Device and method for the automatic distribution of products

Abstract

Device 1 for the automatic distribution of products 2 comprising a containment structure 3 for containing a plurality of containers 4 for housing the products 2; an extraction system 5 situated near the perimeter of the containment structure 3 and arranged to feed the products 2 outside the containment structure 3, wherein the containment structure 3 comprises a mechanical arm 6 arranged to withdraw at least one product 2 from at least one container 4 and to transport the product 2 from the relative container 4 to the extraction system 5; and a movement system 7 situated below the plurality of containers 4 to displace at least one full container 4 inside the structure 3.

Description

[0001] DEVICE AND METHOD FOR THE AUTOMATIC DISTRIBUTION OF

[0002] PRODUCTS

[0003] The present invention relates to a device and method for the automatic distribution of products.

[0004] More specifically, the present invention relates to a device arranged to be temporarily or permanently positioned in specific areas capable of allowing the automatic distribution of products.

[0005] The aim of the present invention is particularly related to the field of the sale of products containing liquid, for example the sale of detergents.

[0006] However, different uses are not to be excluded, all of which fall within the scope of the automatic distribution of other consumer products of different kinds or in the preparation of mixed product orders to be shipped.

[0007] Generally, the sale of products in enclosed environments is known, inside which one or more employees are responsible for managing the shop.

[0008] In particular, the staff has the function of controlling the opening and closing of the shop, setting up the shop display with the special products, managing the warehouse and supporting the customer when purchasing products.

[0009] Therefore, in some shops, a large number of staff may be required to carry out all of the aforesaid functions, each with one or more specialisations (e.g., cashiers, warehouse workers, sales consultants, etc.).

[0010] For this reason, each shop is only accessible at certain times of the day and / or is managed by a large number of staff to ensure access to the shop for an extended period of the day, in some cases even 24 hours a day.

[0011] Furthermore, to ensure efficient sales, the staff must constantly monitor the presence of the products to be sold inside the shop and coordinate with the warehouse so as to always have the necessary variety and quantity of products available.

[0012] However, controlling the quantity of products present in the shop is particularly complicated, especially at busy times in the shop. To solve such problems, automatic distribution machines are proposed which are capable of dispensing the product following a request made by the user.

[0013] In other words, the user makes a selection of the desired product by means of an interface device which communicates with the machine for dispensing the product.

[0014] Generally, these known devices have a box-like containment frame of the products which is of reduced size.

[0015] Typically, the inner volume of the frame is divided into levels and each level is further divided into columns. Each column is further divided into a plurality of seats and each seat is arranged to accommodate a single product. In particular, each seat of each column comprises the same type of product.

[0016] To facilitate the display of the products, the frame comprises a display case.

[0017] Generally, each column is associated with a number, whereby the user selects the product by selecting the number associated with the relative column and, as a result, the device activates a dispensing system associated with the relative column of the selected product.

[0018] The activated dispensing system allows the selected product to advance and subsequently fall into an expulsion area accessible to the user.

[0019] However, this type of known device has a limitation in its ability to contain products.

[0020] In fact, the box-like frame has a reduced number of available seats. Therefore, the quantity of product present in the frame is also limited, requiring constant intervention by the technician to restock the device.

[0021] Moreover, this type of known device also has a limitation in the complete dispensing of all the products contained in the device.

[0022] In particular, if the dispensing system associated with the relative column of the selected product is damaged and, as a result, the selected product is not dispensed, the products placed behind the selected product can also no longer be dispensed until the manual intervention of a technician.

[0023] This implies a considerable drawback in terms of the efficiency of the device and, consequently, in the sale of products.

[0024] The known devices have a further drawback in the correct dispensing of the product. In particular, if the product is placed inside the relative seat incorrectly, during dispensing, the product interferes with the dispensing process itself.

[0025] The known devices also have a further drawback during the product dispensing step.

[0026] In fact, during the step of the product falling from the housing seat to the expulsion area, the dispensed product can be damaged. In other words, due to the fall of the product and, consequent damage, the liquid contained inside the product comes out of it.

[0027] In this context, the technical task underlying the present invention is to provide a device for the automatic distribution of products which overcomes the drawbacks of the prior art as described above.

[0028] In particular, it is an aim of the present invention to provide a device for the automatic distribution of products which is capable of containing a large number of products and, as a result, is capable of reducing the number of interventions by the technician to refill the device with products.

[0029] In more detail, an aim of the present invention is to provide a device capable of optimising the product distribution process.

[0030] Another aim of the present invention is to optimise the loading of the device itself.

[0031] A further aim of the present invention is to provide a device capable of overcoming any misalignment of the product to be dispensed and, as a result, reduce the number of products which cannot be dispensed.

[0032] It is a further aim of the present invention to have a device arranged for the distribution of the product also throughout the day. Another aim of the present invention is to have a system for controlling the quantity of product present in the device.

[0033] These and other aims are achieved by an automatic product distribution device comprising the technical characteristics set forth in one or more of the appended claims.

[0034] In particular, the device subject matter of the invention comprises a containment structure for containing a plurality of containers for housing the products; an extraction system situated near the perimeter of the containment structure and arranged to feed the products outside the containment structure, wherein the containment structure comprises a mechanical arm arranged to withdraw at least one product from at least one container and to transport the product from the relative container to the extraction system; and a movement element situated below the plurality of containers to displace at least one full container inside the structure.

[0035] In a further aspect, the invention concerns a method for the automatic distribution of products comprising the steps of arranging a containment structure for containing a plurality of containers for housing the products; said structure comprising a mechanical arm and a movement system situated below the plurality of containers and arranged to transfer at least one of said plurality of containers; arranging an extraction system situated near the perimeter of the containment structure; withdrawing, by means of the mechanical arm, at least one product from at least one container; transporting, by means of the mechanical arm, the product from the relative container to the extraction system; distributing, by means of the extraction system, the product outside the containment structure.

[0036] Further characteristics and advantages of the present invention will become clearer from the indicative and therefore non-limiting description of a preferred embodiment of a device for the automatic distribution of products. Such a description will be set forth herein below with reference to the accompanying drawings, provided for merely indicative and therefore nonlimiting purposes, in which:

[0037] - Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a first embodiment of an automatic product distribution device, in accordance with the present invention;

[0038] - Figures 2A and 2B show perspective views of a box usable in the present invention;

[0039] - Figures 2C and 2D show perspective views of two different configurations of two identical containers and illustrated in detail in Figure 2A and 2B;

[0040] - Figure 3 shows a perspective view, with some elements removed, to view details of the distribution device of Figure 1 during the loading of the device itself with the plurality of containers;

[0041] - Figure 4A shows a top view of part of the distribution device of Figure 1 ;

[0042] - Figure 4B schematically shows a side view of a part of the distribution device of Figure 1 , for example a magazine of the containers;

[0043] - Figure 5 schematically shows an exploded view of a part of the distribution device of Figure 1 ;

[0044] - Figure 6 shows a perspective view of a second embodiment of a device for the automatic distribution of products, in accordance with the present invention;

[0045] - Figure 7 shows a perspective view of the distribution device of Figure 6 during the loading of the device itself with the plurality of containers;

[0046] - Figure 8A shows a magnification of a first step performed by the distribution device;

[0047] - Figure 8B shows a magnification of a second step performed by the distribution device;

[0048] - Figure 9 shows a magnification of a third step performed by the distribution device;

[0049] - Figure 10 shows a magnification of a detail of Figure 6. With reference to the above-mentioned figures, a device for the automatic distribution of products 2 has been referred to with reference number 1 . More in particular, the device 1 is suitable for operating in accordance with a method for the automatic distribution of products 2 which is also the subject matter of the present invention, for controlling the distribution thereof.

[0050] The device 1 comprises an openable containment structure 3 arranged to contain a plurality of containers 4 configured to contain the products.

[0051] In an exemplary but non-limiting embodiment, the containment structure 3 may be modular.

[0052] Referring to Figure 5, it is noted that the containment structure 3 comprises three sub-structures 31 , 32,33 that can be assembled together. Advantageously, the containment structure 3 divided into sub-structures is easily transportable.

[0053] In a first embodiment, the containers have a substantially frustoconical shape so that the containers can be stacked together.

[0054] Advantageously, the containers can be stacked together thanks to the particular geometry and by overlapping them it is possible to reduce the space they occupy by up to 70%.

[0055] Preferably, the containers are made of recyclable plastic.

[0056] Figures 2A and 2B illustrate a container in accordance with the first embodiment. In detail, Figure 2A illustrates a first larger side 41 of the container and Figure 2B illustrates a second larger side 42, opposite to the previous one, of the same container.

[0057] In detail, the first side 41 has two cavities 41 a facing inside the container such as to accommodate a first side 41 of another container, when they are stacked. In addition, the first side 41 also has two seats 41 b near the opening of the container. Each seat 41 b is arranged to accommodate at least a portion of a bottom wall of another container.

[0058] The second side 42 also has two cavities 42a facing inside the container such as to accommodate a second side 42 of another container, when they are stacked. However, the two cavities 41 a of the first side 41 are misaligned and interposed with respect to the two cavities 42a of the second side 42 according to the extension development of the larger side itself. Furthermore, the second side 42 also comprises two seats 42b arranged to accommodate at least a portion of a bottom wall of another container.

[0059] Two stacked containers are illustrated in Figure 2C; in particular, the cavities 41a, 42a of the first 41 and second 42 sides of a first container accommodate a portion of the bottom wall of a respective first 41 and second 42 side of a second container such that the second container is at least partially comprised in the first container.

[0060] Two stacked containers are also illustrated in Figure 2D, however the cavities 41a, 42a of the first 41 and second 42 sides of a first container partially accommodate a bottom wall of a respective second 42 and first 41 side of a second container such that the second container is substantially outside the first container. In other words, the second container is rotated by 180° with respect to the first container.

[0061] In a second embodiment, the containers contained in the containment structure 3 are of the “resealable” type. In particular, the containers are in the “resealable” configuration when they do not contain the aforementioned products 2.

[0062] “Resealable containers” 4 is intended as foldable containers. Each container, whose technology is already known, consists of a bottom wall and side walls, the latter are arranged to fall by gravity (e.g. folding) inside the container so as to optimise space and be reused later.

[0063] In particular, the resealable container can be completely closed in case the space inside the side walls is completely empty. Therefore, in the closed configuration, each side wall is in contact with the bottom wall. In the open configuration, the container contains at least one product near the side walls of the container itself. Alternatively, the container can be partially open if it contains at least one object which hinders closing the container. Alternatively, the container may be partially open due to the presence of an object which is incorrectly oriented with respect to a predefined orientation, wherein the predefined orientation can change as a function of the product allocated in the container.

[0064] Advantageously, the containment structure 3 protects everything that is present inside it and also the plurality of containers 4.

[0065] The containment structure 3 comprises a lower portion 10 and an upper portion 11 .

[0066] In a first embodiment shown purely by way of example and therefore not limiting in Figure 1 , the lower portion 10 is a hollow structure having a substantially rectangular shape defined by two larger sides A and two smaller sides B and comprises side walls.

[0067] In a second embodiment shown purely by way of example and therefore not limiting in Figure 6, the lower portion 10 is a hollow structure having a substantially rectangular shape defined by two larger sides A and two smaller sides B and comprises a base wall and side walls.

[0068] In particular, the smaller side B of the side walls of both embodiments can be opened (Figures 3 and 7). Therefore, the smaller side B is arranged to allow the insertion of the plurality of containers 4, which are resealable or have a frustoconical shape, inside the containment structure 3.

[0069] In a first embodiment, as illustrated in Figure 3, each smaller side B of the side walls may comprise openable panels. These panels allow the easy insertion of the plurality of containers 4 inside the containment structure 3. As previously mentioned, the containment structure 3 may comprise substructures 31 , 32, 33. Each sub-structure 31 , 32, 33 may further comprise a panel openable along the smaller side B so as to facilitate the insertion of the plurality of containers 4.

[0070] For example, in Figure 5 it is illustrated that the sub-structure 31 comprises a panel for each smaller side B. Similarly to the sub-structure 31 , the sub-structure 32 also comprises a panel for each smaller side B.

[0071] Referring to Figure 7, in a second embodiment, each smaller side B of the side wall may be in an open configuration.

[0072] In particular, in such a configuration, each side wall B defines a continuous surface with the bottom wall of the containment structure 3.

[0073] As shown in Figures 1 and 6, the upper portion 11 is a hollow structure having the same shape and size as the lower portion 10. In other words, the upper portion 11 is integral with the lower portion 10 and together they define a containment volume 13 of the containment structure 3.

[0074] With reference to Figures 1 , 6 and 7, it is evident that the containment volume 13 is partially occupied by the plurality of containers 4.

[0075] For example, the upper portion 11 is made of transparent material, e.g., glass or plexiglass, to allow an external user to see at least partially inside the containment volume 13.

[0076] The containment structure 3, in particular the lower portion 10, comprises a storage area 15 for empty containers 4a, and a containment area 17 of the plurality of containers 4.

[0077] In a second embodiment (Figures 6 and 7), the containment structure 3 can also contain a storage area 16 for containers 4b, while the storage area 15 for empty containers 4a is mainly arranged to accommodate preferably closed empty containers 4a.

[0078] Referring again to Figures 6 and 7, the storage area 15 for empty containers 4a is situated near the larger side A of the lower portion 10 and is arranged to contain a plurality of empty and stacked containers 4a.

[0079] The storage area 16 for partially open containers 4b is situated near the larger side A of the lower portion 10 and is arranged to contain at least one partially open container 4b.

[0080] In particular, the container is partially open in case a product 2b is oriented in an undefined position inside the container.

[0081] Typically, with reference to Figure 10, each open and full container contains a plurality of products 2. Each product 2 is housed in a seat, in particular they are housed with a predefined position and orientation inside the container.

[0082] As highlighted in Figures 6-7, all products 2 are aligned with each other. Always referring to Figure 10, it can occur that a product 2b has a different orientation and / or inclination from the predefined position and orientation. Therefore, this product 2b in an undefined position can inhibit closing the container 4 and, therefore, the same remains partially open.

[0083] As always shown in Figures 6 and 7, the storage area 15 for empty containers and the storage area 16 for partially open containers 4b develop along the same larger side A of the containment structure 3.

[0084] The containment area 17 of the plurality of containers 4 is situated adjacent to the storage area 15 for empty containers 4a.

[0085] In an exemplary and non-limiting embodiment, the containment area 17 of the plurality of containers 4 is also adjacent to the storage area 16 for empty containers 4a.

[0086] In a first embodiment, illustrated in Figures 3 and 5, the storage area 15 for empty containers 4a corresponds to the area comprised in the third sub-structure 33 (Figure 4B); while the containment area 17 corresponds to the area comprised in the first 31 and second 32 sub-structures when they are coupled.

[0087] The containment area 17 of the plurality of containers 4 comprises a first plurality of containers arranged to contain a plurality of first products 2a.

[0088] Furthermore, in a second embodiment, the containment area 17 of the plurality of boxes 4 also comprises a second plurality of containers 44 arranged to contain a plurality of second products 22.

[0089] Referring to Figures 1 and 6, the first plurality of containers comprises a plurality of columns of stacked containers 40a, 40b, 40c.

[0090] In a first embodiment shown purely by way of example and therefore not limiting in Figures 3 and 4A, the first plurality of containers comprises fourteen columns of stacked containers and, preferably each column (Figure 3) comprises three containers 400, 401 , 402. In a second embodiment shown purely by way of example and therefore not limiting in Figure 6, the first plurality of containers comprises sixteen columns of stacked containers and, preferably each column (Figure 7) comprises four containers 400, 401 , 402, 403. Each container comprises a plurality of first products 2a.

[0091] For example, each container comprises twelve products 2a.

[0092] The second plurality of containers 44 of the second embodiment comprises at least one column of stacked containers 44a.

[0093] Similar to the first plurality of containers, a column of containers 44a of the second plurality 44 comprises four containers and each container comprises a plurality of second products 22. In particular, each container comprises twelve second products.

[0094] The device 1 further comprises an extraction system 5 situated near the perimeter of the containment structure 3 to bring the products 2, in particular the products 2a of the first plurality of containers, outside the containment structure 3.

[0095] As shown in Figures 1 and 6, the extraction system 5 crosses the containment structure 3.

[0096] In a first embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 and 3, the extraction system 5 is a conveyor belt 54. In this embodiment, the conveyor belt 54 is positioned mainly in the lower portion 10 of the containment structure 3. Preferably, the conveyor belt 54 is positioned in the first sub-structure 31 . Advantageously, the glass of the upper portion 11 does not have a crossing opening for the conveyor belt 54.

[0097] Preferably, the conveyor belt 54 comprises at least a first end 54a and a second end 54b. The first end 54a is positioned inside the containment structure 3 and the second end 54b is positioned outside the containment structure 3.

[0098] In a second embodiment shown in Figures 6 and 7, the extraction system 5 comprises an inlet opening 51 and an outlet opening 52.

[0099] In particular, the outlet opening 52 is positioned outside the containment structure 3 and is arranged to be crossed by the product 2 and distribute the product 2 outside the containment structure 3. Thereby the user, outside the containment structure 3, can withdraw the product 2.

[0100] Conversely, the inlet opening 51 is positioned inside the containment structure 3 and is arranged to accommodate the product 2 and to convey it towards the outlet opening 52 of the extraction system 5.

[0101] As shown in Figures 6 and 7, the extraction system 5 can be a chute.

[0102] In other words, the inlet opening 51 and the outlet opening 52 are positioned at different heights. For example, the inlet opening 51 is positioned at a higher height with respect to the outlet opening 52.

[0103] In an alternative embodiment not illustrated, the extraction system 5 can be a belt integral with the upper portion 11 , the inlet opening 51 of which is positioned at the same height as the outlet opening 52.

[0104] In such case, a hatch arranged to be opened during the dispensing of the product 2 is positioned near the outlet opening 52 and the product is transported from the inlet opening 51 to the outlet opening 52. The containment structure 3 further comprises a mechanical arm 6 arranged to withdraw a product 2 from one of the plurality of containers 4.

[0105] The mechanical arm 6 comprises a support base 61 and a free end 62.

[0106] Generally, the mechanical arm 6 is positioned in the containment volume portion 13.

[0107] In other words, the support base 61 is positioned at a height substantially coinciding with the height of the side walls of the lower portion 10.

[0108] Furthermore, the support base 61 can be positioned in any area of the lower portion 10, and in particular in any area of containment area 17.

[0109] Therefore, the mechanical arm 6, in particular the free end 62, is free to move in the containment volume 13. Thereby, the mechanical arm 6 can easily reach any area of the containment volume 13.

[0110] The mechanical arm 6, in particular near the free end 62, comprises a gripping element for withdrawing a product 2. Exemplarily, the gripping element is a gripper or a suction system with suction cup to withdraw and retain any type of products and, in particular, products or containers. In particular, if the gripping member is a suction system with suction cup, the vacuum reservoir and the vacuum pump are present in the lower portion, preferably below the support base 61 , to enable operation of the suction system with suction cup.

[0111] In addition, other types of gripping elements may be present in the lower portion 10.

[0112] Advantageously, the spaces of the containment volume are optimised as the vacuum system and vacuum pump occupy the space below the support base 61 of the mechanical arm 6.

[0113] The mechanical arm 6 is arranged to withdraw a product 2 from a container 400 of the first plurality of containers 40a. Initially, the mechanical arm 6 withdraws the product 2 placed near the perimeter of the container 400.

[0114] The mechanical arm 6 is also arranged to transport the product 2 withdrawn from the relative container 400 to the extraction system 5.

[0115] In a first embodiment, the mechanical arm 6 is arranged to transport the product 2 from the relative container 400 to the first end 54a of the extraction system 5.

[0116] In a second embodiment, the mechanical arm 6 is arranged to transport the product 2 from the relative container 400 to the inlet opening 51 of the extraction system 5. The mechanical arm 6 further comprises an acquisition system 20 configured to acquire environmental images representative of the plurality of containers 4, images of the products 2 representative of the orientation of the products and grasping images representative of the free end 62 of the mechanical arm 6.

[0117] For example, the acquisition system 20 may be a camera configured to acquire environmental images representative of the plurality of containers 4, images of the products 2 representative of the orientation of the products 2, and grasping images representative of the free end 62 of the mechanical arm 6. In this way it is possible to constantly monitor the presence of the products 2 in each container, the orientation of the products 2 in the relative container 400 and the correct operation of the free end 62 of the mechanical arm 6.

[0118] Advantageously, the acquisition system 20 allows to recognize the correct orientation of the product 2 inside the container 400.

[0119] The mechanical arm 6 further comprises a processing unit configured to generate displacement signals from mechanical arm 6 as a function of the environmental images, product images and grasping images acquired by the acquisition system 20.

[0120] Furthermore, the processing unit is configured to generate the displacement signal of the mechanical arm 6 as a function of an activation signal.

[0121] Thereby, the processing unit controls the movement of the mechanical arm 6.

[0122] In an embodiment not illustrated, the containment structure 3 comprises a gripper tool containment compartment positioned near the mechanical arm.

[0123] The compartment contains different types of tools which can be adapted to the free end 62 of the mechanical arm 6 so as to retain products which differ in size, shape and placement.

[0124] Advantageously, the mechanical arm 6 is particularly versatile, as it can be used for different product types.

[0125] In particular, the device 1 can also be used if the products 2 inside the relative container 400 are not all oriented in the same direction. In such a case, the mechanical arm 6 can use a suitable tool to easily withdraw the generically oriented product 2a.

[0126] The containment structure 3 further comprises a movement system 7 situated below the plurality of containers 4 and arranged to displace at least one of the plurality of containers 4.

[0127] In a first embodiment shown in Figure 3, the movement system 7 comprises carriages 7d and side guides 7e (for example lateral sides).

[0128] In particular, the carriage 7d is arranged to support two columns of containers 4 as illustrated in Figure 3.

[0129] In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 3, each sub-structure 31 , 32 comprises at least two carriages side by side and a side guide 7e. This side guide 7e is substantially a horizontal bar adapted to separate the side-by-side carriages 7d and to guide their insertion into the containment structure 3 and, in particular, into the sub-structure 31 , 32.

[0130] Preferably, the height of the side guide 7e is less than the height of the carriage 7d.

[0131] In a second embodiment shown in Figure 7, the movement system 7 comprises a carriage 7a and rails 7b.

[0132] In particular, the carriage 7a is arranged to support at least one container 4 and is arranged to translate along the rails 7b.

[0133] In particular, the rails 7b are made on the bottom wall and on at least one side of the containment structure 3, e.g., on the smaller sides B of the side walls of the lower portion 10, so that in the open configuration the rails 7a of the bottom wall and side walls create a continuous rail.

[0134] Always referring to Figure 7, it is evident that the carriage 7a can translate along the rails and in this way the plurality of containers 4, in the open configuration of the structure 3, can be extracted from and / or inserted into the containment structure 3.

[0135] As illustrated always in Figure 7, the movement system 7 also comprises stabilising elements 7c.

[0136] In detail, each stabilising element 7c is counter-shaped at the corner of the container 4 and is situated at the top of the carriage 7a.

[0137] Thus, extending along the entire height of the column of stacked containers 40a, each stabilising element 7c stabilizes the containers 4 during the translation of the carriage 7a.

[0138] In an alternative embodiment not illustrated, the movement system 7 may comprise rollers arranged along the bottom wall and the side walls of the lower portion 10, the rollers being arranged to convey the plurality of containers 4 inside the containment structure 3.

[0139] The device 1 further comprises a translation system positioned laterally and inside the containment structure 3. In particular, the translation system is positioned laterally and inside the larger side A of the lower portion 10. For example, the translation system is a roller system.

[0140] The translation system is arranged for aligning the plurality of containers 4 inside the containment structure 3.

[0141] Advantageously, the translation system allows the alignment of the plurality of containers 4, thereby avoiding misalignments of the containers during the translation of the plurality of containers 4 inside the containment structure 3.

[0142] The device 1 further comprises a removable transport system comprising wheels arranged outside the containment structure 3, and in particular, along the smaller side B of the lower portion 10.

[0143] Thereby, the device can be transported and positioned in the location arranged for the sale of the products.

[0144] Advantageously, the device 1 can be temporarily positioned in a location.

[0145] The device 1 further comprises an interface device (not shown) positioned outside the containment structure 3 and arranged to receive an input, generate an activation signal as a function of the input and transmit the activation signal to the processing unit of the mechanical arm 6.

[0146] The interface device is made for example in the form of a “totem” which has a touch screen monitor in which quantity and type of the product 2 can be selected.

[0147] Thereby, the mechanical arm 6 can withdraw the product 2 as a function of the input received by means of the interface device.

[0148] The device 1 further comprises a transmission system configured to transmit to a remote control device a signal representative of operating error, absence of products 2 in the containment area 17.

[0149] In an exemplary and non-limiting embodiment, the transmission system is further configured to transmit a further signal representative of at least two containers in the storage area 16 for the partially open containers.

[0150] It is thereby possible to send alarm signals to a control centre.

[0151] Advantageously, the technician can intervene on the device when actually needed, in particular in the event of an operating error, absence of products 2 in the containment area 17 and the presence of other anomalies.

[0152] The present invention, described above in a mainly structural sense, further comprises a method for the automatic distribution of products 2.

[0153] The method comprises the step of arranging a containment structure 3 adapted to contain a plurality of containers 4 for housing the products 2; said structure comprising a mechanical arm 6 and a movement system 7 situated below the plurality of containers 4 and arranged to translate at least one of the plurality of containers 4.

[0154] The method further comprises the step of arranging an extraction system 5 situated near the perimeter of the containment structure 3.

[0155] The method further comprises the step of mapping the containment structure 3.

[0156] Thereby, the processing unit of the mechanical arm 6 is configured to define a map of the position of the different types of products 2 inside the containment structure 3.

[0157] Once the map of the different types of products 2 has been defined, the mechanical arm 6 can withdraw the product 2 from one of the plurality of containers 4.

[0158] In detail, the withdrawal step comprises the step of receiving an input, by means of the interface device.

[0159] In particular, an external user selects, by means of the interface device (e.g., monitor), the type and quantity of product 2 to be dispensed.

[0160] Therefore, the interface device processes and transmits an activation signal representative of product 2 to be withdrawn.

[0161] Next, the processing unit of the mechanical arm 6 receives the activation signal.

[0162] Simultaneously, the acquisition system 20 transmits environmental images representative of the plurality of containers 4, product images representative of the orientation of the products 2 inside the container 4, and grasping images representative of the free end 62 of the mechanical arm 6 to the processing unit of the mechanical arm 6.

[0163] As shown in Figure 8A, the free end 62 of the mechanical arm 6 withdraws a product 2 from the plurality of containers 4.

[0164] Preferably, the free end 62 withdraws the product 2a from the first plurality of containers. In particular, the mechanical arm 6 withdraws the product 2a as a function of the activation signal received from the interface device and the environmental and product images acquired.

[0165] Typically, the mechanical arm 6 initially withdraws the products 2a positioned along the perimeter of the container 400.

[0166] Therefore, the mechanical arm 6 grasps the product 2a (as shown in Figure 3A) as a function of the activation signal, environmental images and product images and simultaneously the acquisition system 20 transmits grasping images representative of free end 62 of the mechanical arm 62.

[0167] Advantageously, the processing unit controls the step of withdrawing the product 2a by comparing a plurality of representative images of the free end 62 acquired during the step of withdrawing the product 2a, to optionally optimise the same step.

[0168] Thereby the processing unit can optimise the step of withdrawing the product 2a by rotating the mechanical arm 6 in the most appropriate manner.

[0169] By controlling the correct rotation of the free end 62 of the mechanical arm 6, it is therefore possible to obtain an efficient withdrawal and, consequently, it is possible to reduce the probability of the product 2a to fall during withdrawal and subsequent transport to the extraction system 5. In fact, after the withdrawal step, the method comprises the step of transporting, by means of the mechanical arm 6, the product 2a from the relative container 400 to the extraction system 5.

[0170] The mechanical arm 6 is controlled by the processing unit to withdraw the product 2a from the container 400 and transport the same near the extraction system 5.

[0171] In particular, the product 2a withdrawn from the container 400 can be transported near the first end 54a of the extraction system 5.

[0172] Alternatively, the product 2a withdrawn from the container 400 can be transported near the inlet opening 51 of the extraction system 5.

[0173] Therefore, the free end 62 releases the product 2a to be fed towards the outside of the containment structure 3.

[0174] Then, the product 2a is distributed, by means of the extraction system 5, to the outside of the containment structure 3.

[0175] In one embodiment, simultaneously with the distribution of the product 2a, the mechanical arm 6 rotates towards a second plurality of containers 44.

[0176] Then, as illustrated in image 8B, the mechanical arm 6 withdraws a second product 22 from the second plurality of containers 44 and places it in the container 400 and in particular at the point where the distributed product 2a was withdrawn.

[0177] Advantageously, the second product 22 inhibits closing the container 400 and, therefore, the mechanical arm 6 can subsequently withdraw a further product 2a.

[0178] At the same time, the processing unit updates the map defined during the mapping step to track the empty, previously occupied position of the distributed product 2a and, therefore, store at which point of the containment area 17 the new product 22 is present.

[0179] In a first embodiment, the method further comprises the steps of:

[0180] - withdrawing the completely closed container from the column of containers 40a;

[0181] - transporting it from the relative column of containers 40a to the storage area 15 for the empty containers 4a;

[0182] - releasing the empty withdrawn container 4a in the storage area 15 for the closed containers.

[0183] The method may further comprise the steps of:

[0184] - withdrawing the empty container from the column of containers 40a;

[0185] - transporting the empty container from the relative column of containers 40a to the storage area 15 for the empty containers 4a;

[0186] - releasing, inside the storage area 15 for closed containers, a first empty container 4a withdrawn from the column of containers 40a;

[0187] - releasing, inside the storage area 15 for closed containers, a second empty container 4a withdrawn from the column of containers 40a, stacking it and rotating it by 180° with respect to the first empty container 4a.

[0188] Furthermore, in a second embodiment, the method comprises the steps of:

[0189] - withdrawing the partially open container 4b from the column of containers;

[0190] - transporting it from the relative column of containers to the storage area 16 for partially open containers 4b;

[0191] - releasing the withdrawn, partially open container 4b in the storage area 16 for the partially open containers.

[0192] Advantageously, the present invention solves the drawbacks mentioned in the prior art and achieves the intended aims.

[0193] In particular, the device 1 for the automatic distribution of products 2 is capable of containing a large number of products and, consequently, reducing the number of interventions by the technician to refill the device with products.

[0194] Furthermore, the device 1 is capable of optimising the loading step of the products to be sold.

[0195] In particular, with the presence of the containers, the loading step is simpler and faster than loading the individual products into the containment structure 3. Therefore, the operator reduces the loading times of the device itself.

[0196] A further important advantage of the invention is to overcome any misalignment of the product to be dispensed and to reduce the number of products which cannot be dispensed.

[0197] In fact, even if a product is misaligned / tilted, the device 1 is able to dispense other products present inside the same container. In other words, the device 1 is able to keep the containers open until the last product 2a is withdrawn by positioning the arranged products 2b so as to keep the container open.

[0198] Furthermore, the device 1 is capable of autonomously distributing the product throughout the day and autonomously monitoring the quantity of product present inside the device itself.

[0199] Finally, in accordance with the method for the automatic distribution of products, the device allows the optimisation of the product distribution process.

Claims

CLAIMS1. Device (1 ) for the automatic distribution of products, in particular products (2) comprising: a containment structure (3) for containing a plurality of containers (4) for housing the products (2); an extraction system (5) situated near the perimeter of the containment structure (3) and arranged to feed the products (2) outside the containment structure (3), wherein the containment structure (3) comprises: a mechanical arm (6) arranged to withdraw at least one product (2) from at least one container (4) and to transport the product (2) from the relative container (4) to the extraction system (5); and a movement system (7) situated below the plurality of containers (4) to move at least one full container (4) inside the structure (3).

2. Device for the automatic distribution (1 ), according to the preceding claim, wherein the containment structure (3) comprises a lower portion (10) having: a storage area (15) for empty containers (4a) and a containment area (17) of said plurality of containers (4) containing said products.

3. Device for the automatic distribution (1 ), according to claim 2, wherein the storage area (15) for empty containers (4a) is situated near a larger side (A) of the lower portion (10) and is arranged to contain a plurality of stacked empty containers (4a); and wherein the first plurality of containers (40a, 40b, 40c) is arranged to contain a plurality of first products (2a).

4. Device for the automatic distribution (1 ) according to claim 3, wherein the storage area (16) for containers (4b) is situated near the larger side (A) of the lower portion (10) and is arranged to contain at least one container (4b); and wherein the containment area (17) of said plurality of containers(4) comprises a first (40a, 40b, 40c...) and a second (44) plurality of containers.

5. Device for the automatic distribution (1 ), according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a translation system positioned laterally and inside the containment structure (3) for aligning the plurality of containers (4) in a predefined position inside the structure (3).

6. Device (1 ) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the movement system (7) comprises a carriage (7a) for supporting and displacing at least one resealable container (4) containing products (2); wherein the movement system (7) further comprises vertical stabilising elements (7c) placed at the tops of the carriage (7a) to stabilize the container (4) during the displacement of the carriage (7a).

7. Device (1 ) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the extraction system (5) comprises an inlet opening (51) and an outlet opening (52); wherein the outlet opening (52) is positioned outside the containment structure (3); wherein the inlet opening (51 ) is positioned inside the containment structure (3).

8. Device (1 ) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the extraction system (5) comprises a first end (54a) positioned inside the containment structure (3) and a second end (54b) positioned outside the containment structure (3); wherein said extraction system (5) is a conveyor belt (54).

9. Device (1 ) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the mechanical arm (6) comprises a gripping element for withdrawing at least one product (2).

10. Device (1 ) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein saidmechanical arm (6) further comprises an acquisition system (20) and a processing unit; wherein the acquisition system (20) is configured to acquire environmental images representative of the plurality of containers (4), images of the products representative of the orientation of the products (2) inside the container (4) and grasping images representative of a free end (62) of the mechanical arm (6); and wherein the processing unit generates displacement signals of the mechanical arm (6) as a function of said environmental images, said images of the products and said grasping images acquired and as a function of an activation signal.

11. Device (1 ) according to the preceding claim, further comprising an interface device positioned outside containment structure (3) and arranged to receive an input, generate the activation signal as a function of said input and transmit the activation signal to the processing unit of the mechanical arm (6).

12. Method for the automatic distribution of products (2), comprising the steps of:- arranging a containment structure (3) for containing a plurality of containers (4) for housing the products (2); said structure (3) comprising a mechanical arm (6) and a movement system (7) situated below the plurality of containers (4) and arranged to translate at least one of said plurality of containers (4);- arranging an extraction system (5) situated near the perimeter of the containment structure (3);- withdrawing, by means of the mechanical arm (6), at least one product (2) from at least one container (4);- transporting, by means of the mechanical arm (6), the product (2) from the relative container to the extraction system (5);- distributing, by means of the extraction system (5), the product (2) outside the containment structure (3).

13. Method according to claim 12, wherein the withdrawal step comprises the step of:- receiving, from an interface device to a processing unit, an activation signal;- receiving, from an acquisition system (20) to a processing unit, environmental images representative of the plurality of containers (4), images of the products representative of the orientation of the products (2) inside the container (4) and grasping images representative of a free end (62) of the mechanical arm (6);- grasping the product (2) as a function of the activation signal and the environmental and grasping images.

14. Method according to claim 13, wherein the receiving step comprises the step of selecting, by means of an interface device, the type and quantity of products (2) to be dispensed.

15. Method according to any one of claims 12 and 14, further comprising, before the withdrawal step, the step of mapping containment structure (3).

Images