U.S. patent application number 13/881746 was filed with the patent office on 2013-11-14 for device and method for overwrapping identical or similar products and boxing the overwrapped products.
This patent application is currently assigned to TECMA PACK. The applicant listed for this patent is Gerard Laudet. Invention is credited to Gerard Laudet.
Application Number | 20130298500 13/881746 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 44063249 |
Filed Date | 2013-11-14 |
United States Patent
Application |
20130298500 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Laudet; Gerard |
November 14, 2013 |
DEVICE AND METHOD FOR OVERWRAPPING IDENTICAL OR SIMILAR PRODUCTS
AND BOXING THE OVERWRAPPED PRODUCTS
Abstract
Method and device for overwrapping products and for boxing
overwrapped products, the device includes elements for dispensing
overwrapping blanks and elements for loading products grouped
together within a work station for distributing and loading
preparatory batches and elements for closing preparatory batches
and elements for offloading overwrapped batches grouped together
within a work station for closing and offloading the overwrapped
batches. The device also includes receiving elements including a
first pair of shuttle shapers to adjust the volume of overwrapping
blanks around the products to receive the preparatory batches.
These shuttle shapers are arranged along a first distribution path
for moving in phase opposition to one another so that, during
operation, when one of the shuttle shapers is in position for
distributing and loading the preparatory batches, the other of the
shuttle shapers of the first pair is in position for closing and
offloading the overwrapped batches, and vice versa.
Inventors: |
Laudet; Gerard; (Rebais,
FR) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Laudet; Gerard |
Rebais |
|
FR |
|
|
Assignee: |
TECMA PACK
Coulommiers
FR
|
Family ID: |
44063249 |
Appl. No.: |
13/881746 |
Filed: |
October 27, 2011 |
PCT Filed: |
October 27, 2011 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/FR2011/052521 |
371 Date: |
July 9, 2013 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
53/284.5 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65B 5/04 20130101; B65B
5/06 20130101; B65B 11/105 20130101; B65B 43/185 20130101; B65B
49/08 20130101; B65B 43/145 20130101; B65B 35/44 20130101; B65B
51/02 20130101; B65B 5/024 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
53/284.5 |
International
Class: |
B65B 5/04 20060101
B65B005/04 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Oct 28, 2010 |
FR |
1058927 |
Claims
1-24. (canceled)
25. Device for overwrapping identical or similar products, and
boxing overwrapped products, comprising: means for supplying flat
overwrapping blanks and means for supplying products, moving in an
incoming axial stream, means for supplying boxes empty of products
and means for carrying away boxes filled with overwrapped products,
moving in an outgoing axial stream; distribution means able to
distribute, in a sequential manner, flat overwrapping blanks from
the means for supplying overwrapping blanks to recessed receiving
means; loading means able to load products sequentially from the
means for supplying products into the receiving means, so as to
form preparatory batches composed of products and, around them,
erected and open overwrapping blanks; closing means able to close
sequentially the erected and open overwrapping blanks onto the
preparatory batches so as to form overwrapped batches composed of
products overwrapped with erected and closed overwrapping blanks;
unloading means able to offload the overwrapped batches
sequentially from the receiving means to the boxes supplied by the
means for supplying boxes and carried away, once filled with
overwrapped products, by the means for carrying away filled boxes,
characterized by the fact that: the distributing means and the
loading means are grouped in a distribution and loading station for
preparatory batches, and the closing means and offloading means are
grouped in a closing and offloading station for overwrapped
batches; the receiving means comprise a first pair of shuttle
shapers able to erect overwrapping blanks around products in order
to receive the preparatory batches; the shuttle shapers of the
first pair are arranged on a first distribution path and are able
to be moved along the first distribution path in phase opposition
relative to one another, such that, during operation, when one of
the shuttle shapers of the first pair is in position in the
distribution and loading station for preparatory batches (L.sub.P),
the other of the shuttle shapers of the first pair is in position
in the closing and offloading station for overwrapped batches, and
vice versa.
26. Device according to claim 25, comprising the distribution and
loading station for preparatory batches and the closing and
offloading station for overwrapped batches only.
27. Device according to claim 25, comprising adhesive material
placement means which allow placing adhesive material on a portion
of the erected and open overwrapping blanks so as to keep closed
the overwrapped batches comprising the erected and closed
overwrapping blanks.
28. Device according to claim 27, further comprising one of the
following features: the adhesive material placement means are
arranged near the first distribution path, between the distribution
and loading station for preparatory batches and the closing and
offloading station for overwrapped batches, in a manner that allows
on the fly placement of adhesive material on the portions of the
erected and open overwrapping blanks during the passage of these
erected and open overwrapping blanks between the distribution and
loading station for preparatory batches and the closing and
offloading station for overwrapped batches; the adhesive material
placement means are arranged in the closing and offloading station
for overwrapped batches, in a manner that allows the placement of
adhesive material on the portions of the erected and open
overwrapping blanks when these erected and open overwrapping blanks
are in position in the closing and offloading station for
overwrapped batches and before making use of the closing means.
29. Device according to claim 28, comprising means for distributing
informational or decorative elements, able to affix informational
or decorative elements onto a portion of the erected and open
overwrapping blanks.
30. Device according to claim 29, wherein the means for
distributing informational or decorative elements are arranged in
proximity to the first distribution path, between the distribution
and loading station for preparatory batches and the closing and
offloading station for overwrapped batches, in a manner that allows
on the fly distribution of informational or decorative elements
onto the portions of the erected and open overwrapping blanks
during the passage of these erected and open overwrapping blanks
between the distribution and loading station for preparatory
batches and the closing and offloading station for overwrapped
batches, and wherein the adhesive material placement means and the
means for distributing decorative elements are structurally and
functionally linked to each other.
31. Device according to claim 29, wherein the informational or
decorative elements are chosen from among: ink, self-sticking
labels, and similar elements.
32. Device according to claim 25, wherein the receiving means
comprise a second pair of shuttle shapers able to erect
overwrapping blanks around products in order to receive the
preparatory batches; the shuttle shapers of the second pair being
arranged on a second distribution path and able to be moved along
the second distribution path in phase opposition relative to one
another, such that, during operation, when one of the shuttle
shapers of the second pair is in position in the distribution and
loading station for preparatory batches, the other of the shuttle
shapers of the second pair is in position in the closing and
offloading station for overwrapped batches, and vice versa.
33. Wrapping device according to claim 32, wherein the first and/or
second distribution path comprise(s): a support rail extending in a
longitudinal direction; transmission means supported by the support
rail and able to drive the shuttle shapers in a back and forth
movement along the longitudinal direction of the support rail; and
a drive motor able to set the transmission means in motion, and
optionally wherein the transmission means present a first portion
and a second portion respectively able to drive one and the other
of the shuttle shapers of the first pair and/or of the second pair
in opposite directions, and especially wherein the transmission
means comprise one or two closed transmission elements, such as a
belt or chain.
34. Wrapping device according to claim 33, comprising at least one
of the following characteristics: the support rail of the second
distribution path is parallel and opposite the support rail of the
first distribution path, p1 the drive motor for the first
distribution path also constitutes the drive motor for the second
distribution path.
35. Method for overwrapping identical or similar products, and for
boxing overwrapped products, comprising a plurality of steps
consisting of: having means for supplying flat overwrapping blanks,
means for supplying products moving in an incoming axial stream,
means for supplying boxes empty of products, and means for carrying
away boxes filled with overwrapped products moving in an outgoing
axial stream; sequentially distributing flat overwrapping blanks,
from the means for supplying overwrapping blanks to recessed
receiving means; and sequentially loading products from the means
for supplying products into the receiving means, so as to form
preparatory batches composed of products and, around them, erected
and open overwrapping blanks; sequentially closing the erected and
open overwrapping blanks onto the preparatory batches so as to form
overwrapped batches composed of products overwrapped with erected
and closed overwrapping blanks; sequentially offloading the
overwrapped batches from the receiving means to the boxes supplied
by the means for supplying boxes and carried away, once filled with
overwrapped products, by the means for carrying away filled boxes;
characterized by the fact that the receiving means comprise a first
pair of shuttle shapers which alternately participate in erecting
overwrapping blanks around products during the receiving of
preparatory batches; by the fact that during a first phase the
steps of distributing overwrapping blanks and loading products are
performed one after the other within a distribution and loading
station for preparatory batches in which is located one of the
shuttle shapers of the first pair, and, simultaneously; the steps
of closing the erected and open overwrapping blanks and offloading
the overwrapped batches to the boxes are performed one after the
other within a closing and offloading station for overwrapped
batches in which is located the other of the shuttle shapers of the
first pair; and by the fact that during a second phase the shuttle
shapers of the first pair, arranged on a first distribution path,
are moved along the first distribution path in phase opposition
relative to one another, such that one of the shuttle shapers (52)
of the first pair is moved from the distribution and loading
station for preparatory batches towards the closing and offloading
station for overwrapped batches while the other of the shuttle
shapers of the first pair is moved from the closing and offloading
station for overwrapped batches towards the distribution and
loading station for preparatory batches.
36. Method according to claim 35, wherein only the distribution and
loading station for preparatory batches and the closing and
offloading station for overwrapped batches are used, the method
comprising a step consisting of distributing an adhesive material
on a portion of the erected and open overwrapping blanks in a
manner that keeps closed the overwrapped batches comprising the
erected and closed overwrapping blanks, the method further
comprising one of the following features: the step of distributing
adhesive material consists of placing adhesive material, on the
fly, between the distribution and loading station for preparatory
batches and the closing and offloading station for overwrapped
batches, on the portions of the erected and open overwrapping
blanks during the passage of these erected and open overwrapping
blanks between said distribution and loading station for
preparatory batches and said closing and offloading station for
overwrapped batches, before carrying out the step of closing the
overwrapping blanks; the step of distributing adhesive material
consists of distributing adhesive material, within the closing and
offloading station for overwrapped batches, on the portions of the
erected and open overwrapping blanks when these erected and open
overwrapping blanks are in position in the closing and offloading
station for overwrapped batches, before carrying out the step of
closing the overwrapping blanks.
37. Method according to claim 35, comprising a step consisting of
distributing informational or decorative elements in a manner that
affixes these informational or decorative elements onto a portion
of the erected and open overwrapping blanks, and especially wherein
the step of distributing informational or decorative elements
consists of distributing, on the fly, between the distribution and
loading station for preparatory batches and the closing and
offloading station for overwrapped batches, informational or
decorative elements onto the portions of the erected and open
overwrapping blanks during the passage of these erected and open
overwrapping blanks between the distribution and loading station
for preparatory batches and the closing and offloading station for
overwrapped batches.
38. Method according to claim 35, wherein the receiving means
comprise a second pair of shuttle shapers which alternately
participate in erecting the overwrapping blanks around products
during the receiving of preparatory batches; wherein, during the
first phase, one of the shuttle shapers of the second pair is in
position in the distribution and loading station for preparatory
batches while the other of the shuttle shapers of the second pair
is in position in the closing and offloading station for
overwrapped batches; wherein, during the second phase, the shuttle
shapers of the second pair, arranged on a second distribution path,
are moved along the second distribution path in phase opposition
relative to each other, such that one of the shuttle shapers of the
second pair is moved from the distribution and loading station for
preparatory batches towards the closing and offloading station for
overwrapped batches while the other of the shuttle shapers of the
second pair is moved from the closing and offloading station for
overwrapped batches towards the distribution and loading station
for preparatory batches.
39. Method according to claim 38, wherein the shuttle shapers of
the first pair and the shuttle shapers of the second pair are
driven by a single drive motor.
40. Device according to claim 25, comprising means for distributing
informational or decorative elements, able to affix informational
or decorative elements onto a portion of the erected and open
overwrapping blanks.
41. Wrapping device according to claim 25, wherein the first and/or
second distribution path comprise(s): a support rail extending in a
longitudinal direction; transmission means supported by the support
rail and able to drive the shuttle shapers in a back and forth
movement along the longitudinal direction of the support rail; and
a drive motor able to set the transmission means in motion, and
optionally wherein the transmission means present a first portion
and a second portion respectively able to drive one and the other
of the shuttle shapers of the first pair and/or of the second pair
in opposite directions, and especially wherein the transmission
means comprise one or two closed transmission elements, such as a
belt or chain.
Description
[0001] The invention relates to the technical field of packaging.
It more particularly relates to the field of overwrapping and
boxing identical or similar products formed into batches.
[0002] The invention applies particularly but not exclusively to
fresh milk products, cheese products, compotes, and any other
product of different types or destinations but which can be
considered identical or similar for grouping into batches.
[0003] For the production of such overwrapped batches of products,
the content to be packaged, the primary packaging (jars and caps)
possibly arranged on trays, and the individualized overwrapping
blanks need to be produced or available. Then the products
themselves are created, meaning the primary packaging is filled
with the desired content then closed with the lids. Next, batches
of products are formed by grouping and possibly layering these
products. Then a folded and erected overwrapping blank is arranged
around each batch of products. Lastly, these batches of overwrapped
products are placed in a box of cardboard or analogous material
which serves as outer packaging for their transport to distribution
markets.
[0004] Document EP-A-1 116 676 is known from the prior art, which
relates to an overwrapping machine comprising a conveyor which
receives successive groups of products and transports them from an
upstream location to a downstream location; a feed track along
which the products are transported towards the conveyor one by one
and adjacent to one another; means for transferring products from
the feed track to the conveyor, which take and group the products
into separate batches; and a carrier which transfers cardboard
overwrapping blanks, placed substantially flat on the carrier, one
by one to said conveyor, and arranges the overwrapping blanks on
the conveyor opposite the batches of products; driving means and
transfer means; and, lastly, a device for controlling and actuating
the driving means, able to apply a preprogrammed speed profile to
each driving means according to the desired spacing between and/or
type of the batches.
[0005] Such a device has several disadvantages.
[0006] Firstly, it requires having a plurality of adjacent
workstations arranged one after the other in order to carry out the
various steps involved in packaging the products into overwrapped
batches and placing these overwrapped batches into boxes for
handling. However, these workstations lie within production lines
of a length which generates significant size requirements for a
packaging installation.
[0007] Secondly, this devices makes the overwrapping operation
almost obligatory because the linear arrangement of the stations
implies that the products not requiring overwrapping must still
pass through the overwrapping stations. This obviously results in
an unacceptable loss of time considering the constraints imposed on
the packaging of certain products.
[0008] Also known from document FR-A-2 910 879 is a device for
overwrapping products organized into batches with overwrapping
blanks arranged around them. This device comprises a carousel
having receptacles and four workstations, distributed around the
carousel, respectively comprising means for dispensing overwrapping
blanks to the receptacles, means for loading products into the
receptacles, means for folding and/or closing overwrapping blanks
around the products in order to form overwrapped batches of
products, and means for offloading overwrapped batches to boxes.
This arrangement of workstations around the carousel has the
purpose of reducing the dimensions of the installation compared to
linear devices such as the one presented above.
[0009] It presents disadvantages, however.
[0010] In fact, such an arrangement, considering the position of
the various workstations around the carousel, also implies that the
products pass in front of the overwrapping station even when they
do not have to be overwrapped and could therefore skip their
passage in front of this station.
[0011] In addition, because the workstations are arranged one after
another on the production line, the speed of this installation is
limited by the slowest work station, which does not allow making
full use of the speed of the other stations via concurrent
operation.
[0012] Other devices for overwrapping products arranged into
batches are also known from the prior art, such as the ones
disclosed by documents U.S.-A1-2004/031236, DE-A1-21 23 991, U.S.
Pat. No. 4,463,541 and DE-A1-33 01 013. However, as with the
devices presented above, these devices of the prior art do not
allow sufficient speed.
[0013] In this context, the goal of the invention is to propose a
device and a method for overwrapping that eliminates at least one
of the limitations mentioned above. More particularly, the goal of
the invention is to propose an overwrapping device and method of
reduced dimensions, which does not necessarily require the passage
of the formed batches of products through a workstation exclusively
dedicated to overwrapping, and which ensures an optimized
production rate.
[0014] For this purpose, and according to a first aspect, the
invention relates to a device for overwrapping identical or similar
products, and boxing overwrapped products, comprising: means for
supplying flat overwrapping blanks and means for supplying
products, moving in an incoming axial stream, means for supplying
boxes empty of products and means for carrying away boxes filled
with overwrapped products, moving in an outgoing axial stream;
distribution means able to distribute, in a sequential manner, flat
overwrapping blanks from the means for supplying overwrapping
blanks to recessed receiving means; loading means able to load
products sequentially from the product supply means into the
receiving means, so as to form preparatory batches composed of
products, and, around them, erected and open overwrapping blanks;
closing means able to close sequentially the erected and open
overwrapping blanks onto the preparatory batches so as to form
overwrapped batches composed of products overwrapped with erected
and closed overwrapping blanks; offloading means able to offload
the overwrapped batches sequentially from the receiving means to
the boxes supplied by the means for supplying boxes and carried
away, once filled with overwrapped products, by the means for
carrying away filled boxes.
[0015] In the invention, the distribution means and the loading
means are grouped in a distribution and loading station for
preparatory batches, and the closing means and offloading means are
grouped in a closing and offloading station for overwrapped
batches; the receiving means comprise a first pair of shuttle
shapers able to erect overwrapping blanks around products in order
to receive the preparatory batches; the shuttle shapers of the
first pair are arranged on a first distribution path and are able
to be moved along the first distribution path in phase opposition
relative to one another, such that, during operation, when one of
the shuttle shapers of the first pair is in position in the
distribution and loading station for preparatory batches, the other
of the shuttle shapers of the first pair is in position in the
closing and offloading station for overwrapped batches, and vice
versa.
[0016] In one embodiment, the device comprises the distribution and
loading station for preparatory batches and the closing and
offloading station for overwrapped batches only.
[0017] In one embodiment, the device comprises adhesive material
placement means which allow placing adhesive material on a portion
of the erected and open overwrapping blanks so as to keep closed
the overwrapped batches comprising the erected and closed
overwrapped blanks.
[0018] In this case, in one embodiment, the adhesive material
placement means are arranged near the first distribution path,
between the distribution and loading station for preparatory
batches and the closing and offloading station for overwrapped
batches, in a manner that allows on the fly placement of adhesive
material on the portions of the erected and open overwrapping
blanks during the passage of these erected and open overwrapping
blanks between the distribution and loading station for preparatory
batches and the closing and offloading station for overwrapped
batches.
[0019] In this case, in another embodiment, the adhesive material
placement means are arranged in the closing and offloading station
for overwrapped batches, in a manner that allows the placement of
adhesive material on the portions of the erected and open
overwrapping blanks when these erected and open overwrapping blanks
are in position in the closing and offloading station for
overwrapped batches and before making use of the closing means.
[0020] In one embodiment, the device comprises means for
distributing informational or decorative elements, able to affix
informational or decorative elements onto a portion of the erected
and open overwrapping blanks.
[0021] In this case, in one embodiment, the means for distributing
informational or decorative elements are arranged in proximity to
the first distribution path, between the distribution and loading
station for preparatory batches and the closing and offloading
station for overwrapped batches, in a manner that allows on the fly
distribution of informational or decorative elements onto the
portions of the erected and open overwrapping blanks during the
passage of these erected and open overwrapping blanks between the
distribution and loading station for preparatory batches and the
closing and offloading station for overwrapped batches.
[0022] In cases where the adhesive material placement means and the
means for distributing informational or decorative elements are
arranged in proximity to the first path of distribution, between
the distribution and loading station for preparatory batches and
the closing and offloading station for overwrapped batches, in one
embodiment the adhesive material placement means and the
distribution means for decorative elements are structurally and
functionally linked to each other.
[0023] In one embodiment, the informational or decorative elements
are chosen from among: ink, self-sticking labels, and similar
elements.
[0024] In one embodiment, the receiving means comprise a second
pair of shuttle shapers able to erect overwrapping blanks around
products in order to receive the preparatory batches, the shuttle
shapers of the second pair being arranged on a second distribution
path and able to be moved along the second distribution path in
phase opposition relative to one another, such that, during
operation, when one of the shuttle shapers of the second pair is in
position in the distribution and loading station for preparatory
batches, the other of the shuttle shapers of the second pair is in
position in the closing and offloading station for overwrapped
batches, and vice versa.
[0025] In one embodiment, the first and/or second distribution path
comprises: a support rail extending in a longitudinal direction;
transmission means supported by the support rail and able to drive
the shuttle shapers in a back and forth movement along the
longitudinal direction of the support rail; and a drive motor able
to set the transmission means in motion.
[0026] In this case, in one embodiment, the transmission means
present a first portion and a second portion respectively able to
drive one and the other of the shuttle shapers of the first pair
and/or of the second pair in opposite directions.
[0027] In a first variant, the transmission means can then comprise
one or two closed transmission elements, such as a belt or
chain.
[0028] In cases where the receiving means comprise a second pair of
shuttle shapers arranged on a second distribution path, in one
embodiment the support rail of the second distribution path is
parallel and opposite the support rail of the first distribution
path.
[0029] In cases where the receiving means comprise a second pair of
shuttle shapers arranged on a second distribution path, in one
embodiment the drive motor for the first distribution path also
constitutes the drive motor for the second distribution path.
[0030] In a second aspect, the invention also relates to a method
for overwrapping identical or similar products, and for boxing
overwrapped products, comprising a plurality of steps consisting
of: having means for supplying flat overwrapping blanks, means for
supplying products moving in an incoming axial stream, means for
supplying boxes empty of products, and means for carrying away
boxes filled with overwrapped products moving in an outgoing axial
stream; sequentially distributing flat overwrapping blanks, from
the means for supplying overwrapping blanks to recessed receiving
means; and sequentially loading products from the product supply
means into the receiving means, so as to form preparatory batches
composed of products and, around them, erected and open
overwrapping blanks; sequentially closing the erected and open
overwrapping blanks onto the preparatory batches so as to form
overwrapped batches composed of products overwrapped with erected
and closed overwrapping blanks; sequentially offloading the
overwrapped batches from the receiving means to the boxes supplied
by the means for supplying boxes and carried away, once filled with
overwrapped products, by the means for carrying away filled
boxes.
[0031] In the invention, the receiving means comprise a first pair
of shuttle shapers which alternately participate in erecting
overwrapping blanks around products during the receiving of
preparatory batches; during a first phase, the steps of
distributing overwrapping blanks and loading products are performed
one after the other within a distribution and loading station for
preparatory batches in which is located one of the shuttle shapers
of the first pair, and, simultaneously, and also during this first
phase, the steps of closing the erected and open overwrapping
blanks and offloading the overwrapped batches to the boxes are
performed one after the other within a closing and offloading
station for overwrapped batches in which is located the other of
the shuttle shapers of the first pair; during a second phase, the
shuttle shapers of the first pair, arranged on a first distribution
path, are moved along the first distribution path in phase
opposition relative to one another, such that one of the shuttle
shapers of the first pair is moved from the distribution and
loading station for preparatory batches towards the closing and
offloading station for overwrapped batches while the other of the
shuttle shapers of the first pair is moved from the closing and
offloading station for overwrapped batches towards the distribution
and loading station for preparatory batches.
[0032] In one embodiment, the method only uses the distribution and
loading station for preparatory batches and the closing and
offloading station for overwrapped batches.
[0033] In one embodiment, the method comprises a step consisting of
distributing an adhesive material on a portion of the erected and
open overwrapping blanks in a manner that keeps closed the
overwrapped batches comprising the erected and closed overwrapping
blanks.
[0034] In this case, in one embodiment, the step of distributing
adhesive material consists of placing adhesive material, on the
fly, between the distribution and loading station for preparatory
batches and the closing and offloading station for overwrapped
batches, on the portions of the erected and open overwrapping
blanks during the passage of these erected and open overwrapping
blanks between said distribution and loading station for
preparatory batches and said closing and offloading station for
overwrapped batches, before carrying out the step of closing the
overwrapping blanks.
[0035] In this same case, in one variant, the step of distributing
adhesive material consists of distributing adhesive material,
within the closing and offloading station for overwrapped batches,
on the portions of the erected and open overwrapping blanks when
these erected and open overwrapping blanks are in position in the
closing and offloading station for overwrapped batches, before
carrying out the step of closing the overwrapping blanks F.
[0036] In one embodiment, the method comprises a step consisting of
distributing informational and decorative elements in a manner that
affixes these informational or decorative elements onto a portion
of the erected and open overwrapping blanks.
[0037] In this case, the step of distributing informational or
decorative elements consists of distributing, on the fly between
the distribution and loading station for preparatory batches and
the closing and offloading station for overwrapped batches,
informational or decorative elements onto the portions of the
erected and open overwrapping blanks during the passage of these
erected and open overwrapping blanks between the distribution and
loading station for preparatory batches and the closing and
offloading station for overwrapped batches.
[0038] In one embodiment, the receiving means comprise a second
pair of shuttle shapers which alternately participate in erecting
the overwrapping blanks around products during the receiving of
preparatory batches; during the first phase, one of the shuttle
shapers of the second pair is in position in the distribution and
loading station for preparatory batches while the other of the
shuttle shapers of the second pair is in position in the closing
and offloading station for overwrapped batches; during the second
phase, the shuttle shapers of the second pair, arranged on a second
distribution path, are moved along the second distribution path in
phase opposition relative to each other, such that one of the
shuttle shapers of the second pair is moved from the distribution
and loading station for preparatory batches towards the closing and
offloading station for overwrapped batches while the other of the
shuttle shapers of the second pair is moved from the closing and
offloading station for overwrapped batches towards the distribution
and loading station for preparatory batches.
[0039] In this case, in one embodiment, the shuttle shapers of the
first pair and the shuttle shapers of the second pair are driven by
a single drive motor.
[0040] Other features and advantages of the invention will become
clear from the following description, provided as an illustration
that is in no way to be considered as limiting, with reference to
the attached drawings, in which:
[0041] FIG. 1 is a partial overall perspective view of an
overwrapping machine of the invention, in which are located
products, flat overwrapping blanks, empty boxes, and overwrapped
batches arranged in boxes;
[0042] FIG. 2A is a detailed partial perspective view of means for
supplying products in an incoming axial stream, as part of the
overwrapping machine of FIG. 1;
[0043] FIG. 2B is a detailed top view of the means for supplying
products in an incoming axial stream, and more particularly of the
synchronized product transport means which are part of these supply
means;
[0044] FIG. 3A is a detailed partial perspective view of means for
supplying overwrapping blanks, as part of the overwrapping machine
of FIG. 1, comprising several magazines of flat and stacked
overwrapping blanks;
[0045] FIG. 3B is a detailed partial perspective view of means for
distributing overwrapping blanks, which are part of the
overwrapping machine of FIG. 1 and which comprise means 40 for
unstacking the overwrapping blanks;
[0046] FIG. 4 is a detailed partial perspective view of the product
supply means, synchronized product transport means, overwrapping
blank supply means, and overwrapping blank distribution means, all
as part of the overwrapping machine of FIG. 1;
[0047] FIG. 5 is a detailed partial perspective view of the
receiving means which are part of the overwrapping machine of FIG.
1 and which comprise a first pair of shuttle shapers able to move
in a back and forth motion along a first distribution path;
[0048] FIG. 6 is a detailed partial perspective view of the
receiving and shaping means which are part of the overwrapping
machine of FIG. 1;
[0049] FIGS. 7A and 7B are detailed partial perspective views of
means for closing overwrapping blanks and means for offloading
overwrapped batches into boxes, which allow the packaging for
shipment and the handling of overwrapped batches positioned in the
closing and offloading station of the overwrapping machine of FIG.
1;
[0050] FIG. 8 is a detailed partial perspective view of an
embodiment of the receiving means as part of an overwrapping
machine of the invention, comprising a first and a second pair of
shuttle shapers.
[0051] The invention relates to overwrapping, with an overwrapping
blank F, identical or similar products A, meaning products having
dimensions that are relatively close to each other but possibly
with certain distinctions, such as ones that are ornamental in
nature.
[0052] In one non-limiting embodiment, these products A can be
arranged on trays P each containing a plurality of articles A of
substantially the same length in a line advancement direction D
which is considered to be longitudinal. The products A, or possibly
the trays P of products A, are arranged in one or more columns, one
or more rows, and/or one or more layers in order to form the
batches L of products A.
[0053] The products A are typically in primary packaging such as
containers of plastic, waxed cardboard, or similar, intended to be
closed with lids and containing fresh or ultra-fresh milk products
such as yogurt and similar, puddings, ice creams and similar, but
also cheese products and compotes. These are non-limiting examples
only, and the term "product" by convention means a primary
packaging filled with its content. In a typical embodiment, the
products A are generally cylindrical or prismatic or
pseudo-cylindrical or pseudo-prismatic or ovoid in shape, or
similar, with a normally vertical axis. In a typical embodiment,
such a product A has a longitudinal length of a few
centimeters.
[0054] The batches L of products A are intended to be overwrapped
in a manner that forms overwrapped batches L.sub.S. This
overwrapping is typically done using an overwrapping blank F, of
flat cardboard or analogous material, having precuts and fold lines
to facilitate its erection into a predetermined shape.
[0055] The method can be implemented and the device can function
when the products A and overwrapping blanks F are produced
separately. In particular, the method of the invention can be
implemented and the machine of the invention can be installed
downstream, in particular immediately or almost immediately
downstream from a line or unit which produces the articles A
(creating the content, filling, and closing).
[0056] There is therefore an incoming axial stream 10 of products
A.
[0057] The device of the invention, as represented in FIG. 1,
comprises a frame and appropriate support elements (only partially
represented). This device extends in a substantially horizontal
plane.
[0058] Firstly, the device comprises product A supply means 12.
[0059] These product A supply means 12 allow transporting these
products A as an incoming axial stream 10, along the advancement
direction D which is also the direction of motion of the parts and
elements that drive the supply means 12, such as conveyors or
conveying means.
[0060] The direction D is also considered to be longitudinal. The
horizontal direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction D
is considered to be "transverse".
[0061] The conveyors or conveying means and therefore the products
A are able to be set in motion along the longitudinal direction D
in a given direction, which allows defining an upstream side and a
downstream side of the supply means 12.
[0062] A portion of the product A supply means 12 is represented in
more detail in FIGS. 2A and 2B.
[0063] These product A supply means 12 comprise in particular two
band conveyor belts 14, arranged at the exit or near the exit from
a line or a unit which produces articles A. These two conveyor
belts 14 transport the products A in the longitudinal direction D
from the upstream side to the downstream side.
[0064] These supply means 12 also comprise synchronized transport
means 16 for the products A which allow accelerating, slowing, or
stopping the products A relative to the movement of the conveyor
belts 14 when these products A are located inside a loading area
20. The synchronized transport means 16 therefore allow precise
positioning of the products A. More particularly, these
synchronized transport means 16 for the products A comprise two
worm-gear systems arranged facing one another in order to constrain
the positioning of the products A in the longitudinal direction D
and in the transverse direction. The positioning of the products A
in the loading area 20 is thus controlled and precise.
[0065] The supply means 12 additionally comprise positioning
sensors 18 which allow identifying the position of the products A
in the incoming axial stream 10 and, in particular, to determine
when these products A are in place inside the loading area 20.
[0066] The synchronized transport means 16 are controlled by these
positioning sensors 18 and allow maintaining the products A in
position when they are located inside this loading area 20.
[0067] The device of the invention also comprises product A loading
means 22.
[0068] These product A loading means 22 are able to load products A
sequentially from the product A supply means 12 into recessed
receiving means (described below).
[0069] These loading means 22 comprise one or more gripper heads 24
able to grip the products A in order to move them from the loading
area 20 to the recessed receiving means. Advantageously, said
loading means 22 comprise sufficient gripper heads 24 to ensure the
manipulation and movement of products A forming one or more batches
L. However, such manipulation may, depending on circumstances, be
done in one pass or in multiple passes.
[0070] The gripper heads 24 are able to move in the transverse
direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction D, and in the
vertical direction, in order to extract, from the top, the products
A from the loading area 20 and transport them in the transverse
direction to the recessed receiving means.
[0071] As described above, it should be noted that these gripper
heads 24 can be controlled by the position sensors 18 such that the
manipulation and movement of products A is engaged when they are in
position or are arriving in position in the loading area 20.
[0072] The device also has means 32 for supplying overwrapping
blanks F.
[0073] The means 32 for supplying overwrapping blanks F, as
represented in FIG. 3a, comprise one or more magazine(s) 34 of flat
and stacked overwrapping blanks F, located facing the loading area
20 and offset transversely to this loading area. 20. Also, when the
means 32 for supplying overwrapping blanks F comprise several
magazines 34, the latter are adjacent to each other, which
facilitates their manipulation.
[0074] In the magazines 34, represented in FIG. 3a, the
overwrapping blanks F are stacked, are angled relative to the
vertical, and are carried by the support elements of the magazines
34 towards the exit from the magazine 34. Thus when a first series
of overwrapping blanks F to be used is extracted from the magazines
34, the next overwrapping blanks F--which were previously stacked
on top of the blanks F of this first series--arrive in position
against the support elements of the magazine 34, ready for
dispensing.
[0075] The means 32 for supplying overwrapping blanks F also
comprise presence sensors 36 supported by the magazines 34, which
allow determining the quantity of overwrapping blanks F still
available in these magazines 34.
[0076] In this manner, when a magazine 34 only has a predetermined
limited quantity of overwrapping blanks F remaining, the presence
sensors 36 provide notification of this and either send
instructions for replenishing the magazines 34 with overwrapping
blanks F or send instructions for using overwrapping blanks F from
adjacent non-empty magazines 34.
[0077] The device also comprises means 38 for dispensing
overwrapping blanks F.
[0078] These means 38 for dispensing overwrapping blanks F, as
represented in FIG. 3b, are able to sequentially distribute flat
overwrapping blanks F from the means 32 for supplying overwrapping
blanks F to the recessed receiving means. These means 38 consist in
particular of unstacking means 40 for the overwrapping blanks
F.
[0079] In the embodiment in FIG. 3b, these unstacking means 40 are
in the form of an unstacking wheel 42 mounted to rotate about a
transverse axis 42a, supporting a plurality of radial arms 44
terminating in suction cups 46. Drive means drive the unstacking
wheel 42.
[0080] With such means, the suction cups 46 of the radial arms 44
arriving at the exit from the magazine 34 can capture then move the
first overwrapping blanks F found at the exit from the magazines
34. Of course, this embodiment of the distribution means 38 is only
an example and is in no way limiting.
[0081] The overwrapping blanks F unstacked in this manner are
placed, after rotation, flat on the recessed receiving means, as
represented in FIG. 4.
[0082] The device of the invention has recessed receiving means
50.
[0083] More particularly, and according to the invention, the
product A loading means 22 and the means 38 for dispensing
overwrapping blanks F are arranged around the recessed receiving
means 50 so as to form a distribution and loading station for
preparatory batches L.sub.P.
[0084] This is what is represented in FIG. 5.
[0085] In the invention, these receiving means 50 comprise a first
pair of shuttle shapers 52 capable of moving in a back and forth
motion so as to alternate in being within the distribution and
loading station for preparatory batches L.sub.P.
[0086] Each shuttle shaper 52 has one or more cradle(s) equipped
with a base and a peripheral wall defining at least one receiving
cavity 54 open at the top under normal usage conditions. Each
receiving cavity 54 is able to hold one or more batch(es) L of
products A surrounded with an overwrapping blank F.
[0087] For this effect, the receiving cavity 54 of each cradle has
dimensions very slightly greater than the dimensions of the batches
L of products A, to allow receiving, in addition to the batch L of
products A, an extra thickness corresponding to the dimensions of
an overwrapping blank F.
[0088] In the embodiment in FIG. 5, each shuttle shaper 52 has
three distinct cradles, each equipped with two receiving cavities
54 and therefore able to accept two batches L of products A at
least partially surrounded with overwrapping blanks F.
[0089] However, other embodiments can also be considered, as the
embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5 is only an example and is in no
way limiting.
[0090] When a shuttle shaper 52 is in position within the
distribution and loading station for preparatory batches L.sub.P:
[0091] the means 38 for distributing the overwrapping blanks F are
able to place the flat overwrapping blanks F in a predetermined
position relative to the open upper portion of this shuttle shaper
52 and opposite the receiving cavity 54 of the latter; and [0092]
the product A loading means 22 are able to load the products A,
formed into batches L, inside the receiving cavities 54, resulting
in the erecting of the overwrapping blanks F against the base and
the peripheral walls defining the receiving cavity 54 of the
shuttle shapers 52.
[0093] The placement of first the overwrapping blanks F, then the
products A, in the shuttle shapers 52 thus forms preparatory
batches L.sub.P composed of products A with overwrapping blanks F
erected and open around them.
[0094] In one embodiment, it should be noted that the distribution
and loading station for preparatory batches L.sub.P can comprise
receiving and shaping means 62 for overwrapping blanks F which
allow precise positioning of the overwrapping blanks F relative to
the shuttle shapers 52, and facilitate the folding and shaping of
these overwrapping blanks F as they are erected inside the
receiving cavity 54 of the shuttle shapers 52.
[0095] One embodiment of these receiving and shaping means 62 is
represented in FIG. 6.
[0096] In this embodiment, the receiving and shaping means 62
comprise a support plane 64 which supports the overwrapping blanks
F distributed while flat by the distribution means 38. These
receiving and shaping means 62 also comprise positioning fingers 66
arranged on the support plane 64 and defining the perimeter of the
receiving areas 66A for the flat overwrapping blanks F. The
positioning of the overwrapping blanks F relative to the receiving
cavity 54 of the shuttle shapers 52 is then ensured and optimized
by these positioning fingers 66.
[0097] These receiving and shaping means 62 also comprise an
opening 68 arranged in the support plane 64 opposite the receiving
cavity 54 of the shuttle shapers 52 and defined by an edge 70 which
contributes to the shaping and erecting of the overwrapping blanks
F as the products A organized into a batch L are placed inside the
receiving cavity 54.
[0098] Because these receiving and shaping means 62 are in a fixed
position within the distribution and loading station for
preparatory batches L.sub.P, this allows positioning the
overwrapping blanks F even before the shuttle shaper 52 is in
position within this distribution and loading station for
preparatory batches L.sub.P. However, in a variant embodiment, the
receiving and shaping means 62 could also be arranged directly on
the shuttle shapers 52.
[0099] The receiving means 50 also comprise a first distribution
path V.sub.1.
[0100] This first distribution path V.sub.1 is formed by a support
rail 56 extending horizontally in the longitudinal direction D.
More specifically, the support rail 56 is positioned between the
loading area 20 of the product A supply means 12 and the means 32
for supplying overwrapping blanks F. This support rail 56 extends
beyond the distribution and loading station for preparatory batches
L.sub.P and towards a closing and offloading station for
overwrapped batches L.sub.S (described below).
[0101] The shuttle shapers 52 of the first pair, supported by the
support rail 56, are able to move in the longitudinal direction D,
along this support rail 56. These shuttle shapers 52 are thus able
to alternate successively between a position located within the
distribution and loading station for preparatory batches L.sub.P
and a position located within the closing and offloading station
for overwrapped batches L.sub.S.
[0102] More specifically, these shuttle shapers 52 are able to move
along the first distribution path V.sub.1 in phase opposition
relative to one another such that, during operation, when one of
the shuttle shapers 52 of the first pair is in position in the
distribution and loading station for preparatory batches, the other
of the shuttle shapers 52 of the first pair is in position in the
closing and offloading station for overwrapped batches, and vice
versa.
[0103] This arrangement yields a device of reduced dimensions which
does not necessarily require the passage of batched products
through a workstation exclusively dedicated to overwrapping, and
which ensures an optimized production rate. The rate of the loading
and preparing of preparatory batches L.sub.P and the closing and
offloading of overwrapped batches L.sub.S can easily be
optimized.
[0104] In order to generate the movement of the first pair of
shuttle shapers 52, the receiving means 50 comprise transmission
means 58, supported by the support rail 56, which are able to drive
the shuttle shapers 52 in a back and forth movement along the
longitudinal direction D. To actuate these transmission means 58,
the receiving means 50 also comprise a drive motor 60.
[0105] The transmission means 58 have a first portion and a second
portion respectively able to drive one and the other of the shuttle
shapers 52 of the first pair in opposite directions. To do this,
the transmission means 58 can either comprise a closed transmission
element such as a belt or chain, or two open transmission elements
such as rack and pinion elements made to move in opposite
directions.
[0106] The device also comprises means 72 for closing the
overwrapping blanks F.
[0107] These means 72 for closing the overwrapping blanks F,
represented in FIGS. 7a and 7b, are able to close, sequentially,
the erected and open overwrapping blanks F for preparatory batches
L.sub.P arranged in the shuttle shapers 52, when these shuttle
shapers 52 are positioned within the closing and offloading station
for overwrapped batches L.sub.S.
[0108] In this manner these closing means 72 are able, from the
preparatory batches L.sub.P arranged in the shuttle shapers 52, to
form overwrapped batches L.sub.S composed of overwrapped products A
having erected and closed overwrapping blanks F.
[0109] More particularly, these closing means 72 comprise folding
rollers 72a able to move in the transverse direction in a manner
that folds the open portion of the overwrapping blanks F for
preparatory batches L.sub.P and thus forms erected and closed
overwrapped batches L.sub.S.
[0110] To ensure the closing of the erected and closed overwrapping
blanks F forming the overwrapped batches L.sub.S, it can be
arranged so that adhesive material is applied to a portion of the
erected and open overwrapping blanks F for the preparatory batches
L.sub.P.
[0111] In one embodiment, the device can comprise adhesive material
placement means 73 arranged near the first distribution path,
between the distribution and loading station for preparatory
batches L.sub.P and the closing and offloading station for
overwrapped batches L.sub.S. The adhesive material can thus be
deposited on the fly on portions of the erected and open
overwrapped blanks F as these erected and open overwrapping blanks
F pass between the distribution and loading station for preparatory
batches and the closing and offloading station for overwrapped
batches.
[0112] In one variant, the adhesive material placement means 73 can
be arranged in the closing and offloading station for overwrapped
batches L.sub.S so that the adhesive material is deposited when the
erected and open overwrapping blanks F are in position in the
closing and offloading station for overwrapped batches L.sub.S and
before the application of the closing means 72.
[0113] The device additionally comprises means 74 for offloading
overwrapped batches L.sub.S.
[0114] These means 74 for offloading overwrapped batches L.sub.S,
represented in FIG. 7B, are able to offload, sequentially, the
overwrapped batches L.sub.S from the recessed receiving means 50 to
the boxes 76 which serve as outer packaging and allow handling the
overwrapped batches L.sub.S.
[0115] To do this, the offloading means 74 are associated with
means 78 for supplying boxes 76, and with means (described below)
for carrying away the boxes 76 filled with overwrapped batches
L.sub.S.
[0116] In one embodiment, the means 78 for supplying boxes 76 allow
transporting the boxes 76 in an outgoing axial stream 80 oriented
in a feed direction D' also considered to be "longitudinal" and
which is preferably parallel to the longitudinal direction D of the
incoming axial stream 10 of products A.
[0117] The conveyors or conveying means and therefore the boxes 76
are able to be set in motion along the longitudinal direction D' in
a given direction opposite the movement direction of the products A
in the incoming axial stream 10.
[0118] These means 78 of supplying boxes 76 are represented in
FIGS. 1 and 7A.
[0119] As an example, the means 78 of supplying boxes 76 comprise a
band conveyor belt 82 arranged at or near the exit from a line or a
unit for producing boxes 76. This conveyor belt 82 transports the
boxes 76 along the longitudinal direction D' in the direction
opposite the movement direction of the products A in the incoming
axial stream 10.
[0120] The means 78 of supplying boxes 76 are synchronized with the
offloading means 74, to allow accelerating, slowing, or stopping
the boxes 76 along the outgoing axial stream 80. In this manner, it
is possible to ensure precise positioning of the boxes 76 relative
to the offloading means 74 in order to offload the overwrapped
batches L.sub.S into the boxes 76.
[0121] The supply means 78 additionally comprise positioning
sensors 84 which allow identifying the position of the boxes 76 in
the outgoing axial stream 80 and, in particular, determining when
these boxes 76 are at the right location for offloading. The
conveyor belt 82, which is controlled by its positioning sensors
78, is then stopped in order to offload the overwrapped batches
L.sub.S into the boxes 76.
[0122] The device also comprises means 86 for carrying away the
boxes 76.
[0123] These means 86 for carrying away the boxes 76 are, for
example, in the form of a conveyor belt which sets the boxes 76
filled with overwrapped batches L.sub.S in motion and conveys them
away from the closing and offloading station for overwrapped
batches L.sub.S.
[0124] As an example, the means 86 for carrying away the boxes 76
comprise, for example, a band conveyor belt 88 arranged at or near
the exit from the means 78 of supplying boxes 76 so that the boxes
76 filled with overwrapped batches L.sub.S are distanced from the
closing and offloading station for said overwrapped batches
L.sub.S.
[0125] This conveyor belt 88 carries the boxes 76 in an exit
direction which can be, for example, transverse to the longitudinal
direction D' of the means 78 for supplying boxes 76. This way, the
means 86 for carrying away boxes 76 allows transporting the boxes
76 filled with overwrapped batches L.sub.S to a handling station,
for example.
[0126] The device can comprise means for distributing informational
or decorative elements.
[0127] These means for distributing informational or decorative
elements (not represented) can then be used to affix informational
or decorative elements, corresponding for example to commercial
labels, RFID labels, barcode labels, ink, self-sticking
illustrations, or similar elements, to a portion of the
overwrapping blanks F.
[0128] More particularly, the means for distributing informational
or decorative elements can allow affixing informational or
decorative elements onto a portion of the overwrapping blanks F for
the preparatory batches L.sub.P when said overwrapping blanks F are
erected and open.
[0129] In this case, the means for distributing informational or
decorative elements are arranged near the first distribution path,
between the distribution and loading station for preparatory
batches L.sub.P and the closing and offloading station for
overwrapped batches L.sub.S, in a manner that allows on the fly
distribution of the informational or decorative elements on
portions of the erected and open overwrapping blanks F.
[0130] This affixing of informational or decorative elements may in
particular be done during the passage of these erected and open
overwrapping blanks F between the distribution and loading station
for preparatory batches L.sub.P and the closing and offloading
station for overwrapped batches L.sub.S.
[0131] In such case, the means for distributing informational or
decorative elements and the adhesive material placement means can
be structurally and functionally linked to each other. In a
variant, these means of distributing informational or decorative
elements and these adhesive material placement means can be
entirely distinct and separate.
[0132] In one embodiment, the receiving means 50 can comprise a
second pair of shuttle shapers 52'.
[0133] The receiving means 50 represented in FIG. 8 as a
non-limiting example then comprise two pairs of shuttle shapers 52,
52'. The second pair of shuttle shapers 52' is able, in the same
manner as the first pair of shuttle shapers 52, to: [0134] erect
the overwrapping blanks F around products A in order to receive the
preparatory batches L.sub.P; and [0135] move back and forth so that
the shuttle shapers 52' of the second pair alternate in being
positioned within the distribution and loading station for
preparatory batches L.sub.P.
[0136] Similarly to above, each shuttle shaper 52' presents one or
more cradle(s) equipped with a base and a peripheral wall defining
at least one receiving cavity 54' open at the top during normal
usage conditions. Each receiving cavity 54' is capable of
containing one or more batch(es) L of products A surrounded by an
overwrapping blank F.
[0137] For this purpose, the receiving cavity 54' of each cradle
presents dimensions very slightly greater than the dimensions of
the batches L of products A, to allow receiving, in addition to the
batch L of products A, an extra thickness corresponding to the
dimensions of an overwrapping blank F.
[0138] In the embodiment in FIG. 8, each shuttle shaper 52' of the
second pair presents three distinct cradles, each having two
receiving cavities 54' and therefore able to accept two batches L
of products A at least partially surrounded with overwrapping
blanks F.
[0139] However, other embodiments can also be considered.
[0140] When a shuttle shaper 52 of the first pair and a shuttle
shaper 52' of the second pair are simultaneously positioned within
the distribution and loading station for preparatory batches
L.sub.P: [0141] the means 38 for distributing the overwrapping
blanks F are able to place the flat overwrapping blanks F, not only
in a predetermined position relative to the shuttle shaper 52 of
the first pair but also in a predetermined position relative to the
open upper portion of the shuttle shaper 52' of the second pair,
opposite the receiving cavity 54' of the latter; and [0142] the
product A loading means 22 are able to load the products A, formed
into batches L, not only inside the receiving cavities 54 of the
shuttle shaper 52 of the first pair but also inside the receiving
cavities 54' of the shuttle shaper 52' of the second pair,
resulting in the erecting of the overwrapping blanks F against the
base and the peripheral walls defining the receiving cavity 54, 54'
of the shuttle shapers 52, 52'.
[0143] In one embodiment, this operation of distributing and
loading preparatory batches L.sub.P into the shuttle shapers of the
first pair and of the second pair can be done simultaneously in a
single phase, or, in a variant, can be done successively in two
consecutive phases.
[0144] The placement of overwrapping blanks F first, then products
A, in the shuttle shapers 52' of the second pair thus allows
forming preparatory batches L.sub.P composed of products A with
overwrapping blanks F erected and open around them.
[0145] In one embodiment, it should be noted that the distribution
and loading station for preparatory batches L.sub.P can comprise
receiving and shaping means 62 for overwrapping blanks F which
allow precise positioning of overwrapping blanks F relative to the
shuttle shapers 52' of the second pair, and facilitate the folding
and shaping of these overwrapping blanks F as they are erected
inside the receiving cavity 54' of the shuttle shapers 52' of the
second pair.
[0146] One embodiment of these receiving and shaping means 62 is
represented in FIG. 6.
[0147] The receiving means 50 also comprise a second distribution
path V.sub.2.
[0148] This second distribution path V.sub.2 is formed by a support
rail 56' extending horizontally in the longitudinal direction D.
More specifically, the support rail 56' is positioned between the
loading area 20 for of the product A supply means 12 and the means
32 for supplying overwrapping blanks F. This support rail 56'
extends beyond the distribution and loading station for preparatory
batches L.sub.P and towards the closing and offloading station for
overwrapped batches L.sub.S.
[0149] This second distribution path V.sub.2 is preferably parallel
to the first distribution path V.sub.1, which facilitates the
positioning of the stations for distributing and loading
preparatory batches L.sub.P and for closing and offloading
overwrapped batches L.sub.S, and which minimizes the dimensions of
the device.
[0150] The shuttle shapers 52' of the second pair, supported by the
support rail 56', are able to move in the longitudinal direction D,
along this support rail 56'. These shuttle shapers 52' are thus
able to alternate successively between a position located within
the distribution and loading station for preparatory batches
L.sub.P and a position located within the closing and offloading
station for overwrapped batches L.sub.S.
[0151] More specifically, these shuttle shapers 52' of the second
pair are able to move along the second distribution path V.sub.2 in
phase opposition relative to one another such that, during
operation, when one of the shuttle shapers 52' of the second pair
is in position in the distribution and loading station for
preparatory batches L.sub.P, the other of the shuttle shapers 52'
of the second pair is in position in the closing and offloading
station for overwrapped batches L.sub.S, and vice versa.
[0152] This arrangement yields a device of reduced dimensions which
does not necessarily require the passage of batched products
through a workstation exclusively dedicated to overwrapping, and
which therefore ensures an optimized production rate. The rate of
the loading and preparing of preparatory batches L.sub.P and the
closing and offloading of overwrapped batches L.sub.S can easily be
optimized.
[0153] In order to generate the movement of the second pair of
shuttle shapers 52', the receiving means 50 comprise transmission
means 58', supported by the support rail 56', which are able to
drive the shuttle shapers 52' in a back and forth movement along
the longitudinal direction D. To actuate these transmission means
58', the receiving means 50 also comprise a second drive motor
60'.
[0154] However, in an alternative embodiment (not represented), it
is also possible to have the drive motor 60 for the first
distribution path V.sub.1 also serve as the drive motor for the
second distribution path V.sub.2.
[0155] The transmission means 58' have a first portion and a second
portion respectively able to drive one and the other of the shuttle
shapers 52' of the second pair in opposite directions. To do this,
the transmission means 58' can either comprise a closed
transmission element such as a belt or chain, or two open
transmission elements such as rack and pinion elements made to move
in opposite directions.
[0156] The overwrapping method of the invention is now described in
a detailed manner.
[0157] This overwrapping method for products A consists of having
available: means 32 for supplying flat overwrapping blanks F, means
for supplying 12 products A moving in an incoming axial stream 10,
means 78 for supplying empty boxes 76, and means 86 for carrying
away boxes 86 filled with products A formed into overwrapped
batches L.sub.S moving in an outgoing axial stream 80, as described
above.
[0158] The method also comprises a step consisting of sequentially
distributing flat overwrapping blanks F from the means 32 for
supplying overwrapping blanks F to the recessed receiving means 50,
and sequentially loading products A from the means 12 for supplying
products A into the receiving means 50, so as to form preparatory
batches L.sub.P composed of products A with overwrapping blanks F
erected and open around them.
[0159] The method additionally comprises a step consisting of
sequentially closing the erected and open overwrapping blanks F
onto the preparatory batches L.sub.P so as to form overwrapped
batches L.sub.S composed of products A overwrapped with erected and
closed overwrapping blanks F, and a step consisting of sequentially
offloading the overwrapped batches L.sub.S from the receiving means
50 to the boxes 76 supplied by the means 12 for supplying boxes and
carried away, once filled with overwrapped products A, by the means
78 for carrying away filled boxes 76.
[0160] In the invention, the receiving means 50 comprise a first
pair of shuttle shapers 52 which alternately participate in
erecting the overwrapping blanks F around the products A during the
receiving of preparatory batches L.sub.P.
[0161] During a first phase, the steps of distributing overwrapping
blanks F and loading products A are performed one after the other
within a distribution and loading station for preparatory batches
L.sub.P in which is located one of the shuttle shapers 52 of the
first pair. Simultaneously, the steps of closing the erected and
open overwrapping blanks F and offloading the overwrapped batches
L.sub.S to the boxes 76 are done one after the other within a
closing and offloading station for overwrapped batches L.sub.S in
which is located the other of the shuttle shapers 52 of the first
pair.
[0162] During a second phase, the shuttle shapers 52 of the first
pair, arranged on a first distribution path V.sub.1, are moved
along the first distribution path V.sub.1 in phase opposition
relative to one another, such that one of the shuttle shapers 52 of
the first pair is moved from the distribution and loading station
for preparatory batches L.sub.P towards the closing and offloading
station for overwrapped batches L.sub.S, while the other of the
shuttle shapers 52 of the first pair is moved from the closing and
offloading station for overwrapped batches L.sub.S towards the
distribution and loading station for preparatory batches
L.sub.P.
[0163] As mentioned above, it should be stressed that, in one
embodiment, the recessed receiving means 50 may comprise a second
pair of shuttle shapers 52' which alternately participate in
erecting the overwrapping blanks F around products A during the
receiving of preparatory batches L.sub.P.
[0164] Thus, during the first phase, one of the shuttle shapers 52'
of the second pair is in position in the distribution and loading
station for preparatory batches L.sub.P while the other of the
shuttle shapers 52' of the second pair is in position in the
closing and offloading station for overwrapped batches L.sub.S.
[0165] During the second phase, the shuttle shapers 52' of the
second pair, arranged on the second distribution path V.sub.2, are
moved along this second distribution path V.sub.2 in phase
opposition relative to one another, such that one of the shuttle
shapers 52' of the second pair is moved from the distribution and
loading station for preparatory batches L.sub.P towards the closing
and offloading station for overwrapped batches L.sub.S while the
other of the shuttle shapers 52' of the second pair is moved from
the closing and offloading station for overwrapped batches L.sub.S
towards the distribution and loading station for preparatory
batches L.sub.P.
* * * * *