A method and a machine for loading a packaging with a group of packs of articles

Abstract

A method for loading a packaging (C) comprising steps of providing a packaging (C), providing a receptacle (2) which comprises a base (21) and borders (22, 23, 24), providing a pusher (4) which comprises a pusher wall (41) crossing a space (S) interposed between a first border (22) and a second border (23), locating packs (P) of articles on the base (21), forming a layered group (G) placing the packaging (C) at the position of the receptacle (2), pushing the group (G), moving the pusher wall (41) away from the group (G) of packs (P) of articles. In the step of locating, the base (21) is inclined and / or the method comprises a step of moving the packaging (C) and the pusher wall (41) before the step of moving away. A machine (100) for loading a package (C), comprising a rotatable arm (6), with movement means, bearing the pusher wall (41) and / or the base (21).

Description

[0001] A METHOD AND A MACHINE FOR LOADING A PACKAGING WITH A GROUP OF PACKS OF ARTICLES

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The present invention relates to the sector of the packing of packages of articles and, in detail, the sector of packaging of groups of packages using automatic machines. The invention thus provides supplying, arranging or orientating the articles to be packaged, in particular packs, in a layered way, and to package groups of articles while dealing with the groups as single articles. The invention is applicable in the field that in technical jargon is called secondary packaging.

[0004] DESCRIPTION OF THE PRIOR ART

[0005] Use of receptacles is known, often called crates or hoppers, though the unloading is not done by force of gravity, for temporarily depositing packs stacked on one another on a base before pushing them internally of a packaging by means of a pusher. The packs might, for example, contain loose articles or liquids so that the packs are often flexible or deformable. Consequently the packs tend to displace from the position in which they had been, at first, released, sometimes also because they were not released in a balanced position, but also while the layering on the base takes place during the displacement induced by the pusher. For this reason containing borders are provided, for containing the displacement of the packs into the receptacle and during the transfer towards the packaging. In the course of the transfer, the borders can guide the packs internally of the packaging while previously they prevent the exit of packs from the receptacle as well as facilitating the packs’ maintaining the desired superposing thus avoiding, for example, some packs assuming positions that facilitate damage to the articles in the following transfer.

[0006] Typically, the packs are superposed internally of the receptacle in small groups of packs, often using aspirating suction cups, for example of a bellows type.

[0007] The packaging is typically made of cardboard and / or is a half-box or box, very often of standard type, also known as an American box. An opening of the packaging is placed at a first side of the base, opposite the pusher, so that in the displacement of the pusher, generally via a translation thereof, the packs are introduced internally of the packaging.

[0008] In a case where the packaging has flaps, containing surfaces may also be used to keep them open; further components are sometimes used to maintain the internal volume of the packaging accessible to the packs pushed by the pusher and / or to support the moving packs and / or to support the lower flap, if present, of the packaging.

[0009] Typically, once the packs are inside the packaging and the pusher has moved away from the packaging, the packaging is rotated, generally by a right angle, so as to have the opening facing upwards.

[0010] European patent EP1553021B1 describes a machine and a method for loading a packaging with a group of packs of articles which comprises a crate and a pusher as illustrated in the foregoing. A like machine is also marketed with the name GANTRY 300 SWING.

[0011] Although the use of the receptacle, the pusher and the borders as illustrated in the foregoing enables realising packagings that are correct, and guarantees good productivity in the handling of a large number of types of packs, issues arise with certain types of packs, or in positioning the packs in certain arrangements. For example, critical points can arise in the final packaging of particularly deformable and light packs and / or with a large number of packs in each layer and / or with a large number of layers. As already mentioned an erroneous positioning of the packs might facilitate damage thereto, as well as damage to the articles.

[0012] Again by way of example, the known solutions encounter drawbacks in dealing with some single-dose packages of snacks, being potato crisps, located on one or more layers.

[0013] A need is therefore perceived for improvement of the packaging with the use of a receptacle that temporarily receives overlapped layers of packs in such a way as to increase the flexibility of the machine in managing a plurality of packing - article combinations, as well as a plurality of types of arrangements.

[0014] The present invention intends to obviate one or more drawbacks of the solutions of the prior art.

[0015] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0016] A first aim of the present invention is to provide a method and a machine which reduces or obviates the risk of realising a final package that is non- compliant.

[0017] Also desirable is the management of packs, which the existing machines do not succeed in correctly treating, and / or the realisation of arrangements of the packs in the final package which are not realisable with the existing machines.

[0018] A further aim of the present invention is to provide a machine that is compact and / or has simple drives with respect to the performances achieved.

[0019] These and other aims, which will be obvious to the expert in the sector from a reading of the following text are attained by a method and a machine for loading a packaging with a group of packs of articles or a machine for loading a packaging which comprises a bottom and walls which delimit an opening opposite the bottom, the bottom and the walls delimiting a load volume accessible through the opening, with a group of packs of articles according to the contents of the claims.

[0020] In accordance with the teachings of the present document, the method comprises steps of: providing a packaging which comprises a bottom and walls which delimit an opening opposite the bottom, the bottom and the walls delimiting a load volume accessible through the opening; providing a receptacle which comprises a base for supporting packs of articles in a space above the base and borders for limiting the displacement of the packs of articles, a first border and a second border being opposite one another; providing a pusher which comprises a pusher wall which is movable with respect to the base in a loading direction, from a first position, in which it is on a second side of the base, to a loading position, so as to cross the space, between the first border and the second border; locating packs of articles on the base, forming layers of packages of articles in the space so as to obtain a group of packs of articles which is layered; placing the packaging at the receptacle on a first side of the base, opposite the second side, in such a way that the opening faces onto the space; pushing the group of packs of articles into the load volume, moving the pusher wall in the loading direction from the first position to the loading position so that the group rests on a lower wall of the walls; moving the pusher wall away from the group of packs of articles.

[0021] The method advantageously comprises, before the step of moving the pusher wall away, a step of moving the package and the pusher wall so that the lower wall is inclined with respect to a horizontal plane in such a way that the weight force of each pack of articles opposes the motion of the pack of articles towards the pusher wall and / or, advantageously, in the step of locating packs of articles on the base, the base is inclined with respect to a horizontal plane so that the first side of the base is higher with respect to the second side of the base, in such a way that the weight force of each pack of articles supported by the base opposes the motion of the pack towards the first side.

[0022] In accordance with the disclosure of the present document, the machine comprises a frame, a receptacle, a displacement device for moving packs of articles, a movement device for moving packages and a pusher.

[0023] The receptacle comprises a base for supporting packs of articles in a space above the base and borders for limiting the displacement of the packs of articles, a first border and a second border being opposite one another.

[0024] The displacement device is configured to form layers of packs of articles on the base so as to obtain a group of packs of articles which is layered. The movement device is configured to place the opening of the packaging on a first side of the base in such a way that the opening faces onto the space.

[0025] The pusher comprises a pusher wall which is movable with respect to the base in a loading direction, from a first position, in which it is on a second side of the base, opposite the first side, to a loading position, so as to cross the space, between the first border and the second border so as to push into the packaging a group of packs of articles above the base.

[0026] The machine advantageously further comprises an arm which is hinged to the frame in such a way as to be rotatable with respect to the frame, and movement means which rotate the arm with respect to the frame. Further, the arm bears the pusher wall and / or the base.

[0027] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0028] Specific embodiments of the invention will be described in the following part of the present description, according to what is set down in the claims and with the aid of the accompanying tables of drawings, in which: figure 1 is a lateral view of an embodiment of a method and a machine for loading a packaging with a group of packs of articles according to the invention in a final operative step of a loading cycle with a group of packs of articles in the packaging; figure 2 is a lateral view of some of the components of figure 1 with a receptacle visible, which has an inclined base with respect to a horizontal plane; figure 3 is an axonometric view of what is illustrated in figure 2; figure 4 is a lateral view of the components of figure 2 with the base inclined with respect to a horizontal plane in order to face towards a semispace defined by a vertical plane opposite the semi-space towards which the base of figure 2 faces; figure 5 is an axonometric view of what is illustrated in figure 4; figure 6 is a lateral view of some components of an embodiment of a machine that is alike to the embodiment of figure 1 but with a hinge and a second hinge that are distinct from one another, with the base in the position of figure 2; figure 7 is an axonometric view of what is illustrated in figure 6; figure 8 is a lateral view of some components of an embodiment of a machine that is alike to the embodiment of figure 6 but with a hinge between a receptacle and a carriage that moves along the arm; figure 9 shows the components of figure 6 with the base of the receptacle horizontal, i.e. lying on a horizontal plane; figures 10, 13, 14, 15, 16 or 17, 18 and 20 illustrate an example sequence of an embodiment of a method for loading a packaging with a group of packs of articles according to the invention in lateral views, axonometric and from above, of the embodiment di figure 1; figure 11 is an axonometric view of what is illustrated in figure 10; figure 12 is a view from above of what is illustrated in figure 10; figure 19 is a view from above of what is illustrated in figure 18; figure 21 is an axonometric view of what is illustrated in figure 20.

[0029] DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0030] With reference to the appended figures, reference numeral (100) denotes a machine for loading a packaging (C), which comprises a bottom (B) and walls (W) which delimit an opening (O) opposite the bottom (B), the bottom (B) and the walls (W) delimiting a load volume (L) accessible through the opening (O), with a group (G) of packs (P) of articles. The group (G) of packs (P) of articles, in the following also indicated as a group (G), is often known as a bundle in the technical jargon.

[0031] The references are included to facilitate comprehension of the invention, but do not limit the scope of protection.

[0032] The invention relates to a method for loading a packaging (C) with a group (G) of packs (P) of articles.

[0033] An embodiment of the method comprises steps of: providing a packaging (C) which comprises a bottom (B) and walls (W) which delimit an opening (O) opposite the bottom (B), the bottom (B) and the walls (W) delimiting a load volume (L) accessible through the opening (O); providing a receptacle (2) which comprises a base (21) for supporting packs (P) of articles in a space (S) above the base (21) and borders (22, 23, 24) for limiting the displacement of the packs (P) of articles, a first border (22) and a second border (23) being opposite one another; providing a pusher (4) which comprises a pusher wall (41) which is movable with respect to the base (21) in a loading direction (D), from a first position (P1), in which it is on a second side (21b) of the base (21), to a loading position (P2), so as to cross the space (S), between the first border (22) and the second border (23); placing packs (P) of articles on the base (21), forming layers (Lay) of packs (P) of articles in the space (S) so as to obtain a group (G) of packs (P) of articles which is layered; placing the packaging (C) at the receptacle (2) on a first side (21a) of the base (21), opposite the second side (21b), in such a way that the opening (O) faces onto the space (S); pushing the group (G) into the load volume (L), moving the pusher wall (41) in the loading direction (D) from the first position (P1) to the loading position (P2) so that the group (G) rests on a lower wall (Wi) of the walls (W); moving the pusher wall (41) away from the group (G).

[0034] In accordance with the teachings of the present document:

[0035] - the method comprises, before the step of moving the pusher wall (41) away, a step of moving the packaging (C) and the pusher wall (41) so that the lower wall (Wi) is inclined with respect to a horizontal plane (H1 , H2) in such a way that the weight force of each pack (P) of articles opposes the motion of the pack (P) of articles towards the pusher wall (41) and / or, preferably and,

[0036] - in the step of locating packs (P) of articles on the base (21), the base (21) is inclined with respect to a horizontal plane (H1, H2) so that the first side (21a) of the base (21) is higher with respect to the second side (21b) of the base (21), in such a way that the weight force of each pack (P) of articles supported by the base (21) opposes the motion of the pack (P) towards the first side (21a).

[0037] The teachings of the present document enable achieving a plurality of advantages. It is stressed that in order to fully understand these advantages it is necessary to make reference to the real behaviour of the group (G) which is often imprecise and compact as in the appended figures due to the misalignment between packs (P) of articles and / or due to the intrinsic instability of the packs (P) of articles and / or to the contact of the packs (P) of articles with other surfaces.

[0038] The step of moving the packaging (C) and the pusher wall (41) brings the group (G) and the pusher wall (41) into a relative position in which the pusher wall (41) has no further effect, or has a minimum effect, on the stability of the group (G). This is even more in a case where at least some packs (P) of articles are already lying on the bottom (B) of the packaging (C), on the opposite side of the pusher wall (41). Figure 18 includes an example of how, with the lower wall (Wi) inclined, the weight force of each pack (P) of articles has a component parallel to the lower wall (Wi) directed moving away from the pusher wall (41).

[0039] The group (G) is typically brought into contact with the bottom (B) in the actuation of the method, but this is not strictly necessary, especially on increasing the velocity of the operations. For like reasons, the step of moving the packaging (C) and the pusher wall (41) might begin before the step of moving the group (G) has completed; it preferably starts following the step of pushing the group (G).

[0040] In other words, after the step of moving the packaging (C) and the pusher wall (41), the pusher wall (41) can move away from the group (G) without the risk that some packs (P) of articles can fall between the group (G) and the pusher wall (41), including in a case where the packs (P) of articles are not well arranged and are therefore particularly unstable.

[0041] The inclined base (21) in the step of locating packs (P) of articles avoids, or reduces, the risk that the packs (P) of articles can move or fall towards the first side (21a) thus obtaining a group (G) with an arrangement that is different to the one desired and / or thus risking obstruction of the other packs (P) of articles in the step of pushing the group (G) and / or thus facilitating the instability of the group (G) in the step of pushing the group (G).

[0042] Typically, in the step of locating packs (P) of articles (P) on the base (21), with the base (21) inclined, the packs (P) of articles rest on and, possibly, compact on the pusher wall (41) which will then push them.

[0043] The compacting and / or the correct arrangement of the packs (P) of articles obtained in the step of locating packs (P) of articles on the base (21) are particularly useful during the step of pushing the group (G); in this step the packs (P) of articles undergo friction forces deriving from the contact with the base (21) and, possibly, with the borders (22, 23, 24). The friction forces facilitate further undesired displacements.

[0044] In this regard, as is known to the technical expert in the field, the borders (22, 23, 24) are typically arranged in proximity of the volume crossed by the group (G) so as to guide the group (G) in the step of pushing the group (G). In other words, the borders (22, 23, 24) with the base (21) perform a function similar to that of a hopper. With the aim of guiding the packs (P) of articles into the packaging (C), the borders (22, 23, 24) can, possibly, narrow towards the opening (O) and / or can cooperate with packaging stops (21 i, 22i, 23i, 24i) inclined so as to compact the group (G).

[0045] The presence of the borders (22, 23, 24) and possibly the packaging stops (21 i, 22i, 23i, 24i) can therefore cause strong disturbances as a small lateral misalignment of a pack (P) of articles is sufficient for different forces with respect to the other packs (P) of articles of the group (G) to act thereon.

[0046] To prevent undesired movements between the packs (P) of articles, it may be preferable not to move the base (21), or include small movements of the base (21) between the step of locating packs (P) of articles on the base (21) and the step of pushing the group (G). A base (21) that is inclined in the step of locating packs (P) of articles on the base (21) enables pushing the group (G) in a loading direction (D) that is inclined with respect to a horizontal plane (H1, H2) without any need to make intermediate movements. A loading direction (D) that is inclined with respect to a horizontal plane (H1 , H2) during the step of pushing the group (G) is preferable with respect to a loading direction (D) that is parallel to a horizontal plane (H1, H2) as the pusher wall (41) facilitates the stability of the group (G). In particular this avoids or limits the risk that the misaligned packs (P) of articles may fall forwards, in the pushing direction, when the pusher wall (41) is reaching or reaches the end of its stroke with the consequent crushing between the bottom (B) and the group (G).

[0047] To summarise, the locating of the packs (P) of articles on the base (21) can take place with the base (21) in a horizontal position, as illustrated by way of example in figure 9, or with the base (21) inclined with respect to a horizontal plane (H1 , H2), as shown by way of example in figure 10. Regardless of how the step of locating packs (P) of articles on the base (21) takes place, the step of moving the packaging (C) and the pusher wall (41), visible by comparing figure 16 or 17 and figure 18, enables eliminating the influence of the pusher wall (41) on the arrangement of the group (G) enabling proceeding to move the pusher wall (41) away from the group (G) wihout effects on the arrangement of the packs (P) of articles.

[0048] The proposals described herein thus enable reducing or obviating the risk of realising a final package that is non-compliant. Owing to these proposals it is possible to correctly deal with packs (P) of articles and / or realise arrangements of groups (G) of packs (P) of articles in the final packaging (C) that are difficult to achieve with the existing machines. Typically, the distancing of the pusher wall (41) takes place in the loading direction (D), and, generally, the pusher wall (41) translates with respect to the base (21), as shown by way of example by the embodiment of figure 1.

[0049] In technical jargon the step of locating packs (P) of articles on the base (21) is also known as layering.

[0050] The method preferably comprises a step of moving the packaging (C) and the pusher wall (41) and, in the step of moving the packaging (C) and the pusher wall (41), the packaging (C) and the pusher wall (41) are rotated with respect to a horizontal rotation axis (X, X1, X2) until bringing the lower wall (Wi) to form an angle of greater than 0 sexagesimal degrees and less than 40 sexagesimal degrees with a horizontal plane (H1 , H2), more preferably less than 20 sexagesimal degrees. As will be more fully illustrated in the following, the rotation of the packaging (C) and the pusher wall (41) can take place with respect to a same axis (X) or with respect to a first axis (X1) and a second axis (X2).

[0051] Reaching an excessive inclination might complicate the structure of the machine (100) and / or reduce productivity without providing any particular benefits. The above-described avoids an excessive duration of the step of moving the packaging (C) and the pusher wall (41) both in the case that the packaging (C) is loaded with the lower wall (Wi) horizontal, as for example in figure 17, and in the case where the packaging (C) is loaded with the lower wall (Wi) inclined, as for example in figure 16.

[0052] As can be observed in figure 20, after the step of moving the pusher wall (41) away from the group (G), the packaging (C) can advantageously be moved, for example it can be further rotated as discussed in the following.

[0053] During the rotation of the packaging (C) the lower wall (Wi) tilts the group (G) and thus, the layers with respect to the horizontal plane (H1 , H2), becoming an inclined plane for the group (G) so that each pack (P) of articles has a component that includes its own weight force, perpendicular to the binding reaction, moving away from the pusher wall (41). The rotation of the pusher wall (41) enables the displacement of the group (G), preventing or limiting the compacting of the packs (P) of articles.

[0054] Typically, for guaranteeing the stability of the group (G), in the step of moving the packaging (C) and the pusher wall (41), the pusher wall (41) is stationary with respect to the packaging (C). However, for some types of packs (P) of articles it can be convenient, in the context of reduction of process times, for the step of moving the packaging (C) and the pusher wall (41) to be partially overlapped, in terms of time, with the step of pushing the group (G).

[0055] Preferably, in the step of pushing the group (G), the pusher wall (41) pushes the group (G) until it contacts the bottom (B). This guarantees maximum stability of the group (G) during the step of moving the pusher wall (41) away.

[0056] The pusher wall (41) preferably faces directly onto the space (S), in such a way as to limit the displacement of the packs (P) of articles supported by the base (21), and in the step of locating packs (P) of articles on the base (21), the base (21) is inclined with respect to a horizontal plane (H1, H2) so that the first side (21a) of the base (21) is higher with respect to the second side (21b) of the base (21), in such a way that the weight force of each pack (P) of articles facilitates the motion of the pack (P) of articles towards the pusher wall (41).

[0057] As illustrated by way of example in figure 14, the inclined base (21) determines a parallel component of the weight force of the packs (P) of articles directed towards the pusher wall (41).

[0058] Similarly to what is set out above, for the step of moving the packaging (C) and the pusher wall (41), it is preferable, during the step of locating packs (P) of articles on the base (21), for the base (21) to form an angle of greater than 0 sexagesimal degrees and less than 40 sexagesimal degrees with a horizontal plane (H1 , H2), more preferably less than 20 sexagesimal degrees. Greater inclinations might complicate the structure of the machine (100), and / or reduce productivity without achieving any particular benefits.

[0059] As already mentioned above, the loading of the packs, i.e. the step of pushing the group (G), can take place in both modalities illustrated respectively in figures 16 and 17, i.e. the loading can be uphill or horizontal. In a case where the base (21) is horizontal in the step of locating packs (P) of articles on the base (21), the loading is typically horizontal so as to limit the risk of undesired displacements of the packs (P) of articles in the inclination of the base (21).

[0060] In a case where the base (21) is inclined in the step of locating packs (P) of articles on the base (21) an inclined loading can be preferable, so that the pusher wall (41) continues to restingly receive the group (G). Clearly, even starting from an inclined base (21) a horizontal loading is possible, after an appropriate movement.

[0061] Consequently it is preferable that:

[0062] - in the step of placing the packaging (C) at the receptacle (2), the packaging (C) is positioned in such a way that the lower wall (Wi) which inferiorly delimits the opening (O) is inclined with respect to a horizontal plane (H1 , H2) so as to be, or substantially be, parallel to the base (21);

[0063] - in the step of pushing the unit (G), the base (21) and the lower wall (Wi) are inclined with respect to a horizontal plane (H1, H2) in such a way that the weight force of each pack (P) of articles facilitates the resting of the group (G) on the pusher wall (41).

[0064] As illustrated by way of example in figure 16, the components of the weight forces of the packs (P) of articles parallel to the lower wall (Wi) are directed towards the pusher wall (41), illustrated in a dotted line.

[0065] As already illustrated in the foregoing, typically it is preferred to avoid displacements of the base (41) which might induce undesired movements of the packs (P) of articles: it is preferable to maintain the inclination that the base (21) has in the step of locating packs (P) of articles on the base (21).

[0066] In the step of pushing the group (G), the base (21) and the lower wall (Wi) preferably each form an angle with respect to a horizontal plane (H1 , H2) greater than 0 sexagesimal degrees and less than 40 sexagesimal degrees, more preferably less than 20 sexagesimal degrees.

[0067] Typically, as shown by way of example in the appended figures, the base (21) is planar at least on the upper side which receives the packs (P) of articles.

[0068] As shown by way of example in the appended figures, the method typically comprises steps of:

[0069] - rotating the packaging so that the opening (O) is facing upwards;

[0070] - closing the opening (O), for example by folding the flaps (F) or placing a cover.

[0071] The packaging (C) is typically rotated so that the bottom (B) is horizontal. The technical expert in the field understands how in the step of rotating the box or half-box, the direction of the layers (Lay) becomes vertical, thus obtaining the final packaging (C) desired.

[0072] The step of placing the packaging (C) at the position of the receptacle (2) does not necessarily require the rotation of the packaging (C). For example, alternatively to the rotation of the packaging (C) at the receptacle (2), the packaging (C) might be moved horizontally with the opening (O) facing towards the semi-space which contains the receptacle (2), until reaching the position represented in figure 13. Following the step of pushing the group (G), the packaging (C) might be moved horizontally from the position shown in figure 20, with the opening (O) facing towards the semi-space that contains the receptacle (2). In this case too the method can comprise the step of closing the opening (O). It is usually preferable for the packaging (C) to be rotated at the position of the receptacle (2) for a greater integration of the machine (100) with other machinery.

[0073] In a case where the method comprises the step of moving the packaging (C) and the pusher wall (41), the step of rotating the packaging (C) follows the step of moving the packaging (C) and the pusher wall (41).

[0074] The method and machine (100) described in the present description are considered in the case of a box, typically a box of standard type, also known as an American box, or a half-box which, regardless of how they have been made, comprises a closed bottom (B) opposite an opening (O) with respect to a load volume (L). Regardless of the way in which the packaging (C) is brought to the receptacle (2), a nearing movement is typically included between the packaging (C) and the receptacle (2) in a parallel direction to the loading direction (D), i.e. in the movement direction of the pusher wall (41). This nearing movement between the packaging (C) and the receptacle (2) can take place together with the step of locating packs (P) of articles (P) on the base (21), as shown by way of example by the comparison between figures 13 and 14, so as to reduce the overall times of the cycle. In figure 14, the receptacle (2) has been moved towards the packaging (C) with respect to the reciprocal position shown in figure 13 owing to a carriage (71), described in the foregoing in relation to the machine (100). The same effect might be obtained by moving the packaging (C), for example by means of a displacement of a gripping device (54) of the packaging (C), described in the following in relation to the machine (100).

[0075] In the step of placing the packaging (C), the receptacle (2) and the packaging are neared according to a parallel direction to the loading direction (D).

[0076] Preferably:

[0077] - in the step of providing a packaging (C), a box or half-box is provided which has the opening (O) facing upwards, more preferably a box of standard type, also known as an American box;

[0078] - in the step of placing the packaging (C), the box or half-box is rotated with respect to a horizontal rotation axis (X, X1, X2), preferably so as to have the lower wall (Wi) aligned with the base (21), and then the receptacle (2) and the box or half-box are neared according to a parallel direction to the loading direction (D); following the step of pushing the group (G), the method comprises steps of:

[0079] - moving the receptacle (2) and the box or half-box away from one another;

[0080] - rotating the box or half-box so that the opening (O) is facing upwards;

[0081] - closing the opening (O).

[0082] Typically, in the step of locating packs (P) of articles (P) on the base (21), the packs (P) of articles are raised by at least a first station, preferably using aspirating means, or depression means such as, for example, vacuum grippers (32).

[0083] The invention also relates to a machine (100) for loading a packaging (C), which comprises a bottom (B) and walls (W) which delimit an opening (O) opposite the bottom (B), the bottom (B) and the walls (W) delimiting a load volume (L) accessible through the opening (O).

[0084] The machine (100) is typically configured to realise the method of the present document, i.e. at least according to the independent claim of the method.

[0085] An embodiment of the machine (100) comprises: a frame (1); a receptacle (2) which comprises a base (21) for supporting packs (P) of articles in a space (S) on the base (21) and borders (22, 23, 24) for limiting the displacement of the packs (P) of articles, a first border (22) and a second border (23) being opposite one another; a displacement device (3) for displacing packs (P) of articles which is configured to form layers of packs (P) of articles on the base (21) so as to obtain a group (G) of packs (P) of articles which is layered; a movement device (5) for moving packages (C) configured to place the opening (O) of the packaging (C) on a first side (21a) of the base (21) in such a way that the opening (O) faces onto the space (S); a pusher (4) which comprises a pusher wall (41) which is movable with respect to the base (21) in a loading direction (D) from a first position (P1), in which it is on a second side (21b) of the base (21), opposite the first side (21a), to a loading position (P2), so as to cross the space (S), between the first border (22) and the second border (23) so as to push internally of the packaging a group (G) of packs (P) of articles onto the base (21).

[0086] Advantageously: - the machine (100) comprises an arm (6) which is hinged to the frame (1) in such a way as to be rotatable with respect to the frame (1);

[0087] - the machine (100) comprises movement means which rotate the arm (6) with respect to the frame (1);

[0088] - the arm (6) bears the pusher wall (41) and / or, more preferably, the base (21).

[0089] The above-described machine (100) enables reducing or obviating the risk of realising a final packaging (C) that is non-compliant as the pusher wall (41) and / or the base (21) can be appropriately inclined via the arm (6). Further, this enables processing packs (P) of articles which existing machines cannot, or only with difficultly, process and enables maintaining complex arrangements of the group (G), for example on many layers.

[0090] A base (21) that is inclinable is useful in loading the packs (P) of articles thereon; in particular, it is thus possible to realise the step of locating packs (P) of articles on the base (21), described in the foregoing. The pusher wall (41) preferably faces directly on the space (S) in such a way that the weight force of the packs (P) of articles is directed towards the pusher wall (41) which then tends to compact and / or maintain compact the layers (Lay) under formation.

[0091] A pusher wall (41) set in rotation by the arm (6) is utilisable to follow, as well as to free the trajectory of the group (G), in the movement of the group (G) which brings the packs (P) of articles into a relative position with the pusher wall (41) in which the pusher wall (41) has no effect on the stability of the group (G), before moving the pusher wall (41) away therefrom. In particular, the step of moving the packaging (C) and the pusher wall (41) is thus realisable so that the lower wall (Wi) is inclined with respect to a horizontal plane (H1 , H2) in such a way that the weight force of each pack (P) of articles opposes the motion of the pack (P) of articles towards the pusher wall (41).

[0092] In other words: the arm (6) bears the pusher wall (41) so that the pusher wall (41) is movable together with the group (G) of packs (P) of articles, before moving the pusher wall (41) away from the group (G) of packs (P) of articles with the weight force of each pack (P) of articles opposing the motion of the pack (P) of articles towards the pusher wall (41) and / or the arm (6) bears the base (21) so that the base (21) is inclinable with respect to a horizontal plane (H1 , H2), with the first side (21a) of the base (21) higher with respect to the second side (21b) of the base (21), in such a way that the weight force of each pack (P) of articles supported by the base (21) opposes the motion of the pack (P) of articles towards the first side (21a).

[0093] Typically, in the embodiments of the appended figures, the arm (6) bears the pusher (4) and / or, preferably and, the receptacle (2) but this is not to exclude other embodiments in which some components of the pusher (4) and / or of the receptacle (2) are not set in rotation by the arm (6). Figures 11 and 13 show a wall displacement unit (42) which translates the pusher wall (41) with respect to the base (21).

[0094] The arm (6) which bears the pusher wall (41) and the base (21) facilitates the reduction of the drives and / or the simplification of the drives necessary for obtaining the inclinations described in the present description and useful for obtaining a final and compliant packaging (C).

[0095] The arm (6) preferably bears the pusher wall (41) and the movement device (5) comprises a rotation unit (53) comprising a gripping device (54) which is configured for retaining the packaging (C) and is hinged to the frame (1) in such a way as to be rotatable with respect to the frame (1).

[0096] With the pusher wall (41), rotatable owing to the arm (6), and the rotatable gripping device (54) it is possible to tilt, together, the pusher wall (41) and the packaging (C), with the group (G) inside, and thus be able to stabilise the group (G) against the bottom (B) and / or to make the group (G) stable independently of the pusher wall (41), before moving the pusher wall (41) away.

[0097] In particular, it is thus possible to realise the step of moving the packaging (C) and the pusher wall (41), described in the foregoing. The rotation unit (53) and the movement means are typically configured to rotate the gripping device (54) and the arm (6) in a coordinated way so that the pusher wall (41) maintains the same relative position with respect to the gripping device (54). In this way, the pusher wall (41) can follow the movement of the group (G), imparted by the packaging (C) on the group (G), in turn imparted by the gripping device (54) on the packaging (C).

[0098] However the relative position might undergo minimal variations which, in practice, do not have an impact on the maintaining of the stability of the group (G), nor do they risk damage to the articles. These minimum variations can occur in the case of response times for the drives that are different to one another or, as will be illustrated shortly, in the case that the rotation of the gripping device (54) and the pusher wall (41) does not take place on the same axis (X).

[0099] In other words, the coordination can be such as to maintain the same relative position or to maintain substantially the same relative position between the pusher wall (41) and the gripping device (54) during the course of the above- mentioned rotation.

[0100] The gripping device (54) and the arm (6) are preferably hinged to the frame (1) in such a way as to be rotatable with respect to a same horizontal axis (X). Figures 4 and 5 illustrate by way of example a gripping device (54) which is hinged to the frame (1) on the same axis (X) as the hinge (11) of the arm (6).

[0101] This detail facilitates the realising of a machine (100) that is compact and / or in which it is easier to realise and manage the drives which enable:

[0102] - the maintaining of the reciprocal position between the gripping device (54) and the pusher wall (41) in the rotation, as illustrated in the above; and / or

[0103] - the alignment, or substantial alignment, between a lower wall (Wi) of the packaging (C) and the base (21) so as to facilitate the displacement of the group (G) by the pusher (4).

[0104] The arm (6) is possibly hinged to the frame (1) in such a way as to be rotatable about a first horizontal axis (X1) and the gripping device (54) is hinged to the frame (1) in such a way as to be rotatable with respect to the frame (1) about a second axis (X2) which is parallel to and distinct from the first axis (X1). Figures 6 and 8 illustrate gripping devices (54) which are hinged to the frame (1) by a second hinge (12) vertically and horizontally distanced from the hinge (11) of the arm (6).

[0105] The effects of a first axis (X1) and a second axis (X2), distinct from one another, on the maintenance of the reciprocal position between the gripping device (54) and the pusher wall (41) and on the alignment between a lower wall (Wi) of the packaging (C) and the base (21) vary according to the distance between the first axis (X1) and the second axis (X2) and by the entity of the rotation about them. For example, by small rotations with the first axis (X1) or the second axis (X2) proximal, the resulting displacement between the gripping device (54) and the pusher wall (41) might be minimal and such as not to impact on the displacement of the group (G) in the load volume (L).

[0106] In some cases the mobility of the pusher wall (41) with respect to the arm (6) is sufficient to recuperate, including during the course of the rotation, a part of the misalignment. For example, with reference to the embodiment of figure 7, the arm (6) might be rotated more with respect to the first axis (X1) in comparison with how much the gripping device (54) is rotated with respect to the second axis (X2) together with a moving away translation of the pusher wall (41) with respect to the arm (6) away from the gripping device (54). In another example, with reference to the embodiment of figure 8, the pusher wall (41) is rotatable with respect to the arm (6) in order to ensure the alignment, or to recuperate part of the misalignment. In particular in figure 8, observe the receptacle (2) and the pusher (4), which are rotatable with respect to the carriage (71) about a horizontal axis. The expert in the sector understands how, starting from the proposed examples, other mechanical and other solutions can be realised that are equivalent.

[0107] A displacement is usually included between the receptacle (2) and the packaging (C).

[0108] The machine (100) preferably comprises a displacement unit (7) which moves at least the base (21) along the arm (6), typically along a linear path.

[0109] The arm (6) preferably bears the receptacle (2) and the displacement unit (7) moves the receptacle (2) along the arm (6); this enables nearing and distancing the receptacle (2) with respect to the axis (X, X1, X2) with respect to which the arm (6) rotates. Consequently the receptacle (2) and the base (21) can move towards or away from the gripping device (54) with advantages on the displacement of the group (G) in the load volume (L) or on the movement of the packaging (C) into a proximal position to the receptacle (2).

[0110] The displacement unit (7) preferably comprises a carriage (71) which is movable along the arm (6), typically along a linear path, and which bears the receptacle (2) and the pusher (4). Though the pusher wall (41) is movable with respect to the receptacle (2), the combined displacement of both, determined by the carriage (71), simplifies the management of the drives, as it can possibly exploit the stroke of the pusher wall (41) only for the loading of the group (G).

[0111] Typically the mobility along the arm (6), for example of the carriage (71), takes place in a parallel direction to the loading direction (D) of mobility of the pusher wall (41) with respect to the base (21).

[0112] The appended figures show an example of an embodiment of the displacement unit (7) which comprises a carriage (71) that is movable along a linear guide (72) and which receives drive from a motor (74) via a transmission (73).

[0113] The movement means comprise an actuator which is typically a linear actuator. However, the movement means might comprise, for example, a rotary actuator. Usually the linear actuator is driven electrically or pneumatically, and more preferably is an electromechanical cylinder (13) that ensures greater stability to the receptacle (6) and, possibly, to the pusher (4), mounted in a cantilever fashion.

[0114] In a particularly compact solution, and / or one which facilitates the maintaining of the machine (100), the arm (6) is preferably L-shaped, and is hinged to the frame (1) at the lower end of the L shape. Further, the linear actuator, preferably an electromechanical cylinder (13), is coupled, on one side, to the frame (1) and on the other side to the first arm (6) on the long rod of the L shape or on the short portion of the L shape, close to the rod.

[0115] As shown by way of example in the appended figures of the drawings, the arm (6) can comprise a first flank (61) and a second flank (62) joined by a joint (63). The linear actuator is preferably coupled to the arm (6) at the position of the joint (63).

[0116] In the appended figures of the drawings the displacement device (3) is only partially illustrated as it is of known type. A movable head (31) is illustrated, comprising a vacuum gripper (32) which bears a plurality of aspirating suction cups (33), in this case of the bellows type. The aspiration system is also shown partially and is of known type.

[0117] The machine (100) preferably comprises a displacement device (3) configured to raise the packs (P) of articles from at least a first station, for example from a conveyor belt (8), as also illustrated by way of example in the appended figures.

[0118] In a known realisation in the field, the movement device (5) can comprise a roller plane (51), preferably with motorised rollers (52) and the gripping device (54), also of known type, can comprise movable pins (55). In the appended tables of drawings, movable pins (55) in an extracted position are visible internally of the walls of the gripping device (54) which pins secure the position of the packaging (C) in the direction along which the packaging (C) is transported by the motorised rollers (52).

[0119] In the embodiment of figure 1 the rotation of the gripping device (54) is delivered by a second electromechanical cylinder (56) though, as discussed for the electromechanical cylinder (13), other linear or rotary actuators might be used.

[0120] A comparison between figure 14 and figure 15 shows a movable cover (24), of known type, for limiting the displacement of the packs (P) of articles upwards in the loading of the packaging (C) with the group (G), i.e. during the step of pushing of the group (G) the above-described method. During the loading it is preferable for the space (S) to be superiorly closed.

[0121] At least a movable border of known type can be present on the first side (21a) of the base (21).

[0122] The machine typically comprises packaging stops (21 i, 22i, 23i, 24i) of known type which maintain any flaps (F) of the packaging (C) in position in such a way that they do not obstruct the passage of the group (G). A plurality of solutions are known both for maintaining any flaps (F) of the packaging (C) in position and so as to provide a support between the base (21) and the lower wall (Wi) of the packaging.

[0123] In the example embodiments of the appended figures, the receptacle (2) comprises a first packaging stop (22i) and a second packaging stop (23i) which are substantially contiguous and inclined with respect to respectively the first border (22) and the second border (23). Further, the receptacle (2) comprises a lower packaging stop (21 i) which is substantially contiguous and inclined with respect to the base (21). The receptacle (2), as well as the machine (100), might be configured in such a way that the group (G) passes directly from the base (21) to the lower wall (Wi) of the packaging (C), or the group (G) might pass above the lower packaging stop (21 i) and, then, the lower flap (F) before reaching the lower wall (Wi) or the receptacle (2) might comprise a movable support between the base (21) and the lower wall (Wi). In the case where the lower flap (F) is to support the group (G), the machine (100) typically comprises a support for the lower flap (F) configured to contact the flap (F) on the side of the flap (F) opposite the side facing towards the opening (O).

[0124] In the example embodiments of the appended figures, the packaging stops (21 i, 22i, 23i, 24i) near the base (21), at the first border (22) and at the second border (23) are distinct parts with respect to the base (21), to the first border (22) and to the second border but might be realised in a single piece; in this case the single piece comprises a base part (21) with a first side (21a) and a second side (21b) solidly constrained to the lower packaging stop (21 i).

[0125] In the example embodiments of the appended figures, the movable border (24) comprises a packaging stop part (24i). The surface of the movable border (24) facing towards the base is flat but the movable border (24) can in any case taper the underlying section towards the first side (21a) in the case where it is advantageously angled with respect to the base (21). The packaging stops (21 i, 22i, 23i, 24i) have the function of keeping the flaps (F) of the packaging (C) open, and, together with the base (21), the first border (22), the second border (23) and the movable border (24), have the function of a hopper, though with a displacement of the material that does not occur by gravity but due to the action of the pusher wall (41).

[0126] The arm (6) preferably bears the receptacle (2) and the pusher (4) and the movement means are configured to rotate the arm (6) with respect to the frame (1) about a horizontal rotation axis (X, X1, X2) from a position of the arm (Pr), in which the base (21) is horizontal, to a first position of the arm (P1 r), in which the second part (21b) is higher than the first part (21a). Typically, they are also configured to rotate the arm (6) from the first position of the arm (P1r) to the position of the arm (Pr).

[0127] The passage from the position of the arm (Pr) to the first position of the arm (P1r) is illustrated by way of example in the sequence of figures 17 and 18.

[0128] The arm (6) preferably bears the base (21), more preferably the receptacle (2) and the pusher (4) and wherein the movement means are configured to rotate the arm (6) with respect to the frame (1) about a horizontal rotation axis (X, X1 , X2) from a second position of the arm (Pr2) in which the first part (21a) is higher than the second part (21b) to a position of the arm (Pr) in which the base (21) is horizontal. Typically, they are also configured to rotate the arm (6) from the position of the arm (Pr) to the second position of the arm (P2r).

[0129] The passage from the second position of the arm (P2r) to the first position of the arm (Pr) is illustrated by way of example in the sequence of figures 16 and 17. The passage from the position of the arm (Pr) to the second position of the arm (P2r) is illustrated by way of example in the sequence of figures 17 and 16.

[0130] With reference to the method for loading a packaging (C) with a group (G) as above-described:

[0131] - the step of locating packs (P) of articles on the base (21) can take place in the position of the arm (Pr) or in the second position of the arm (P2r), preferably in the second position of the arm (P2r);

[0132] - the step of pushing the group (G) can take place in the second position of the arm (P2r) or in the position of the arm (Pr), preferably in the second position of the arm (P2r) and, consequently,

[0133] - the step of moving the packaging (C) and the pusher wall (41) can take place from the second position of the arm (P2r) to the first position of the arm (P1r), passng from the position of the arm (Pr) or from the position of the arm (Pr) to the first position of the arm (P1r).

[0134] Excessive inclinations generate problems and / or are not useful and / or impact negatively on productivity. It is therefore preferable for the movement means, i.e. the hinge (11) of the arm (6), to be configured to rotate the arm (6) in such a way that the angle formed between the base (21) and a horizontal plane (H1, H2) is greater than 0 sexagesimal degrees and less than 40 sexagesimal degrees, more preferably less than 20 sexagesimal degrees. The definition of these conditions is sufficient in the case that the arm (6) sets in rotation the base (21) and the pusher wall (41) together, as shown by way of example in the appended figures. In the case where the rotation of the pusher wall (41) is independent of the rotation of the base (21), with reference to a planar pusher wall (41), the movement means, i.e. the hinge (11) of the arm (6), are configured to rotate the arm (6) in such a way that the angle formed between the pusher wall (41) and a vertical plane is greater than 0 sexagesimal degrees and less than 40 sexagesimal degrees, more preferably less than 20 sexagesimal degrees. For example in figure 18 the angle formed between the pusher wall (41) and a vertical plane is 10 sexagesimal degrees.

[0135] Again, for example, both in the second position of the arm (P2r) of figure 16 and in the first position of the arm (P1r) of figure 18 the base (21) forms, with a horizontal plane (H1 , H2), an angle of 10 sexagesimal degrees.

[0136] A machine (100) with the movement means configured as set out in the foregoing can be operated as indicated in the method for loading a packaging (C) with a group (G) according to the present description and guarantees flexibility of use, as also discussed in the following in relation to the example figures of the appended drawings.

[0137] The machine (100) typically comprises a control unit (10) which controls at least the movement means and the pusher (4), the control unit (10) is preferably configured to actuate the method for loading a packaging (C) with a group (G) as above-described. The control unit (10) preferably also controls the rotation unit (53). The control unit typically comprises a programmable logic controller or PLC. The control unit (10) is schematically illustrated by way of example only in figure 1, in the guise of a cabinet which encloses the electrical and electronic components.

[0138] Figures 10, 13, 14, 15, 16, 18, 20 and 1 are examples of steps of the method and an operating sequence realisable with the embodiment of figure 1; variants to this sequence are deducible by the expert in the field from a reading of the preceding description. The figures enable an appreciation of the flexibility guaranteed by the machine (100) of the invention owing to the rotary arm (6) and, possibly, the further characteristics described in the present description. In particular this flexibility enables operating on multiple types of packs (P) of articles, on multiple arrangements of the packs (P) of articles (P) in the group (G) and on multiple sizes of packaging (C). The change of size, in one or more of the terms listed in the foregoing, often requires only a new setting of the working parameters and / or the definition, following one or more trials, of the new working parameters. Often the size change does not require the replacement of the components, thus enabling size change also from a remote position.

[0139] Figure 10 shows the arrival of the packaging (C) on the roller plane (51) up to the gripping device (54) of known type; the packaging (C) retained in the gripping device (54) is then rotated as can be seen in figure 13.

[0140] Figure 14 illustrates the location of the packs (P) of articles in space (S) and the nearing of the packaging (C) to the base (21) due to the displacement of the carriage (71), as illustrated by the different distance of the receptacle (2) from the conveyor belt (8) between figure 10 and figure 14.

[0141] It is specified that the location of the packs (P) of articles in the space (S) might be done with the base (21) positioned horizontally, i.e. with the same orientation as shown in figure 17 or figure 9. Figure 17 clarifies how the embodiment of figure 1 can also bear the base (21) horizontally, as in figure 9.

[0142] In figure15 the group (G) is completed and can therefore be pushed as if it were a single article; above the space (S) the rotation of the movable border (24) acting as a cover can be observed, superiorly closing the space (S) and keeping the upper flap (F) open.

[0143] Figures 16 and 17 illustrate how the pushing of the pusher wall (41) can take place with the base (21), as well as the package (C), inclined or with the base (21), as well as the package (C), positioned horizontally. In these figures, as in following figure 18, the position of the pusher wall (41) is represented by a dotted line.

[0144] Figure 18 shows the inclination reached, with a coordinated rotation, by the pusher wall (41) and by the gripping device (54), as well as by the packaging (C); in the represented case, the pusher wall (41) has maintained the same relative position with respect to the gripping device (54), and thus by the packaging (C), which it had in the loading position (P2) of figure 16 or figure 17.

[0145] In figure 20, the packaging (C) is freed from the pusher wall (41) which, in the illustrated case, returns into the first position (P1), as typically happens. The first position (P1) can also be reached during the course of the rotation of the gripping device (54) which takes place between figure 20 and figure 1.

[0146] Further, figure 20 illustrates the moving away of the carriage (71), and therefore the receptacle (2), from the gripping device (54) and therefore the packaging (C).

[0147] Lastly, figure 1 illustrates the end of the cycle with the packaging (C) ready for the closing of the flaps (F), so as to obtain the final packaging (C), and the receptacle (2) ready to receive a further group (G).

[0148] The meaning of spatial references in the present description, such as, for example lower, above, upwards, reflects the use of such terms in the sector of reference, i.e. they refer to vertical directions. It is worth stressing that, as is known to the technical expert in the field and given by way of example in the appended figures, the machine (100) can comprise a plurality of receptacles (2) and other components, for example a movable head (31) provided with a further vacuum gripper, so as to be able to load, usually contemporaneously, a plurality of receptacles (2) and, therefore, a plurality of packages (C).

[0149] It is understood that the above has been described by way of non-limiting example and that any constructional variants are considered to fall within the protective scope of the present technical solution, as claimed in the following.

Claims

CLAIMS1) A method for loading a packaging (C) with a group (G) of packs (P) of articles comprising steps of:- providing a packaging (C) which comprises a bottom (B) and walls (W) which delimit an opening (O) opposite the bottom (B), the bottom (B) and the walls (W) delimiting a load volume (L) accessible through the opening (O);- providing a receptacle (2) which comprises a base (21) for supporting packs (P) of articles in a space (S) above the base (21) and borders (22, 23, 24) for limiting the displacement of the packs (P) of articles, a first border (22) and a second border (23) being opposite one another;- providing a pusher (4) which comprises a pusher wall (41) which is movable with respect to the base (21) in a loading direction (D), from a first position (P1), in which it is on a second side (21b) of the base (21), to a loading position (P2), so as to cross the space (S), between the first border (22) and the second border (23);- placing packs (P) of articles on the base (21), forming layers (Lay) of packs (P) of articles in the space (S) so as to obtain a group (G) of packs (P) of articles which is layered;- placing the packaging (C) at the receptacle (2) on a first side (21a) of the base (21), opposite the second side (21b), in such a way that the opening (O) faces onto the space (S);- pushing the group (G) into the load volume (L), moving the pusher wall (41) in the loading direction (D) from the first position (P1) to the loading position (P2) so that the group (G) rests on a lower wall (Wi) of the walls (W);- moving the pusher wall (41) away from the group (G); characterised in that:- it comprises, before the step of moving the pusher wall (41) away, a step of moving the packaging (C) and the pusher wall (41) so that the lower wall (Wi) is inclined with respect to a horizontal plane (H1, H2) in such a way that theweight force of each pack (P) of articles opposes the motion of the pack (P) of articles towards the pusher wall (41) and / or- in that, in the step of locating packs (P) of articles on the base (21), the base (21) is inclined with respect to a horizontal plane (H1, H2) so that the first side (21a) of the base (21) is higher with respect to the second side (21b) of the base (21), in such a way that the weight force of each pack (P) of articles supported by the base (21) opposes the motion of the pack (P) towards the first side (21a).2) The method of the preceding claim, comprising a step of moving the packaging (C) and the pusher wall (41) and wherein, in the step of moving the packaging (C) and the pusher wall (41), the packaging (C) and the pusher wall (41) are rotated with respect to a horizontal rotation axis (X, X1, X2) until bringing the lower wall (Wi) to form an angle of less than 40 sexagesimal degrees with a horizontal plane (H1, H2).3) The method of claim 1 or 2, wherein in the step of moving the packaging (C) and the pusher wall (41), the pusher wall (41) is stationary with respect to the packaging (C).4) The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein in the step of pushing the group (G), the pusher wall (41) pushes the group (G) until it contacts the bottom (B).5) The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the pusher wall (41) faces directly onto the space (S), in such a way as to limit the displacement of the packs (P) of articles supported by the base (21), and wherein in the step of locating packs (P) of articles on the base (21), the base (21) is inclined with respect to a horizontal plane (H1, H2) so that the first side (21a) of the base (21) is higher with respect to the second side (21b) of the base (21), in such a way that the weight force of each pack (P) of articles facilitates the motion of the pack (P) of articles towards the pusher wall (41).6) The method of the preceding claim, wherein:- in the step of placing the packaging (C) at the receptacle (2), the packaging (C) is positioned in such a way that the lower wall (Wi) which inferiorly delimits the opening (O) is inclined with respect to a horizontal plane (H1 , H2) so as to be, or substantially be, parallel to the base (21);- in the step of pushing the unit (G), the base (21) and the lower wall (Wi) are inclined with respect to a horizontal plane (H1, H2) in such a way that the weight force of each pack (P) of articles facilitates the resting of the group (G) on the pusher wall (41).7) The method of the preceding claim wherein in the step of pushing the group (G), the base (21) and the lower wall (Wi) each form an angle with respect to a horizontal plane (H1 , H2) of less than 40 sexagesimal degrees.8) The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein:- in the step of providing a packaging (C), a box or half-box is provided which has the opening (O) facing upwards;- in the step of placing the packaging (C), the box or half-box is rotated with respect to a horizontal rotation axis (X, X1, X2) and then the receptacle (2) and the box or half-box are neared according to a parallel direction to the loading direction (D);- following the step of pushing the group (G), the method comprises steps of:- moving the receptacle (2) and the box or half-box away from one another;- rotating the box or half-box so that the opening (O) is facing upwards;- closing the opening (O).9) A machine (100) for loading a packaging (C), which comprises a bottom (B) and walls (W) which delimit an opening (O) opposite the bottom (B), the bottom (B) and the walls (W) delimiting a load volume (L) accessible through the opening (O), with a group (G) of packs (P) of articles comprising:- a frame (1);- a receptacle (2) which comprises a base (21) for supporting packs (P) ofarticles in a space (S) on the base (21) and borders (22, 23, 24) for limiting the displacement of the packs (P) of articles, a first border (22) and a second border (23) being opposite one another;- a displacement device (3) for displacing packs (P) of articles which is configured to form layers of packs (P) of articles on the base (21) so as to obtain a group (G) of packs (P) of articles which is layered;- a movement device (5) for moving packages (C) configured to place the opening (O) of the packaging (C) on a first side (21a) of the base (21) in such a way that the opening (O) faces onto the space (S);- a pusher (4) which comprises a pusher wall (41) which is movable with respect to the base (21) in a loading direction (D) from a first position (P1), in which it is on a second side (21b) of the base (21), opposite the first side (21a), to a loading position (P2), so as to cross the space (S), between the first border (22) and the second border (23) so as to push internally of the packaging a group (G) of packs (P) of articles onto the base (21), characterised in that:- it comprises an arm (6) which is hinged to the frame (1) in such a way as to be rotatable with respect to the frame (1);- it comprises movement means which rotate the arm (6) with respect to the frame (1);- the arm (6) bears the pusher wall (41) and / or the base (21).10) The machine (100) of claim 9 wherein:- the arm (6) bears the pusher wall (41) so that the pusher wall (41) is movable together with the group (G) of packs (P) of articles, before moving the pusher wall (41) away from the group (G) of packs (P) of articles with the weight force of each pack (P) of articles opposing the motion of the pack (P) of articles towards the pusher wall (41) and / or- the arm (6) bears the base (21) so that the base (21) is inclinable with respect to a horizontal plane (H1 , H2), with the first side (21a) of the base (21)higher with respect to the second side (21b) of the base (21), in such a way that the weight force of each pack (P) of articles supported by the base (21) opposes the motion of the pack (P) of articles towards the first side (21a).11) The machine (100) of claim 9 or 10, wherein the arm (6) bears the pusher wall (41) and the movement device (5) comprises a rotation unit (53) comprising a gripping device (54) which is configured for retaining the packaging (C) and is hinged to the frame (1) in such a way as to be rotatable with respect to the frame (1).12) The machine (100) of claim 11, wherein the rotation unit (53) and the movement means are configured to rotate the gripping device (54) and the arm (6) in a coordinated way so that the pusher wall (41) maintains, or substantially maintains, the same relative position with respect to the gripping device (54).13) The machine (100) of claim 11 or 12, wherein the gripping device (54) and the arm (6) are hinged to the frame (1) in such a way as to be rotatable with respect to a same horizontal axis (X).14) The machine (100) of claim 11 or 12, wherein the arm (6) is hinged to the frame (1) in such a way as to be rotatable about a first horizontal axis (X1) and the gripping device (54) is hinged to the frame (1) in such a way as to be rotatable with respect to the frame (1) about a second axis (X2) which is parallel to and distinct from the first axis (X1).15) The machine (100) of any one of claims from 9 to 14, wherein the arm (6) bears the receptacle (2) and the pusher (4) and wherein the movement means are configured to rotate the arm (6) with respect to the frame (1) about a horizontal rotation axis (X, X1, X2) from a position of the arm (Pr), in which the base (21) is horizontal, to a first position of the arm (P1r), in which the second part (21b) is higher than the first part (21a).16) The machine (100) of any one of claims from 9 to 15, wherein the arm (6) bears the receptacle (2) and the pusher (4) and wherein the movement means are configured to rotate the arm (6) with respect to the frame (1) about a horizontal rotation axis (X, X1 , X2) from a second position of the arm (P2r) inwhich the first part (21a) is higher than the second part (21b) to a position of the arm (Pr) in which the base (21) is horizontal.17) The machine (100) of any one of claims from 9 to 16 comprising a displacement unit (7), wherein the arm (6) bears the receptacle (2) and wherein the displacement unit (7) moves the receptacle (2) along the arm (6).18) The machine (100) of claim 17, wherein the displacement unit (7) comprises a carriage (71) which is movable along the arm (6) and which bears the receptacle (2) and the pusher (4).19) The machine (100) of any one of claims from 9 to 18, wherein the movement means comprise an electromechanical cylinder (13), wherein the arm (6) is L-shaped, wherein the arm (6) is hinged to the frame (1) at the lower end of the L shape and wherein the electromechanical cylinder (13) is coupled to the frame (1) and is coupled to the first arm (6) on the rod of the L shape or on the short portion of the L shape, close to the rod. 20) The machine (100) of any one of claims from 9 to 19 comprising a control unit (10) which controls at least the movement means and the pusher (4) for actuating the method according to any one of claims from 1 to 8.

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