Machine and method for machining slabs

Abstract

Machine (100) for machining edges of slabs, a support frame (1), advancement members (2), mounted on the support frame (1) and defining a support surface (S) for a slab (L) to be machined, and a shaping station (3), mounted on the support frame (1) and configured to shape at least a first corner (L1) and a second corner (L2) of said slab (L) transverse to the support surface (S) and facing said shaping station (3). The advancement members (2) are configured to advance the slab (L) along a machining path (P) and the shaping station (3) comprises a support head (4) movable in space with respect to the support frame (1) to machine the first (L1) and the second (L2) corner of the slab (L) during the advancement thereof along the machining path (P).

Description

[0001] MACHINE AND METHOD FOR MACHINING SLABS DESCRIPTION

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present invention relates to a machine for machining corners of slabs. The present invention also relates to a method for machining corners of slabs.

[0004] Specifically, the present invention is included in the field of machining edges of slabs, finding application in the shaping, roughing and polishing of slabs made of marble, granite, hard stone or materials with high mechanical resistance.

[0005] More in detail, the present invention allows machining the corners of the slabs used as kitchen counters, shelves, windowsills, or, more generally, tops whose lateral edge must be shaped according to specific profiles, for example of toroidal, rounded, square section or according to articulated geometries for aesthetic or accident prevention reasons.

[0006] A slab develops along a respective lying plane and comprises edges defining respective longitudinal corners, parallel to the lying plane and defining in turn a width and a length of the slab, and corners defining transverse corners which are transverse to the lying plane and which define a thickness of the slab.

[0007] STATE OF THE ART

[0008] In some contexts, the transverse corners of the slabs are worked by hand by experienced operators.

[0009] However, manual working, in addition to causing high costs and machining times, can lead to defects and inaccuracies linked to human error.

[0010] Alternatively, automated machines are known for machining corners of slabs capable of machining the transverse corners thereof.

[0011] These machines require feeding the slab, arranging and constraining it on a work plane by means of appropriate retention means and, with the slab constrained and stationary, that is at zero speed, carrying out the machining of at least one transverse corner. While such an automated machine, on the one hand, overcomes the drawbacks of inaccuracies generated by manual working, on the other hand it does not reduce machining times or costs.

[0012] In addition, these types of machines are expensive to build, since they require the need to guide an advancement of the slab on a work plane to bring it to a machining zone, to control the stop of the slab at the aforementioned machining zone, to operate the roughing or finishing tools used to machine the corner, and to drive an advancement of the slab after machining.

[0013] In this context, the technical task of the present invention is to make available a machine and a method for machining corners of slabs that is able to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks.

[0014] Within this technical task, aim of the present invention is to propose a machine and an improved method for machining transverse corners of slabs that is able to guarantee reduced costs and / or machining times.

[0015] Aim of the present invention is to propose a machine for machining transverse corners of slabs that has a high degree of automation and consequent higher productivity.

[0016] The specified technical task and the specified purposes are substantially achieved by a machine for machining corners of slabs comprising the technical features set forth in one or more of the appended claims 1 to 9 and by a method for machining corners of slabs comprising the technical features set forth in one or more of the appended claims 10 and 11 .

[0017] The dependent claims correspond to possible embodiments of the invention.

[0018] SUMMARY

[0019] In particular, the present invention makes available a machine for machining edges of slabs.

[0020] The machine comprises a support frame.

[0021] The machine comprises advancement members, mounted on the support frame, which define a support surface for a slab to be machined; the support surface extends between a first end thereof and a second end thereof.

[0022] The advancement members are active along a machining path to advance the slab between a machining start position, corresponding to the first end of the support surface, and a machining end position, corresponding to the second end of the support surface.

[0023] The advancement members are active along the machining path to advance the slab along an advancement direction of the machining path.

[0024] The advancement members are active along the machining path to advance the slab at a predetermined speed along the machining path.

[0025] The machine comprises a shaping station mounted on the support frame along the machining path.

[0026] The shaping station is configured to shape at least a first corner and a second corner of the slab transverse to the support surface and facing the shaping station.

[0027] The shaping station comprises a support head movable in space with respect to the support frame.

[0028] The support head is movable along a drive plane.

[0029] The drive plane is parallel to the advancement direction of the slab.

[0030] The drive plane is orthogonal to the support surface defined by the advancement members.

[0031] The shaping station comprises at least two shaping members mounted on the support head.

[0032] The shaping members are active in a machining zone extending in length along one side of the advancement members.

[0033] The machining zone extends in length between the support surface and the drive plane of the support head.

[0034] The machining zone extends in height for an extension equal to the vertical dimension of the slab.

[0035] Each shaping member is provided with a respective tool adapted to remove material from the first and second corner of the slab. The first and second corner of the slab are both arranged within the machining zone.

[0036] Each shaping member is movable towards and away from the machining path respectively between an operating position and a non-operating position.

[0037] In the operating position, the tool is in the machining zone in contact with the first or second corner of the slab; in the non-operating position the tool is detached from the first or second corner.

[0038] The support head is movable along the machining path at least between an initial position and a final position, linearly displaced with respect to the initial position towards the second end of the support surface.

[0039] In the initial position, at least one of the tools comes into contact with the first or second corner to be machined; in the final position, the machining of the first or second corner is finished and both tools are brought into the non-operating position.

[0040] The support head is movable along the machining path at least between the final position and the initial position to reposition the shaping members towards the first end of the support surface.

[0041] The shaping members are also movable between a first and a second working position.

[0042] In the first working position, the tools are directed towards the first end of the support surface; in the second working position, the tools are directed towards the second end of the support surface.

[0043] In the first working position, at least one shaping member is in an operating position in contact with the first corner of the slab; in the second working position, at least one shaping member is in an operating position in contact with the second corner of the slab.

[0044] Advantageously, it is possible to machine both the first or second corner of the slab during a single transit of the slab along the advancement direction, with a consequent decrease in costs and machining times.

[0045] Preferably, the support head is movable along the machining path between the initial position and the final position at a speed substantially equal to the predetermined speed imparted to the slab by the advancement members.

[0046] The support head is movable along the machining path between the initial position and the final position, so as to maintain a contact of the tool of the shaping member in the operating position with the first and / or with the second corner of the slab during the advancement of the slab along the advancement direction.

[0047] Advantageously, it is possible to machine the slab during the advancement of the slab along the advancement direction, avoiding the need to stop the slab for the machining thereof, with a consequent decrease in costs and machining times.

[0048] Preferably, the support head is rotatable about a vertical axis, perpendicular to the support surface, between the first working position and the second working position.

[0049] Preferably, the support head is movable along the drive plane for moving, with respect to the support surface, each of the at least two shaping members between an activation position and a deactivation position.

[0050] The support head is movable linearly along the drive plane for moving, with respect to the support surface, each of the at least two shaping members between the activation position and the deactivation position.

[0051] The support head is movable linearly along a direction transverse to the advancement direction for moving vertically, with respect to the support surface, each of the at least two shaping members between the activation position and the deactivation position.

[0052] In the activation position, the shaping member is within the machining zone in order to be moved between the non-operating position and the operating position.

[0053] In the activation position, the shaping member is within the machining zone in order to be moved horizontally between the non-operating position and the operating position. In the deactivation position, the shaping member is outside the machining zone.

[0054] Preferably, the tool of at least one shaping member is rotatable about a respective axis of rotation when the shaping member is in the operating position, so as to remove material from the first and / or second corner of the slab during rotation.

[0055] Preferably, the machine comprises retaining means movable between a rest position and a holding position.

[0056] The rest position is distanced from the support surface; the holding position is near to the support surface.

[0057] In the rest position the retaining means are not in contact with the slab; in the holding position, the retaining means are in contact with the slab so as to retain the slab in a fixed position with respect to the support surface.

[0058] The retaining means can be moved along the advancement direction at a speed which is substantially equal to the predetermined speed imparted to the slab by the advancement members, so as to retain the slab during the advancement thereof along the advancement direction.

[0059] Preferably, the machine comprises a detector device configured to detect an identification parameter of the speed imparted by the advancement members to the slab.

[0060] The machine comprises a control unit, configured to receive the identification parameter from the detector device and to send an activation signal to at least one shaping member and / or to the support head according to the identification parameter received.

[0061] Thanks to the control unit and the detector device, the machine has a high degree of automation.

[0062] The present invention makes available a method for machining slabs.

[0063] The method can be performed by means of the machine.

[0064] The method comprises a step of providing at least one support head comprising at least two shaping members.

[0065] The method comprises a step of providing a slab to be machined on a support surface extending between a first end thereof and a second end thereof.

[0066] The step of providing the slab is carried out by positioning the slab so that a first and a second corner of the slab are transverse to the support surface and facing the at least two shaping members.

[0067] Each shaping member is provided with a respective tool for removing material from the first or second corner.

[0068] The method comprises a step of advancing the slab along an advancement direction at a predetermined speed between a machining start position, corresponding to a first end of the support surface, and a machining end position, corresponding to a second end of the support surface.

[0069] The method comprises a step of positioning the support head in a first working position, wherein the tools are directed towards the first end of the support surface and wherein a first shaping member is in an operating position, in contact with the first corner of the slab.

[0070] The method comprises a step of shaping the first corner by means of the tool of each of the at least two shaping members.

[0071] The step of shaping the first corner is performed by moving the support head from an initial position, proximal to the first end of the support surface, to a final position, linearly displaced with respect to the initial position towards the second end of the support surface.

[0072] The step of shaping the first corner comprises a step of removing material from the first corner using the tool of the first shaping member.

[0073] The step of shaping the first corner comprises moving the support head so as to move the first shaping member away from the first corner and to bring a second shaping member facing and in contact with the first corner. The movement of the support head takes place linearly.

[0074] The movement of the support head takes place along a direction transverse to the advancement direction, in order to move each of the at least two shaping members vertically with respect to the support surface, so as to move the first shaping member vertically away from the first corner, and to bring the second shaping member facing and in contact with the first corner.

[0075] The step of shaping the first corner comprises a step of removing material from the second corner using the tool of the second shaping member.

[0076] The method comprises a step of moving the support head from the final position to the initial position to reposition the shaping members towards the first end of the support surface.

[0077] The method comprises a step of moving the support head from the first working position to a second working position.

[0078] In the second working position, the tools are directed towards the second end of the support surface and a first shaping member is in an operating position in contact with the second corner of the slab.

[0079] The method comprises a step of shaping the second corner by means of the tool of each of the at least two shaping members.

[0080] The step of shaping the second corner is performed by moving the support head from the initial position to the final position.

[0081] The step of shaping the second corner comprises a step of removing material from the second corner using the tool of the first shaping member. The step of shaping the second corner comprises moving the support head so as to move the first shaping member away from the second corner and to bring a second shaping member facing and in contact with the second corner.

[0082] The movement of the support head takes place along a direction transverse to the advancement direction, in order to move each of the at least two shaping members vertically with respect to the support surface, so as to move the first shaping member vertically away from the second corner, and to bring the second shaping member facing and in contact with the second corner.

[0083] Preferably, the movement of the support head takes place linearly, more preferably along a direction transverse to the advancement direction, to move each of the at least two shaping members vertically with respect to the support surface, so as to move the first shaping member vertically away from the second corner, and to bring the second shaping member facing and in contact with the second corner.

[0084] The step of shaping the second corner comprises a step of removing material from the second corner using the tool of the second shaping member.

[0085] Preferably, the step of shaping the first corner and the step of shaping the second corner are performed during the advancement of the slab along the advancement direction.

[0086] The step of shaping the first corner and the step of shaping the second corner are performed by moving the support head at a speed substantially equal to the predetermined advancement speed of said slab, so as to maintain a contact between the tool of each shaping member in the operating position and the first or second corner being machined during the advancement of the slab along the advancement direction.

[0087] Further characteristics and advantages of the present invention will become clearer from the indicative, and therefore non-limiting, description of an embodiment of a machine and method for machining corners of slabs.

[0088] DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0089] Such description will be set forth herein below with reference to the accompanying drawings, provided for merely indicative and therefore nonlimiting purposes, wherein:

[0090] - figures 1 to 4 show a schematic rear perspective view of the machine subject-matter of the present invention in different working conditions;

[0091] - figures 5 to 8 show a schematic front perspective view of the machine subject-matter of the present invention in different working conditions.

[0092] DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION With reference to the attached figures, reference numeral 100 denotes a machine for machining edges of slabs as a whole which, within the scope of this description, will be referred to for simplicity as “machine 100”.

[0093] The machine 100 is therefore suitable for machining the edges of a slab

[0094] The term “edges” refers to portions of the slab “L” delimiting the slab “L” itself, i.e. defining an outer perimeter of the slab “L”.

[0095] In detail, the slab “L” extends along its own lying plane and is delimited by at least a first corner “L1 ” and by a second corner “L2”, both transverse to the lying plane.

[0096] The first “L1” and the second “L2” corner are opposite to each other and positioned on the same side of the slab “L”.

[0097] The slab “L” may comprise further own corners “L1 ”, “L2” and / or ribs “L3”, parallel to its lying plane and, therefore, transverse to the first “L1” and the second “L2” corner.

[0098] The corners “L1 ”, “L2” therefore identify a thickness of the slab “L”, while each rib “L3” identifies a length, or a width, of the slab “L”.

[0099] In other words, with reference to a horizontal lying plane (considered a reference system containing the machine), the corners “L1 ” and “L2” are orthogonal to the lying plane, therefore they are vertical (always with respect to the same reference system).

[0100] With reference to the attached figures, the machine 100 comprises a support frame 1 .

[0101] The support frame 1 is fixed (non-movable with respect to further components of the machine 100). The frame 1 is adapted to define a support base for the machine 100 and to support the components of the machine 100 described below.

[0102] The machine 100 is provided with advancement members 2 mounted on the support frame 1 and defining a support surface “S” for a slab “L” to be machined.

[0103] As schematically illustrated in Figures 5-8, the support surface “S” extends between a first end thereof “S1 ” and a second end thereof “S2”.

[0104] Preferably, the support surface “S” is horizontal.

[0105] The term “horizontal” means perpendicular to a direction along which the weight force is directed.

[0106] The advancement members 2 are active along a machining path “P” to advance the slab “L” between a machining start position, corresponding to the first end “S1 ” of the support surface “S”, and a machining end position, corresponding to the second end “S2” of the support surface “S”.

[0107] For example, the advancement members 2 are made in the form of a conveyor belt.

[0108] In order to drive the advancement members 2, the machine 100 comprises drive means 2a, operatingly connected to the advancement members 2 for driving them.

[0109] Preferably, the drive means 2a comprise an asynchronous or brushless motor.

[0110] The advancement members 2 are therefore adapted to move the slab “L” along the machining path “P”, which extends at least partially along the support surface “S”.

[0111] In more detail, the advancement members 2 are adapted to move the slab “L” along an advancement direction “X” of the machining path “P” at a predetermined speed.

[0112] Preferably, the machining path “P” is a linear path.

[0113] In order to machine the slab “L” along the machining path “P”, the machine 100 comprises a shaping station 3, mounted on the support frame 1 along the machining path “P”.

[0114] The shaping station 3 is configured to shape at least the first corner “L1 ” and the second corner “L2” of the slab “L”, which are arranged transversely to the support surface “S” and facing the shaping station 3.

[0115] The shaping station 3 comprises a support head 4 mounted on the support frame 1 .

[0116] The support head 4 is movable in space with respect to the support frame 1.

[0117] The support head 4 is movable along a drive plane parallel to the advancement direction “X” and / or orthogonal to the support surface “S”.

[0118] Therefore, the support head 4 is movable parallel to the advancement direction “X”.

[0119] The machine 100 comprises at least two shaping members 5, 6, each adapted to remove material from the first “L1” and from the second “L2” corner of the slab “L”.

[0120] With reference to figure 1 , the shaping members 5, 6 are mounted on the support head 4.

[0121] In order to remove material, each shaping member 5, 6 is provided with a respective tool 50, 60, configured to remove material from the first corner “L1 ” and the second corner “L2” when placed in contact with it.

[0122] In detail, each tool 50, 60 defines its own machining surface 50a, 60a adapted to operate at least partially in contact with the first “L1” and with the second “L2” corner.

[0123] Preferably, the machining surface 50a, 60a of each tool 50, 60 is arranged transversely, more preferably perpendicularly, with respect to the support surface “S”.

[0124] Alternatively, the machining surface 50a, 60a of each tool 50, 60 is arranged parallel to the support surface “S”.

[0125] In accordance with an embodiment not illustrated in the appended figures, the machine 100 comprises a curved guide on which the shaping members 5, 6 are slidably mounted. The curved guide is arranged on a plane parallel to the support surface “S” and has a curved portion with a concavity directed towards the support surface “S”; the tools 50, 60 are slidable at least along the curved portion at the same time. During a machining of the slab “L”, a corner “L1 ”, “L2” is at least partially arranged within the concavity of the curved guide and the shaping members 5, 6 during the sliding along the curved guide, come into contact one after the other with the corner “L1 ”, “L2” at least partially arranged within the concavity of the curved guide to machine it.

[0126] Preferably, the shaping members 5, 6 are suitable for carrying out respective machining operations different from each other of the first “L1 ” and the second “L2” corner.

[0127] In detail, the shaping members 5, 6 comprise a first shaping member 5, provided with a respective tool 50 adapted to perform a roughing machining of the first “L1 ” and the second “L2” corner, and a second shaping member 6, provided with a respective tool 60 adapted to perform a finishing machining of the first “L1 ” and the second “L2” corner.

[0128] Thus, the machining surfaces 50a, 60a are abrasive. In detail, the machining surface 50a of a tool 50 of a shaping member 5 has a different grain than the machining surface 60a of a tool 60 of another shaping member 6.

[0129] According to an embodiment not illustrated in the appended figures, the tools 50 and 60 each comprise a pair of spindles adapted to support an abrasive belt (for example of sandpaper) having a substantially annular shape. At least one spindle of the pair of spindles is rotatably drivable to cause a sliding of the abrasive belt on the pair of spindles themselves.

[0130] The shaping members 5, 6 may be more than two in number.

[0131] The shaping members 5, 6 are active in a machining zone “Z” (schematically illustrated in Figure 1 ) extending in length along one side of the advancement members 2.

[0132] The machining zone “Z” extends between the support surface “S” and the drive plane of the support head 4.

[0133] In more detail, the machining zone “Z” extends between a lateral edge of the support surface “S” and the drive plane of the support head 4.

[0134] The machining zone “Z” therefore extends along the machining path “P” and, preferably, has an extension substantially equal to the extension of the machining path “P” along the advancement direction “X”.

[0135] The machining zone “Z” extends in height for an extension equal to the vertical dimension of the slab “L”. In detail, the slab “L” is arranged cantilevered with respect to the support surface “S”, so that the first corner “L1 ” and the second corner “L2” are not in contact with the support surface “S” (are therefore external with respect to our conveyor) and are at the same time arranged within the machining zone “Z”.

[0136] Preferably, a portion of the slab “L”, at least partially delimited by the first “L1 ” and the second “L2” corner and having an overall dimension comprised between 10mm and 60mm, overhangs from the support surface “S”.

[0137] The tools 50, 60 of the shaping members 5, 6 are adapted to remove material from the first “L1 ” and the second “L2” corner arranged in the machining zone “Z”.

[0138] In detail, with reference to Figures 4 and 6, each shaping member 5, 6 is movable towards and away from the machining path “P” respectively between an operating position and a non-operating position.

[0139] When a shaping member 5, 6 is in the operating position (schematically illustrated in Figure 6), the respective tool 50, 60 is arranged within the machining zone “Z” and is in contact with one of the first “L1 ” and second “L2” corner.

[0140] When a shaping member 5, 6 is in the non-operating position (schematically illustrated in Figure 4), the respective tool 50, 60 is detached from one of the first “L1 ” and second “L2” corner.

[0141] In other words, in the operating position the machining surface 50a, 60a defined by the tool 50, 60 is at least partially in contact with one of the first “L1” and second “L2” corner.

[0142] Preferably, the shaping members 5, 6 are movable between the operating and non-operating positions along a direction transverse, more preferably orthogonal, to the drive plane of the machining head 4.

[0143] Preferably, the shaping members 5, 6 are movable between the operating and non-operating positions along a horizontal direction.

[0144] In order to move the shaping members 5, 6 between the operating and non-operating positions, the machine 100 comprises movement means 56 operatingly connected to the shaping members 5, 6.

[0145] Preferably, the movement means 56 comprise a pneumatic actuator or an electric motor.

[0146] With reference to Figures 2, 3, 6, 7, the support head 4 is movable along the machining path “P” at least between an initial position and a final position, linearly displaced with respect to the initial position towards the second end “S2” of the support surface “S”.

[0147] In the initial position, at least one of the tools 50, 60 comes into contact with the first “L1 ” or with the second “L2” corner to be machined.

[0148] In the final position, the machining of the first “L1 ” or the second “L2” corner is finished and both tools 50, 60 move into the non-operating position.

[0149] In other words, the initial position is proximal to the first end “S1 ” of the support surface “S”, while the final position is proximal to the second end “S2” of the support surface “S”.

[0150] In the initial position, the movement means 56 are driven to bring one of the shaping members 5, 6 into the operating position.

[0151] In the final position, the movement means 56 are driven to bring all the shaping members 5, 6 into the non-operating position.

[0152] The support head 4 is movable along the machining path “P” at least between the final position and the initial position to reposition the shaping members 5, 6 towards the first end “S1 ”.

[0153] In other words, the support head 4 is movable:

[0154] - from the initial position to the final position to perform at the same time a machining of the first corner “L1 ” (figures 2 and 3);

[0155] - from the final position to the initial position to return to the initial position;

[0156] - from the initial position to the final position to simultaneously perform a machining of the second corner “L2” (figures 6, 7).

[0157] Preferably, the support head 4 is moved between the initial position and the final position at a speed substantially equal to the predetermined speed imparted to the slab “L” by the advancement members 2, so as to maintain a contact of the tool 50, 60 of the shaping member 5, 6 in the operating position with the first corner “L1 ” and / or with the second corner “L2” during the advancement of the slab “L” along the advancement direction “X”.

[0158] The support head 4 is therefore movable between the initial and final positions to follow the slab “L” moved by the advancement members 2 and to allow a machining of the slab “L” during this pursuit.

[0159] There is therefore no need to block the slab “L” with respect to the support frame 1 along the machining path to perform a machining of the first “L1 ” and the second “L2” corner during the transit of the slab “L” along the machining path “P”.

[0160] In order to move the support head 4 between the initial and final positions, the machine 100 comprises translation means 40 (visible in figures 5-8) operatingly connected to the support head 4.

[0161] Preferably, the translation means 40 comprise a pneumatic actuator or an electric motor.

[0162] Preferably, the support frame 1 comprises at least one guide 1a (visible in figures 5-8) and the support head 4 is connected to the frame by means of sliding shoes along the guide 1 a: the translation means 40 are therefore active on the sliding shoes to cause their sliding along the guide 1 a which, therefore, guides a movement of the support head 4 between the initial and final positions.

[0163] With reference to figures 4 and 5, the shaping members 5, 6 are movable between a first working position (illustrated in figures 1 -4) and a second working position (illustrated in figures 5-8).

[0164] In the first working position, the respective tools 50, 60 are directed towards the first end “S1 ” of the support surface “S” and at least one shaping member 5, 6 is in an operating position in contact with the first corner “L1 ” of the slab “L”.

[0165] In the second working position, the tools 50, 60 are directed towards the second end “S2” of the support surface “S” and at least one shaping member 5, 6 is in an operating position in contact with the second corner “L2” of the slab “L”.

[0166] The shaping members 5, 6 are therefore orientable in space, to adjust an orientation of the tools 50, 60 with respect to the support surface “S”.

[0167] In other words, in the first working position, the machining surface 50a, 60a of each tool 50, 60 is positioned facing the first end “S1 ” to operate at least partially in contact with the first corner “L1 ”, while in the second working position, the machining surface 50a, 60a of each tool 50, 60 is positioned facing the second end “S2” to operate at least partially in contact with the second corner “L2”.

[0168] In order to move the shaping members between the first and second working positions, the machine 100 comprises orientation means 41 (visible in figures 1 -4).

[0169] Preferably the orientation means 41 comprise at least one pneumatic actuator or an electric motor.

[0170] In accordance with an embodiment not illustrated in the appended figures, the first shaping member 5 is movable independently of the second shaping member 6, and vice versa. In detail, in order to move each shaping member 5, 6 between the operating and non-operating positions, the machine 100 comprises first movement means 56, operatingly connected to a first shaping member 5, and second movement means 56 operatingly connected to a second shaping member 6. In order to move each shaping member 5, 6 between the first and second working positions, the machine 100 comprises first orientation means 41 , operatingly connected to a first shaping member 5, and second orientation means 41 , operatingly connected to a second shaping member 6. The first and second movement means 56, as well as the first and second orientation means 41 , are drivable independently of each other, so as to move the first shaping member 5 independently of the second shaping member 6 and vice versa. In accordance with an embodiment illustrated in the appended figures, the shaping members 5, 6 are integral with each other.

[0171] As illustrated in the appended figures, the support head 4 comprises a slab 4a movable with respect to the support frame 1 ; the shaping members 5, 6 are carried by the slab 4a.

[0172] The movement means 56 are operatingly connected to the slab 4a to move it towards and away from the machining path “P” so as to move both elements towards and away from the machining path “P”.

[0173] Preferably, the movement means 56 are configured to move the slab 4a along a horizontal direction.

[0174] Therefore, as can be seen in figures 3 and 4, 5 and 6, when the slab 4a is moved towards the machining path “P” in order to bring a shaping member 5, 6 into the operating position in contact with the first “L1” or the second “L2” corner, at the same time another shaping member 5, 6 is brought towards the machining path “P” in the void, that is, without it being brought into contact with the first “L1 ” or the second “L2” corner. Therefore, when one shaping member 5, 6 is brought into operating position within the machining zone “Z”, the other shaping member 5, 6 is brought towards the machining path “P” but outside the machining zone “Z”.

[0175] As can be seen in figures 4 and 5, the orientation means 41 are operatingly connected to the support head 4 to move the support head 4 (and therefore also the slab 4a) integrally and bring both shaping members 5, 6 simultaneously between the first and the second working position.

[0176] Preferably, the orientation means 41 comprise a pin (not shown in the appended figures) integral with the support frame 1 , insertable inside the support head 4 to constrain it in the first, or in the second, working position, and disengageable from the support head 4 to allow a movement thereof between the first and the second working position.

[0177] In accordance with an aspect of the present invention, and with reference to figures 1 -4, the support head 4 is rotatable around a vertical axis “V”, perpendicular to the support surface “S” between the first working position and the second working position.

[0178] Preferably, the support head 4 is rotatable around the vertical axis “V” by an angle comprised between 20° and 100°, more preferably comprised between 30° and 95°.

[0179] Preferably, the support head 4 is rotatable around the vertical axis “V” by an angle equal to 45° or 90°.

[0180] This rotation is measured with respect to a reference position of the support head 4; in the reference position the support head 4 is positioned with the slab 4a arranged perpendicularly with respect to the support surface “S”.

[0181] With reference to figures 2, 3, 6, 7, in order to machine the first corner “L1 ” and / or the second corner “L2” with both shaping members 5, 6, the support head 4 is movable along the drive plane linearly along a direction transverse to the advancement direction “X”, to move each of the shaping members 5, 6 between an activation position and a deactivation position.

[0182] Preferably, the shaping members 5, 6 are movable between the activation and deactivation positions along a vertical direction.

[0183] The terms “vertical” and “vertically” mean a direction parallel to the direction along which the weight force is directed.

[0184] In the activation position, a shaping member 5, 6 is within the machining zone “Z”, in order to be moved between the non-operating position and the operating position.

[0185] In the deactivation position, a shaping member 5, 6 is outside the machining zone “Z”.

[0186] For example, in figure 6, the shaping member 5 is in the activation position and the shaping member 6 is in the deactivation position.

[0187] The support head 4 is therefore movable towards and away from the support surface “S”, along the drive plane, to move each of the shaping members 5, 6 between the activation and deactivation positions.

[0188] Preferably, the support head 4 is movable along the drive plane and along a vertical direction to vertically move each of the shaping members 5, 6 between the activation and deactivation positions.

[0189] In order to move the machining head 4, so as to consequently move the shaping members 5, 6 between the activation and deactivation positions, the machine 100 comprises displacement means 42 (visible in figures 1 - 4), operatingly connected to the machining head 4.

[0190] Preferably the displacement means 42 comprise a pneumatic actuator or an electric motor.

[0191] Preferably, the displacement means 42 are configured to move the shaping members 5, 6 along a vertical direction.

[0192] In order to chamfer the first “L1 ” or the second “L2” corner, the tool 50, 60 of at least one shaping member 5, 6 is rotatable about a respective axis of rotation when the shaping member 5, 6 itself is in the operating position.

[0193] In detail, the tool 50, 60 is rotatable around a respective axis of rotation transverse, preferably orthogonal, to the advancement direction “X”.

[0194] In order to optimize a machining of the slab “L”, the machine 100 comprises retaining means 7 movable between a rest position and a holding position. The retaining means 7 are configured to keep the slab “L” in a fixed position with respect to the support surface “S” and, in particular, with respect to the advancement members 2, in such a way that the slab “L” is stationary with respect to them (and therefore with respect to the conveyor belt) and moves with the latter at the same speed.

[0195] In the rest position (illustrated in figures 1 , 4, 5 and 8), the retaining means 7 are moved away from the support surface “S” and are not in contact with the slab “L”.

[0196] In the holding position (illustrated in figures 2, 3, 6 and 7), the retaining means 7 are moved near to the support surface “S” and are in contact with the slab “L” so as to retain the slab “L” in a fixed position with respect to the support surface “S”.

[0197] The retaining means 7 are preferably movable along the advancement direction “X” at a speed substantially equal to the predetermined speed imparted to the slab “L” by the advancement members 2, so as to retain the slab “L” during the advancement thereof along the advancement direction “X”.

[0198] The retaining means 7 are therefore movable together with the slab “L” along the advancement direction “X”.

[0199] In order to move the retaining means 7 along the advancement direction “X”, the retaining means 7 themselves are operatingly connected to the translation means 40, configured to move the support head 4 between the initial and final positions.

[0200] Preferably, the retaining means 7 comprise at least one hydraulic actuator 7a and a holding plate 7b: the hydraulic actuator 7a is configured to move the holding plate 7b towards and away from the support surface “S”.

[0201] Alternatively, the retaining means 7 comprise at least one pneumatic, or electric, actuator and the holding plate 7b: the pneumatic, or electric, actuator is active on the holding plate 7b to move the holding plate 7b towards and away from the support surface “S”.

[0202] In the holding position, the holding plate 7b is moved near to the support surface “S” and in contact with the slab “L”.

[0203] In the rest position, the holding plate 7b is moved away from the support surface “S” and not in contact with the slab “L”.

[0204] Preferably, the machine 100 comprises first and second retaining means 7 linearly spaced apart from one another along the advancement direction “X”.

[0205] The first retaining means 7 are adapted to come into contact, in the holding position, with a portion of the slab “L” proximal to the first corner “L1”.

[0206] The second retaining means 7 are adapted to come into contact, in the holding position, with a portion of the slab “L” proximal to the second corner “L2”.

[0207] Preferably, the first and second retaining means 7 are integral with each other.

[0208] Alternatively, the retaining means 7 comprise idle rollers (not shown in the appended figures) fixed to the support frame 1 at a distance from the support surface “S” equal to a dimension of the transverse corners of the slab “L” so as to come into contact with the slab “L” during its transit along the machining path “P”.

[0209] In accordance with an aspect of the present invention, the machine 100 comprises a detector device 8, configured to detect at least one working parameter of the machine 100, and a control unit, configured to receive from the detector device 8 (visible in figures 1 -4) the working parameter detected and to send an activation signal to at least one shaping member 5, 6 and / or to the support head 4 and / or to the retaining means 7 according to the working parameter received.

[0210] Preferably, the working parameter is an identification parameter of the speed imparted by the advancement members 2 on the slab “L”.

[0211] The detector device 8 therefore comprises an encoder operatingly connected to the advancement members 2 to measure the speed imparted by the advancement members 2 on the slab “L”.

[0212] In detail, the detector device 8 is configured to send to the control unit the identification parameter of the speed imparted by the advancement members 2 to the slab “L” and the control unit is operatingly connected with the support head 4 to drive its movement between the initial position and the final position according to the identification parameter received.

[0213] In more detail, the control unit is operatingly connected with the translation means 40 to drive the translation means 40 according to the identification parameter received.

[0214] Preferably, the working parameter is a parameter selected from one or more of: an identification parameter of at least one dimension, for example selected from the width, length and thickness, of the slab “L”, an identification parameter of a positioning of the slab “L” along the machining path “P”.

[0215] The detector device 8 thus comprises a sensor configured to detect a dimension of the slab “L”, such as for example a photographic sensor, and / or a sensor configured to detect a positioning of the slab “L”, such as for example a position sensor.

[0216] In detail, the detector device 8 is configured to:

[0217] - send to the control unit the identification parameter, and the control unit is operatingly connected with the shaping members 4, 5 and / or with the support head 4 to drive a movement thereof between the first and second working position according to the identification parameter received; and / or

[0218] - send to the control unit the identification parameter, and the control unit is operatingly connected to the shaping members 4, 5 and / or to the support head 4 to drive a movement thereof between the operating position and the non-operating position according to the identification parameter received;

[0219] - send to the control unit the identification parameter, and the control unit is operatingly connected with the support head 4 to drive a movement thereof to move the shaping members between the activation and deactivation positions according to the identification parameter received.

[0220] In more detail, the control unit is operatingly connected with the orientation means 41 for driving the orientation means 41 according to the identification parameter received, and / or with the movement means 56 for driving the movement means 56 according to the identification parameter received and / or with the displacement means 42 for driving the displacement means 42 according to the identification parameter received. Preferably, the machine 100 comprises a user interface device (not illustrated in the appended figures), adapted to allow an operator to enter one or more working parameters selected from: a machining sequence of the first “L1 ” and / or the second “L2” corner of the slab “L” by means of the at least two shaping members 5, 6, a machining timing of the first “L1” and / or the second “L2” corner of the slab “L” by means of the at least two shaping members 5, 6.

[0221] Preferably, said machining timings are equal to an interval comprised between 1 second and 5 seconds, more preferably equal to 2 seconds, of contact between each tool 50, 60 and the first “L1” or the second “L2” corner of the slab “L”.

[0222] In detail, the user interface device is configured to send to the control unit the entered working parameter and the control unit is operatingly connected with the support head 4 to drive a movement thereof adapted to move the shaping members 5, 6 between the activation position and the deactivation position, and / or between the operating position and the nonoperating position, depending on the working parameter received.

[0223] In more detail, the control unit is operatingly connected with the displacement means 42 to drive the displacement means 42 according to the identification parameter received and / or with the movement means 56 to drive the movement means 56 according to the parameter received.

[0224] The present invention makes available a method for machining slabs, performed by means of the machine 100.

[0225] The method comprises a step of providing the slab “L” on the support surface “S”.

[0226] With reference to figure 1 , the method comprises a step of advancing the slab “L” along an advancement direction “X”.

[0227] The step of advancing the slab “L” is carried out by means of the advancement members 2 of the machine 100. In detail, the step of advancing the slab “L” is carried out by driving the drive means 2a.

[0228] The step of advancing the slab “L” is carried out by advancing the slab “L” at a predetermined speed.

[0229] The slab “L” is advanced between a machining start position, corresponding to a first end “S1 ” of the support surface “S”, and a machining end position, corresponding to a second end “S2” of the support surface “S”.

[0230] The method also comprises a step of providing the support head 4.

[0231] With reference to figure 2, the support head 4 is positioned in the first working position, in which the shaping members 5, 6 are directed towards the first end “S1 ” of the support surface “S” and in which the tool 50 of a first shaping member 5, 6 is in contact with the first corner “L1 ”.

[0232] With reference to figures 2 and 3, the method comprises a step of shaping the first corner “L1 ” of the slab “L” by means of the tool 50, 60 of each shaping member 5, 6.

[0233] The step of shaping the first corner “L1 ” is carried out during the advancement of the slab “L” from the entry position to the terminal position.

[0234] The step of shaping the first corner “L1 ” is therefore performed by moving the support head 4 from the initial position, proximal to the first end “S1 ” of the support surface “S”, to the final position, linearly displaced with respect to said initial position towards the second end “S2” of the support surface “S”.

[0235] The step of shaping the first corner “L1 ” comprises several sub-steps, carried out during the movement of the support head 4 from the initial position to the final position.

[0236] The step of shaping the first corner “L1 ” comprises removing material from the first corner “L1 ” using the tool 50 of the aforementioned first shaping member 5 (as schematically illustrated in figure 2).

[0237] Once the removal of material from the first corner “L1 ” using the tool 50 of the first shaping member 5 has been completed, with reference to figure 3, the support head 4 is moved linearly with respect to the support surface “S”, in order to move the first shaping member 5 away from the first corner “L1” and to bring a second shaping member 6 facing the first corner “L1 ”. Preferably, the step of moving the support head 4 is performed by moving the support head 4 along a direction transverse to the advancement direction “X”, to vertically move each shaping member 5, 6.

[0238] Subsequent to, or simultaneously with, this movement of the support head 4, the method comprises a step of bringing the tool 60 of the second shaping member 6 into contact with the first corner “L1 ” and a step of removing material from the first corner “L1 ” using the tool 60 of the second shaping member 6 (as schematically illustrated in Figure 3). With reference to Figure 4, once the removal of material from the first corner “L1 ” using the tool 60 of the second shaping member 6 has been completed, the support head 4 is moved so as to bring both shaping members 5, 6 into the non-operating position, in which they are moved away from the slab “L” along a direction orthogonal to the advancement direction “X” and, preferably, parallel to the support surface “S”.

[0239] In order to machine the second corner “L2” with reference to Figure 5, the method comprises a step of positioning the support head 4 in the second working position, in which the shaping members 5, 6 are directed towards the second end “S2” of the support surface “S” and the first shaping tool 50 is in contact with the second corner “L2”.

[0240] The method comprises a step of moving the support head 4 from the final position to the initial position to reposition the shaping members 5, 6 towards the first end “S1 ” of said support surface “S”. This step is carried out simultaneously, before or after the step of positioning the support head 4 in the second working position.

[0241] The support head 4 is then moved backwards with respect to the movement imparted to the support head 4 during the step of shaping the first corner “L1 ”.

[0242] With reference to Figures 6 and 7, a step of shaping the second corner “L2” of the slab “L” by means of the tool 50, 60 of each shaping member 5, 6 is then provided.

[0243] The step of shaping the second corner “L2” is carried out during the advancement of the slab “L” from the entry position to the terminal position.

[0244] The step of shaping the second corner “L2” is therefore performed by moving the support head 4 from the initial position, proximal to the first end “S1” of the support surface “S”, to the final position, linearly displaced with respect to said initial position towards the second end “S2” of the support surface “S”.

[0245] Similarly to the step of shaping the first corner “L1 ”, the step of shaping the second corner “L2” comprises several steps, performed during a movement of the support head 4 from the initial position to the final position.

[0246] The step of shaping the second corner “L2” comprises removing material from the second corner “L2” using the tool 50 of the aforementioned first shaping member 5 (as schematically illustrated in Figure 6).

[0247] The step of shaping the second corner “L2” comprises, once the removal of material from the second corner “L2” using the tool 50 of the first shaping member 5 has been completed, moving the support head 4 linearly with respect to the support surface “S”, in order to move the first shaping member 5 away from the second corner “L2” and to bring a second shaping member 6 facing the second corner “L2”.

[0248] Preferably, the step of moving the support head 4 is performed by moving the support head 4 along a direction transverse to the advancement direction “X”, to vertically move each shaping member 5, 6.

[0249] Subsequent to or simultaneously with this movement of the support head 4, the method comprises a step of bringing the second member into operating position, so that the respective tool 60 is in contact with the second corner “L2”, and a step of removing material from the second corner “L2” using the tool 60 of the second shaping member 6 (as schematically illustrated in Figure 7).

[0250] Preferably, during the steps of the method the slab “L” advances continuously along the advancement direction “X”. In other words, the slab “L” is never stopped during the machining of the first “L1” and the second “L2” corner.

[0251] Advantageously, the present invention is capable of overcoming the drawbacks emerged from the prior art.

[0252] Advantageously, the machine 100 allows the slab “L” to be machined in reduced machining times thanks to the support head 4 which, being movable along the advancement direction between the initial and final positions, allows the corners “L1 ”, “L2” of the slab “L” to be shaped without the need to stop the slab “L” along the machining path.

[0253] Advantageously, the machine 100 allows the slab “L” to be machined in reduced machining times thanks to the support head 4 which, being movable between the first and second working positions, allows both the first “L1” and the second “L2” corner of the slab “L” to be shaped during a single and unique transit of the slab “L” along the machining path “P”.

[0254] Advantageously, the machine 100 allows the slab “L” to be machined precisely thanks to the at least two shaping members 5, 6 and the movable support head 4 to move each of the at least two shaping members 5, 6 between the activation and deactivation positions.

[0255] The machine 100 and the method therefore allow slabs “L” to be machined in an efficient, automated manner and at reduced costs.

Claims

CLAIMS1 . Machine (100) for machining edges of slabs comprising:- a support frame (1 );- advancement members (2), mounted on the support frame (1 ) and defining a support surface (S) for a slab (L) to be machined, said support surface (S) extending between a first end (S1) thereof and a second end (S2) thereof; wherein the advancement members (2) are active along a machining path (P) to advance said slab (L) between a machining start position, corresponding to the first end (S1) of the support surface (S), and a machining end position, corresponding to the second end (S2) of the support surface (S), along an advancement direction (X) of said machining path (P) at a predetermined speed;- a shaping station (3), mounted on said support frame (1 ) along said machining path (P), configured to shape at least a first corner (L1) and a second corner (L2) of said slab (L); said first (L1 ) and second (L2) corners being transverse to the support surface (S) and facing said shaping station (3); said shaping station (3) comprising:- a support head (4) movable in space with respect to said support frame (1 ) and along a drive plane parallel to the advancement direction (X) of said slab (L) and orthogonal to the support surface (S) defined by said advancement members (2);- at least two shaping members (5, 6) mounted on said support head (4) and active in a machining zone (Z) extending in length along one side of said advancement members, between said support surface (S) and said drive plane of said support head (4) and in height for an extension equal to the vertical dimension of said slab, wherein each shaping member (5, 6) is provided with a respective tool (50, 60) adapted to remove material from each of said first (L1 ) and second (L2) corners arranged in said machining zone (Z), and wherein each shaping member (5, 6) is movable towards and away from the machining path (P) respectivelybetween an operating position, in which the respective tool (50 60) is in the machining zone (Z) in contact with one of said first (L1 ) and second (L2) corners of the slab (L) facing said shaping station (3), and a nonoperating position, wherein the respective tool (50, 60) is detached from one of said first (L1 ) and second (L2) corners; said support head (4) being movable along said machining path (P) at least between an initial position, at which at least one of said tools (50, 60) comes into contact with the first (L1 ) or the second (L2) corner to be machined, and a final position linearly displaced with respect to said initial position towards the second end (S2) of said support surface (S), at which the machining of the first (L1 ) or of the second (L2) corner is terminated and both tools (50, 60) move to the non-operating position; said support head (4) being further movable along said machining path (P) at least between said final position and said initial position to reposition said shaping members (5, 6) towards the first end (S1) of said support surface (S); said shaping members (5, 6) also being movable between:- a first working position, wherein said tools (50, 60) are directed towards said first end (S1) of the support surface (S), and wherein at least one shaping member (5, 6) is in the operating position in contact with said first corner (L1 ) of the slab (L), and- a second working position, wherein said tools (50, 60) are directed towards said second end (S2) of the support surface (S), and wherein at least one shaping member (5, 6) is in the operating position in contact with said second corner (L2) of the slab (L).

2. Machine (100) according to claim 1 , wherein said support head (4) is movable along said machining path (P) between said initial position and said final position at a speed substantially equal to said predetermined speed imparted to the slab (L) by said advancement members (2), so as to maintain a contact of said tool (50, 60) of said shaping member (5, 6) inthe operating position with said first corner (L1 ) and / or with said second corner (L2) during the advancement of the slab (L) along the feed direction (X).

3. Machine (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the support head (4) is rotatable about a vertical axis (V), perpendicular to the support surface (S), between the first working position and the second working position.

4. Machine (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the support head (4) is further movable, along said drive plane, linearly along a direction transverse to the advancement direction (X), for moving vertically with respect to said support surface (S) each of said at least two shaping members (5, 6) between an activation position, at which one of said two shaping members (5, 6) is in said machining zone (Z), in order to be moved horizontally between said non-operating position and said operating position, and a deactivation position at which said shaping member (5, 6) is outside said machining zone (Z).

5. Machine (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the tool (50, 60) of the at least one shaping member (5, 6) is rotatable about a respective axis of rotation when said at least one shaping member (5, 6) is in the operating position, so as to remove material from at least one of said first corner (L1 ) and second corner (L2) of the slab (L) with which said tool (50, 60) is in contact in the operating position.

6. Machine (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each tool (50, 60) defines its own machining surface (50a, 60a) arranged transversely with respect to the support surface (S), wherein said machining surface (50a, 60a) is adapted to operate at least partially in contact with the first corner (L1 ) in the first working position and with the second corner (L2) in the second working position.

7. Machine (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising retaining means (7) movable between a rest position, distanced from said support surface (S) wherein said retaining means (7) are not in contact with said slab (L), and a holding position, near to said support surface (S) wherein said retaining means (7) are in contact with the slab (L) so as to hold the slab (L) in a fixed position with respect to said support surface (S), the retaining means (7) being movable along the advancement direction (X) at a speed substantially equal to said predetermined speed imparted to the slab (L) by said advancement members (2) so as to retain the slab (L) during its movement along the advancement direction (X).

8. Machine (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said at least two shaping members (5, 6) comprise:- a first shaping member (5) provided with a respective tool (50) for roughing the first (L1 ) and / or the second (L2) corner of the slab (L);- a second shaping member (6) provided with a respective tool (60) adapted to perform the finishing process on the first (L1 ) and / or the second (L2) corner of the slab (L).

9. Machine (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a detector device (8), configured to detect an identification parameter of the speed imparted by said advancement members (2) to said slab (L), and a control unit, configured to receive from the detector device (8) the identification parameter and to send an activation signal to at least one shaping member (5, 6) and / or to the support head (4) according to the identification parameter received.

10. Method for machining slabs comprising the steps of:- providing at least one support head (4) comprising at least two shaping members (5, 6);- providing a slab (L) to be machined on a support surface (S), extending between a first end (S1) thereof and a second end (S2) thereof, by positioning said slab (L) so that a first (L1 ) and a second (L2) corner of said slab (L) are transverse to said support surface (S) and facing said at least two shaping members (5, 6); each shaping member (5, 6) being provided with a respective tool (50, 60) for removing material from each of said first (L1 ) and second (L2) corners;- advancing said slab (L) along an advancement direction (X) at a predetermined speed between a machining start position, corresponding to the first end (S1) of the support surface (S), and a machining end position, corresponding to the second end (S2) of the support surface (2);- positioning said support head (4) in a first working position, wherein said tools (50, 60) are directed towards said first end (S1) of the support surface (S) and wherein a first shaping member (5, 6) is in an operating position, in contact with said first corner (L1 ) of the slab (L);- shaping said first corner (L1 ) by means of the tool (50, 60) of each of said at least two shaping members (5, 6), wherein said step of shaping the first corner (L1 ) is performed by moving said support head (4) from an initial position, proximal to the first end (S1) of said support surface (S), to a final position, linearly displaced with respect to said initial position towards the second end (S2) of said support surface (S);- moving said support head (4):- from said final position to said initial position to reposition said shaping members (5, 6) towards the first end (S1) of said support surface (S);- from said first working position to a second working position, wherein said tools (50, 60) are directed towards said second end (S2) of the support surface (S) and wherein a first shaping member (5, 6) is in an operating position in contact with said second corner (L2) of the slab (L);- shaping said second corner (L2) by means of the tool (50, 60) of each ofsaid at least two shaping members (5, 6), wherein said step of shaping the second corner (L2) is performed by moving said support head (4) from said initial position to said final position; wherein said step of shaping the first corner (L1) comprises the further steps of:- removing material from said first corner (L1 ) using the tool (50) of the first shaping member (5, 6);- moving said support head (4) linearly, in a direction transverse to the advancement direction (X), in order to move each of said at least two shaping members (5, 6) vertically with respect to said support surface (S), so as to move said first shaping member (5) vertically away from said first corner (L1 ), and to bring a second shaping member (6) of said at least two shaping members (50, 60) facing and in contact with said first corner (L1 );- removing material from said first corner (L1 ) using the tool (60) of the second shaping member (6); and wherein said step of shaping the second corner (L2) comprises the further steps of:- removing material from said second corner (L2) using the tool (50) of the first shaping member (5, 6);- moving said support head (4) linearly, in a direction transverse to the advancement direction (X), in order to move each of said at least two shaping members (5, 6) vertically with respect to said support surface (S), so as to move said first shaping member (5) vertically away from said second corner (L2), and to bring a second shaping member (6) of said at least two shaping members (50, 60) facing and in contact with said second corner (L2);- removing material from said second corner (L2) using the tool (60) of the second shaping member (6).1 1. Method according to claim 10, wherein said step of shaping said first corner (L1 ) and said step of shaping said second corner (L2) areperformed while advancing said slab (L) along the advancement direction (X), moving said support head (4) at a speed substantially equal to said predetermined advancement speed of said slab (L), so as to maintain a contact between the tool (50, 60) of said shaping member (5, 6) in the operating position and the first (L1 ), or second (L2), corner being machined during the movement of the slab (L) along the advancement direction (X).

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