EP0286550A1 - Method for automatically applying end caps to articles, especially those stored in a roll, and machine for carrying out this method - Google Patents

Abstract

The machine comprises: - a conveyor (A) for delivering products stored in a roll (R); - a device (b) for transferring the roll (R) on a support member (C) for positioning, also arranged to enable, as desired, the said roll to be driven in rotation; - at least one, but preferably two, assemblies (D) for applying end caps (E), straddling the or each of the circular peripheral edges of the roll (R), each assembly being equipped with means capable of ensuring, in combination with the rotation of the roll, the driving and winding of the said end caps previously arranged and/or stored in arrangements in the machine serving as magazines (M); - means for ensuring tensioned coupling of the end caps arranged on one or each one of the circular edges of the roll. <IMAGE>

Description

The invention relates to a process for automatically installing protective elements for products packaged in rolls in particular and to the machine for implementing the process.

The object of the invention relates to the technical sector of handling flat-shaped materials.

It is known to use elements, in particular in the form of a cardboard angle, to ensure the protection of the angles of the packaging of various products. With regard to the products packaged in a roll, or else the products having circular or oval shapes, in whole or in part, one of the wings of these cardboard angle elements has, at regular intervals, a plurality of profiled cutouts. in a triangle, to allow the bending of said angles.

In the case of products packaged in a roll, the angles are placed overlapping each of the circular edges, the ends of each angle, which can be positioned in superposition, are held together by means of, for example, an adhesive. Optionally, between each angle, can be arranged, according to the generatrices of the roll, a strip of corrugated cardboard, craft paper or other material.

If these protective elements are satisfactory with regard to the desired results, there appears to be a significant problem in terms of their installation. Indeed, the installation of these angles is carried out manually, which generally requires the employment of two people taking into account on the one hand the sometimes large diameter of the roller and, on the other hand, the need to maintain the ends of the angle iron for applying the adhesive.

The problem thus being posed, the invention set itself the aim of remedying these drawbacks, by automating the installation of these protective angles. The result is a characteristic process and a machine specially designed for its implementation, and shaped to achieve the desired goal.

To this end, according to the method:
- At least one roller is brought opposite a transfer device;
- The diameter of the roller and its positioning are detected;
- The transfer device is controlled to position the roller in combination with support means and for driving said roller in rotation;
- At least one installation set is positioned in relation to at least one of the circular edges of the roller;
- At least this circular edge is fitted peripherally with a means capable of ensuring, in combination with the rotation of the roller, the automatic positioning by winding, of the protective element;
- We grab at least one protection element that is positioned in relation to drive and positioning and shaping means to bring it in cooperation with the winding means or means which equip the or each of roll edges;
- Part of the protection element is detected;
- We order a means capable of ensuring the voltage connection of the ends of the protection element (s) on at least one of the circular peripheral edges of the roller;
- We retract the drive means and automatic positioning by rolling the protective element (s);
- The roller equipped with the protective elements is transferred to the initial position;

According to another characteristic, the processing machine is remarkable in that it comprises, in combination, the main means and arrangements below:
- a conveyor for the supply of products packaged in rolls;
- A device for transferring the roller to a positioning support member which is also arranged to allow the rotation of said roller to be driven at will;
- At least one but preferably two sets of overlapping protective elements of the or each of the circular peripheral edges of the roll, each set being equipped with means capable of ensuring in combination with the rotation of the roll, the drive and the winding of said protective elements previously arranged and / or packaged in arrangements of the machine acting as a store;
- Means for ensuring the tension coupling of the ends of the protective elements arranged on one or each of the circular edges of the roller.

• La figure 1 est une vue de côté, d'une forme de réa­lisation de la machine.
• La figure 2 est une vue en plan, à caractère schéma­tique, de la machine.
• Les figures 3 à 6 illustrent par des vues de côté à caractère purement schématique, la cinématique de fonctionnement de la machine.
• La figure 7 montre par une vue en perspective un rou­leau équipé selon l'invention des éléments de protection.

The invention is set out below in more detail using the drawings which represent only one embodiment of the machine:

• Figure 1 is a side view of an embodiment of the machine.
• Figure 2 is a plan view, schematic, of the machine.
• Figures 3 to 6 illustrate side views of a purely schematic nature, the kinematics of operation of the machine.
• FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of a roller fitted according to the invention with protective elements.

In order to make the object of the invention more concrete, it is now described in a nonlimiting manner with reference to the exemplary embodiments of the figures of the drawings.

The machine for the automatic laying of cardboard angles successively comprises the following main stations and arrangements, suitably mounted on a support frame:
- a conveyor (A) for the supply of rolled products (R);
- A transfer device (B) of the roller (R) on a support member (C) positioning further arranged to allow at will, the rotational drive of said roller;
- At least one but preferably two sets of laying (D) of the angles (E) overlapping the or each of the circular peripheral edges of the roller (R), each assembly being equipped with means capable of ensuring, in combination with the rotation of the roller, the drive and the winding of said angles previously arranged and / or conditioned in arrangements of the machine serving as store (M);
- Means for ensuring the tension coupling of the ends of angle irons arranged on the circular periphery of the roller.

The conveyor (A) is arranged transversely in the front part of the frame and is constituted, in a known manner, by drive rollers (1) on which are mounted a support profile plane (2) shaped in section for allow centering and positioning of the roller (R). In connection with the conveyor (A) is mounted the transfer device (B) in the form of two articulated arms (3) whose free ends receive a support roller (4).

These two arms (3) are suitably profiled in order to present the support roller (4) parallel to the external lateral side of the conveyor, in relation to the generatrices of the roller (R). The articulation (3a) of each arm operates on a fixed part of the machine frame. Cylinders (5) or the like control the arms (3) in order to increase their controlled angular pivoting.

At this level of the transfer device, the conveyor is equipped with sensor members (6) and (7) shaped to, respectively, detect the gauge of the roller, and position said roller very substantially along the main axis of the machine, d '' equidistant to the two installation sets (D). For example, the sensor (7) controls a brake motor (B) secured to the conveyor.

Opposite the support roller (4), on the other side of the conveyor, the transfer device is equipped with a support surface (9) suitably shaped to facilitate the transfer of the roller (R) onto the support member (C), in combination with the tilting effect of the arms (3) and pushing of the roller (4). The support member (C) is composed of a set of rollers (10, 11, 12) constituting, in combination, a support cradle.

The roller (10), mounted transversely between two flanges (13) is motorized by being positively driven in rotation by means for example of a motor (14). The two other rollers (11) and (12) arranged in parallel while being angularly offset, are mounted free in rotation at the end of two profiled arms (15) and articulated by being subject to a actuator of the jack type (16) for example .

As indicated in the following description, the control of the pairs of arms (3) and (15) takes place in synchronism.

The articulation (15a) of each arm (15) takes place on the same part of the frame of the machine receiving the articulation (3a) of the arms (3).

In combination with the assembly of the support and positioning cradle, and in particular on either side and beyond the latter, the installation assemblies (D) of the angles ( E). In correspondence with each installation set are arranged the arrangements (M) acting as a store for the packaging of the angles (E).

Each set of installation and each store are fixed on corresponding support flanges (17) and (17a) arranged facing each other and mounted with controlled transverse displacement capacity so as to be moved parallel in approach or in distance from one another. . For example, each of the flanges (17) and 17a) fitted with rolling members (18) cooperates with guide rails (19).

The installation assemblies (D) are subject for example to geared motors (20) to ensure their relative displacement. These geared motors (20) are controlled by a feeler (21) associated with a proximity detector biased by the roller, in order to very precisely position the fitting assemblies (D) relative to the circular edges of said roller.

Each installation set is equipped with a motori head sée (22) whose shaft (22a) is integral with an arm (23) which acts as a compass. This pair of arms (23), which can be positively driven in rotation by the motorized heads (22), is arranged in a plane parallel to that of the lateral sides of the roller.

The free end of each compass (23), opposite their articulation, is coupled to a member (24) shaped to ensure, in combination with the rotation of the roller (R), the automatic winding in tension of the angle iron (E) as it is driven, overlapping each of the circular edges of said roller (R). In a preferred manner, although not strictly limiting, the winding means (24) consists of a double chain, the strands (24a) of which are braced by rollers (24b) mounted free to rotate.

This chain (24) is wound in tension inside a drum (25) arranged very substantially in vertical alignment with each of the heads (22). Each installation assembly (D) also has a device (26) capable of driving and shaping the angles from the store.

Each of the devices (26) is placed at the outlet of the corresponding magazine, in relation to each of the heads (22), and in alignment with in particular the winding chain (24). It is composed, for each of the heads, of a pneumatic or other suction cup (26a), in relation to the end of the lower angle disposed in the magazine, said suction cup being subject to an articulated arm (26b) shaped to fold said end and position it on a support roller (26c) mounted free to rotate.

Opposite the support roller (26c), can be brought in a grooved pressure roller (26d) which drive positively in rotation and which aims both to drive the angle iron while making pre-folding marks. In correspondence with this pair of rollers (26c) - (26d) are arranged in superposition, two systems of toothed belts (26e) and (26f) which delimit try in combination a guide and drive tunnel to bring the angle between the winding chain (24) and the roller (R). Obviously, the toothed belts (26e) and (26f) are mounted with different sets of motor pinions (26g).

It should be noted that the guide tunnel resulting from the part in juxtaposition of the two toothed belts is profiled, in a semi-circular manner, to act as a conformator by preforming the angle to facilitate its winding.

At the outlet of the device (26), in particular from the system of toothed belts, are mounted means capable of ensuring the tension coupling of the ends of the angles after winding.

In the example illustrated, the coupling means consist of an adhesive tape applicator (27) conditioned on a reel (28) being subject to drive means (29) controlled by a sensor which detects the rear part of the angle iron. A member of any known and suitable type ensures the cut to the desired length of the adhesive tape.

Each store (M) is preferably made up of two compartments (30) and (31) each corresponding to different lengths of angles depending on the size of the roller (R). As indicated above, these compartments are mounted with transverse displacement capacity so that one or the other of said compartments is positioned in correspondence in particular with the drive device (26), taking into account the indication provided by the sensor ( 6) detection of the roll gauge.

Each of the compartments is mounted on the corresponding support flange (17a) in an inclined manner to facilitate, by gravitation, the departure of the angles. The angles (E) are packaged in the superimposed compartments in combination with support and retaining side panels arranged angularly to take account of the angular offset of the angles resulting from their stacking.

The various organs and control means are obviously suitably connected to a central unit which aims to ensure the synchronism of the various movements having regard to the desired operating characteristics. Advantageously, the various members are controlled by a programmable automaton.

It is now necessary to analyze the operation of the machine with particular reference to Figures 3 to 6 of the drawings.

The roller (R) is brought by the conveyor (1 - 2). The sensors (6) and (7) detect the size of the roller in order, on the one hand, to ensure their positioning in the axis of symmetry of the laying assemblies and, on the other hand, to select the corresponding compartment (30) or (31) from the store.

The transfer device (B) is controlled. The arms (3), under the effect of the jack (5), pivot angularly, so that the roller (R) bears on the roller (4) and pushes it in the direction of the support cradle (10, 11, 12) passing through the support and transfer plane (9). Note that before the transfer of the roller, the articulated support arms (15) of the rollers (11) and (12) are angularly positioned, so that said rollers (11) and (12) are located at the plane (9 ) to ensure the retention of the roller (R) during the transfer. There therefore appears to be a combined movement of synchronism between the two pairs of arms (3) and (15) (FIG. 3).

At the end of pivoting of the arms (15) in particular, the roller (R) is positioned in combination with the rollers (10) and (11) or (10) and (12) depending on the diameter of the roller (R).

The probe (21) is urged to control, by means of the geared motors (20), the displacement of the laying assemblies (D) for the positioning of their head (22) opposite and in combination with the circular transverse edges of the roller (R).

The motorized heads (22) are then controlled, which has the effect of circularly driving the compasses (23) and simultaneously winding the chain (24) secured to said compass, around the roller (R) in tangency with the circular edges of said roller. The winding of the chain (24) takes place automatically taking into account the combined effect of the rotation of the roller (R) and the tensile force exerted by the compass.

After positioning the winding chain (24), the device (26) is stressed. The end of the lower angle iron arranged in the magazine is palpated by the pneumatic suction cup (26a), the arm (26b) being angularly controlled to fold the gripped end of the angle iron and bring it into contact with the roller. crazy support (figure?).

The grooved drive roller (26d) is tilted to come into pressure on the end of the gripped angle iron to cause it to be driven and marked. The angle is then engaged between the two sets of toothed drive belts (26e) and (26f) which act as a shaper, to direct and guide the angle between the chain (24) and the roller (R).

Given the rotational drive of the roller (R) and the positioning of the chain (24), the angle iron is automatically wound overlapping the corresponding circular edge of said roller, being perfectly guided and maintained by the chain.

When the rear part of the angle is detected, the applicator member (27) of adhesive tape is urged to deposit a piece of said tape on the overlapping end parts of the angle. The adhesive tape can be applied only on the angles, or in combination with part of the roller (R).

Note that to allow the overlapping and nesting of the end parts of the angle, taking into account its profile and its conformation, provision is made to deposit, at the outlet of the device (26) and more particularly of the shaping tunnel ( 27), a guiding and shaping zone resulting from suitably profiled elements and members.

The drive compasses (23) of each of the chains (24) are brought back to the initial position for conditioning said chain (24) inside its support roller (25). The roller (R) is therefore free.

The pairs of arms (15) and (3) are then controlled in opposite directions and in synchronism, to effect the transfer of the roller (R) from the support and centering cradle to the conveyor.

It is obvious that from this basic design, without departing from the scope of the invention, several variants can be provided:
- We have illustrated and described two symmetrical sets of installation of the angles and magazine, to directly equip, in a single operation, each of the circular edges of the roller, it being understood that in a simplified version, only one assembly of installation and magazine is possible. The operating kinematics remain the same.
- Optionally, provision is made for automatic installation in combination and between the two angles, of any strip of material. This strip could be packaged in a roll placed between the angle store and unwound simultaneously with their gripping and then cut to the desired length.
- It is also planned to use as protective elements, not pre-established and preformed angles, but cardboard or other tapes, for example packaged on mandrels, then cut to the correct length by being simultaneously or subsequently shaped by any known and appropriate means of the wheel type for example.

Likewise, taking into account the nature of the product packaged in a roll, the type of means for coupling the protective elements may be other than adhesive tape, for example glue, staples.

Claims (15)

-1- Process for the automatic installation of protective elements for products packaged in rolls, characterized by the following essential steps:
- At least one roller is brought opposite a transfer device;
- The diameter of the roller and its positioning are detected;
- The transfer device is controlled to position the roller in combination with support and rotation drive means for said roller;
- At least one installation set is positioned in relation to at least one of the circular edges of the roller;
- At least this circular edge is fitted peripherally with a means capable of ensuring, in combination with the rotation of the roller, the automatic positioning by winding, of the protective element;
- We grab at least one protective element that is positioned in relation to drive and positioning and shaping means to bring it in cooperation with the winding means or means which equip the or each of the roll edges;
- Part of the protection element is detected;
- We order a means capable of ensuring the voltage connection of the ends of the protection element (s) on at least one of the circular peripheral edges of the roller;
- We retract the drive means and automatic positioning by winding the protective element (s);
- The roller equipped with the protective elements is transferred to the initial position -2- Machine for implementing the process according to the resale cation 1, characterized in that it comprises, in combination:
- a conveyor (A) for the supply of rolled products (R);
- A transfer device (B) of the roller (R) on a support member (C) positioning further arranged to allow at will, the rotational drive of said roller;
- At least one but preferably two sets of laying (D) protective elements (E) overlapping the or each of the circular peripheral edges of the roller (R), each set being equipped with means capable of ensuring in combination with the rotation of the roller, driving and winding of said protective elements previously arranged and / or conditioned in arrangements of the machine acting as a store (M);
- Means for ensuring the tension coupling of the ends of the protective elements arranged on one or each of the circular edges of the roller. -3- Machine according to claim 2, characterized in that the transfer device comprises on one side of the conveyor (A), a support roller mounted at the end of two articulated arms (3) pivotally controlled and, l on the other side of the conveyor, at least one support roller (11 - 12) mounted at the end of two articulated arms (15) pivotally controlled and in synchronism with the arms (3), the said roller (s) (11 - 12) , after tilting of their support arm (15), constitute a support cradle, in combination with a motorized roller (10) capable of rotating the roller (12). -4- Machine according to any one of claims 2 and 3, characterized in that in combination with the support cradle, are arranged, in a symmetrical manner, the installation assemblies (D) of the protective elements ( E), in correspondence with each installation set, are receptacle elements acting as a store for the conditioning of the elements protection. -5- Machine according to any one of claims 2 and 4, characterized in that each installation assembly is equipped with a motorized head (22) secured to an arm (23) whose free end is coupled to a member (24) shaped to ensure, in combination with the rotation of the roller (R), the automatic winding of the protective element as it is driven, said member being conditioned in tension in a support (25) , each laying assembly further having a device (26) capable of ensuring the drive and the shaping of the protective elements. -6- Machine according to claims 1 and 5 together, characterized in that the device (26) is placed at the outlet of the corresponding store in relation to each of the heads (22) and in alignment with the winding member (24 ). -7- Machine according to claim 6, characterized in that the device (26) comprises means (26a) in relation to the end of the lower protective element placed in the magazine, said means being shaped to ensure gripping and bending said end to position it on drive and shaping means (26c, 26d, 26e, 26f). -8 Machine according to Claim 7, characterized in that the drive and shaping means consist of a set of rollers (26c - 26d) of which at least one is striated, the said rollers being positioned in correspondence with two systems of toothed drive belts (26e) and (26f) which, in combination, define a guide and profiled drive tunnel to act as a shaper. -9- Machine according to any one of claims 1 and 5, characterized in that at the outlet of the device (26) are mounted means capable of ensuring the tension coupling of the overlapping ends of the protective element. -10- Machine according to claim 2, characterized in that at the transfer device, the conveyor is equipped with sensor members (6) and (7) shaped to respectively detect the size of the roller (R) and position said roller very substantially equidistant from the two installation assemblies. -11- Machine according to claims 2 and 10 together, characterized in that each magazine laying assembly is fixed respectively on independent support flanges arranged opposite and mounted each with controlled transverse displacement capacity to be moved parallel in approach or in remoteness. -12- Machine according to claim 2, characterized in that each store consists of several compartments (30 - 31) each corresponding to different lengths of protective element previously shaped in cardboard angles in particular. -13- Machine according to claim 2, characterized in that each store receives the protective elements in the form of cardboard strips in particular which are subject to means for being cut to the correct length by being simultaneously or subsequently shaped into angles. -14- Machine according to any one of claims 2, 12 and 13, characterized in that, between the magazines receiving the protective elements, is conditioned a roll of strip of material capable of being driven and wound simultaneously with each of the elements protection. -15- Machine according to any one of claims 2 to 14, characterized in that the various organs and control means are controlled by a control unit in particular in the form of a programmable controller, to ensure synchronization of movements in view ensure the following operating kinematics:
- detection of the presence of a roller,
- transfer of the roller to a support cradle and rotational drive,
- positioning of the installation assembly (s) in correspondence with the circular edges of the roller,
placing the winding member of the protective element in the vicinity of or each of the circular edges of the roller,
- gripping, shaping and training of protective elements,
- driving and guiding the protective element (s) in combination with the winding element (s) with a view to their circular positioning,
- control of the means capable of coupling the ends of the protective elements,
- removal of the winding member (s),
- transfer in the opposite direction of the roller fitted with the protection element (s).

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