Apparatus and method for transferring and accumulating objects and packaging line comprising said apparatus

Abstract

An apparatus (1) for transferring and accumulating objects, comprising: a plurality of accumulation channels (3) parallel to one another; at least a first transfer device (10) for transferring the objects to one of the accumulation channels (3) at a time; 5 feeding means (30) configured to intermittently feed sets of objects to the first transfer device (10); at least a first unloading device (40) for unloading objects from one of the accumulations channels (3) at a time and comprising a first unloading lane (41) and a first curvilinear movable portion (42) to transfer the objects from 10 one of the accumulation channels (3) to it; a conveyor belt (60) arranged downstream of the first unloading lane (41) and comprising a plurality of transfer channels (61); sorting means (70) for sorting the objects from the first unloading lane (41) to the transfer channels (61) of the conveyor belt (60); said sorting means 15 (70) comprising: - at least a first pair of sorting channels (71), the sorting channels (71) of the first pair communicating upstream with the first unloading lane (41) to receive the objects from it; - a first diverter (72) configured to enable in turn, i.e. alternately, 20 communication between the first unloading lane (41) and one of the two sorting channels (71) of the first pair.

Description

[0001] DESCRIPTION

[0002] APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR TRANSFERRING AND ACCUMULATING OBJECTS AND PACKAGING LINE COMPRISING SAID APPARATUS

[0003] Technical field

[0004] The present invention relates to an apparatus for transferring and accumulating objects and a packaging line comprising said apparatus. In particular, the objects may be bottles, containers or the like.

[0005] Background art

[0006] In production and packaging lines, for example between two successive workstations, the use of an accumulation table which acts as a "buffer" for the objects coming from the upstream station is known, in particular when jamming occurs downstream and / or during maintenance interventions. The use of an accumulation table therefore prevents having to stop the upstream station as well.

[0007] There are different accumulation table architectures and different accumulation logics on the market, tailored to the specific needs of the line.

[0008] For example, WO2014 / 076390 presents an accumulation table interposed between an input belt and an output belt, on which rows of objects are transferred and on which heads and / or manipulating robots adapted to move the rows on the table operate.

[0009] Feeding in rows can cause problems with the continuous operation of the system. In addition, the use of manipulating robots affects overall dimensions and increases the complexity of the line control logic.

[0010] Furthermore, some types of products, particularly delicate ones, require careful handling management.

[0011] Another solution of known type, described in EP3221240, shows an accumulator device for dynamically accumulating products in which two parallel conveyor belts are put in communication by a curvilinear guide movable along the belts. By moving the transfer device along the belts, it is possible to generate a certain space between two products so that products do not arrive downstream of the transfer device for a given period of time.

[0012] Such a device is used for small accumulation tables. As the size of the device increases, the speed and effort required accordingly increase, losing efficiency (i.e. , lower hourly line yield).

[0013] The Applicant has developed an alternative solution to the ones presented above, described in EP4269294, in which two groups of accumulation channels having offset unloading ends are set out. A different exit lane is associated with each group and downstream of them a device is arranged for reuniting them in a single row. In this solution, a certain period of time, which is dead time, passes between the unloading of one accumulation channel and the next one.

[0014] Disclosure of the invention

[0015] In this context, the technical task at the basis of the present invention is to propose an apparatus and a method for transferring and accumulating objects and a packaging line which overcome the problems of the prior art cited above.

[0016] In particular, the object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus and a method for transferring and accumulating objects which allows a low cycle time to be maintained without affecting the production yield of the system, regardless of the format of objects or the size of the accumulation table.

[0017] Another object of the present invention is to propose an apparatus and a method for transferring and accumulating objects of reduced complexity with respect to the known solutions and capable of responding to the needs of format change without having to increase the components.

[0018] Another object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus and a method for transferring and accumulating objects that actively exploits the dead times of the unloading phase.

[0019] The stated technical task and specified objects are substantially achieved by an apparatus for transferring and accumulating objects, comprising: a plurality of accumulation channels parallel to one another, each accumulation channel extending elongated along a direction parallel to an accumulation direction between a loading end and an unloading end for loading and unloading the objects; at least a first transfer device for transferring the objects to the accumulation channels, said first transfer device being configured to transfer objects to one of the accumulation channels at a time; feeding means for feeding the objects to said at least first transfer device, said feeding means being configured to intermittently feed sets of objects to said at least first transfer device; at least a first unloading device for unloading objects from said accumulation channels, said first unloading device being configured to unload objects from one of the accumulation channels at a time; said first unloading device comprising a first unloading lane and a first movable portion associated with the first unloading lane to transfer the objects from one of the accumulation channels to it; said first movable portion having at least one curvilinear section so as to be able to transfer the objects from the accumulation channels to the unloading lane; a conveyor belt arranged downstream of said first unloading lane and comprising a plurality of transfer channels; sorting means for sorting the objects from the first unloading lane to the transfer channels of the conveyor belt; said sorting means comprising:

[0020] - at least a first pair of sorting channels, the sorting channels of the first pair communicating upstream with the first unloading lane to receive the objects from it;

[0021] - a first diverter configured to enable in turn, i.e. alternately, communication between the first unloading lane and one of the two sorting channels of the first pair.

[0022] In accordance with one embodiment, the apparatus comprises a control unit configured to: - command movement of the first movable portion along the first unloading lane, so that it moves to the unloading end of an accumulation channel to be unloaded; in response to the movement of the first movable portion along the first unloading lane, command the first diverter to direct the flow of objects towards the desired transfer channel.

[0023] In accordance with one embodiment, the sorting means comprises:

[0024] - a second pair of sorting channels placed in cascade to the first pair, the sorting channels of the second pair originating from one of the two sorting channels of the first pair;

[0025] - an alternative second diverter configured to enable in turn, i.e. alternately, communication between said one of two sorting channels of the first pair and one of the two sorting channels of the second pair.

[0026] In accordance with an embodiment, the apparatus also comprises a second unloading device for unloading the objects from the accumulation channels; said accumulation channels being organised at least into a first group and a second group; said first unloading device being configured to unload objects only from accumulation channels of the first group, said second unloading device being configured to unload objects only from accumulation channels of the second group; said second unloading device comprising a second unloading lane and a second movable portion associated with the second unloading lane to transfer the objects from one of the accumulation channels of the second group to it; said second movable portion having at least one curvilinear section so as to be able to transfer the objects from the accumulation channels to the second unloading lane; said sorting means being configured to sort the objects from the first and from the second unloading lane to the transfer channels of the conveyor belt, said sorting means comprising:

[0027] - a third pair of sorting channels, the sorting channels of the third pair communicating upstream with the second unloading lane to receive the objects from it;

[0028] - a third diverter configured to enable in turn, i.e. alternately, communication between the second unloading lane and one of the two sorting channels of the third pair.

[0029] Preferably, the control unit is also configured to:

[0030] - command movement of the second movable portion along the second unloading lane, so that it moves to the unloading end of an accumulation channel to be unloaded; in response to the movement of the second movable portion along the second unloading lane, command the third diverter to direct the flow of objects towards the desired transfer channel.

[0031] Preferably, the sorting means comprise:

[0032] - a fourth pair of sorting channels placed in cascade to the third pair, the sorting channels of the fourth pair originating from one of the two sorting channels of the third pair;

[0033] - an alternative fourth diverter configured to enable in turn, i.e. alternately, communication between said one of two sorting channels of the third pair and one of the two sorting channels of the fourth pair.

[0034] The stated technical task and specified aims are substantially achieved by a packaging line, comprising: an apparatus for transferring and accumulating objects according to what is described; a packaging machine arranged downstream of the apparatus, said conveyor belt of the apparatus having an extension such as to introduce the objects into the packaging machine.

[0035] The defined technical task and the specified objects are substantially achieved by a method for transferring and accumulating objects by means of an apparatus for transferring and accumulating objects according to what is described, the method comprising the steps of: positioning the first movable portion at the unloading end of a first accumulation channel to be unloaded; transferring a first set of objects from the first accumulation channel to the first unloading lane; moving the first movable portion with respect to the first unloading lane, so as to position the first movable portion at the unloading end of a second accumulation channel to be unloaded; transferring a second set of objects from the second accumulation channel to the first unloading lane; said moving step causing a distancing between the first set of objects and the second set of objects, corresponding with a given period of downtime; sorting the first set of objects and subsequently the second set of objects from the first unloading lane to one of the transfer channels of the conveyor belt, said sorting step being performed by the sorting means; during the step of sorting the first set of objects and subsequently the second set of objects, directing of the set of objects towards one of the transfer channels by the first diverter; said step of directing the set of objects occurring at least partially during a given period of downtime.

[0036] According to an aspect of the invention, in the condition in which the first diverter directs the flow of objects into one of the two sorting channels from which the second pair of sorting channels originates, the step of sorting the first set of objects and subsequently the second set of objects comprises a further step of directing of the set of objects towards one of the transfer channels by the second diverter; said step of directing the set of objects also occurs for the second diverter at least partially during a given period of downtime.

[0037] Brief description of drawings

[0038] Further features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following indicative, and therefore non-limiting, description of a preferred but not exclusive embodiment of an apparatus and a method for transferring and accumulating objects and a packaging line, as illustrated in the appended drawings, in which Figures 1 -7 illustrate in top view different sequential operating steps of an apparatus for transferring and accumulating objects inserted into a packaging line, according to the present invention.

[0039] Detailed description of preferred embodiments of the invention

[0040] With reference to the figures, number 1 denotes an apparatus for transferring and accumulating objects.

[0041] In this context, the objects can be containers, such as bottles, dispensers, jars, cans.

[0042] Alternatively, the objects can also be packages of products, e.g., powdered coffee or tea.

[0043] The apparatus 1 comprises a plurality of accumulation channels 3.

[0044] In the embodiment described and illustrated herein, the plurality of accumulation channels 3 extends along an accumulation table 2.

[0045] Alternatively, the accumulation channels 3 may be part of two or more flanked accumulation tables. Alternatively, the accumulation channels 3 each constitute an independent unit.

[0046] Preferably, each accumulation channel 3 extends elongated between a loading end 3a and an unloading end 3b.

[0047] In the embodiment described and illustrated herein, the accumulation table 2 extends along an accumulation direction D1.

[0048] The accumulation channels 3 extend along a plurality of directions parallel to each other and to the accumulation direction D1 .

[0049] Therefore, the accumulation channels 3 are flanked to each other according to a direction which is orthogonal to the accumulation direction D1 and which, in this context, is indicated as the "flanking direction" of the accumulation channels 3. Such a flanking direction is indicated in the figures with D2.

[0050] The apparatus 1 comprises at least a first transfer device 10. The first transfer device 10 is arranged upstream of the accumulation channels 3. The first transfer device 10 is configured to transfer objects to one of the accumulation channels 3 at a time. The apparatus 1 comprises feeding means 30 for feeding the objects to the first transfer device 10. Therefore, the feeding means 30 is arranged upstream of the transfer device 10.

[0051] The feeding means 30 is configured to intermittently feed sets of objects to the transfer device 10. Set of objects means a row of objects, separated by means of a space interposed by a successive row of objects. Intermittent feeding allows the transfer device 10 to move from one accumulation channel 3 to the next one to be filled.

[0052] The apparatus 1 comprises a first unloading device 40 for unloading the objects from the accumulation channels 3. The first unloading device 40 is arranged downstream of the accumulation channels 3. The first transfer device 40 is configured to unload objects from one of the accumulation channels 3 at a time.

[0053] The first unloading device 40 comprises a first unloading lane 41 and a first movable portion 42 associated with the first unloading lane 41 to transfer the objects from one of the accumulation channels 3 to it.

[0054] The first movable portion 42 is movable, in particular sliding, along the first unloading lane 41 so as to be able to be arranged at the unloading end 3b of the various accumulation channels 3.

[0055] The first unloading lane 41 may be made in a single piece or it may comprise multiple segments arranged one after the other so as to define such first lane 41 .

[0056] In the embodiment described and illustrated herein, the first movable portion 42 comprises a first unloading guide 43 which may be arranged at the unloading end 3b of one of the accumulation channels 3 to guide the objects therein. The first movable portion 42 further comprises a first carriage (not illustrated) associated with the first unloading guide 43 to move it along the first unloading lane 41 .

[0057] In particular, the first unloading guide 43 is motorised.

[0058] In accordance with an aspect of the invention, the extension direction of the first unloading lane 41 is transverse to the directions of the accumulation channels 3. Therefore, the extension direction of the first unloading lane 41 is transverse to the accumulation direction D1 .

[0059] Preferably, the extension direction of the first unloading lane 41 is substantially orthogonal to the directions of the accumulation channels 3. Therefore, the extension direction of the first unloading lane 41 is orthogonal to the accumulation direction D1 .

[0060] In other words, the extension direction of the first unloading lane 41 is substantially parallel to the flanking direction D2 of the accumulation channels 3.

[0061] The apparatus 1 comprises a conveyor belt 60 arranged downstream of the first unloading lane 41 to receive the objects from it. The belt conveyor 60 comprises a plurality of transfer channels 61 .

[0062] The apparatus 1 comprises sorting means 70 for sorting the objects from the first unloading lane 41 to the transfer channels 61 of the conveyor belt 60.

[0063] The sorting means 70 comprises at least a first pair of sorting channels 71 . The sorting channels 71 of the first pair communicate upstream with the first unloading lane 41 to receive the objects from it.

[0064] In particular, communication between the unloading lane 41 and the sorting channels 71 of the pair is of the selective type.

[0065] The sorting means 70 comprises a first diverter 72 configured to enable in turn, i.e. alternately, communication between the first unloading lane 41 and one of the two sorting channels 71 of the first pair.

[0066] Attention is brought to the fact that, when the unloading lane 41 communicates with one of the two sorting channels 71 of the pair, the other sorting channel 71 cannot in any way receive objects from the unloading lane 41. In other words, the communication established by the diverter 72 is of the exclusive type.

[0067] It is thus possible to perform a rapid and precise sorting of objects from the accumulation channels 3 (in particular, from an accumulation table 2) to a plurality of transfer channels 61 that can be input channels of an operating unit downstream.

[0068] According to an embodiment, the apparatus 1 comprises a control unit 90 configured to command movement of the first movable portion 42 along the first unloading lane 41 , so that it moves to the unloading end 3b of an accumulation channel 3 to be unloaded.

[0069] In response to the movement of the first movable portion 42 along the first unloading lane 41 , the control unit 90 is configured to command the first diverter 72 to direct the flow of objects towards the desired transfer channel 61 .

[0070] The movement of the first movable portion 42 with respect to the first unloading lane 41 in order to position itself at a new accumulation channel 3 to be unloaded results in a distancing between successive sets of objects unloaded from the accumulation channels 3. Such distancing translates into a given period of time (dependent upon the speed of movement of the objects) such that, at an arbitrary point of the first unloading lane 41 (and consequently, at the diverter 72 downstream), no object passes. For this reason, this period of time can be defined as downtime.

[0071] Said period of time is also present during sorting of subsequent sets of objects.

[0072] The invention being proposed here therefore allows the period of time passing between unloading of one accumulation channel 3 and the next one to be used to operate the diverter 72 and therefore to guide the exit of the set of objects onto different transfer channels 61 , maintaining high process speeds.

[0073] The diverter 72 is therefore configurable in at least a first position, in which it enables communication between the unloading lane 41 and one of the two sorting channels 71 , and a second position, in which it enables communication between the unloading lane 41 and the other of the two sorting channels 71 .

[0074] In accordance with the embodiment described and illustrated herein, the diverter 72 comprises an abutment element movable between the two positions.

[0075] Preferably, the movable abutment element is arranged so that, in the first position, it guides the flow of objects towards one of the two sorting channels 71 , obstructing the passage towards the other sorting channel 71 , whereas in the second position it is in a resting condition, so it does not interfere with the flow of objects and does not obstruct the sorting channels 71 .

[0076] Alternatively, other dividers of known type that allow selective and exclusive communication downstream can be used.

[0077] Preferably, the sorting means 70 advantageously comprises a second pair of sorting channels 71 placed in cascade to the first pair. In particular, the sorting channels 71 of the second pair originate from one of the two sorting channels 71 of the first pair.

[0078] The sorting means 70 comprises an alternative second diverter 72 configured to enable in turn, i.e. alternately, communication between the sorting channel 71 of the first pair and one of the two sorting channels 71 of the second pair.

[0079] A first sorting stage and a second sorting stage, in cascade, is thus defined.

[0080] The first sorting stage is defined by the first diverter 72 and is established between the unloading lane 41 and the first pair of sorting channels 71 .

[0081] The second sorting stage is defined by the second diverter 72 and is established between one of the two sorting channels 71 of the first pair and the second pair.

[0082] The presence of two sorting stages in cascade increases the flexibility of the apparatus 1 , as the flow of objects can be directed from one unloading lane to at least three transfer channels 61 downstream.

[0083] In fact, with the first diverter 72 the objects are sorted (first sorting stage) into one of the two sorting channels 71 of the first pair. One of these two sorting channels 71 communicates selectively downstream with the sorting channels 71 of the second pair, by means of the second diverter 72 (second sorting stage). The two sorting channels 71 of the second pair communicate in turn with a first and a second transfer channel 61. The other sorting channel 71 of the first pair communicates directly with a third transfer channel 61 .

[0084] The two-path diversion solution keeps the apparatus constructively simple and at the same time provides a good sorting solution. However, this corresponds with a minimum sorting configuration and it is also possible to provide for a sorting stage that has multiple paths (for example, a diverter with three or more positions, i.e. paths), and also more than two sorting stages in cascade, depending on the number of transfer channels downstream to be filled.

[0085] In accordance with an embodiment, the first transfer device 10 comprises a first lane 11 and a first movable portion 12 associated with the first lane 11 to transfer the objects from it to one of the accumulation channels 3.

[0086] The first movable portion 12 is movable, in particular sliding, along the first lane 11 so as to be able to be arranged at the loading end 3a of the various accumulation channels 3.

[0087] The first lane 11 may be made in a single piece or it may comprise multiple segments arranged one after the other so as to define such a first lane 11.

[0088] In the embodiment described and illustrated herein, the first movable portion 12 comprises a first loading guide 13 which may be arranged at the loading end 3a of one of the accumulation channels 3 to guide the objects therein. The first movable portion 12 further comprises a first carriage (not illustrated) associated with the first loading guide 13 to move it along the first lane 11 .

[0089] In accordance with an aspect of the invention, the extension direction of the first lane 11 is transverse to the directions of the accumulation channels 3. Therefore, the extension direction of the first lane 11 is transverse to the accumulation direction D1 . Preferably, the extension direction of the first lane 11 is substantially orthogonal to the directions of the accumulation channels 3. Therefore, the extension direction of the first lane 11 is orthogonal to the accumulation direction D1 .

[0090] In other words, the extension direction of the first lane 11 is substantially parallel to the flanking direction D2 of the accumulation channels 3.

[0091] In the preferred embodiment, the apparatus 1 also comprises a second transfer device 20 for transferring the objects to the accumulation channels 3. The second transfer device 20 is arranged upstream of the accumulation channels 3.

[0092] In accordance with an aspect of the invention, the accumulation table 2 consists of at least two groups of accumulation channels 3, referred to as "first group" and "second group".

[0093] The first transfer device 10 is configured to transfer objects only to accumulation channels 3 of the first group, while the second transfer device 20 is configured to transfer objects only to accumulation channels 3 of the second group.

[0094] The feeding means 30 is configured to communicate in turn, i.e., alternately, with the first and the second transfer device 10, 20.

[0095] In accordance with an embodiment, the apparatus 1 also comprises a second unloading device 50 for unloading the objects from the accumulation channels 3. The second unloading device 50 is arranged downstream of the accumulation channels 3.

[0096] The first unloading device 40 is configured to transfer (i.e. unload) objects only from the accumulation channels 3 of the first group, while the second unloading device 50 is configured to transfer (i.e. unload) objects only from the accumulation channels 3 of the second group.

[0097] The second unloading device 50 likewise comprises a second unloading lane 51 and a second movable portion 52 associated with the second unloading lane 51 to transfer the objects from one of the accumulation channels 3 to it. The second movable portion 52 is movable, in particular sliding, along the second unloading lane 51 so as to be able to be arranged at the unloading end 3b of the various accumulation channels 3.

[0098] The second unloading lane 51 may be made in a single piece or it may comprise multiple segments arranged one after the other so as to define such a second lane 51.

[0099] In the embodiment described and illustrated herein, the first unloading lane 41 and the second unloading lane 51 are flanked.

[0100] Like the first movable portion 42, the second movable portion 52 comprises a second unloading guide 53 which may be arranged at the unloading end 3b of one of the accumulation channels 3 to guide the objects therein. The second movable portion 52 further comprises a second carriage (not illustrated) associated with the second unloading guide 53 to move it along the second unloading lane 51 .

[0101] In particular, the first and the second unloading guide 43, 53 are motorised.

[0102] Each movable portion 42, 52 is arranged and shaped so as to communicate with one of the accumulation channels 3 at a time.

[0103] In particular, if at a given instant the first movable portion 42 is arranged at the unloading end 3b of a predetermined accumulation channel 3, the second movable portion 52 cannot simultaneously be at the predetermined accumulation channel 3. The second movable portion 52 could instead be, at such given instant, at the unloading end 3b of another accumulation channel 3, different from the predetermined accumulation channel 3.

[0104] In the embodiment described and illustrated herein, the first unloading lane 41 and the second unloading lane 51 extend elongated in two substantially parallel directions, which are the object transport directions.

[0105] In accordance with an aspect of the invention, the extension directions of the two lanes 41 , 51 are transverse to the directions of the accumulation channels 3. Therefore, the extension directions of the two lanes 41 , 51 are transverse to the accumulation direction D1 .

[0106] Preferably, the extension directions of the two lanes 41 , 51 are substantially orthogonal to the directions of the accumulation channels 3. Therefore, the extension directions of the two lanes 41, 51 are orthogonal to the accumulation direction D1 .

[0107] In other words, the extension directions of the two lanes 41 , 51 are substantially parallel to the flanking direction D2 of the accumulation channels 3.

[0108] As already specified, the accumulation table 2 consists of at least two groups of accumulation channels 3, hereinafter referred to as "first group" and "second group".

[0109] In particular, the unloading ends 3b of the accumulation channels 3 of the first group face the first unloading lane 41 and the unloading ends 3b of the accumulation channels 3 of the second group face the second unloading lane 51 .

[0110] In particular, the first movable portion 42, by sliding along the first unloading lane 41 , can be arranged at the unloading end 3b of one of the accumulation channels 3 of the first group.

[0111] In particular, the second movable portion 52, by sliding along the second unloading lane 51 , can be arranged at the unloading end 3b of one of the accumulation channels 3 of the second group.

[0112] The accumulation channels 3 of the first group have the unloading ends 3b aligned with each other, i.e. arranged along a first direction g1 which is parallel to the flanking direction D2.

[0113] The accumulation channels 3 of the second group have the unloading ends 3b aligned with each other, i.e. arranged along a second direction g2 which is parallel to the flanking direction D2.

[0114] In the preferred embodiment, the unloading ends 3b of the accumulation channels 3 of the first group are misaligned (i.e. offset) with respect to the unloading ends 3b of the accumulation channels 3 of the second group.

[0115] Therefore, the first direction g1 and the second direction g2 are parallel but spaced apart.

[0116] In particular, in the illustrated embodiment, the first alignment direction g1 of the unloading ends 3b of the first group extends upstream of the second alignment direction g2 of the unloading ends 3b of the second group, with respect to the accumulation direction D1.

[0117] In other words, the unloading ends 3b of the accumulation channels 3 of the first group are retracted with respect to the unloading ends 3b of the accumulation channels 3 of the second group, with reference to the accumulation direction D1.

[0118] As already mentioned above, the first unloading device 40 is at the service of the first group of accumulation channels 3, while the second unloading device 50 is at the service of the second group of accumulation channels 3.

[0119] In the embodiment described and illustrated herein, the first unloading lane 41 is internal with respect to the second unloading lane 51 .

[0120] In particular, the first unloading lane 41 extends over a shorter length with respect to the second unloading lane 51 .

[0121] Preferably, both the first unloading guide 43 and the second unloading guide 53 have at least one curvilinear section 431 , 531 for unloading the objects from the accumulation channel 3.

[0122] In particular, the two curvilinear sections 431 , 531 have counter-shaped surfaces so that, in a configuration of proximity between the first unloading guide 43 and the second unloading guide 53, such counter-shaped surfaces can come into contact.

[0123] In accordance with an aspect of the invention, each curvilinear section 431 , 531 comprises a passage channel for the objects having an extension following the curvilinear profile of the curvilinear section 431 , 531.

[0124] In this embodiment (first and second unloading device), the sorting means 70 are configured to sort the objects from the first and from the second unloading lane 41 , 51 to the transfer channels 61 of the conveyor belt 60. In addition to what is described for the first unloading lane 41 , the sorting means 70 also comprise a third pair of sorting channels 71.

[0125] The sorting channels 71 of the third pair communicate upstream with the second unloading lane 41 to receive the objects from it.

[0126] In particular, communication between the unloading lane 41 , 42 and the sorting channels 71 of the pair is of the selective type.

[0127] The sorting means 70 also comprises a third diverter 72 configured to enable in turn, i.e. alternately, communication between the second unloading lane 51 and one of the two sorting channels 71 of the third pair. Attention is brought to the fact that, when the unloading lane 41 , 51 communicates with one of the two sorting channels 71 of the respective pair, the other sorting channel 71 cannot in any way receive objects from the unloading lane 41 , 51. In other words, the communication established by the diverter 72 is of the exclusive type.

[0128] In such embodiment with a first group and a second group of accumulation channels, the exploitation of downtime by means of the solution described is even more efficient, since feeding of the objects to the transfer devices is alternating and therefore the two groups of accumulation channels work synergistically.

[0129] As already mentioned above, the diverter 72 is therefore configurable in at least a first position, in which it enables communication between the unloading lane 41 , 51 and one of the two sorting channels 71 , and a second position, in which it enables communication between the unloading lane 41 , 51 and the other of the two sorting channels 71 .

[0130] In accordance with the embodiment described and illustrated herein, the diverter 72 comprises an abutment element movable between the two positions.

[0131] Preferably, the movable abutment element is arranged so that, in the first position, it guides the flow of objects towards one of the two sorting channels 71 , obstructing the passage towards the other sorting channel 71 , whereas in the second position it is in a resting condition, so it does not interfere with the flow of objects and does not obstruct the sorting channels 71 .

[0132] Alternatively, other dividers of known type that allow selective and exclusive communication downstream can be used.

[0133] Preferably, the control unit is also configured to:

[0134] - command movement of the second movable portion 52 along the second unloading lane 51 , so that it moves to the unloading end 3b of an accumulation channel 3 to be unloaded and, in response to the movement of the second movable portion 52 along the second unloading lane 51 , command the third diverter 72 to direct the flow of objects towards the desired transfer channel 61 .

[0135] Preferably, the sorting means 70 advantageously comprises a fourth pair of sorting channels 71 placed in cascade to the third pair. In particular, the sorting channels 71 of the fourth pair originate from one of the two sorting channels 71 of the third pair.

[0136] The sorting means 70 comprises an alternative fourth diverter 72 configured to enable in turn, i.e. alternately, communication between the sorting channel 71 of the third pair and one of the two sorting channels 71 of the fourth pair.

[0137] A first sorting stage and a second sorting stage, in cascade, is thus defined.

[0138] The first sorting stage is defined by the third diverter 72 and is established between the second unloading lane 51 and the third pair of sorting channels 71 .

[0139] The second sorting stage is defined by the fourth diverter 72 and is established between one of the two sorting channels 71 of the third pair and the fourth pair.

[0140] The presence of two sorting stages in cascade increases the flexibility of the apparatus 1 , as the flow of objects can be directed from one unloading lane to at least three transfer channels 61 downstream.

[0141] The two-path diversion solution keeps the apparatus constructively simple and at the same time provides a good sorting solution. Furthermore, in the embodiment with two groups of accumulation channels, the exploitation of downtime by means of the solution described is even more efficient, since feeding of the objects to the transfer devices is alternating and therefore the two groups of accumulation channels work synergistically.

[0142] However, this corresponds with a minimum sorting configuration and it is also possible to provide for a sorting stage that has multiple paths (for example, a diverter with three or more positions, i.e. paths), and also more than two sorting stages in cascade, depending on the number of transfer channels downstream to be filled.

[0143] An apparatus 1 having two unloading devices 40, 50 and consequently two unloading lanes 41 , 51 and the relative sorting means 30, has been described thus far. However, it is understood that the apparatus 1 may also comprise a greater number of unloading devices, as the operating logic does not change.

[0144] In the embodiment with a first and a second transfer device 10, 20, the second transfer device 20 comprises a second lane 21 and a second movable portion 22 associated with the second lane 21 to transfer the objects from it to one of the accumulation channels 3.

[0145] The second movable portion 22 is movable, in particular sliding, along the second lane 21 so as to be able to be arranged at the loading end 3a of the various accumulation channels 3.

[0146] The second lane 21 may be made in a single piece or it may comprise multiple segments arranged one after the other so as to define such a second lane 21 .

[0147] In the embodiment described and illustrated herein, the first lane 11 and the second lane 21 are flanked.

[0148] In the embodiment described and illustrated herein, the second movable portion 22 comprises a second loading guide 23 which may be arranged at the loading end 3a of one of the accumulation channels 3 to guide the objects therein. The second movable portion 22 further comprises a second carriage (not illustrated) associated with the second loading guide 23 to move it along the second lane 21.

[0149] In particular, the first and the second loading guide 13, 23 are motorised.

[0150] Each movable portion 12, 22 is arranged and shaped so as to communicate with one of the accumulation channels 3 at a time.

[0151] In particular, if at a given instant the first movable portion 12 is arranged at the loading end 3a of a predetermined accumulation channel 3, the second movable portion 22 cannot simultaneously be at the predetermined accumulation channel 3. The second movable portion 22 could instead be, at such given instant, at the loading end 3a of another accumulation channel 3, different from the predetermined accumulation channel 3.

[0152] In the embodiment described and illustrated herein, the first lane 11 and the second lane 21 have an elongated extension in two substantially parallel directions, which are the object transport directions.

[0153] In accordance with an aspect of the invention, the extension directions of the two lanes 11 , 21 are transverse to the directions of the accumulation channels 3. Therefore, the extension directions of the two lanes 11 , 21 are transverse to the accumulation direction D1 .

[0154] Preferably, the extension directions of the two lanes 11 , 21 are substantially orthogonal to the directions of the accumulation channels 3. Therefore, the extension directions of the two lanes 11 , 21 are orthogonal to the accumulation direction D1 .

[0155] In other words, the extension directions of the two lanes 11 , 21 are substantially parallel to the flanking direction D2 of the accumulation channels 3.

[0156] As already specified above, at least two groups of accumulation channels 3 are present, referred to as "first group" and "second group".

[0157] In particular, the loading ends 3a of the accumulation channels 3 of the first group face the first lane 11 and the loading ends 3a of the accumulation channels 3 of the second group face the second lane 21 . In particular, the first movable portion 12, by sliding along the first lane 11 , can be arranged at the loading end 3a of one of the accumulation channels 3 of the first group.

[0158] In particular, the second movable portion 22, by sliding along the second lane 21 , can be arranged at the loading end 3a of one of the accumulation channels 3 of the second group.

[0159] The accumulation channels 3 of the first group have the loading ends 3a aligned with each other, i.e. arranged along a third direction g3 which is parallel to the flanking direction D2.

[0160] The accumulation channels 3 of the second group have the loading ends 3a aligned with each other, i.e. arranged along a fourth direction g4 which is parallel to the flanking direction D2.

[0161] The loading ends 3a of the accumulation channels 3 of the first group are misaligned (i.e. offset) with respect to the loading ends 3a of the accumulation channels 3 of the second group.

[0162] Therefore, the third direction g3 and the fourth direction g4 are parallel but spaced apart.

[0163] In particular, in the illustrated embodiment, the third alignment direction g3 of the loading ends 3a of the first group extends upstream of the fourth alignment direction g4 of the loading ends 3a of the second group, with respect to the accumulation direction D1.

[0164] In other words, the loading ends 3a of the accumulation channels 3 of the first group are retracted with respect to the loading ends 3a of the accumulation channels 3 of the second group, with reference to the accumulation direction D1.

[0165] As already mentioned above, the first transfer device 10 is at the service of the first group of accumulation channels 3, while the second transfer device 20 is at the service of the second group of accumulation channels 3.

[0166] In the embodiment described and illustrated herein, the first lane 11 is external with respect to the second lane 21 . In particular, the second lane 21 extends over a shorter length with respect to the first lane 11 .

[0167] Preferably, both the first loading guide 13 and the second loading guide 23 have at least one curvilinear section 131 , 231 for delivering the objects to the accumulation channel 3.

[0168] In particular, the two curvilinear sections 131 , 231 have counter-shaped surfaces so that, in a configuration of proximity between the first loading guide 13 and the second loading guide 23, such counter-shaped surfaces can come into contact.

[0169] In accordance with an aspect of the invention, each curvilinear section 131 , 231 comprises a passage channel for the objects having an extension following the curvilinear profile of the curvilinear section 131 , 231.

[0170] It is specified that alternating operation of the feeding means 30 is regardless of the embodiment of the transfer devices 10, 20. It is important that two groups of accumulation channels 3 exist, one of which associated with the first transfer device 10 and the other associated with the second transfer device 20.

[0171] In the embodiment described and illustrated herein (see figure 4), the feeding means 30 comprises a single-row conveyor belt 31 , in which the objects advance one after the other in a single row, and an alternative divider 32 configured to enable in turn, i.e. alternately, the communication between the single-row conveyor belt 31 and one of the two transfer devices 10, 20.

[0172] It should be noted that when the single-row conveyor belt 31 communicates with, for example, the first transfer device 10, the second transfer device 20 can in no way receive objects from the conveyor belt 31. In other words, the communication established by the divider 32 is exclusive.

[0173] The first transfer device 10 therefore selectively communicates upstream with the conveyor belt 31 and downstream with one of the accumulation channels 3.

[0174] An apparatus 1 having two transfer devices 10, 20 has been described so far. However, it is understood that the apparatus 1 may also comprise a greater number of transfer devices, as the operating logic does not change. The single-row conveyor belt 31 always communicates with only one transfer device at a time and communicates with all of them in turns.

[0175] What has just been described on the exclusive operating logic generally applies to the feeding means 30 and not only in the particular embodiment with a single-row conveyor belt 31 and a divider 32.

[0176] Preferably, the apparatus 1 comprises a control unit 90 configured to count the objects transferred from the single-row conveyor belt 31. The control unit is also configured, upon reaching a predetermined number of objects transferred towards one of the transfer devices 10, 20, to operate the divider 32 so as to impose an operating condition on the first transfer device 10, in which a flow of objects slides thereon and simultaneously impose a resting condition on the second transfer device 20, in which the flow of objects is blocked (i.e. , does not slide thereon), or vice versa.

[0177] The first and / or the second movable portion 12, 22 are moved along the relative lane 11 , 21 from one accumulation channel 3 to another only during the resting condition thereof. It is thereby possible to sort the flow of objects without flow interruptions, passing from a (full) channel to a new channel to start filling. In fact, the transfer device 10, 20 which is in the resting condition has all the time to move at another channel without having to interrupt the flow of objects, which are diverted by the other transfer device 10, 20 in the operating condition on the corresponding channel.

[0178] In other words, the resting condition of a transfer device 10, 20 is not dead time, but time during which the transfer of objects occurs by means of another transfer device 10, 20.

[0179] In particular, the divider 32 is configured to interrupt the communication between the single-row conveyor belt 31 and the first transfer device 10 and enable the communication thereof with the second transfer device 20, upon reaching a predetermined number of objects transferred to the first transfer device 10. In other words, the divider 32 is configured to divert the flow of objects towards the other transfer device 10, 20. "Other transfer device" herein means the transfer device 10, 20 which is not receiving the flow of objects.

[0180] Preferably, the predetermined number of objects identifies a set (intended as a finite sequence in a row) of objects, chosen as a function of various criteria depending on the situation. For example, the predetermined number of objects identifies a filled condition of an accumulation channel 3.

[0181] In other words, once the first transfer device 10 has received a sufficient number of objects, the divider 32 prevents further objects from reaching the first transfer device 10, diverting them towards the second transfer device 20, and vice versa.

[0182] In accordance with the embodiment described and illustrated herein, the divider 32 comprises an abutment element movable between a first engagement position, in which it engages at least in part the first transfer device 10, and a second position, in which it is housed in a seat obtained in the divider 32.

[0183] In the embodiment described and illustrated herein, the abutment element in the first engagement position engages at least in part the first lane 11 . Preferably, the first lane 11 is entirely crossed by the abutment element.

[0184] In particular, the divider 32 imposes the resting condition on the first transfer device 10 (which corresponds to the imposition of the operating condition on the second transfer device 20), bringing the abutment element from the second engagement position to the first engagement position.

[0185] Likewise, the divider 32 imposes the operating condition on the first transfer device 10 (which corresponds to the imposition of the resting condition on the second transfer device 20), bringing the abutment element from the first engagement position to the second engagement position.

[0186] Preferably, the abutment element has an engagement surface shaped so as to guide the flow of objects towards the second lane 21 .

[0187] Alternatively, other dividers of known type can be used which allow the single-row conveyor belt 31 to communicate with only one transfer device 10, 20 at a time.

[0188] A packaging line 80 according to the present invention is described below. The packaging line 80 (hereinafter briefly "line") comprises an apparatus 1 for transferring and accumulating objects as described above.

[0189] The line 80 further comprises a packaging machine 81 or a cartoning machine downstream of the apparatus 1. The conveyor belt 60 of the apparatus 1 delivers the objects to the packaging machine 81 .

[0190] A method for transferring and accumulating objects is an object of the present invention and is described below. Such a method is advantageously implemented by an apparatus for transferring and accumulating objects as described above.

[0191] The method comprises a step of positioning the first movable portion 42 at the unloading end 3b of a first accumulation channel 3 to be unloaded.

[0192] The method comprises a step of transferring a first set of objects from the first accumulation channel 3 to the first unloading lane 41 .

[0193] The method then comprises a step of moving the first movable portion 42 with respect to the first unloading lane 41 , so as to position the first movable portion 42 at the unloading end 3b of a second accumulation channel 3 to be unloaded.

[0194] The method comprises a step of transferring a second set of objects from the second accumulation channel 3 to the first unloading lane 41.

[0195] The method comprises a step of sorting the first set of objects and subsequently the second set of objects from the first unloading lane 41 to one of the transfer channels 61 of the conveyor belt 60. This step is performed by the sorting means 70. During the step of sorting the sets of objects, the method comprises a step of directing the set of objects towards one of the transfer channels 61 , performed by the first diverter 72.

[0196] The movement of the first movable portion 42 with respect to the first unloading lane 41 in order to position itself at a new accumulation channel 3 to be unloaded results in a distancing between the first set of objects and the second set of objects. Such distancing translates into a given period of time (dependent upon the speed of movement of the objects) such that, at an arbitrary point of the first unloading lane 41 , no object passes. For this reason, this period of time can be defined as downtime.

[0197] Said period of time is also present during sorting of subsequent sets of objects.

[0198] Originally, the step of directing the set of objects towards one of the transfer channels 61 occurs at least partially during the given period of time.

[0199] Preferably, such step of directing occurs exclusively during the given period of time.

[0200] In this manner, such period of time, which would otherwise be dead time, is used to operate the diverter 72 and therefore to guide the exit of the set of objects onto different transfer channels 61 .

[0201] In the embodiment with a first group and a second group of accumulation channels, the steps described above can be applied to each of the accumulation groups. Exploitation of the downtime is even more efficient in this embodiment, since feeding of the objects to the transfer devices is alternating and therefore the two groups of accumulation channels work synergistically.

[0202] In the embodiment with two diverters 72 in cascade, a condition exists in which the first diverter 72 directs the flow of objects into the sorting channel 71 , from which the second pair of sorting channels (arbitrarily indicated as first position of the first diverter 72 in the specific embodiment) then departs. In such condition, the step of sorting the first set of objects and subsequently the second set of objects comprises a step of directing the set of objects towards one of the transfer channels 61 , performed by the second diverter 72. Likewise to what occurs for the first diverter 72, this step occurs at least partially during the given period of downtime.

[0203] As specified above, the second diverter 72 is not always operated during sorting. In fact, a position can exist in which the first diverter 72 directs the flow of objects towards the sorting channel 71 of the second pair, which is not affected by the second diverter 72 and by the second pair of sorting channels 71. In this case, the second diverter 72 is not operating and the step described above is not applied.

[0204] The step of directing the set of objects towards one of the transfer channels 61 occurs at least partially during the given period of downtime also for the second diverter 72.

[0205] Preferably, such step of directing occurs exclusively during the given period of downtime.

[0206] The features of the apparatus and method for transferring and accumulating objects and the packaging line according to the present invention emerge clearly from the above description, as do the advantages.

[0207] In particular, the presence of the sorting means described allows the apparatus of the present invention to be used in combination with a unit downstream that requires a multiple input of objects.

[0208] Furthermore, the operating logic of the sorting means in combination with the unloading devices, in particular exploitation of the downtime between sets of unloaded objects, allows the efficiency of the apparatus to be optimised and its productivity to be increased, as the process speed can be maintained high.

Claims

CLAIMS1. An apparatus (1 ) for transferring and accumulating objects, comprising: a plurality of accumulation channels (3) parallel to one another, each accumulation channel (3) extending elongated along a direction parallel to an accumulation direction (D1 ) between a loading end (3a) and an unloading end (3b) for loading and unloading objects; at least a first transfer device (10) for transferring the objects to the accumulation channels (3), said first transfer device (10) being configured to transfer objects to one of the accumulation channels (3) at a time; feeding means (30) for feeding the objects to said at least first transfer device (10), said feeding means (30) being configured to intermittently feed sets of objects to said at least first transfer device (10); at least a first unloading device (40) for unloading objects from said accumulation channels (3), said first unloading device (40) being configured to unload objects from one of the accumulation channels (3) at a time; said first unloading device (40) comprising a first unloading lane (41 ) and a first movable portion (42) associated with the first unloading lane (41 ) to transfer the objects from one of the accumulation channels (3) to it; said first movable portion (42) having at least one curvilinear section so as to be able to transfer the objects from the accumulation channels (3) to the unloading lane (41 ); a conveyor belt (60) arranged downstream of said first unloading lane (41 ) and comprising a plurality of transfer channels (61 ); sorting means (70) for sorting the objects from the first unloading lane (41 ) to the transfer channels (61 ) of the conveyor belt (60); said sorting means (70) comprising:- at least a first pair of sorting channels (71 ), the sorting channels (71 ) of the first pair communicating upstream with the first unloading lane (41 ) to receive the objects from it;- a first diverter (72) configured to enable in turn, i.e. alternately,communication between the first unloading lane (41 ) and one of the two sorting channels (71 ) of the first pair.

2. The apparatus (1 ) according to claim 1 , comprising a control unit configured to:- command movement of the first movable portion (42) along the first unloading lane (41 ), so that it moves to the unloading end (3b) of an accumulation channel (3) to be unloaded; in response to the movement of the first movable portion (42) along the first unloading lane (41), command the first diverter (72) to direct the flow of objects towards the desired transfer channel (61 ).

3. The apparatus (1 ) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the sorting means (70) comprise:- a second pair of sorting channels (71 ) placed in cascade to the first pair, the sorting channels (71 ) of the second pair originating from one of the two sorting channels (71 ) of the first pair;- a second diverter (72) configured to enable in turn, i.e. alternately, communication between said one of two sorting channels (71 ) of the first pair and one of the two sorting channels (71 ) of the second pair.

4. The apparatus (1 ) according to any one of the preceding claims, also comprising at least a second unloading device (40, 50) of the objects from the accumulation channels (3); said accumulation channels (3) being organised at least into a first group and a second group; said first unloading device (40) being configured to unload objects only from accumulation channels (3) of the first group, said second unloading device(50) being configured to unload objects only from accumulation channels (3) of the second group; said second unloading device (50) comprising a second unloading lane(51 ) and a second movable portion (52) associated with the second unloading lane (51) to transfer the objects from one of the accumulation channels (3) of the second group to it; said second movable portion (52) having at least one curvilinear section so as to be able to transfer theobjects from the accumulation channels (3) to the second unloading lane (51 ); said sorting means (70) being configured to sort the objects from the first and from the second unloading lane (41 , 51 ) to the transfer channels (61 ) of the conveyor belt (60), said sorting means (71 ) comprising:- at least a third pair of sorting channels (71 ), the sorting channels (71 ) of the third pair communicating upstream with the second unloading lane (51 ) to receive the objects from it;- a third diverter (72) configured to enable in turn, i.e. alternately, communication between the second unloading lane (51 ) and one of the two sorting channels (71 ) of the third pair.

5. The apparatus (1 ) according to claim 4, comprising a control unit (90) configured to:- command movement of the second movable portion (52) along the second unloading lane (51 ), so that it moves to the unloading end (3b) of an accumulation channel (3) to be unloaded;- in response to the movement of the second movable portion (52) along the second unloading lane (51 ), command the third diverter (72) to direct the flow of objects towards the desired transfer channel (61 ).

6. The apparatus (1 ) according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the sorting means (70) comprise:- a fourth pair of sorting channels (71 ) placed in cascade to the third pair, the sorting channels (71 ) of the fourth pair originating from one of the two sorting channels (71 ) of the third pair;- an alternative fourth diverter (72) configured to enable in turn, i.e. alternately, communication between said one of two sorting channels (71) of the third pair and one of the two sorting channels (71 ) of the fourth pair.

7. A packaging line (80), comprising: an apparatus (1 ) for transferring and accumulating objects according to any one of the preceding claims; a packaging machine (81 ) or cartoning machine arranged downstream ofthe apparatus (1 ), said conveyor belt (60) of the apparatus (1 ) having an extension such as to introduce the objects into the packaging machine (81 ).

8. A method for transferring and accumulating objects by means of an apparatus (1 ) for transferring and accumulating objects according to any one of claims 1 to 6, said method comprising the steps of: positioning the first movable portion (42) at the unloading end (3b) of a first accumulation channel (3) to be unloaded; transferring a first set of objects from the first accumulation channel (3) to the first unloading lane (41 ); moving the first movable portion (42) with respect to the first unloading lane (41 ), so as to position the first movable portion (42) at the unloading end (3b) of a second accumulation channel (3) to be unloaded; transferring a second set of objects from the second accumulation channel (3) to the first unloading lane (41 ); said moving step causing a distancing between the first set of objects and the second set of objects, corresponding with a given period of downtime; sorting the first set of objects and subsequently the second set of objects from the first unloading lane (41 ) to one of the transfer channels (61 ) of the conveyor belt (60), said sorting step being performed by the sorting means (70); during the step of sorting the first set of objects and subsequently the second set of objects, directing of the set of objects towards one of the transfer channels (61 ) by the first diverter (72); said step of directing the set of objects occurring at least partially during said period of downtime.

9. The method according to claim 8, wherein, in the condition in which the first diverter (72) directs the flow of objects into one of the two sorting channels (71 ) from which the second pair of sorting channels (71 ) originates, the step of sorting the first set of objects and subsequently the second set of objects comprises a further step of directing of the set ofobjects towards one of the transfer channels (61 ) by the second diverter (72); said step of directing the set of objects also occurs for the second diverter (72) at least partially during the given period of downtime.

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