0092] Preferably, the first feed direction and the transverse direction are located in the same horizontal plane.

[0093] Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of the tool 6 and its movement in the form of arrows from its initial position at one side of the input conveyor 4 to its position at the output conveyor 5, as well as its movement between its arrival position and its initial position.

[0094] Advantageously, said transfer tool 6 comprises only two degrees of freedom of movement in a horizontal plane, in said first direction X and in said transverse direction.

[0095] In embodiments, the device 1 may comprise means for motorizing the movement of said tool 6, provided with at least two actuators managing the movements of the tool 6 for each of said two degrees of freedom independently. In short, it is possible to determine the trajectory of the tool 6 by configuring the movements separately according to each of the feed and transverse directions X.

[0096] The actuators can, for example, be implemented by linear motors, by brushless motors or by dual-motor belts.

[0097] The device 1 may also comprise means for controlling the speed of movement of said tool 6. This embodiment is particularly advantageous, because the speed of movement of the tool 6 can then be synchronized with the speed of the input conveyor 4.

[0098] The device 1 according to the invention also comprises a means 8 for positioning and aligning the containers 2 in groups 200. As described above, a group 200 comprises at least two rows 20 of containers 2.

[0099] For the purposes of the invention, a group 200 comprises at least two columns 21 and at least two rows or ranks 20 of containers 2. The containers 2 of a group 200 are perfectly aligned and ordered, and said group 200 is ready to be packaged in a batch 300. By perfectly aligned, we mean an alignment with a tolerance of a few millimeters maximum.

[0100] In other words, all the containers 2 of the group 200 are side by side and gathered in the form of a matrix, that is to say that the containers 2 forming the columns 21 and the rows 20 of said group 200 are perfectly aligned, with a tolerance of the order of a few millimeters. The groups 200 are then ready to be subsequently packaged in batches 300. Preferred examples of batches 300 include groupings of containers 2 held together by heat-shrinkable film, by strips of paper or by sheets of paper, by strap-type packaging means, or any other means of grouping containers 2 into batches 300.

[0101] In embodiments, and as visible in FIG. 1, in order to ensure the transfer of the containers 2, the transfer tool 6 comprises a pusher 60 extending parallel to said first direction X. Said pusher 60 may comprise at least one plate or collector. Said plate may consist of a vertical wall, extending along the first supply direction X.

[0102] Said pusher 8 may comprise at least one plate or collector. Said plate may consist of a vertical wall, extending along the first supply direction. Said collector has a honeycomb shape, comprising generally concave housings, shaped in a suitable manner to ensure at least partial insertion of the containers 2.

[0103] Concerning certain specific shapes of containers 2, for example an oval shape, it is possible to produce specifically shaped housings, in order to receive the containers 2 while maintaining their orientation.

[0104] In embodiments where the pusher 60 comprises a collector, said collector has a honeycomb shape, comprising generally concave housings, shaped in a suitable manner to ensure at least partial insertion of the containers 2.

[0105] In these embodiments, the positioning and alignment means 8 is at least formed by the pusher 60 and a stop 61 of the transfer tool 6.

[0106] During the movement of the containers 2 by the input conveyor 4 in the first direction X, the tool 6 can be moved to come into contact with said containers 2, while following their advancement. In particular, the pusher 60 is brought against the walls of the first container 2 of each row 20, from the bottom to the top in the examples shown, in particular in FIG. 3 or 5, while moving to the left at a speed equivalent to that of the driving of the containers 2 by the input conveyor 4. Therefore, the tool 6 does not cause any shock with the containers 2, avoiding unbalancing them. The docking of the tool 6 is carried out smoothly.

[0107] In particular, the docking can be programmed, in relation to the rate of production and supply of containers 2 by the input conveyor 4.

[0108] In this case, the tool 6 moves during production in the first direction X of supply of the containers 2 via the movement of its chassis, and it is then the changes in speed of the tool 6 which can accompany and induce a slowing down of a group of containers 2 at the time of their transfer.

[0109] Furthermore, to transfer the containers 2 transversely, it is preferable to slow them down. The containers 2 circulating by means of the input conveyor 4 arrive longitudinally against the stop 61 of the tool 6 which slows them down, possibly until they stop. The containers 2 of each column 21 then align themselves one behind the other in a perfectly orderly manner. Furthermore, during the transverse pushing, the containers 2 of each row 20 align themselves one behind the other in a perfectly orderly manner.

[0110] Thus, in embodiments, the alignment means 8 comprises both the pusher 60, which allows the alignment of the containers 2 on the same row 20, and the stop 61, which allows the alignment of the containers 2 on the same column 21. At the end of the transfer from the input conveyor 4 to the output conveyor 5, the containers 2 then form a group 200, ready to be packaged.

[0111] Preferably, the stop 61 is integrated into the pusher 60. In other words, the stop 61 is located at the level of the pusher 60. This embodiment has the technical advantage of allowing both the alignment of the containers 2, stopped by the stop 61, while allowing their transfer by means of the pusher 60.

[0112] In one embodiment, not shown, the device 1 comprises two output conveyors 2, and two groups 200 of containers 2 are transferred simultaneously by the transfer tool 6, each group 200 being transferred from the input conveyor 4 to an output conveyor 5, the two output conveyors 5 being parallel to each other and preferably adjacent.

[0113] In this embodiment, the pusher 60 of the transfer tool 6 preferably comprises housings in order to be able to easily and simultaneously transfer the two groups 200 of containers 2.

[0114] In embodiments, the alignment means 8 is associated with the means for controlling the speed of the input conveyor 4 and the transfer tool 6. The containers 2, just before their transfer, first undergo a longitudinal slowdown, in particular by means of the stop 61, which induces an alignment of the containers 2 of the same column 21, then a transverse acceleration during their transfer, by means of the pusher 60, which induces an alignment of the containers 2 of the same row 20.

[0115] This embodiment is particularly advantageous because it allows the device 1 to have a greatly reduced footprint. Indeed, it is then not necessary to resort to other cycler-type grouping systems before the arrival of the containers 2 at the packaging station 9. In addition, the fact that the groups 200 are produced during the transfer allows said groups 200 to be delivered at a very small pitch. The output conveyor 5 can then advance at a speed perfectly synchronized with the rate of the packaging station 9.

[0116] According to a possible variant, the stop 61 can be fixed in an adjustable manner on the pusher 60, in the first direction X. In short, it is possible to adjust its position along the pusher 60, in particular as a function of the number of containers 2 to be transferred simultaneously, in particular as a function of the width of each group 200, namely their number and their diameter, as well as possibly their spacing distance. This adjustment is carried out manually or automatically, by means of an independent actuator embedded within said tool 6.

[0117] According to another possible variant, the stop 61 can be provided to be movable within said tool 6, in particular along the pusher 60. Thus, the movement of said stop 61 can confer relative mobility of the tool 6 in the first feed direction X, while the chassis can remain fixed.

[0118] In order to improve the holding of the containers 2 during their transfer, whether at the time of their deceleration in the first direction X of supply, combined or not with the transverse movement, or even during this transverse movement alone, the device 1 may comprise a member 62 for retaining the containers 2, as visible in figure 6.

[0119] Said member 62 is provided to be mobile within said tool 6.

[0120] According to one embodiment, the member 62 may comprise at least one pivoting arm between a position for transversely holding the products 1 and a retracted position, and vice versa. In the holding position, the pivoting arm closes and grips the containers 2, by applying pressure or simply by blocking them against the pusher 60. The member 62 therefore serves to hold the containers 2 during their transfer. For this purpose, in the holding position, it extends, along the first feed direction X, on the other side of the containers 2 relative to the pusher 60.

[0121] This embodiment is particularly advantageous because the retaining member 62 can also contribute to the orderly matrixing of the containers 2 in the form of a group 200. In this case, the alignment means 8 comprises the pusher 60, the stop 61 and the member 62 for retaining the containers 2. Preferably, the stop 61 is fixed, possibly movably, on the pusher 60.

[0122] In the retracted position, the arm opens, freeing up a space for supplying the containers 2 as well as another transverse space, at the end of the transfer, as can be seen schematically in Figure 6.

[0123] Furthermore, the length and shape of the member 62 can be adapted to the shape and number of containers 2 to be transferred. In embodiments, the member 62 can comprise means for gripping the containers 2, in particular in the form of clamps or tulips.

[0124] Thus, the retaining member 62 makes it possible to increase the rate, making it possible to ensure greater decelerations along the transverse direction while guaranteeing the stability of the transferred containers 2.

[0125] Said member 62 can be mounted on said transfer tool 6. The member 62 is integrated into the tool 6, facilitating its implementation, with simplicity of arrangement of the components, without interference with the other movements of the tool 6.

[0126] In embodiments, the alignment means 8 comprises a pusher 60 and a member 62 for retaining the containers 2. In this case, the tool 6 does not comprise a stop 61, and the retaining member 62 ensures the alignment of the containers 2 in group 200 in combination with the pusher 60.

[0127] In embodiments, and as visible in Figure 2, the selection station 7 comprises regulation means 70 and a cycler 72, said cycler then ensuring at least in part the function of the alignment means 8. In other words, the alignment means 8 comprises a cycler 72, located downstream of the regulation means 70 and upstream of the input conveyor 4. Thus, the selection of the rows 20 is carried out upstream of the alignment means 8.

[0128] In these embodiments, the containers 2 which are grouped into at least two rows 20 at the outlet of the regulating means 70 are then processed by a cycler 72 which will create the group 200 by aligning the containers 2 of each row 20 and of each column 21 according to the predefined configuration. Those skilled in the art know the different systems which can provide this type of function. For example, systems are known which compact the containers 2 longitudinally along the main direction X and transversely to said direction X in order to reduce the spaces between said containers and form a group 200 ready to be packaged in batches 300. An exemplary embodiment is described in patent FR2966807B1, in which a cycler 72 comprises bars or strips which are inserted into the space formed between two consecutive rows 20 or between the groups of rows 20.

[0129] These embodiments are particularly advantageous because they can make it possible to simultaneously bring two groups 200 of containers 2 to the transfer tool 6, with a view to simultaneous transverse transfer onto two output conveyors 5.

[0130] In embodiments not shown, the selection station 7 ensures in a single step the formation of a group 200 of containers 2, said containers of each row 20 and of each column 21 being aligned according to the predefined configuration.

[0131] In embodiments, the container transfer device 1 also comprises means 11 for adjusting the speed at least:

[0132] - of the conveyor means 3, and / or

[0133] - conveyors 4 and 5 and / or - regulation means 70.

[0134] The speed adjustment means 11 make it possible, in particular, to vary the forward speed of the regulation means 70 to modify the rate of grouping of the rows 20 in order to adapt the number of rows 20 to be grouped according to the predefined configuration of the group 200 of containers 2 to be prepared. Furthermore, the speed adjustment means 11 make it possible to synchronize the conveying means 3 with the regulation means 70 and / or the different conveyors 4, 5. This advantageously makes it possible to further adapt to the rate of the packaging station and of the packaging line as a whole.

[0135] The device 1 according to the invention may also comprise a control unit 12 making it possible to enter information concerning the type of container 2, the format, etc. The control unit 12 may make it possible to control the conveying means 3, and / or the input and / or output conveyors 4, 5 and / or the transfer tool 6.

[0136] In embodiments, the control unit 12 can also control the positioning and alignment means 8. Thus, the alignment means 8 is for example associated with the means for controlling the speed of the input conveyor 4 and the transfer tool 6.

[0137] The control unit 12 can also allow the level of misalignment tolerance of the containers 2 of the same row 20 and of the same column 21 to be set, in order to adapt to the requirements of different types of packaging.

[0138] The control unit 12 therefore comprises, in embodiments, the speed adjustment means 11 and the control means which notably control the speed of the input conveyor 4 and of the transfer tool 6. The control unit 12, via the adjustment means 11, controls the conveying speed of at least the downstream conveying means 3, the input conveyor 4 and the at least one output conveyor 5, to synchronize the arrival of the containers 2 on the at least one output conveyor 5.

[0139] Advantageously, the control unit 12 comprises various sensors, in particular speed sensors, and a database 120 in which various information concerning the packaging line is stored. For example, the database 120 of the control unit 12 records the conveying speed parameters of the conveying means 3, of the input conveyor 4, and of the at least one output conveyor 5. The database 120 may also comprise information on the configuration of the groups 200 of containers 2 to be formed, called predefined configuration, and on the nature of the containers 2 to be processed on the packaging line. The database 120 is recorded in a memory device of the control unit 12 or stored on an independent server.

[0140] In embodiments, the device 1 of the invention implements a transfer method as described below. The invention also relates to a method for transferring containers 2. The method according to the invention comprises at least the following steps:

[0141] - the containers 2 are brought one behind the other in a first direction X on at least two columns parallel to each other, said containers forming successive rows 20 transversely to said direction X,

[0142] - said containers 2 are transferred in a direction transverse to said first direction X, to at least one output conveyor 5,

[0143] - during the transfer, at least:

[0144] - the feeding of said containers 2 is slowed down in said first direction X, possibly until they stop,

[0145] - said containers 2 are moved in a direction transverse to said first supply direction X.

[0146] The method according to the invention is characterized in that, prior to the transfer, at least two ordered rows 20 of said containers 2 are grouped together, and in that at least two of said rows 20 of said containers 2 are simultaneously transferred in the form of a group 200. In other words, all the containers 2 intended to form the same group 200 are transferred at once.

[0147] The selection or grouping step is usually done according to a predefined configuration.

[0148] In embodiments, the operator, preferably before the start of production, will configure a selection station 7 according to the groups 200 to be formed for at least one downstream packaging station 9. In particular, he can provide the number of rows 20 to be selected, the type of containers 2 (flask, bottle, can, brick), their format (in particular their dimensions), their material (glass, PET, cardboard for example), etc. This configuration can be done via the control unit 12 of the device 1.

[0149] Then, after grouping the containers 2 into at least two rows 20, a pre-group is obtained. Such a pre-group cannot be directly packaged. In any case, the matrix formed by the pre-group is not perfectly ordered, the containers 2 undergo a misalignment greater than a few millimeters. The containers 2 forming the rows 20 and columns 21 of the matrix are not aligned satisfactorily, which can lead to packaging problems downstream.

[0150] In embodiments, said containers 2 are moved by translation of a transfer tool 6 in a direction transverse to said first supply direction X.

[0151] Preferably, it is possible to start moving said containers 2 in the transverse direction during their slowing down in the first direction.

[0152] This movement of the containers 2 may be orthogonal to said first direction X. In addition, at least two rows 20 of said containers 2 are grouped together, prior to said transfer. Therefore, at least two rows 20 of containers 2 are simultaneously transferred. During their transfer, said containers 2 may be held at least transversely. The grouping 200, that is to say in an ordered matrix, may be done directly during the transfer.

[0153] Advantageously, the method according to the invention makes it possible to transfer onto at least one output conveyor 5 a group 200 of containers ready to be packaged.

[0154] In fact, the containers 2 first undergo a longitudinal slowdown. During this step, in embodiments, the tool 6 can accompany the containers onto the input conveyor 4, as described above.

[0155] During the longitudinal slowdown, the transverse transfer can be carried out by the tool 6, by pushing the containers 2 in said transverse direction, as visible in Figures 3 to 5. In other words, the containers 2 begin to be pushed while they are slowing down.

[0156] According to another possible variant, the movement in said transverse direction can take place after the slowing down of the containers 2, or even before. In other words, the containers 2 are not decelerated before starting to push them transversely.

[0157] Furthermore, the slowing down in the first direction X is carried out most of the time approximately at the same time as the acceleration in the transverse direction, so that the force component generated by the accelerations wedges the containers 2 in the angle formed by the pusher 60 and the stop 61, improving their stability during these movements and allowing their alignment in group 200.

[0158] Then, preferably, the input conveyor 4 reaches a minimum speed, or is stopped, and only the transverse thrust is applied, as visible in Figures 3 to 5.

[0159] In particular, the stopping of the slowing down in movement along the first supply direction X can be carried out before the containers 2 leave the surface of the input conveyor 4 and are moved onto the surface of the output conveyor 5.

[0160] Thus, in embodiments, the groups 200 of containers 2 from at least two rows 20 are therefore formed during their transfer, for example by the transfer tool 6. According to another possible variant, the groups 200 of containers 2 from at least two rows 20 are formed before their transfer. Preferably, the groups 200 of containers 2 are then formed by the selection station 7.

[0161] In embodiments, during their transfer, the containers 2 are held at least transversely. This is advantageous because it allows transverse acceleration to be carried out without the risk of the containers falling. In addition, this contributes to their alignment. In particular, in embodiments, the containers 2 are accelerated by means of the transfer tool 6 during the transverse thrust, until the conveying speed of the at least one output conveyor 5 is reached. This allows the containers 2 to be delivered onto the conveyor without the risk of imbalance, and at a very small pitch between two groups 200. Thus, this allows the line speeds to be further increased.

[0162] In embodiments, several groups 200 of containers 2 are simultaneously transferred from the input conveyor 4 to several output conveyors 5. For example, it is possible to simultaneously transfer two groups 200 of containers 2 from the input conveyor 4 to two output conveyors 5, parallel to each other and preferably adjacent, i.e. side by side. It is then possible to supply several packaging stations 9, for example two packaging stations 9.

[0163] In embodiments, the transfer method is implemented by the transfer device 1 as described above.

[0164] Especially :

[0165] - the step of grouping at least two rows 20 of containers 2 is carried out by the selection station 7, and / or

[0166] - the step of simultaneous transfer of the containers 2 in the form of a group 200 is carried out by the transfer tool 6, and / or

[0167] - the step of aligning the containers 2 on the same row 20 and on the same column 21 to form a group 200 is carried out by an alignment and positioning module 8, said module 8 being able to be located upstream of the transfer tool 6 or being able to be embedded in said transfer tool 6.

[0168] The invention finally also relates to an installation 100 for packaging containers 2. The packaging installation 100 comprises a transfer device as described above, and also comprises at least one packaging station 9 located directly or indirectly downstream of at least one output conveyor 5.

[0169] Such a packaging station 9 makes it possible to affix a packaging means around a group 200 of containers in order to form a batch 300. An illustration of the installation 100 is visible in figure 6.

[0170] Examples of packaging stations are, for example, a shrink-wrapping machine, which makes it possible to surround a group 200 of containers 2 with a heat-shrinkable film or to heat the heat-shrinkable film to cause it to shrink around the group 200 of containers 2 and thus form a batch 300. The packaging station 9 can also be of the wrapping machine type, and can affix at least one strip, for example a strip of paper, around the group 200 of containers 2.

[0171] In embodiments, the packaging station 9 comprises a gripping member 10 for gripping the groups 200 of containers 2 on the output conveyor 5.

[0172] Generally, such a gripping member 10 on the output conveyor 5 requires that the groups 200 of containers 2 advance very slowly. The use of a transfer device 1 according to the invention is then particularly advantageous: the groups 200 of containers 2 are delivered onto the output conveyor 5 at a very low pitch, which allows a reduced conveying speed on the output conveyor 5, without harming the supply of the groups 200 to the packaging station 9.

[0173] Figure 6 shows a schematic view of one embodiment of an installation 100.

[0174] In this figure 6, we can see the conveying means 3 which brings containers 2 onto three columns 21 parallel to each other. Then, a selection station 7 comprises regulation means 70 and, optionally, a cycler 72. Here four rows 20 have been “selected”, that is to say grouped together. We can see alignment deviations for containers 2 of the same row 20, which are more or less aligned and for containers 2 of the same column 21. The four rows 20 are then transferred, by means of a transfer tool 6.

[0175] In the preferred embodiment shown in Figure 6, the formation of the group 200 is done during transfer by an alignment and positioning means 8 embedded in the transfer tool 6. On the output conveyor 5, the group 200 is formed, the containers 2 are perfectly aligned. Of course, a tolerance in the alignment of containers 2 of the same row 20 or of the same column 21 is acceptable.

[0176] The installation shown in Figure 6 according to one embodiment also comprises control means 11, connected to the different conveyors 3, 4, 5. The control means 11 are also connected to the control unit 12.

[0177] According to the embodiment shown in Figure 6, the installation 100 comprises a packaging station 9 and a gripping member 10. The packaging station 9 will place a strip around the group 200 and at the outlet of said station 9, the batch 300 of containers 2 will then be formed.

[0178] The invention therefore aims at a particularly advantageous transfer device 1, which makes it possible to optimize the rate of a packaging station 9 and therefore of the production line.

[0179] Furthermore, the installation 100 according to the invention allows space saving by advantageously eliminating the need for cycler-type grouping devices.

Claims

CLAIMS 1. Device (1) for transferring containers (2) comprising: - a conveying means (3) which continuously brings the containers (2), said containers (2) circulating there one behind the other on at least two columns (21) parallel to each other in a first direction X, - at least one input conveyor (4) in the extension of said conveying means (3), - at least one output conveyor (5) extending from said input conveyor (4), in a transverse direction relative to said first direction X, - a tool (6) for transferring said containers (2) from said input conveyor (4) to said output conveyor (5), - a selection station (7) capable of grouping said containers (2) together in at least two rows (20) of containers (2) according to a predefined configuration, - means (8) for positioning and aligning the containers (2) in a group (200) according to said predefined configuration, said group (200) comprising at least two ordered rows (20) of said containers (2), characterized in that said selection station (7) is located between said conveying means (3) and said input conveyor (4) and in that the tool (6) simultaneously transfers at least two ordered rows (20) of said containers (2).

2. Device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that said positioning and alignment means (8) comprises a pusher (60) and a stop (61) which are embedded in said tool (6) to form a group (200) of containers (2) according to the predefined configuration.

3. Device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the selection station (7) comprises - means (70) for regulating the flow of said containers (2) to group together at least two of said ordered rows (20) of containers (2) and - the means (8) is in the form of a feed cycler (72) configured to take charge of the last row (20) of the group (200) of containers (2) to be formed and which, depending on the case, groups it with the preceding row(s) (20) according to the predefined configuration.

4. Device (1) for transferring containers (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that it comprises means (11) for adjusting the speed of the conveying means (3), and / or conveyors (4, 5) and / or regulating means (70), which means (11) make it possible, in particular, to vary the speed of advance of said means regulation (70) for modifying the rate of grouping of the rows (20) in order to adapt the number of rows (20) to be grouped according to the predefined configuration of the group (200) of containers (2) to be prepared.

5. Device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the transfer tool (6) has only two degrees of freedom of movement in a horizontal plane, in said first direction X and in said transverse direction.

6. Device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises a movable member (62) for retaining the containers (2) to hold said at least two rows (20) of containers (2) during their transverse transfer.

7. Transfer device (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that said member (62) is mounted on said transfer tool (6).

8. Transfer device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the conveying means (3) is a multi-wire conveyor.

9. Transfer device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the conveying means (3) comprises at least two single-line conveyors parallel to each other.

10. Method for transferring containers (2), in which at least: - the containers (2) are brought one behind the other in a first direction X on at least two columns (21) parallel to each other, said containers forming successive rows (20) transversely to said first direction X, - said containers (2) are transferred in a direction transverse to said first direction X, to at least one output conveyor (5), - during the transfer, at least: - the feeding of said containers (2) is slowed down in said first direction X, possibly until they stop, - said containers (2) are moved in a direction transverse to said first feed direction X, method characterized in that, prior to the transfer, at least two ordered rows (20) of said containers (2) are grouped together and in that at least two of said rows (20) of said containers (2) are simultaneously transferred in the form of a group (200).

11. Transfer method according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the groups (200) of containers (2) are formed from said at least two rows (20) during their transfer.

12. Transfer method according to claim 10, characterized in that groups (200) of containers (2) are produced from at least two of said rows (20) before their transfer.

13. Transfer method according to any one of claims 10 to 12, characterized in that said containers (2) are held at least transversely during their transfer.

14. Container packaging installation (2) comprising: - a transfer device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 9, - at least one packaging station (9) located downstream of the output conveyor (5).

15. Container packaging installation (2) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that said at least one packaging station (9) comprises a gripping member (10) for gripping the groups (200) of containers (2) on said output conveyor (5) in order to feed said packaging station (9).

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