Assembly and method for forming a vertex of a box in automatic machine for forming

Abstract

An assembly (10) for forming a vertex of a box from a flat blank having a first side panel (102), a second side panel (103) and a flap (104) connected to the first side panel (102), comprises a first lifter (12) translatable along a first rectilinear direction (D1) and configured to contact the flap (104) during a translation along the first direction (D1); a second lifter (15) translatable along a second rectilinear direction (D2) and configured to contact the first side panel (102) during a translation along the second direction (D2); a third lifter (18) translatable along a third rectilinear direction (D3) and configured to contact the second side panel (103) during a translation along the third direction (D3); a motor member (21) and a mechanical transmission (26) which connects the motor member (21) to the first lifter (12),the second lifter (15) and the third lifter (18) in order to translate them.

Description

[0001] ASSEMBLY AND METHOD FOR FORMING A VERTEX OF A BOX IN AUTOMATIC MACHINE FOR FORMING

[0002] DESCRIPTION

[0003] The present invention refers to an assembly for forming a vertex of a box in automatic machine for forming boxes. The present invention preferably refers to an assembly for forming vertices of boxes in paper material from a flat blank.

[0004] Paper boxes used for example to contain items to be transported are often made by folding flat blanks along predefined folding lines.

[0005] In most cases, the boxes in paper material are made by automatic machines in which a plurality of operating stations follow one another to successively carry out machinings on sheets of paper material in order to make flat blanks and fold these flat blanks until respective boxes are obtained.

[0006] One of said operating stations comprises assemblies for forming the vertices of the box, wherein the flaps of a blank are usually folded by about 90° so as to define angular portions of a box.

[0007] Among the various types of boxes, there are boxes in which the vertices of the box are substantially made by a first side wall and a second side wall which are arranged substantially perpendicular to a bottom wall and which lie along planes substantially perpendicular to each other. The first and second side wall are joined together by a flap of the first side wall which is folded so as to be arranged parallel to the second side wall. This flap is arranged inside the box, i.e. facing an internal volume defined by the box, so as not to be visible from outside the box. In the Applicant's experience, in order to form such a vertex of the box, it is necessary to fold the flap of the first side wall with respect to the lying plane of the first side wall before folding the second side wall with respect to the bottom of the box, so that the flap can be arranged inside the box.

[0008] In an automatic machine for forming boxes, the task of forming the vertices summarily described above is carried out by four assemblies for forming vertices, wherein each assembly operates at a respective vertex.

[0009] In the Applicant's experience, each assembly may comprise a first folding plate substantially parallel to a lying plane that will contain the second side wall once folded. The first folding plate rotates by about 90° by contacting and accompanying the flap of the first side wall into folding. When the first folding plate has completed its rotation, the flap has copied the rotation of the first folding plate being folded by about 90° with respect to the first side wall. At this point, a second folding plate rotates by about 90°, contacting and accompanying the first side wall into folding with respect to the bottom of the box in such a way as to arrange the first side wall at a right angle with respect to the bottom of the box. At this point, a third folding plate rotates by about 90°, contacting and accompanying the second side wall into folding with respect to the bottom of the box. When the third folding plate has almost finished its rotation, the first folding plate begins to rotate in the opposite direction so as to return to the initial position in order to avoid remaining arranged between the flap and the second side wall. When the third folding plate has completed its rotation, the vertex of the box has been fully formed.

[0010] In addition, the above flap could need to be glued to the second side wall in order to be able to make stable the vertex of the box thus formed.

[0011] In the Applicant's experience this can be obtained by vertically translating the third folding plate once the vertex of the box has been formed, such that the third folding plate presses the second side wall against the flap.

[0012] The Applicant has noted that in order to be able to operate each assembly to form a vertex of a box of the type summarily described above, three rotations and at least one translation are therefore required for the folding plates.

[0013] The Applicant has verified that these three rotations and at least one translation for each assembly for forming a vertex of a box are usually made possible by four mutually independent motors whose movement is coordinated by a programmable logic controller (PLC) which also takes care of coordinating the driving of the motors of the other three assemblies for forming a vertex of a box. The Applicant felt the need to simplify the operation and coordination of the motors of each assembly and the operation and coordination of the assemblies among themselves.

[0014] The Applicant has therefore assumed to kinematically connect the folding plates to each other in such a way that by driving in rotation only one of the folding plates using only one motor it is also possible to drive in rotation the other folding plates. The Applicant has however noted that a kinematics suitable for this purpose would be extremely complicated, since it would have to allow rotations of the folding plates around mutually different and non-parallel axes, it would have to allow rotations of the folding plates mutually delayed over time, it would have at the same time to allow rotations in the opposite direction of two folding plates and it would also have to allow a translation of at least one folding plate.

[0015] The Applicant has perceived that rotating a side wall of the box could be actuated by translating a pusher in a substantially vertical direction and by having said pusher intercept the side wall. The side wall would thus be pushed away from the bottom wall of the box and would be forced to rotate by rotating around the hinge line given by the weakening or pre-folding line placed between the side wall and the bottom wall of the box. In this way, the side wall of the box would be formed with respect to the bottom of the box without having the pusher perform any rotation.

[0016] The Applicant has also perceived that the flap of the first side wall could also be rotated with respect to the first side wall in the same way, i.e. by translating a pusher in a substantially vertical direction and by having the flap intercepted by said pusher. The flap would thus be pushed away from the first side wall of the box and would be forced to rotate by rotating around the hinge line given by the weakening or pre-folding line placed between the first side wall and the flap. Also in this case, the flap of the first side wall of the box would be folded with respect to the first side wall without having the pusher perform any rotation.

[0017] The Applicant has therefore understood that a first pusher could be translated to intercept the flap of the first side wall and said flap could be rotated with respect to the first side wall, a second pusher could be translated to intercept the first side wall and rotate it with respect to the bottom of the box and a third pusher could be translated to intercept the second side wall and rotate it with respect to the bottom of the box in such a way as to position it at the flap of the first side wall and make a vertex of the box.

[0018] The Applicant has found that in this way it is possible to kinematically connect the three pushers to a single motor member in a simple and reliable way, since this kinematic connection must only guarantee translations, substantially in mutually parallel directions, of three pushers.

[0019] In a first aspect, the present invention therefore concerns an assembly for forming a vertex of a box from a flat blank.

[0020] Preferably, the flat blank is of the type having a first side panel, a second side panel and a flap connected to the first side panel.

[0021] Preferably, the assembly for forming a vertex of a box comprises a first lifter translatable with rectilinear motion along a first direction and configured to contact the flap of the first side panel of the blank during a translation along said first direction.

[0022] Preferably, the assembly for forming a vertex of a box comprises a second lifter translatable with rectilinear motion along a second direction and configured to contact the first side panel of the blank during a translation along said second direction.

[0023] Preferably, the assembly for forming a vertex of a box comprises a third lifter translatable with rectilinear motion along a third direction and configured to contact the second side panel of the blank during a translation along said third direction. Preferably, the assembly for forming a vertex of a box comprises a motor member and a mechanical transmission which connects the motor member to the first lifter, the second lifter and the third lifter to translate the first lifter, the second lifter and the third lifter.

[0024] In a second aspect, the present invention concerns a method for forming a vertex of a box from a flat blank having a first side panel, a second side panel and a flap connected to the first side panel.

[0025] Preferably the method comprises arranging a motor member kinematically connected via a mechanical transmission to a first lifter, a second lifter and a third lifter.

[0026] Preferably, the method comprises transmitting a translational motion to said first lifter through said mechanical transmission so that said first lifter translates along a first direction to contact said flap.

[0027] Preferably the method comprises transmitting a translational motion to said second lifter through said mechanical transmission so that said second lifter translates along a second direction to contact said first side panel.

[0028] Preferably the method comprises transmitting a translational motion to said third lifter through said mechanical transmission so that said third lifter translates along a third direction to contact said second side panel.

[0029] Preferably, said mechanical transmission acts in order first on the first lifter, then on the second lifter and then on the third lifter.

[0030] The Applicant has verified that in this way the mechanical transmission must transmit only translational motion to the first, second and third lifter, connecting the first, second and third lifters to the motor member.

[0031] The Applicant has verified that the first lifter, driven by the motor member through the mechanical transmission, translates along the first direction, contacts the flap of the first side panel and imposes a rotation on said flap around a weakening or creasing line that joins the flap to the first side panel.

[0032] The Applicant has also verified that the second lifter, driven by the motor member through the mechanical transmission, translates along the second direction, contacts the first side panel and imposes a rotation on the first side panel around a weakening or creasing line that joins the first side panel to the bottom panel of the box. During this rotation, the first side panel also drags the flap associated with it into its rotary movement.

[0033] Finally, the Applicant has verified that the third lifter, driven by the motor member through the mechanical transmission, translates along the third direction, contacts the second side panel and imposes a rotation on the second side panel around a weakening or creasing line that joins the second side panel to the bottom panel of the blank.

[0034] The Applicant considers that in this way it is possible to form a vertex of the box using only lifters that move with rectilinear motion.

[0035] The expression “paper material” means a material based on paper or paper pulp in the form of single sheets or panels or sheets or panels overlapping on each other or interspersed with one or more corrugated sheets in which the ratio of weight to surface area (grammage) is between about 100 grams per square metre and about 650 grams per square metre.

[0036] The expression "vertical" means a direction parallel to the translation direction of the first lifter.

[0037] The expression "vertex of a box" means the point where three substantially perpendicular surfaces of the box converge.

[0038] The expression "forming a vertex of a box" means arranging a first side wall of the box and a second side wall of the box in such a way that they are substantially perpendicular to a bottom wall of the box and in such a way that they are substantially perpendicular to each other.

[0039] The present invention may have at least one of the preferred characteristics described below. These characteristics can therefore be present individually or in combination with each other, unless expressly stated otherwise, both in the assembly for forming a vertex of a box and in the method for forming a vertex of a box of the present invention.

[0040] Preferably, said first direction, said second direction and said third direction are parallel to each other.

[0041] Preferably, the first lifter performs only translational movements, such translational movements being aligned with the first direction.

[0042] Preferably, the second lifter performs only translational movements, such translational movements being aligned with the second direction.

[0043] Preferably, the third lifter performs only translational movements, such translational movements being aligned to the third direction.

[0044] Preferably, the assembly for forming a vertex of a box comprises a support plane configured to supportingly receive a portion of a bottom panel of the blank.

[0045] In this way, the blank is supported during the operations for forming the vertex of a box.

[0046] Preferably, said first direction, said second direction and said third direction are perpendicular to said support plane.

[0047] Preferably, said support plane comprises a suction member configured to retain the bottom panel of the blank.

[0048] The suction member allows the bottom panel of the blank to be stably retained, preventing the blank from being able to move during the operations for forming the vertex of a box. The suction member, by retaining the blank, can also allow a more effective rotation of the flap of the first side panel, of the first side panel and of the second side panel, as it can prevent the thrust effect of the first lifter, the second lifter and the third lifter from causing a mere lifting of the entire blank. The Applicant has in fact noted that the weakening or creasing lines between the flap and the first side panel, between the first side panel and the bottom panel and between the second side panel and the bottom panel, although acting as rotation hinges for the relative panels, still offer a certain rotational resistance.

[0049] Preferably, said mechanical transmission acts on the first lifter to transmit a translational motion to said first lifter.

[0050] This translational motion allows the first lifter to be raised so that it can intercept the flap of the first side panel.

[0051] Preferably, said mechanical transmission acts on the second lifter to transmit a translational motion to said second lifter.

[0052] This translational motion allows the second lifter to be raised so that it can intercept the first side panel.

[0053] Preferably, said mechanical transmission acts on the third lifter to transmit a translational motion to said third lifter.

[0054] This translational motion allows the third lifter to be raised so that it can intercept the second side panel.

[0055] The Applicant has perceived that by configuring the mechanical transmission in such a way that the respective translational motion is transmitted to the first lifter, the second lifter and the third lifter at different times, it is possible to make different configurations of vertex of a box. The Applicant has in fact observed that, depending on the time sequence with which the lifters contact the respective side walls and the flap, the side walls and the flap are arranged differently from each other.

[0056] Therefore, preferably said mechanical transmission acts on the first lifter before acting on the third lifter.

[0057] In this way the flap is folded before the second side panel.

[0058] Preferably, said mechanical transmission acts on the first lifter before acting on the second lifter.

[0059] In this way the flap is folded before the first side panel.

[0060] Preferably, said mechanical transmission acts on the second lifter before acting on the third lifter.

[0061] In this way the first side panel is folded before the second side panel.

[0062] The Applicant has found that when said mechanical transmission acts on the first lifter before acting on the second lifter and when it acts on the second lifter before acting on the third lifter, the vertex of a box is made with the flap of the first side panel facing an internal volume of the box being formed.

[0063] Preferably, said mechanical transmission acts on the second lifter after said mechanical transmission has started acting on the first lifter and while said mechanical transmission is acting on the first lifter.

[0064] In this way, the first side panel is rotated together with the flap which is at least partially already rotated with respect to the first side panel.

[0065] Preferably, said mechanical transmission acts on the third lifter after said mechanical transmission has started acting on the second lifter and while said mechanical transmission acts, or has finished acting, on the first lifter.

[0066] In this way, the vertex of a box is made with the second side panel superimposed on the flap of the first side panel.

[0067] Preferably, said mechanical transmission comprises a movable slide with rectilinear motion between a lowered position and a plurality of raised positions along a fourth direction.

[0068] The Applicant has perceived that the slide can be used to transmit the translational motion to the lifters. In this way, the mechanical transmission can be made very simple, since the slide also moves with rectilinear motion and does not perform any rotation.

[0069] Preferably, said fourth direction is parallel to said first direction.

[0070] Preferably, said first lifter is constrained in translation to said slide.

[0071] In this way, each translational movement of the slide along the fourth direction corresponds to a respective translational movement of the first lifter along the first direction.

[0072] Preferably, when the slide is in the lowered position, the first lifter, the second lifter and the third lifter are all below the support plane for the bottom panel of the blank.

[0073] In this way, when the slide is in the lowered position, the flat blank can be positioned above the assembly for forming the vertex with the bottom panel (which defines or will define the bottom wall of the box) resting on the support plane. When the slide is in the lowered position, no one between the first lifter, the second lifter and the third lifter interferes with or contacts the flat blank which can then maintain its flat lying before the motor member activates the mechanical transmission starting the operations for forming the vertex of a box.

[0074] Preferably, said mechanical transmission comprises a first slider constrained to said slide inserted into a first oblong slot integral with said second lifter.

[0075] In this way, when the slide translates the first slider translates together with the slide.

[0076] The expression "oblong slot" means an opening that has a first dimension, measured in a direction parallel to said fourth direction, greater than a second dimension perpendicular to said fourth direction.

[0077] The Applicant has found that by inserting the first slider into the first oblong slot integral with the second lifter, the first slider can freely slide inside the first slot without causing any translation of the second lifter. When the first slider reaches an abutment wall of the oblong slot, the first slider can no longer slide freely inside the first slot and drags the second lifter into movement.

[0078] Therefore, preferably said first slider freely slides in said first oblong slot when said slide moves between said lowered position and a first raised position of said plurality of raised positions.

[0079] The Applicant has found that in this way the mechanical transmission is able to translate the first lifter along the first direction keeping the second lifter stationary as long as the first lifter reaches a position to which the first raised position of the slide corresponds. Continuing to lift the slide, the second lifter also begins to translate along the second direction.

[0080] Preferably, when said slide moves between the first raised position and a second raised position of said plurality of raised positions, the first slider causes the translation of the second lifter along the second direction.

[0081] Preferably, said mechanical transmission comprises a second slider constrained to said slide and inserted into a second oblong slot integral with said third lifter.

[0082] In this way, when the slide translates the second slider translates together with the slide.

[0083] The Applicant has found that by inserting the second slider into the second oblong slot integral with the third lifter, the second slider can slide freely inside the second slot without causing any translation of the third lifter. When the second slider reaches an abutment wall of the oblong slot, the second slider can no longer slide freely inside the first slot and drags the third lifter into movement.

[0084] Therefore, preferably said second slider freely slides in said second oblong slot when said slide moves between said lowered position and a second raised position of said plurality of raised positions.

[0085] The Applicant has found that in this way the mechanical transmission is able to translate the first lifter along the first direction keeping the third lifter stationary as long as the first lifter reaches a position to which the second raised position of the slide corresponds. Continuing to lift the slide, the third lifter also begins to translate along the third direction.

[0086] Preferably, when said slide moves beyond the second raised position of said plurality of raised positions, the second slider causes the translation of the third lifter along the third direction.

[0087] The Applicant has found that by setting the first raised position and the second raised position of the slide in such a way that the second raised position follows the first raised position, it is possible to set the mechanical transmission in such a way that first the first lifter translates, then the second lifter translates (with the first lifter continuing its translation) and then the third lifter translates (with the first lifter and the second lifter continuing their translation).

[0088] Therefore, preferably said first raised position of the slide is a position comprised between the lowered position of the slide and said second raised position of the slide.

[0089] Preferably, said first oblong slot comprises a first top abutment wall configured to be contacted by said first slider.

[0090] In this way, when the first slider reaches the first top abutment wall, a further lifting of the slide allows the first slider to lift the second lifter.

[0091] Preferably, said second oblong slot comprises a second top abutment wall configured to be contacted by said second slider.

[0092] In this way, when the second slider reaches the second top abutment wall, a further lifting of the slide allows the second slider to lift the third lifter.

[0093] Preferably, said first top abutment wall is located at a first distance from said first slider and said second top abutment wall is located at a second distance from said first slider, said first distance being less than said second distance when said slide is in the lowered position.

[0094] In this way, the second lifter begins to translate before the third lifter.

[0095] The Applicant has found that in order to obtain a desired rotation of the flap of the first side panel around a weakening or creasing line placed between the flap and the first side panel, it would be appropriate for the first lifter to be arranged substantially in contact with the flap in proximity to the weakening or creasing line.

[0096] Therefore, preferably said first lifter comprises a vertical wall.

[0097] Preferably, said vertical wall of the first lifter is located at the weakening or creasing line between the flap and the first side panel.

[0098] In this way, the vertical wall of the first lifter actuates a rotation of the flap by 90° with respect to the first side panel when the first lifter is translated by the mechanical transmission.

[0099] The Applicant has observed that when the flap comes into contact, in proximity to the weakening or creasing line and in its initial position (coplanar with the first side panel and with the bottom panel of the blank), with the vertical wall of the first lifter, the flap tends to rotate by 90° substantially instantaneously.

[0100] The Applicant has perceived that if the flap were initially contacted by the first lifter in a position far from the weakening or creasing line, the translation of the first lifter would result in a gradual rotation of the flap, until reaching a 90° rotation as the point of contact between flap and first lifter approaches the weakening or creasing line.

[0101] Therefore, preferably said first lifter comprises an inclined wall connected to said vertical wall, said inclined wall being located at an upper end of the first lifter.

[0102] In this way, as the first lifter translates along the first direction driven by the mechanical transmission, the flap is first contacted by a portion of the inclined wall away from the weakening or creasing line and is progressively contacted by portions of the inclined wall gradually closer to the weakening or creasing line, thereby actuating a gradual rotation of the flap about the weakening or creasing line.

[0103] The Applicant has similarly found that in order to obtain a desired rotation of the first side panel around a weakening or creasing line placed on the first side panel and the bottom panel of the blank, it would be appropriate for the second lifter to be arranged substantially in contact with the first side panel in proximity to the weakening or creasing line.

[0104] Therefore, preferably said second lifter comprises a vertical wall.

[0105] Preferably, said vertical wall of the second lifter is located at the weakening or creasing line between the first side panel and the bottom panel of the blank.

[0106] In this way, the vertical wall of the second lifter actuates a rotation of the first side panel by 90° with respect to the bottom panel of the blank when the second lifter is translated by the mechanical transmission.

[0107] The Applicant has observed that when the first side panel comes into contact, in proximity to the weakening or creasing line and in its initial position (coplanar with the bottom panel), with the vertical wall of the second lifter, the first side panel tends to rotate by 90° substantially instantaneously.

[0108] The Applicant has perceived that if the first side panel were initially contacted by the second lifter in a position far from the weakening or creasing line, the translation of the second lifter would result in a gradual rotation of the first side panel, until reaching a 90° rotation as the point of contact between the first side panel and the second lifter approaches the weakening or creasing line.

[0109] Therefore, preferably said second lifter comprises an inclined wall connected to said vertical wall, said inclined wall being located at an upper end of the second lifter.

[0110] In this way, as the second lifter translates along the second direction driven by the mechanical transmission, the first side panel is first contacted by a portion of the inclined wall away from the weakening or creasing line and is progressively contacted by portions of the inclined wall gradually closer to the weakening or creasing line, thereby actuating a gradual rotation of the first side panel about the weakening or creasing line.

[0111] Preferably, said vertical wall of the second lifter is perpendicular to the vertical wall of the first lifter.

[0112] The Applicant has also found that in order to obtain a desired rotation of the second side panel around a weakening or creasing line placed between the second side panel and the bottom panel, it would be appropriate for the third lifter to be arranged substantially in contact with the second side panel in proximity to the weakening or creasing line.

[0113] Therefore, preferably said third lifter comprises a vertical wall.

[0114] Preferably, said vertical wall of the third lifter is located at the weakening or creasing line between the second side panel and the bottom panel of the blank. In this way, the vertical wall of the third lifter actuates a rotation of the second side panel by 90° with respect to the bottom panel when the third lifter is translated by the mechanical transmission.

[0115] The Applicant has observed that when the second side panel comes into contact, in proximity to the weakening or creasing line and in its initial position (coplanar with the bottom panel of the blank), with the vertical wall of the third lifter, the second side panel tends to rotate by 90° substantially instantaneously.

[0116] The Applicant has perceived that if the second side panel were initially contacted by the third lifter in a position far from the weakening or creasing line, the translation of the third lifter would result in a gradual rotation of the second side panel, until reaching a 90° rotation as the point of contact between the second side panel and the third lifter approaches the weakening or creasing line.

[0117] Therefore, preferably said third lifter comprises an inclined wall connected to said vertical wall, said inclined wall being located at an upper end of the third lifter.

[0118] In this way, as the third lifter translates along the third direction driven by the mechanical transmission, the second side wall is first contacted by a portion of the inclined wall away from the weakening or creasing line and is progressively contacted by portions of the inclined wall gradually closer to the weakening or creasing line, thereby actuating a gradual rotation of the second side panel about the weakening or creasing line.

[0119] Preferably, said vertical wall of the third lifter is parallel to the vertical wall of the first lifter.

[0120] Preferably, said motor member M is an electric motor. Preferably, there is provided a single electric motor to drive said mechanical transmission and translate the first lifter, the second lifter and the third lifter.

[0121] Preferably, said electric motor comprises a rotation shaft on which a toothed wheel is splined.

[0122] The toothed wheel is rotated by the electric motor.

[0123] Preferably, the electric motor is mounted fixed on a support frame.

[0124] Preferably, said mechanical transmission comprises a rack geared by said toothed wheel and running along said fourth direction; said rack being integral with said slide.

[0125] In this way, when the electric motor is driven, the rack is translated along the fourth direction due to the fact that it is geared with the toothed wheel of the electric motor. The rack, being integral with the slide, sets the slide in translational movement.

[0126] Preferably, the assembly further comprises a first rectilinear sliding guide that develops parallel to the fourth direction.

[0127] The first rectilinear sliding guide comprises a track integral with said support frame and a carriage slidably engaged with the track and integral with said slide. In this way, the slide is guided in its translation by the first rectilinear sliding guide, ensuring that the rack is always geared on the toothed wheel of the electric motor. Preferably, the assembly further comprises a second rectilinear sliding guide that develops parallel to the second direction.

[0128] The second rectilinear sliding guide comprises a track integral with said support frame and a carriage slidably engaged with the track and integral with said second lifter.

[0129] In this way, the second lifter is guided in its translation by the second rectilinear sliding guide, ensuring that the first slider can slide correctly inside the first oblong slot.

[0130] Preferably, the assembly further comprises a third rectilinear sliding guide that develops parallel to the third direction.

[0131] The third rectilinear sliding guide comprises a track integral with said support frame and a carriage slidably engaged with the track and integral with said third lifter.

[0132] In this way, the third lifter is guided in its translation by the third rectilinear sliding guide, ensuring that the second slider can slide correctly inside the second oblong slot.

[0133] Further characteristics and advantages of the present invention will become clearer from the following detailed description of a preferred embodiment thereof, with reference to the appended drawings and provided by way of indicative and non-limiting example, in which: figure 1 is a perspective view of an assembly for forming a vertex of a box in accordance with the present invention; figure 2 is a perspective view of the assembly of figure 1 with some components removed for illustrative clarity; figures 3 to 5 are perspective views of some components of the assembly of figure 1 ; figures 6 to 9 are schematic representations of the assembly of figure 1 under different operating conditions; and figures 10 and 11 illustrate two examples of blanks on which the assembly of figure 1 can operate.

[0134] In the attached figures, an assembly for forming a vertex of a box in accordance with the present invention has been indicated overall with number 10.

[0135] As illustrated in figure 1 , the assembly 10 comprises a support frame 11 mounted movable in an edge forming station of a box. The support frame 11 has the function of supporting the components of the assembly 10 and of positioning them correctly below a blank to take care of form ing panels of the blank to form a vertex of a box.

[0136] Figures 10 and 11 illustrate two examples of blanks in which three panels can be folded by the assembly 10 to make a vertex of a box.

[0137] The blank 100 of figure 10 can be used to form a box without a lid. This blank 100 comprises a bottom panel 101 which will define a bottom wall of the box, a first side panel 102 which will define a first side wall of the box and a second side panel 103 which will define a second side wall of the box. The blank 100 further comprises a flap 104 connected to the first side panel 102 and which will define a joining wing between the first side wall and the second side wall of the box. The first side panel 102 and the second side panel 103 are connected to the bottom panel 101 by creasing, pre-folding or weakening lines 105. The flap 104 is also connected to the first side panel 102 by a creasing, pre-folding or weakening line 105.

[0138] The blank 100 of figure 11 may be used to form a box integrating a lid. Similar to the blank of figure 10, the blank 100 comprises a bottom panel 101 which will define a bottom wall of the box, a first side panel 102 which will define a first side wall of the box and a second side panel 103 which will define a second side wall of the box. The blank 100 further comprises a flap 104 connected to the first side panel 102 and which will define a joining wing between the first side wall and the second side wall of the box. The first side panel 102 and the second side panel 103 are connected to the bottom panel 101 by creasing, pre-folding or weakening lines 105. The flap 104 is also connected to the first side panel 102 by a creasing, pre-folding or weakening line 105.

[0139] Regardless of the specific shape of the blank (the blanks of figure 10 and 11 have been represented to illustrate two possible examples), the assembly 10 is configured to make a vertex of a box on flat blanks in which there are a first side panel 102, a second side panel 103, a flap 104 connected to the first side panel 102 and a bottom wall 101 to which the first side panel 102 and the second side panel 103 are joined by creasing, pre-folding or weakening lines 105, as schematically illustrated in figure 2.

[0140] As illustrated in figure 2, the assembly 10 is configured so that it can be arranged below the blank of which a vertex of a box is to be formed.

[0141] The unit 10 comprises a first lifter 12, better illustrated in figure 3. The first lifter 12 is translatable along a first direction D1 . The first direction D1 is substantially perpendicular to a lying plane of the bottom panel of the blank 101 . The first lifter 12 is translatable in two directions along the first direction D1 , i.e. it is translatable away from and towards the support frame 11 . The first lifter 12 can only translate along the first direction D1 and the first direction D1 is a rectilinear direction. The first lifter 12 comprises a vertical wall 13 substantially perpendicular to the support frame 11 . The vertical wall 13 develops from a lower end of the first lifter 12, i.e. from an end of the lifter 12 closest to the support frame 11. The first lifter 12 further comprises an inclined wall 14 that reaches an upper end of the first lifter 12. The inclined wall 14 is connected, preferably without creating steps, to the vertical wall 13. The inclined wall 14 and the vertical wall 13 define, in combination, a substantially wedge-shaped conformation for the first lifter 12, with a vertex of such wedge placed substantially at an upper end of the first lifter 12. The unit 10 comprises a second lifter 15, better illustrated in figure 4. The second lifter 15 is translatable along a second direction D2. The second direction D2 is substantially perpendicular to a lying plane of the bottom panel of the blank 101. The second direction D2 is parallel to the first translation direction D1 of the first lifter 12. The second lifter 15 is translatable in two directions along the second direction D2, i.e. it is translatable away from and towards the support frame 11 . The second lifter 15 can only translate along the second direction D2 and the second direction D2 is a rectilinear direction. The second lifter 15 comprises a vertical wall 16 substantially perpendicular to the support frame 11 . The vertical wall 16 develops from a lower end of the second lifter 15, i.e. from an end of the second lifter 15 closest to the support frame 11. The second lifter 15 further comprises an inclined wall 17 that reaches an upper end of the second lifter 15. The inclined wall 17 is connected, preferably without creating steps, to the vertical wall 16. The inclined wall 17 and the vertical wall 16 define, in combination, a substantially wedge-shaped conformation for the second lifter 15, with a vertex of said wedge placed substantially at an upper end of the second lifter 15. The vertical wall 16 of the second lifter 15 is substantially perpendicular to the vertical wall 13 of the first lifter 12. The inclined wall 17 of the second lifter 15 is not perpendicular to the inclined wall 14 of the first lifter 12. The vertical wall 16 of the second lifter 15 lies on a plane perpendicular to the vertical wall 13 of the first lifter 12, the vertical wall 13 of the first lifter 12 being tangent to said plane. In other words, one side end of the vertical wall 13 of the first lifter 12 is aligned with the lying plane of the vertical wall 16 of the second lifter 15.

[0142] The assembly 10 comprises a third lifter 18, better illustrated in figure 5. The third lifter 18 is translatable along a third direction D3. The third direction D3 is substantially perpendicular to a lying plane of the bottom panel 101 of the blank. The third direction D3 is parallel to the second direction D2 and the first direction D1. The third lifter 18 is translatable in two directions along the third direction D3, i.e. it is translatable away from and towards the support frame 11 . The third lifter 18 can only translate along the third direction D3 and the third direction D3 is a rectilinear direction. The third lifter 18 comprises a vertical wall 19 substantially perpendicular to the support frame 11 . The vertical wall 19 develops from a lower end of the third lifter 18, i.e. from an end of the third lifter 18 closest to the support frame 11 . The third lifter 18 further comprises an inclined wall 20 that reaches an upper end of the third lifter 18. The inclined wall 20 is connected, preferably without creating steps, to the vertical wall 19. The inclined wall 20 and the vertical wall 19 define, in combination, a substantially wedge-shaped conformation for the third lifter 18, with a vertex of such wedge located substantially at an upper end of the third lifter 18. The vertical wall 19 of the third lifter 18 is substantially parallel to the vertical wall 13 of the first lifter 12. The inclined wall 20 of the third lifter 18 is perpendicular to the inclined wall 14 of the first lifter 12. The vertical wall 19 of the third lifter 18 lies on the same lying plane as the first vertical wall 13 of the first lifter 12. The inclined wall 20 of the third lifter 18 is substantially parallel to the inclined wall 14 of the first lifter 12.

[0143] The translations of the first lifter 12, the second lifter 15 and the third lifter 18 are actuated by a single motor member 21 , in particular by a single electric motor 22. As best seen in figure 3, the electric motor 22 is mounted on the support frame 11 through a mounting bracket 23. The mounting bracket 23 is constrained to the support frame 11 and develops away from the support frame 11 along a direction parallel to the first direction D1 . The electric motor 22 comprises a rotation shaft 24 which rotatably crosses the mounting bracket 23. A toothed wheel 25is splined on the rotation shaft 24 and is rotated by the electric motor 22.

[0144] To transmit motion to the first lifter 12, the second lifter 15 and the third lifter 18, the assembly 10 comprises a mechanical transmission 26.

[0145] As illustrated in figure 3, the mechanical transmission 26 comprises a slide 27 translatable along a fourth direction D4 due to the rotation of the toothed wheel 25 of the electric motor 22. In this regard, the mechanical transmission 26 comprises a rack 28 stably mounted on the slide 27 and arranged aligned to the fourth direction D4. The rack 28 is permanently coupled to the toothed wheel 25. The fourth direction D4 is parallel to the first direction D1 . The slide 27 is arranged perpendicularly to the support frame 11 and crosses the support frame 11 passing through a through opening 11 a thereof. A first rectilinear sliding guide 29 accompanies the slide 27 during its translation. The first rectilinear sliding guide 29 comprises a track 30 which develops parallel to the fourth direction D4 and which is integral with the support frame 11 (as illustrated in figure 5). A carriage 31 is slidably coupled to the track 30 and is constrained to the slide 27.

[0146] The first lifter 12 is mounted fixed on the slide 27. As illustrated in figure 3, the first lifter 12 is mounted to an upper end of the slide 27. The first lifter 12 thus translates integrally with the slide 27.

[0147] The mechanical transmission 26 further comprises a first slider 32 integral with the slide 27. The first slider 32 develops perpendicularly to the slide 27 and is translated by the slide 27 along the fourth direction D4 when the slide 27 translates. The first slider 32 is a substantially cylindrical body with its own axis of symmetry oriented perpendicularly to the slide 27. The first slider 32 then projects from the slide 27 in a direction perpendicular to the fourth direction D4. The mechanical transmission 26 comprises a first oblong slot 33 obtained in the second lifter 15 or in a plate mounted on the second lifter 15, as illustrated in figure 4. The first slider 32 is slidably received in the first oblong slot 33. The first slider 32 is free to slide, along a direction parallel to the second direction D2, inside the first oblong slot 33 between a first base abutment wall 34 and a first top abutment wall 35 of the first oblong slot 33. When the slide 27 translates, the first slider 32 translates with it and freely translates in the first oblong slot 33 until it reaches and contacts the first top abutment wall 35. When the first slider 32 reaches and contacts the first top abutment wall 35, a further translation of the slide 27 causes the lifting and the translation of the second lifter 15. A second rectilinear sliding guide 36 accompanies the second lifter 15 during its translation. The second rectilinear sliding guide 36 comprises a track 37 which develops parallel to the second direction D2 and which is integral with the support frame 11 (as illustrated in figure 4). A carriage 38 is slidably coupled to the track 37 and is constrained to the second lifter 15.

[0148] The mechanical transmission 26 further comprises a second slider 39 integral with the slide 27. The second slider 39 develops perpendicularly to the slide 27 and is translated by the slide 27 along the fourth direction D4 when the slide 27 translates. The second slider 39 is a substantially cylindrical body with its own axis of symmetry oriented perpendicularly to the slide 27. The second slider 39 then projects from the slide 27 in a direction perpendicular to the fourth direction D4. The second slider 39 is oriented perpendicular to the first slider 32. The mechanical transmission 26 comprises a second oblong slot 40 obtained in the third lifter 18 or in a plate mounted on the third lifter 18, as illustrated in figure 5. The second slider 39 is slidably received in the second oblong slot 40. The second slider 39 is free to slide, along a direction parallel to the third direction D3, inside the second oblong slot 40 between a second base abutment wall 41 and a second top abutment wall 42 of the second oblong slot 40. When the slide 27 translates, the second slider 39 translates with it and freely translates in the second oblong slot 40 until it reaches and contacts the second top abutment wall 42. When the second slider 39 reaches and contacts the second top abutment wall 42, a further translation of the slide 27 causes the lifting and the translation of the third lifter 18. The second oblong slot 40 has dimensions along the third direction D3 greater than the dimensions along the second direction D2 of the first oblong slot 33. The first top abutment wall 35 of the first oblong slot 33 is located at substantially the same distance from the support frame 11 of the second top abutment wall 42 of the second oblong slot 40. The first base abutment wall 34 of the first oblong slot 33 is located further away from the support frame 11 than the second base abutment wall 41 of the second oblong slot 40. The second slider 39 is located on the slide 27 closer to the support frame 11 than the first slider 32. A third rectilinear sliding guide 43 accompanies the third lifter 18 during its translation. The third rectilinear sliding guide 43 comprises a track 44 which develops parallel to the third direction D3 and which is integral with the support frame 11 (as illustrated in figure 5). A carriage 45 is slidably coupled to the track 44 and is constrained to the third lifter 18.

[0149] The assembly 10 comprises a support plane 46, illustrated in figure 1 , mounted on the support frame 11 and configured to contact the blank during the operations for forming the vertex of a box. The support plane 46 is located between the second lifter 15 and the third lifter 18. The support plane 46 comprises a suction member 47 configured to retain the bottom panel of a blank during the formation of the vertex of a box. The suction member 47 is, for example, a pneumatic suction cup 48 connected to a pneumatic line 49 capable of creating an air depression.

[0150] The second lifter 15 comprises a support element 50 configured to abut the first side panel 102 of the blank 100 when the first side panel 102 is raised by the second lifter 15. The support element 50 prevents the first side panel 102 (especially when large-sized) from flexing, tending to return to the original position, when raised by the second lifter 15.

[0151] The support element 50 is, in the preferred embodiment of the invention, substantially made by a rod that develops along a direction substantially parallel to the second direction D2. The support element 50 develops parallel to the vertical wall 16 of the second lifter 15 and is inserted in a housing 51 obtained in the second lifter 15. The support element 50 is movable between a lowered position and a plurality of raised positions. In the lowered position, the support element is contained in the second lifter 15. In the raised positions, the support element 50 is placed in elevation with respect to the second lifter 15. The lifter element 50 moves between the lowered position and the plurality of raised positions along a direction parallel to the second direction D2.

[0152] As schematically illustrated in figures 1 and 9, the support element is placed at the inclined wall 17 of the second lifter 15, in such a way as to be able to emerge from the inclined wall 17. When the support element 50 is in the lowered position, an upper end 50a of the support element 50 is substantially aligned with the inclined wall 17 of the second lifter 15, as shown in figure 1. When the support element is in a raised position, the upper end 50a of the support element 50 is in elevation with respect to the inclined wall 17 of the second lifter, as shown in figure 9. The lifter element 50 is set in motion by a preferably pneumatic actuator (not illustrated).

[0153] Figures 6 to 9 schematically illustrate a sequence of translations of the first lifter 12, the second lifter 15 and the third lifter 18 adapted to form a vertex of a box in accordance with the method for forming a vertex of a box of the present invention. Figure 6 illustrates an initial configuration in which the slide 27 is in a lowered position. In this configuration, a blank 100 is placed above the assembly 10 resting on the support plane 46 (not illustrated in figure 6) and held in place by the suction member 47 (not illustrated in figure 6). With the slide 27 in the lowered position, the upper end 12a of the first lifter 12, the upper end 15a of the second lifter 15 and the upper end 18a of the third lifter 18 are substantially aligned on a single parallel plane and coincident with the plane defined by the blank 100.

[0154] Figure 7 illustrates a configuration in which the slide 27 is in a first raised position. In this configuration, the first lifter 12 has been translated along the first direction D1 together with the slide 27. The inclined wall 14 of the first lifter 12 has, during the translation of the first lifter 12, intercepted and contacted the flap 104 of the blank. The inclined wall 14 of the first lifter 12 has therefore begun to fold the flap 104 of the blank 100 with respect to the first side panel 102 and with respect to the bottom panel 101 of the blank. In figure 7, for illustrative convenience, the flap 104 has been depicted with a dashed line. The flap 104 has been folded by an angle of less than 90° with respect to the lying plane of the blank 100 due to the inclination of the inclined wall 14 of the first lifter 12.

[0155] As illustrated in figure 7, the translation of the slide 27 in the first raised position has also caused the translation in the second direction D2 of the first slider 32 which, by sliding inside the first oblong slot 33, has reached the first top abutment wall 35 of the first oblong slot 33. This translation of the first slider 32 has caused no translation of the second lifter 15 which is still in the initial position. The translation of the slide 27 in the first raised position has also caused the translation in the third direction D3 of the second slider 39 which, by sliding inside the second oblong slot 40, has reached an intermediate position between the second base abutment wall 41 and the second top abutment wall 42 of the second oblong slot 40. This translation of the second slider 39 has caused no translation of the third lifter 18 which is still in the initial position.

[0156] Figure 8 illustrates a configuration in which the slide 27 is in a second raised position. The second raised position of the slide 27 brings the slide 27 farther from the support frame 11 than the first raised position. In this configuration, the first lifter 12 has been further translated along the first direction D1 together with the slide 27. The vertical wall 13 of the first lifter 12 has intercepted and contacted the flap 104 of the blank. The vertical wall 13 of the first lifter 12 has therefore folded the flap 104 of the blank 100 by about 90° with respect to the first side panel 102 and with respect to the bottom panel 101 of the blank. At the same time, the translation of the slide 27 in the second raised position has caused a further translation in the second direction D2 of the first slider 32 which, being in contact with the first top abutment wall 35 of the first oblong slot 33, has caused a translation in the second direction D2 of the second lifter 15. As depicted in figure 8, the inclined wall 17 of the second lifter 15 has, during the translation of the second lifter 15, intercepted and contacted the first side panel 102 of the blank. The inclined wall 17 of the second lifter 15 has therefore begun to fold the first side panel 102 with respect to the bottom panel 101 of the blank. The first side panel 102 has been folded by an angle of less than 90° with respect to the lying plane of the blank 100 due to the inclination of the inclined wall 17 of the second lifter 15, as illustrated in figure 8. The flap 104 is further rotated together with the first side panel 102, as illustrated in figure 8. The translation of the slide 27 in the second raised position has also caused the translation in the third direction D3 of the second slider 39 which, by sliding inside the second oblong slot 40, has reached and contacted the second top abutment wall 42 of the second oblong slot 40. This translation of the second slider 39 has caused no translation of the third lifter 18 which is still in the initial position.

[0157] Figure 9 illustrates a configuration in which the slide 27 is in a third raised position. The third raised position of the slide 27 brings the slide 27 farther away from the support frame 11 than the second raised position. In this configuration, the second lifter 15 has been further translated along the second direction D2 together with the slide 27. The vertical wall 16 of the second lifter 15 has intercepted and contacted the first side panel 102 of the blank. The vertical wall 16 of the second lifter 15 has therefore folded the first side panel 102 of the blank 100 by about 90° with respect to the bottom panel 101 of the blank. The support element 50 is placed in a raised position in such a way as to emerge from the inclined wall 17 of the second lifter 15 and act as a support for the first side panel 102 preventing the latter from flexing tending to return to the original position. The flap 104 has followed the rotation of the first side panel 102. As can be noted in figure 9, the second lifter 15 has, in essence, brought the flap 104 in front (for those looking at figure 9) of the second side panel 103 of the blank. At the same time, the translation of the slide 27 in the third raised position has caused a translation in the third direction D3 of the second slider 39 which, being in contact with the second top abutment wall 42 of the second oblong slot 40, has caused a translation in the third direction D3 of the third lifter 18. As depicted in figure 9, the inclined wall 20 of the third lifter 18 has, during the translation of the third lifter 18, intercepted and contacted the second side panel 103 of the blank. The inclined wall 20 of the third lifter 18 has therefore begun to fold the second side panel 103 with respect to the bottom panel of the blank 101 and toward the flap 104.

[0158] A further translation of the slide 27 brings the vertical wall 19 of the third lifter 18 to intercept and contact the second side panel 103 of the blank. The vertical wall 19 of the third lifter 18 then folds the second side panel 103 of the blank 100 by about 90° with respect to the bottom panel 101 of the blank, bringing the second side panel 103 to contact with the flap 104 and form the vertex of the box.

[0159] The vertex of the box is then formed by only translations along rectilinear directions of the first lifter 12, the second lifter 15 and the third lifter 18 which are actuated by using a single electric motor.

Claims

CLAIMS1 . Assembly (10) for forming a vertex of a box from a flat blank having a first side panel (102), a second side panel (103) and a flap (104) connected to the first side panel (102), said assembly (10) comprising: a first lifter (12) translatable with rectilinear motion along a first direction (D1 ) and configured to contact said flap (104) during a translation along said first direction (D1 ); a second lifter (15) translatable with rectilinear motion along a second direction (D2) and configured to contact said first side panel (102) during a translation along said second direction (D2); a third lifter (18) translatable with rectilinear motion along a third direction (D3) and configured to contact said second side panel (103) during a translation along said third direction (D3); a motor member (21 ) and a mechanical transmission (26) which connects said motor member (21 ) to said first lifter (12), second lifter (15) and third lifter (18) to translate said first lifter (12), second lifter (15) and third lifter (18).

2. Assembly (10) according to claim 1 , comprising a support plane (46) configured to supportingly receive a portion of a bottom panel (101 ) of said blank; said first direction (D1 ), said second direction (D2) and said third direction (D3) being perpendicular to said support plane (46).

3. Assembly (10) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein said mechanical transmission (26) comprises a slide (27) movable with rectilinear motion, between a lowered position and a plurality of raised positions, along a fourth direction (D4) parallel to said first direction (D1 ); said first lifter (12) being constrained in translation to said slide (27).

4. Assembly (10) according to claim 3, wherein said mechanical transmission (26) comprises a first slider (32) constrained to said slide (27), wherein said first slider (32) is inserted into a first oblong slot (33) integral with said second lifter (15); said first slider (32) freely sliding in said first oblong slot (33) when said slide (27) moves between said lowered position and a first raised position of said plurality of raised positions.

5. Assembly (10) according to claim 3 or 4, wherein said mechanical transmission (26) comprises a second slider (39) constrained to said slide (27), wherein said second slider (39) is inserted into a second oblong slot (40) integral with said third lifter (18); said second slider (39) freely sliding in said second oblong slot (40) when said slide (27) moves between said lowered position and a second raised position of said plurality of raised positions.

6. Assembly (10) according to claims 4 and 5, wherein said first raised position of said slide (27) is a position comprised between said lowered position and said second raised position.

7. Assembly (10) according to claims 4 and 5 or 6, wherein said first oblong slot (33) comprises a first top abutment wall (35) configured to be contacted by said first slider (32) and wherein said second oblong slot (40) comprises a second top abutment wall (42) configured to be contacted by said second slider (39); said first top abutment wall (35) being located at a first distance from said first slider (32) and said second top abutment wall (42) being located at a second distance from said second slider (39), said first distance being less than said second distance when said slide (27) is in the lowered position.

8. Assembly (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said first lifter (12) comprises a vertical wall (13) and an inclined wall (14) connected to said vertical wall (13), said inclined wall (14) being located at an upper end (12a) of the first lifter (12).

9. Assembly (10) according to claim 8, wherein said second lifter (15) comprises a vertical wall (16) and an inclined wall (17) connected to said vertical wall (16), said inclined wall (17) being located at an upper end (15a) of said second lifter (15) and said vertical wall (16) being perpendicular to the vertical wall (13) of the first lifter (12).

10. Assembly (10) according to claim 8 or 9, wherein said third lifter (18) comprises a vertical wall (19) and an inclined wall (20) connected to said vertical wall (19), said inclined wall (20) being located at an upper end (18a) of said third lifter (18) and said vertical wall (20) being parallel to the vertical wall (13) of the first lifter (12).

11. Assembly (10) according to claim 2, wherein said support plane (46) comprises a suction member (47) configured to retain said bottom panel (101 ) of the blank.

12. Assembly (10) according to claim 3, wherein said motor member (21 ) is an electric motor (22) comprising a rotation shaft (24) on which a toothed wheel (25) is splined; said mechanical transmission (26) comprising a rack (28) geared by said toothed wheel (25) and running along said fourth direction (D4); said rack (28) being integral with said slide (27).

13. Method for forming a vertex of a box from a flat blank having a first side panel (102), a second side panel (103) and a flap (104) connected to the first side panel (102), said method comprising:- arranging a motor member (21 ) kinematically connected via a mechanical transmission (26) to a first lifter (12), a second lifter (15) and a third lifter (18);- transmitting a translational motion to said first lifter (12) through said mechanical transmission (26) so that said first lifter (12) translates along a first direction (D1 ) to contact said flap (104);- transmitting a translational motion to said second lifter (15) through said mechanical transmission (26) so that said second lifter (15) translates along a second direction (D2) to contact said first side panel (102);- transmitting a translational motion to said third lifter (18) through said mechanical transmission (26) so that said third lifter (18) translates along a third direction (D3) to contact said second side panel (103), wherein said mechanical transmission (26) acts in order first on the first lifter (12), then on the second lifter (15) and then on the third lifter (18).

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