System for the manufacture of layered shaped bodies

Abstract

The system (1) for the manufacture of layered shaped bodies, comprising: at least one base layer (9); at least one coating layer (8a, 8b); movement means (23) configured to move the at least one base layer (9) and the at least one coating layer (8a, 8b), substantially facing overlapping and parallel to each other, along a line of movement (M); pressing means (2, 3) provided with at least a first pressing body (2), comprising at least a first shaping element (4), and with at least a second pressing body (3), comprising at least a second shaping element (5) having a complementary conformation with respect to the first shaping element (4), the pressing bodies (2, 3) being arranged on opposite sides of the line of movement (M) and being movable, at least one with respect to the other, between: at least one home configuration, wherein the at least one first shaping element (4) and the at least one second shaping element (5) are spaced apart from each other; and at least one work configuration, wherein the at least one first shaping element (4) and the at least one second shaping element (5) are pressed under pressure, enclosing the layers (8a, 8b, 9) with each other and coupling them, so as to make, at a shaping area (10), at least one layered shaped body (11); wherein: the base layer (9) is made of paper; the coating layer (8a, 8b) is made of paper of the crepe paper type.

Description

[0001] SYSTEM FOR THE MANUFACTURE OF LAYERED SHAPED BODIES

[0002] Technical Field

[0003] The present invention relates to a system for the manufacture of layered shaped bodies.

[0004] Background Art

[0005] Systems are known for the manufacture of layered shaped bodies that allow one or more sheets of predefined material to be molded in such a way as to give them the desired shape, e.g., to make containing trays or other similar products.

[0006] Generally, the systems of known type do use a shaping press that operates on the sheet.

[0007] In particular, the press is provided with appropriate pressing elements, having a complementary shape and operating simultaneously on the opposite sides of the sheet. In this way, the sheet is deformed until it takes on the shape of the pressing elements.

[0008] However, this type of system is susceptible to certain improvements.

[0009] In fact, the shape of the shaped bodies is limited due to the characteristics of the sheet used. In particular, the elasticity of the sheet significantly limits the angles and / or depth of the shaped bodies that can be manufactured.

[0010] In fact, beyond a certain depth, defined by the shape of the pressing elements, the press compromises the integrity of the sheet, which generally tears off.

[0011] This drawback is further worsened by the number and / or proximity of the shaped bodies that you wish to create on the sheet during the pressing operation.

[0012] This drawback is further deepened by the sheet material which, in order to create fully compostable products, is often limited to paper without elastomers and / or glue.

[0013] To overcome this drawback, it is common practice to use layers of different materials increasing the elasticity of the sheets.

[0014] However, these materials cause an increase of the weight of the manufactured shaped bodies and compromise certain their technical characteristics, such as strength and stiffness.

[0015] In addition, these materials significantly limit the depth and / or angles of these shaped bodies. Description of the Invention

[0016] The main aim of the present invention is to devise a system for the manufacture of layered shaped bodies which allows for the creation of shaped bodies that are lighter, stronger, and / or stiffer than the systems of known type.

[0017] A further object of the present invention is to devise a system for the manufacture of layered shaped bodies which allows for the creation of shaped products with greater depth and / or angles than the systems of known type.

[0018] A further object of the present invention is to devise a system for the manufacture of layered shaped bodies with greater productivity than the systems of known type without compromising the technical characteristics of the manufactured shaped bodies. An additional object of the present invention is to devise a system for the manufacture of layered shaped bodies which allows for the creation of completely compostable shaped products.

[0019] Another object of the present invention is to devise a system for the manufacture of layered shaped bodies which allows for the aforementioned drawbacks of the prior art to be overcome within the scope of a simple, rational, easy and effective to use solution which is also cost-effective.

[0020] The aforementioned objects are achieved by the present system having the characteristics of claim 1.

[0021] The aforementioned objects are achieved by the present process having the characteristics of claim 6.

[0022] The aforementioned objects are achieved by the present shaped body having the characteristics of claim 11.

[0023]

[0024] of the

[0025] Other characteristics and advantages of the present invention will be more apparent from the description of a preferred, but not exclusive, embodiment of a system for the manufacture of shaped bodies, illustrated by way of an indicative, yet non-limiting example in the attached drawings, in which:

[0026] Figure 1 is an axonometric view of the system according to the invention;

[0027] Figure 2 is an axonometric view of some components of the system according to the invention; Figure 3 is an axonometric figure of some components of the system shown in Figure 2;

[0028] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the system in the home configuration according to the invention;

[0029] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional figure of the system in the work configuration according to the invention;

[0030] Figure 6 is a detailed top view of some components of the system shown in Figure 5.

[0031] Figure 7 is a schematic figure of a possible, but not exclusive, embodiment of some components of the system according to the invention;

[0032] Figure 8 is a schematic figure of another possible, but not exclusive, embodiment of some components of the system according to the invention;

[0033] Figure 9 is a schematic figure of a further possible, but not exclusive, embodiment of some components of the system according to the invention;

[0034] Figure 10 is an axonometric figure of other components of the system according to the invention; Figure 11 is an axonometric view of the shaped body according to the invention.

[0035] Embodiments of the Invention

[0036] With particular reference to these figures, reference numeral 1 globally denotes a system for the manufacture of layered shaped bodies. The system 1 for the manufacture of layered shaped bodies comprises:

[0037] at least one base layer 9;

[0038] at least one coating layer 8a, 8b.

[0039] Preferably, in the remainder of this description, the term “layer” refers to a body made of a flexible material having a substantially sheet-like conformation.

[0040] According to the invention, the system 1 comprises movement means 23 configured to move the base layer 9 and the coating layer 8a, 8b, substantially facing overlapping and parallel to each other, along a line of movement M.

[0041] In particular, the line of movement M defines a direction of movement, indicated by the arrow in Figure 2, along which the layers 8a, 8b, 9 are moved.

[0042] Advantageously, the movement means 23 comprise at least one conveyor belt 34 on which the layers 8a, 8b, 9 are arranged, overlapping each other.

[0043] In this way, the layers 8a, 8b, 9 are moved along the direction of move ent M.

[0044] Conveniently, the system 1 comprises one or more rotating supports 25, such as e g. rollers, where one of the layers 8a, 8b, 9 is wound around each rotating support 25.

[0045] In this way, a free end of the layers 8a, 8b, 9 is moved, by means of the movement means 23, by substantially unwinding the layers 8a, 8b, 9 from their respective rotating supports 25.

[0046] According to the invention, the system 1 comprises pressing means 2, 3 provided with at least a first pressing body 2, which comprises at least a first shaping element 4, and with at least a second pressing body 3, which comprises at least a second shaping element 5 having a complementary conformation with respect to the first shaping element 4.

[0047] Furthermore, the pressing bodies 2, 3 are arranged on opposite sides of the line of movement M and are movable, at least one with respect to the other, between:

[0048] at least one home configuration, wherein the first shaping element 4 and the second shaping element 5 are spaced apart from each other; and

[0049] at least one work configuration, wherein the first shaping element 4 and the second shaping element 5 are pressed under pressure, enclosing the layers 8a, 8b, 9 with each other and coupling them, so as to make, at a shaping area 10, at least one layered shaped body 11. Optionally, the layers 8a, 8b, 9 are provided with a plurality of loose fibers on their surface. Furthermore, due to the pressure exerted by the pressing means 2, 3, these fibers are able to bind together, allowing the layers 8a, 8b, 9 to be coupled to form substantially a single body shape. According to the invention, the base layer 9 is made of paper and the coating layer 8a, 8b is made of paper of the crepe type.

[0050] In this way, the shaped body 11 is a body made of multilayer paper.

[0051] Advantageously, the coating layer 8a, 8b allows the base layer 9 to extend further under the effect of the pressing means 2, 3, thus reducing the risk of tearing off. In particular, the coating layer 8a, 8b has greater elasticity than the base body 9.

[0052] In this way, the system 1 allows for the creation of shaped bodies 11 made with base layers 9 that are difficult to use for this purpose using the systems of known type.

[0053] Conveniently, the base layer 9 is made of food-grade paper.

[0054] Preferably, the term “food-grade paper” refers to paper specifically designed and manufactured for use in direct contact with food, ensuring safety and hygiene. Consequently, the shaped body 11 made this way is of the type of a food tray and / or container.

[0055] Conveniently, the base layer 9 is made of and / or comprises virgin wood pulp, preferably bleached and preferably chlorine-free.

[0056] In particular, the base layer 9 is made of and / or comprises at least 80% w / w virgin wood pulp. More specifically, the base layer 9 comprises vinyl acetate and ethylene copolymer, preferably in aqueous emulsion.

[0057] Advantageously, the base layer 9 has a basis weight greater than or equal to 475 gsm and / or less than or equal to 525 gsm.

[0058] Preferably, the base layer 9 has a basis weight of about 500 gsm.

[0059] Conveniently, the base layer 9 has a thickness greater than or equal to 5.5 mm and / or less than or equal to 6.5 mm.

[0060] Preferably, the base layer 9 has a thickness of approximately 6 mm.

[0061] Conveniently, the base layer 9 has a dry tensile strength along the machine direction greater than or equal to 35 N / 50 mm.

[0062] Preferably, the base layer 9 has a dry tensile strength along the machine direction of approximately 45 N / 50 mm.

[0063] Advantageously, the base layer 9 has a dry tensile strength in the cross direction greater than or equal to 25 N / 50 mm.

[0064] Preferably, the base layer 9 has a dry tensile strength in the cross direction of approximately 30 N / 50 mm.

[0065] Conveniently, the base layer 9 has a wet tensile strength along the machine direction greater than or equal to 20 N / 50 mm.

[0066] Preferably, the base layer 9 has a wet tensile strength along the machine direction of approximately 25 N / 50 mm.

[0067] Conveniently, the base layer 9 has a wet tensile strength along the cross direction greater than or equal to 10 N / 50 mm.

[0068] Preferably, the base layer 9 has a wet tensile strength along the cross direction of approximately 15 N / 50 mm.

[0069] Conveniently, the base layer 9 has a liquid absorption capacity (measured for water) greater than or equal to 6000 gsm. Preferably, the base layer 9 has a liquid absorption capacity (measured for water) of approximately 6700 gsm.

[0070] Advantageously, the base layer 9 is made of paper of the air-laid type.

[0071] In particular, the coating layer 8a, 8b is made of paper, preferably tissue paper, of creped cellulose which is at least partly stretchable by 20% or more, preferably by 50% or more, in at least some areas.

[0072] For example, an elasticity of 50% means that a layer of paper initially measuring 10 cm can be stretched to 15 cm without tearing off.

[0073] Conveniently, the coating layer 8a, 8b and / or the base layer 9 are made of paper free of elastomeric additives and / or glue.

[0074] Conveniently, the coating layer 8a, 8b is made of cellulose wadding, preferably made from virgin wood pulp, preferably bleached and preferably chlorine-free.

[0075] In particular, the coating layer 8a, 8b is free of moisture resistance agents, dyes and / or plasticizers.

[0076] Advantageously, the coating layer 8a, 8b has an elasticity greater than or equal to 60% and / or less than or equal to 80%.

[0077] Preferably, the coating layer 8a, 8b has an elasticity of approximately 70%.

[0078] Conveniently, the coating layer 8a, 8b has an elasticity in wet conditions greater than or equal to 60% and / or less than or equal to 80%.

[0079] Preferably, the coating layer 8a, 8b has an elasticity in wet conditions of approximately 70%. In this way, the shaped body 11 is completely compostable.

[0080] It cannot be ruled out that the coating layer and / or the base layer 9 may have / contain at least one solvent or a mixture of solvents.

[0081] Preferably, the term “air-laid” refers to a special manufacture process and the type of material resulting therefrom, e.g., a manufacture process in which cellulose-based fibers are distributed homogeneously and bounded together without the use of water, preferably using air (hence the name) and optionally mechanical, thermal, or chemical binders.

[0082] Usefully, the system 1 comprises at least a first coating layer 8a and at least a second coating layer 8b.

[0083] Furthermore, the movement means 23 are configured to move the first coating layer 8a and the second coating layer 8b arranged substantially parallel to each other, so as to face opposite sides of the base layer 9.

[0084] Usefully, the system 1 comprises one or more first coating layers 8a, e.g. overlapping each other, and / or one or more second coating layers 8b, e.g. overlapping each other.

[0085] It cannot be ruled out that the system 1 may comprise dispensing means, not shown in the figures, configured to dispense, e.g. by means of steam or nebulization, a solvent or a mixture of solvents, preferably water.

[0086] In particular, the dispensing means are arranged along the line of movement M upstream of the pressing means 2, 3.

[0087] Preferably, the terms “upstream” and “downstream” are intended to indicate the relevant positions of the various components with respect to the line of movement M, i.e., which of these components receive the body to be shaped 8 first or last.

[0088] More specifically, the dispensing means are configured to dispense the solvent or a mixture of solvents between the layers of the body to be shaped 8.

[0089] It cannot be ruled out that the dispensing means may be arranged, in use, between the layers of the body to be shaped 8.

[0090] Advantageously, the system 1 comprises at least one separator, not shown in the figures, which separates, in use, one or more layers of the body to be shaped 8.

[0091] It cannot be ruled out that the separator may coincide with the dispensing means.

[0092] Preferably, the system 1 may comprise heating means, not shown in the figures, of the pressing means 2, 3.

[0093] In particular, the heating means are configured to heat the pressing means 2, 3 to between 100°C and 350°C.

[0094] It cannot be ruled out that at least one of either the first or second pressing bodies 3 may be at least partly gas-permeable or perforated and connected, e.g. through a tube, to pumping means, such as e.g. a compressor or a vacuum pump, for the suction or introduction of a gas or gas mixture, preferably ambient air, through at least one of the pressing bodies 2, 3, preferably through at least one of the pressing faces 6, 7.

[0095] Preferably, the pressing bodies 2, 3 are arranged facing each other.

[0096] In particular, the first shaping element 4 is arranged facing opposite the second shaping element 5.

[0097] In this way, the close and away movement of the pressing bodies 2, 3 causes the shift between the home configuration and the use configuration.

[0098] It cannot be ruled out that the system 1 may comprise motorized means, not shown in the figures, configured to move at least one of the pressing bodies 2, 3 between the home configuration and the work configuration.

[0099] Usefully, the pressing bodies 2, 3 are movable, at least one with respect to the other, close and away along a transverse pressing direction, preferably orthogonal to the line of movement M. Preferably, the first pressing body 2 is movable towards the second pressing body 3 which, on the contrary, is arranged at the fixed position.

[0100] Advantageously, in the work configuration, the first shaping element 4 and the second shaping element 5 are pressed together under pressure and crush the layers 8a, 8b, 9 between them, which are thus deformed, defining a plurality of shaped bodies 11.

[0101] In particular, the first shaping element 4 defines at least one protrusion and the second shaping element 5 defines at least one vacuum which, in the work configuration, receives the protrusion, so as to at least partly define the shaped body 11.

[0102] Advantageously, in the work configuration, the pressing means 2, 3, preferably by means of the shaping elements 4, 5, compact the layers 8a, 8b, 9 together, coupling them into a single body piece, e.g. thanks to the free fibers of these layers.

[0103] In this way, the pressing means 2, 3 shape the shaped body 11 and compact the layers 8a, 8b, 9 at the same time, coupling them to each other.

[0104] Conveniently, the first pressing body 2 comprises a plurality of first shaping elements 4 and the second pressing body 3 comprises a plurality of second shaping elements 5.

[0105] Furthermore, in the work configuration 2, each of the first shaping elements 4 operates in conjunction with a corresponding second shaping element 5 at a respective shaping area 10 to manufacture a corresponding layered shaped body 11.

[0106] In particular, the first and second pressing bodies 2, 3 comprise respective first and second pressing faces 6, 7, which in turn comprise the first and second shaping elements 4, 5, respectively.

[0107] In particular, each first shaping element 4 is arranged facing opposite a corresponding second shaping element 5.

[0108] Appropriately, what has been described with reference to the first shaping element 4 and to the second shaping element 5 is considered valid for all the first shaping elements 4 and for all the second shaping elements 5.

[0109] Conveniently, the system 1 comprises drilling means 12, 13, 14, 15 provided with one or more drilling elements 12, 13 movable close to the line of movement M to intervene under pressure on the layers 8a, 8b, 9 prior to the manufacture of the shaped body 11, to make on the latter one or more holes 16 which preemptively bound, at least partly, the shaping areas 10.

[0110] In particular, the drilling means 12, 13, 14, 15 comprise:

[0111] one or more built-in drilling elements 12 mounted on the first pressing body 2 and arranged at an advanced position, wherein they protrude cantilevered from the latter more than the first shaping elements 4, so as to intercept the layers 8a, 8b, 9 before the first shaping elements 4 during the shift between the home configuration and the work configuration; and / or

[0112] at least one supporting body 15, which is arranged along the line of movement M upstream of the pressing means 2, 3, preceding them, and one or more in-line drilling elements 13 mounted on the supporting body 15.

[0113] Preferably, the holes 16 have a longitudinal shape substantially adapted to make a cut that remains within the shape of the layers 8a, 8b, 9.

[0114] Therefore, the holes 16 do not clearly separate any portion of the layers 8a, 8b, 9.

[0115] In other words, the shaped bodies 11 are divided from each other by one or more holes, but remain connected to each other by one or more portions of the layers 8a, 8b, 9.

[0116] Conveniently, the built-in and / or in-line drilling elements 12, 13 are distributed, spaced apart from each other, along at least one axis of alignment A and / or along at least one axis of dislocation D, substantially orthogonal to the axis of alignment A.

[0117] In particular, the built-in and / or in-line drilling elements 12, 13 are distributed, spaced apart from each other, both along at least one axis of alignment A and along the axis of dislocation D.

[0118] Usefully, the built-in and / or in-line drilling elements 12, 13 are distributed along a plurality of axes of alignment A, arranged parallel to each other, and / or along a plurality of axes of dislocation D, arranged substantially parallel to each other.

[0119] More specifically, the built-in and / or in-line drilling elements 12, 13 are distributed both along a plurality of axes of alignment A and along a plurality of axes of dislocation D.

[0120] In this way, the built-in and / or in-line drilling elements 12, 13 are distributed substantially in a matrix pattern.

[0121] Consequently, the drilling means 12, 13, 14, 15 make a plurality of holes 16 on the body to be shaped 8, which holes at least partly delimit a plurality of shaping areas 10 arranged in a matrix pattern.

[0122] Advantageously, the built-in and / or in-line drilling element 12, 13 has a substantially elongated shape that extends aligned with respect to the axis of alignment A and / or orthogonal to the axis of dislocation D.

[0123] Preferably, the built-in and / or in-line drilling element 12, 13 is of the type of a blade.

[0124] It cannot be ruled out that at least a plurality of built-in and / or in-line drilling elements 12, 13 may be made in a single body piece, e.g. to define a toothed body 17, wherein each tooth defines a built-in and / or in-line drilling element 12, 13.

[0125] Conveniently, the drilling elements 12, 13 are arranged spaced apart from each other along the axis of alignment A and / or along the axis of dislocation D depending on the distance between the first shaping elements 4 and / or the length and / or width of the latter.

[0126] Appropriately, the first shaping elements 4 are distributed, spaced apart from each other, along at least one direction of alignment X and / or along at least one direction of dislocation Y substantially orthogonal to the direction of alignment X.

[0127] Preferably, the first shaping elements 4 are distributed along a plurality of directions of alignment X parallel to each other and / or along a plurality of directions of dislocation Y parallel to each other.

[0128] Furthermore, the drilling means 12, 13, 14, 15 comprise: at least one longitudinal group 18 of one or more built-in and / or in-line drilling elements 12, 13, wherein the axis of alignment A is parallel to the direction of alignment X and / or the axis of dislocation D is parallel to the direction of dislocation Y; and / or

[0129] at least one transverse group 19 of one or more built-in and / or in-line drilling elements 12, 13, wherein the axis of alignment A is orthogonal to the direction of alignment X and / or the axis of dislocation D is orthogonal to the direction of dislocation Y.

[0130] Preferably, the axis of alignment A of the longitudinal group 18 is arranged substantially parallel to the line of movement M and / or the axis of dislocation D of the longitudinal group 18 is arranged substantially orthogonal to the line of movement M.

[0131] Preferably, the axis of dislocation D of the transverse group 19 is arranged substantially parallel to the line of movement M and / or the axis of alignment A of the transverse group 19 is arranged substantially orthogonal to the line of movement M.

[0132] In particular, the axis of alignment A and the axis of dislocation D lie in the same plane.

[0133] More specifically, the axis of alignment A of the longitudinal group 18 is orthogonal to the axis of alignment A and / or parallel to the axis of dislocation D of the transverse group 19.

[0134] More specifically again, the axis of dislocation D of the longitudinal group 18 is parallel to the axis of alignment A and / or orthogonal to the axis of dislocation D of the transverse group 19. Usefully, the axis of alignment A of the longitudinal group 18 is spaced apart from the axis of dislocation D of the transverse group 19 and / or the axis of dislocation D of the longitudinal group 18 is spaced apart from the axis of alignment A of the transverse group 19.

[0135] Preferably, the axes of alignment A of the longitudinal group 18 alternate parallel to the axes of dislocation D of the transverse group 19 and / or the axes of dislocation D of the longitudinal group 18 alternate parallel to the axes of alignment of the transverse group 19.

[0136] In this way, the built-in and / or in-line drilling elements 12, 13 of the longitudinal group 18 and the built-in and / or in-line drilling elements 12, 13 of the transverse group 19 are arranged offset from each other, as shown in Figure 9.

[0137] In particular:

[0138] the built-in and / or in-line drilling elements 13 of the longitudinal group 18 are spaced apart from each other along the axis of alignment A by a distance less than or equal to the distance between the first shaping elements 4 along the direction of alignment X; and / or

[0139] the built-in and / or in-line drilling elements 12, 13 of the longitudinal group 18 are spaced apart from each other along the axis of dislocation D by a distance greater than or equal to the extension of one of the first shaping elements 4 along the direction of dislocation Y; and / or

[0140] the built-in and / or in-line drilling elements 12, 13 of the transverse group 19 are spaced apart from each other along the axis of alignment A by a distance less than or equal to the distance between the first shaping elements 4 along the direction of dislocation Y; and / or the built-in and / or in-line drilling elements 12, 13 of the transverse group 19 are spaced apart from each other along the axis of dislocation D by a distance greater than or equal to the extension of one of the first shaping elements 4 along the direction of alignment X. In this way, the holes 16 made by the built-in and / or in-line drilling elements 12, 13 define one or more sides of the shaping areas 10 intended to receive the first and the second shaping elements 4, 5.

[0141] Advantageously, each built-in drilling element 12 aligned along the same axis of alignment A is arranged on the side of a corresponding first shaping element 4. In particular, the distance between these built-in drilling elements 12 is substantially equal to or less than the distance between the first shaping elements 4 arranged on the side of the same built-in drilling elements 12.

[0142] Usefully, the built-in drilling elements 12, distributed along the same axis of dislocation D, are arranged on opposite sides of corresponding first shaping elements 4. Therefore, the distance between these drilling elements is defined by the extension of the first shaping element 4 arranged between the same built-in drilling elements.

[0143] More specifically, the length of the built-in drilling elements 12 is substantially greater than or equal to the length and / or width of the first shaping elements 4 on the side of which they are arranged.

[0144] According to the possible, but not exclusive, embodiment of the system 1 shown in Figures 1-7, the drilling means 12, 13, 14, 15 comprise a longitudinal group 18 of built-in drilling elements 12 extending along a plurality of axes of alignment A and a plurality of axes of dislocation D. Further embodiments of the system 1 cannot however be ruled out wherein the drilling means 12, 13, 14, 15 may comprise both the longitudinal group 18 and the transverse group 19, e.g. as schematically shown in Figure 9, or only the transverse group 19, as shown in Figure 8.

[0145] Furthermore, it cannot be ruled out that the drilling means 12, 13, 14, 15 may comprise one of either the longitudinal group 18 or the transverse group 19 mounted on the first pressing body 2 and the other of either the longitudinal group 18 or the transverse group 19 mounted on the supporting body 15.

[0146] Preferably, the same arrangements of the built-in drilling elements 12 mounted on the first pressing body 2 and shown in Figures 7-9 are also considered valid for the in-line drilling elements 13 mounted on the supporting body 15.

[0147] Advantageously, the supporting body 15 is movable close to and / or away from the line of movement M to intervene on the layers 8a, 8b, 9 and to make on the latter one or more holes 16. Preferably, the movement and / or operation of the supporting body 15 are similar to those described with reference to the first pressing body 2, except for the presence of the first shaping elements 4, which the supporting body 14 does not have.

[0148] Conveniently, the built-in drilling elements 12 are coupled to the first pressing body 2 in a movable manner.

[0149] Furthermore, the built-in drilling elements 12 are movable with respect to the first pressing body 2 along one direction of displacement S.

[0150] Conveniently, the direction of displacement S is substantially parallel to the direction of pressing, i.e., the direction along which at least one of the pressing bodies 2, 3 is movable with respect to the other during the switch between the work configuration and the home configuration.

[0151] In other words, the built-in drilling elements 12 are movable locked together with the first pressing body 2 as well as being movable with respect to the latter.

[0152] In particular, the built-in drilling elements 12 are movable with respect to the first pressing body 2 by interposition of guiding means connecting the built-in drilling elements 12 to the first pressing body 2, thus allowing the built-in drilling elements 12 to be moved along the direction of displacement S.

[0153] Usefully, the system 1 comprises:

[0154] one or more built-in abutment elements 20 mounted on the second pressing body 3 and arranged, in the work configuration, to abut against at least one corresponding built-in drilling element 12; and / or

[0155] one or more in-line abutment elements 21 arranged, in use, to abut against at least one corresponding in-line drilling element 13.

[0156] In particular, the system 1 comprises a plurality of abutment elements 20, 21, each arranged, in use, to abut against at least one corresponding drilling element 12, 13.

[0157] In particular, each abutment element 20, 21 is arranged facing at least one corresponding drilling element 12, 13.

[0158] Preferably, the drilling means 12, 13, 14, 15 comprise at least one base body 14 on which one or more in-line abutment elements 21 are mounted.

[0159] Preferably, the movement and / or operation of the base body 14 are similar to those described with reference to the second pressing body 3, except for the presence of the second shaping elements 5, which the base body 14 does not have.

[0160] That is, the supporting body 15 and the base body 14 operate in conjunction to make the holes 16 in a way similar to that described with reference to the pressing bodies 2, 3.

[0161] In particular, the built-in drilling elements 12 move backward along the direction of displacement S due to the contact with the built-in abutment elements 20 until they reach a retracted position, wherein the first shaping elements 4 protrude cantilevered from the first pressing body 2 more than the built-in drilling elements 12. More specifically, at the retracted position, the built-in drilling elements 12 are substantially concealed, leaving only the first shaping elements 4 protruding from the first pressing body. Advantageously, the system 1 comprises one or more elastic elements 22 placed between the first pressing body 2 and one or more of the built-in drilling elements 12.

[0162] The elastic element 22 opposes the retraction of the built-in drilling element 12 along the direction of displacement S, tending to keep it at the advanced position.

[0163] In particular, in the home configuration, the elastic element 22 is substantially elastically unloaded and keeps the built-in drilling element 12 at the advanced position.

[0164] Conversely, in the work configuration, the elastic element 22 is substantially elastically loaded due to the movement of the built-in drilling element 12 to the retracted position, tending to return it to the advanced position.

[0165] Preferably, the elastic elements 22 operate in conjunction with the guiding means to allow the movement of the built-in drilling elements 12 along the direction of displacement S.

[0166] Advantageously, the system 1 comprises cutting means, not shown in the figures, arranged along the line of movement M and configured to separate the shaped bodies 11 from each other.

[0167] In particular, the cutting means are arranged downstream of the pressing means 2, 3.

[0168] More specifically, the cutting means are separate from the drilling means 12, 13, 14, 15.

[0169] According to a further aspect, the present invention relates to a process for the manufacture of layered shaped bodies, comprising at least one phase of providing at least one base layer 9 and at least one coating layer 8a, 8b substantially facing overlapping and parallel to each other.

[0170] Preferably, one or more of the characteristics of the base layer 9 and / or of the coating layer 8a, 8b described with reference to the system 1 are also considered valid for the base layer 9 and / or the coating layer 8a, 8b described with reference to the process.

[0171] Advantageously, the system 1 described above performs, at least in part, the process.

[0172] According to the invention, the process comprises at least one phase of pressing the base layer 9 and the coating layer 8a, 8b to each other, by coupling them.

[0173] Preferably, the phase of pressing is performed at 100 kg / cm2.

[0174] Usefully, the phase of pressing is performed between 100°C and 350°C.

[0175] Advantageously, the layers 8a, 8b, 9 are arranged overlapping each other during the phase of pressing.

[0176] Conveniently, the process comprises a phase of feeding the layers 8a, 8b, 9 to the pressing means 2, 3.

[0177] Optionally, the layers 8a, 8b, 9 are spaced apart from each other during the feeding phase.

[0178] Conveniently, a solvent or a mixture of solvents is vaporized, atomized, or vaporized and atomized between the layers 8a, 8b, 9, preferably spaced apart from each other, during the feeding phase. Advantageously, the process comprises at least one phase of shaping the layers 8a, 8b, 9, so that at least one layered shaped body 11 is made, at a corresponding shaping area 10 of the layers 8a, 8b, 9.

[0179] Usefully, the base layer 9 is made of paper and the coating layer 8a, 8b is made of paper of the crepe paper type.

[0180] In particular, the phase of providing at least one base layer 9 and at least one coating layer 8a, 8b comprises at least one step of providing at least a first coating layer 8a and at least a second coating layer 8b arranged substantially parallel to each other, facing opposite sides of the base layer 9.

[0181] In particular, pressing and shaping are performed simultaneously.

[0182] Advantageously, the process comprises at least one phase of drilling the layers 8a, 8b, 9, performed prior to or simultaneously with the pressing and / or shaping.

[0183] In particular, the drilling phase makes one or more holes 16 that bound, at least partly, one or more of the shaping areas 10.

[0184] Optionally, the process comprises at least one phase of aligning the free ends of the fibers located on the surfaces of the layers 8a, 8b, 9, i.e., arranging these fibers transversely to the surfaces on which they are located.

[0185] Preferably, the phase of alignment is performed by suction or introduction of a gas or gas mixture, preferably ambient air.

[0186] Usefully, the direction of flow of the gas or gas mixture corresponds to the desired orientation of the fibers.

[0187] In particular, the alignment phase is performed through the suction of the gas or gas mixture, e.g. by generating a negative pressure with respect to the ambient pressure between the pressing bodies 2, 3.

[0188] Conveniently, the solvent or solvent mixture is rapidly made to evaporate by suction or introduction of the gas or gas mixture performed during the alignment phase.

[0189] Conveniently, the alignment phase is performed prior to the pressing phase.

[0190] In particular, the content of the solvent or of the solvent mixture is reduced to less than 5% of the initial content after the alignment and pressing phases.

[0191] Usefully, the process for the manufacture of layered shaped bodies is performed by means of the system 1.

[0192] For example, it cannot be ruled out that the process may comprise a phase of providing the system 1.

[0193] Usefully, the process is carried out by means of the system 1 described above.

[0194] Preferably, according to the invention, the steps or phases comprised in the process are one or more of the operations performed by one or more of the components of the system 1 and are generally anticipated in this disclosure by the term “configured to” or equivalent terms. These phases or steps are preferably, but not necessarily, performed by the same components in question and / or by the system 1 for the execution of the process itself.

[0195] According to a further aspect, the present invention relates to a layered shaped body 11 defining at least one housing compartment 27 intended to receive one item to be packed and comprising:

[0196] at least one base layer 9;

[0197] at least one coating layer 8a, 8b coupled overlapping the base layer 9.

[0198] Preferably, one or more of the characteristics of the shaped body 11 described above with reference to the system 1 and / or to the process are also valid for the shaped body 11 and vice versa.

[0199] Advantageously, the system 1 and / or the process described above make the shaped body 11. More specifically, the housing compartment 27 has a shape that is at least partly complementary to the shape of the item to be housed.

[0200] Usefully, the shaped body 11, preferably the portion of the shaped body that defines the housing compartment 27, comprises adjacent flat areas forming an angle of more than 90° but less than 150°.

[0201] Advantageously, the shaped body 11 comprises at least one edge 28 that at least partly surrounds the housing compartment 27.

[0202] Usefully, the edge 28 has a substantially flat configuration.

[0203] In other words, the housing compartment 27 extends substantially transversely with respect to the edge 28.

[0204] Preferably, the edge 28 comprises a plurality of perimeter sides 29, preferably straight.

[0205] In particular, the edge 28 comprises four perimeter sides 29, preferably arranged to define the sides of a rectangle.

[0206] In particular, the base layer 9 is made of paper and the coating layer 8a, 8b is made of paper of the crepe paper type.

[0207] Usefully, the shaped body 11 comprises at least a first coating layer 8a and at least a second coating layer 8b.

[0208] Furthermore, the base layer 9 is coupled to the first and to the second coating layers 8a, 8b and placed between the latter.

[0209] In other words, the base layer 9 is coated on the bottom and on the top by the first coating layer 8a and by the second coating layer 8b, respectively.

[0210] Usefully, the shaped body 11 is made via the system 1 and / or by carrying out the process described above.

[0211] In actual facts, it has been ascertained that the described invention achieves the intended objects. In particular, the fact that the coating layer is made of crepe paper and the base layer is made of paper gives the layered shaped products greater lightness, strength, and / or stiffness compared to the layered shaped bodies of known type.

[0212] Additionally, the fact that the coating layer is made of crepe paper and the base layer is made of paper allows for manufacturing layered shaped bodies with greater depth and / or angles than the layered shaped bodies of known type.

[0213] Furthermore, the fact that the coating layer is made of crepe paper and the base layer is made of paper allows for manufacturing fully compostable shaped products.

[0214] In addition, the fact that the coating layer is made of crepe paper and the base layer is made of paper allows for manufacturing shaped food products.

[0215] In addition, the drilling means and / or pre-drilling of the layers increase the benefits obtained by the use of the coating layer made of crepe paper and of the base layer made of paper, further increasing productivity compared to known manufacturing systems and / or processes without compromising the technical characteristics of the shaped bodies manufactured.

Claims

CLAIMS1) System (1) for the manufacture of layered shaped bodies, comprising:at least one base layer (9);at least one coating layer (8a, 8b);movement means (23) configured to move said at least one base layer (9) and said at least one coating layer (8a, 8b), substantially facing overlapping and parallel to each other, along a line of movement (M);pressing means (2, 3) provided with at least a first pressing body (2), comprising at least a first shaping element (4), and with at least a second pressing body (3), comprising at least a second shaping element (5) having a complementary conformation with respect to said first shaping element (4), said pressing bodies (2, 3) being arranged on opposite sides of said line of movement (M) and being movable, at least one with respect to the other, between:at least one home configuration, wherein said at least one first shaping element (4) and said at least one second shaping element (5) are spaced apart from each other; and at least one work configuration, wherein said at least one first shaping element (4) and said at least one second shaping element (5) are pressed under pressure, enclosing said layers (8a, 8b, 9) with each other and coupling them, so as to make, at a shaping area (10), at least one layered shaped body (11);characterized by the fact that:said base layer (9) is made of paper;said coating layer (8a, 8b) is made of paper of the crepe paper type.2) System (1) according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that said base layer (9) is made of paper of the air-laid type.3) System (1) according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that said base layer (9) is made of food-grade paper.4) System (1) according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that it comprises at least one first coating layer (8a) and at least one second coating layer (8b) and by the fact that said movement means (23) are configured to move said at least one first coating layer (8a) and said at least one second coating layer (8b) arranged, substantially parallel to each other, so as to face opposite sides of said base layer (9).5) System (1) according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that it comprises drilling means (12, 13, 14, 15) provided with one or more drilling elements (12, 13) movable close to the line of movement (M) to intervene under pressure on said layers (8a, 8b, 9), prior to the manufacture of said at least one shaped body (11), to make on the latter one or more holes (16) which preemptively bound, at least partly, said shaping areas (10).6) Process for the manufacture of layered shaped bodies, comprising at least the phases of:providing at least one base layer (9) and at least one coating layer (8a, 8b) substantially facing overlapping and parallel to each other;pressing said base layer (9) and said coating layer (8a, 8b) to each other, by coupling them; shaping said layers (8a, 8b, 9) so that at least one layered shaped body (11) is made at a corresponding shaping area (10) of said layers (8a, 8b, 9);characterized by the fact that:said base layer (9) is made of paper;said coating layer (8a, 8b) is made of paper of the crepe paper type.7) Process according to claim 6, characterized by the fact that said base layer (9) is made of paper of the air-laid type.8) Process according to claim 6, characterized by the fact that said base layer (9) is made of food-grade paper.9) Process according to one or more of claims 6 to 8, characterized by the fact that said phase of providing at least one base layer (9) and at least one coating layer (8a, 8b) comprises at least one step of providing at least one first coating layer (8a) and at least one second coating layer (8b) arranged substantially parallel to each other, facing opposite sides of said base layer (9). 10) Process according to one or more of claims 6 to 9, characterized by the fact that it comprises at least one phase of drilling said layers (8a, 8b, 9) in order to make on the latter one or more holes (16) that preemptively bound, at least partly, said shaping areas (10), prior to said phase of shaping.11) Layered shaped body (11) defining at least one housing compartment (27) intended to receive one item to be packed and comprising:at least one base layer (9);at least one coating layer (8a, 8b) coupled overlapping said base layer (9); characterized by the fact that:said base layer (9) is made of paper;said coating layer (8a, 8b) is made of paper of the crepe paper type.12) Shaped body (11) according to claim 11, characterized by the fact that said base layer (9) is made of paper of the air-laid type.13) Shaped body (11) according to claim 11, characterized by the fact that said base layer (9) is made of food-grade paper.14) Shaped body (11) according to one or more of claims 11 to 13, characterized by the fact that it comprises at least a first coating layer (8a) and at least a second coating layer (8b) and by the fact that said base layer (9) is coupled to said first and to said second coating layers (8a, 8b) and positioned between the latter.

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