Classifications

• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
  • B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
  • B65B11/00—Wrapping, e.g. partially or wholly enclosing, articles or quantities of material, in strips, sheets or blanks, of flexible material
  • B65B11/02—Wrapping articles or quantities of material, without changing their position during the wrapping operation, e.g. in moulds with hinged folders
  • B65B11/025—Wrapping articles or quantities of material, without changing their position during the wrapping operation, e.g. in moulds with hinged folders by webs revolving around stationary articles
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
  • B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
  • B65B11/00—Wrapping, e.g. partially or wholly enclosing, articles or quantities of material, in strips, sheets or blanks, of flexible material
  • B65B11/58—Applying two or more wrappers, e.g. in succession
  • B65B11/585—Applying two or more wrappers, e.g. in succession to stacked articles, e.g. pallettised loads
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
  • B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
  • B65B13/00—Bundling articles
  • B65B13/18—Details of, or auxiliary devices used in, bundling machines or bundling tools
  • B65B13/181—Details of, or auxiliary devices used in, bundling machines or bundling tools applying edge protecting members during bundling
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
  • B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
  • B65B11/00—Wrapping, e.g. partially or wholly enclosing, articles or quantities of material, in strips, sheets or blanks, of flexible material
  • B65B11/04—Wrapping, e.g. partially or wholly enclosing, articles or quantities of material, in strips, sheets or blanks, of flexible material the articles being rotated
  • B65B11/045—Wrapping, e.g. partially or wholly enclosing, articles or quantities of material, in strips, sheets or blanks, of flexible material the articles being rotated by rotating platforms supporting the articles

Definitions

• the invention relates to a method, a machine and an installation for packaging a load provided with at least one edge protection angle and a device for gripping, moving, depositing and holding such an angle.
• the invention is more particularly applicable to a palletized load comprising four protective angles of vertical longitudinal general direction applied to the four vertical edges of the load placed between its four vertical lateral faces.
• Such protective angles in particular in folded cardboard, are intended to form a local padding ensuring better protection of the vertical edges of the load.
• the angles prevent the edges if they are sharp, from piercing or cutting or breaking the packaging film.
• the prior art known for overpacking processes and machines for palletized loads includes the following documents: FR-A-2 468 506, FR-A-2 470 056, US-A-4 587 796, FR-A -2 228 669, FR-A-2 243 113, FR-A-2 413 270, FR-A-2 281 275, US-A-4 473 990, EP-A-0 184 485, EP-A-0 177 413, EP-A-0 180 517, US-A-4 587 796.
• These methods and machines are, in general, well known to those skilled in the art: it may be the implementation of the technique so-called "curtain", that of the full width straight or banded or even helical wrapping, that of the cover.
• an overwrap film curtain is formed between two film reels with a vertical axis; then the load is advanced horizontally towards the curtain of film deformed in a U shape; then we close and secure the curtain on itself.
• a relative pivoting is provided around a vertical axis of the load with respect to a reel of strip film.
• This wrapping technique includes several variants: the load remains fixed and the film reel rotates around it (so-called fixed table machine and rotating reel); The load pivots and the axis of the strip film reel remains in a fixed position (machine known as a turntable).
• the film strip has a width of the load height or a fraction thereof.
• the wrapping is straight or helical.
• the banding technique is also applicable to a load extending horizontally horizontally and displaced relatively along its axis.
• the reel of strip film having a horizontal axis.
• flattened film sheath is wound on a reel.
• the spool is unwound and the sheath is opened and pulled to be threaded onto the load by vertical downward sliding, using fingers, pliers, holding frame, belts, chains or other.
• These techniques use solid or perforated film like a net.
• This film is heat shrinkable or stretchable. In the latter case it is stretched or pre-stretched. The entire load or only part of it can be covered with film.
• overwrap film may include several layers.
• the pallet can be replaced by a false pallet.
• An overwrapping machine can also be integrated into an installation comprising, upstream, a palletizer.
• An object of the invention is therefore to allow the mechanization and automation of the installation of such protective angles on loads to be packaged.
• Another object is to allow this installation by avoiding any collision with the moving parts of the machine used for the overwrapping.
• Another goal is to be able to avoid in some cases the establishment of a strapping or other similar means specifically intended for the maintenance of the angle or angles before that (these) is (are) trapped (s) by the overwrap film.
• Another object is to allow the installation of angles of different formats on loads of different formats.
• Another object is to propose a method and a machine for overpacking loads including the installation of such angles.
• Another object is to propose a device specially intended for gripping, moving when depositing and maintaining (during laying) such angles.
• Another object is to propose a machine and an installation for packaging or overpacking loads, in particular palletized, including one or more such device (s).
• Another object is to propose a load, in particular palletized packed with angles, obtained by the said process or with the said machine.
• This strip is either a strip or a wider strip. It is specifically intended to maintain the angle iron or also performs the packaging (or overwrapping) function of the load.
• the angle iron is clamped on the load at at least one of its ends in a zone spaced from the first zone by means of an end plate or frame having an edge folded over the angle angle. wedging it and for this purpose; the angle iron is brought to the edge and an end plate or frame with an edge not folded down on at least one end face of the load; then positively fold the edge of the plate or frame on the angle.
• the packaging film used is either intended essentially for overpacking the load, the angle iron being held in place, or contributes substantially to maintaining the angle.
• the aims of the invention are also achieved by means of a device for gripping, moving, depositing and maintaining a protective angle on the edge of a load, comprising:
• a corner store arranged so that in this the angles are stored with their upper surfaces facing the outlet opening of the store;
• a support arm carried by the frame, mounted on the latter so as to be movable between two extreme positions: a gripping position and a common position of removal and holding, where it is respectively close to the outlet opening of the store and distant from it and close to an edge of the load;
• a packaging machine capable of rigidly and permanently associating one or more angles on a load, comprising at least one such device for gripping, moving, depositing and maintaining an angle and at least a device for ensuring a rigid, permanent association of the angle deposited on the load using this device, the load itself or a packaging element thereof.
• This device for ensuring a rigid association is chosen from the group comprising a device for surrounding and applying a strip to the load and the angle iron; a device for bonding, welding, stapling, clipping, bonding the angle iron to the load or a packaging element thereof; a device for folding down the edge of an end plate or frame ensuring the wedging of the angle; a machine for overwrapping the palletized load in which the overwrapping film ensures at least the function of maintaining the angle.
• a load overwrapping machine having the essential function of overpacking it and chosen from the group comprising: curtain machines , wrapping machines, hooding machines.
• the two overwrapping machines when they are provided for maintaining the angle iron and overwrapping the load, may be separate or preferably common, the same machine ensuring the two functions
• overwrapping machines can therefore be chosen from the group comprising: machines curtain, banding machines, hooding machines.
• At least one device for feeding and depositing a plate or end frame with an edge or folding flap can be functionally associated with the packaging machine allowing the rigid load / angle association.
• the invention can use an overwrapping machine which has the function of: ensuring the overwrapping of the load, the latter having been previously provided with at least one angle bar rigidly associated with and remains; to participate substantially in the rigid and permanent maintenance of the angle; or do both simultaneously.
• an overwrapping machine comprising:
• an initial free end portion of said strip is associated with the load or a packaging element or the latter, or an angle iron, or a holding member thereof, a relative displacement of the load is ensured and of the film reel so as to rotate the film reel axis around the wrapping axis of the load, the said film strip is cut transversely once the wrapping has been carried out, and an end free end portion is associated from said film strip to the banner film or to the load or a packaging element or this, or an angle, or a holding member thereof.
• one starts from flattened angles one grasps them and moves in this flattened state and gives them the desired configuration by deforming them in situ on the corresponding edge of the load.
• a support arm is pivotally mounted by its first end part on the frame around an articulation axis substantially parallel to the general longitudinal direction of the outlet opening of the magazine and this arm supports at its second extreme part the gripping means and. holding.
• the first drive means such as comprising a jack, ensure the pivoting of the support arm between its two extreme positions angularly distant by a fraction of a turn, in particular of the order of an eighth of a turn.
• the gripping and holding means comprise at least one suction cup which, in the gripping position of the support arm is located substantially in the outlet opening of the magazine and at least one shaping member in the general form of an angle.
• the gripping and holding means are mounted movable on the support arm between two extreme relative positions, namely a gripping position and a laying position.
• Second drive means for gripping and holding means ensure their movement between their two extreme positions and the blocking in one or the other of these.
• the general control means ensure their coordination with the first drive means and the specific control means.
• the device also comprises means able on the one hand to permanently bring an angle iron into the outlet opening of the magazine, whatever the degree of filling of the magazine and, on the other hand, to exert, at least on the angle iron being in this opening, a force tending to prevent it from entering the store further, that is to say tending to keep it in the opening of the store ready to be used.
• the frame of the device or the gripping and holding means or the support arm are mounted movable or of adjustable stroke to allow adapting the device to several load dimensions.
• the overwrapping machine used to maintain the angle iron and, if necessary, the overwrapping of the load proper
• the latter is preferably of the wrapping machine type (with vertical axis or horizontal).
• This machine can include a plurality of gripping, moving, depositing and holding devices which are substantially similar to one another for the same plurality of edges of the load to be protected.
• the longitudinal general directions of the stores of these devices are mutually parallel. Their support arms are in the same common plane.
• the devices are substantially regularly distributed around an area where the load is located.
• the load support means are a table with a substantially vertical axis;
• the movable means for allowing the recovery of a load with the film comprise means for ensuring a relative pivoting of the table around its axis relative to the film supply means;
• a device for gripping, moving, depositing and holding may comprise a magazine of general longitudinal vertical direction, the lower edge of which is substantially coplanar with the table.
• the means for feeding the packaging film and covering the load comprise a ring supporting a film reel, substantially coaxial with the table, mounted to slide vertically along said axis between a lower position close to the plane of the table and a higher remote position, the axis of the film reel thus being able to turn around the load.
• the supply and recovery means may include equivalent film reel support means ensuring the same path to the film reel. The gripping, moving, depositing and holding devices are then essentially placed outside and near said crown and its path.
• the table is pivotally movable about its axis and the reel of strip film for wrapping has a fixed position axis.
• the machine can include a device for folding down the edge of a plate or frame placed on the upper horizontal face of the load and rotating in synchronism with the table at least at the start when the vertical angle must still be maintained, the overwrap film not yet installed.
• the invention also relates to a device for supplying and depositing an end plate or frame as well as a device for folding down the flap of this plate or frame intended to be incorporated in such a machine. packaging.
• Such a supply and removal device comprises:
• control means coordinating the operation of gripping means and driving means.
• Such a device for folding the flap comprises:
• At least one flap movement member carried by the frame movably between an inactive position or the flap can be placed substantially coplanar with the plate or frame and an active position or the flap is placed substantially orthogonally to the plate or frame;
• the device for folding the flap can be combined with a table wrapping machine rotating like a known type presser or at a table, in particular fixed.
• Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of a palletized load provided with corner angles and an overwrap film surrounding the load and the angles and participating in the retention of the latter.
• FIGS. 2A, 2B, 2C and 2D are four schematic elevation views (2C half right view and 2D half left view) illustrating the successive stages of implementing the method according to the invention in a variant in which the angles are maintained by two strips forming a strip, namely: supply of angles (FIG. 2A), maintenance of these on the load and simultaneously positioning of the retaining bands.
• an overwrapping film covers the angle iron and the retaining strips, namely by wrapping a wrapping film (FIG. 2C) and by covering with a cover (FIG. 2D) .
• FIGS. 3A, 3B, 3C are three schematic elevation views illustrating the successive stages of implementing the method according to the invention in another variant in which the angles are maintained by wrapping film in a banner strip on the load and the angles, helically, namely: bringing and maintaining the angles in a first zone and beginning of the banding in a second zone (FIG. 3A), continuation of the banding, the angles being only held by the film strip (FIG. 3B), end of the wrapping (FIG. 3C).
• FIGS. 4A, 4B, 4C are three schematic elevation views (4B half view from the right, 4C half view from the left) illustrating the successive stages of implementing the method according to the invention in another variant in which the angles are maintained by staples driven into the load or packaging elements thereof (case, pallet), namely: supply of angles, support against the load and stapling ( Figure 4A), placement of a wrapping film wrapping helically the load, the angles and the staples ( Figure 4B) or holding the load thus provided with stapled angles as is ( Figure 4C).
• FIGS. 5A, 5B, 5C, 5D are four schematic elevation views illustrating the successive stages of implementing the method according to the invention in another variant in which the angles are maintained by rigid association at the two ends on the pallet and on an upper end plate or frame with folded edge, namely: bringing the plate or frame to the horizontal upper face of the load with its edge not folded down (FIG. 5A), folding the edge and brought from outside the angles ( FIG. 5B), rigid association of the angles with the folded edge of the plate or upper end frame as well as with the pallet (FIG. 5C), charge thus produced without overwrap film (FIG. 5D).
• FIGS. 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D, 6E, 6F, 6G and 6H are eight schematic elevation views illustrating the successive stages of implementing the method according to the invention in another variant in which the angles are kept wedged by the folded edges of two plates or lower and upper end frame respectively and by means of a film of overwrapping banner helically (half right view Figure 6G) or in the form of a cover (half view left Figure 6H), namely: on a pallet, feed and deposit of a lower end plate or frame with non-folded edge (Figure 6A), build up of the load on the pallet and lower plate or end frame (Figure 6B), feed and deposit on the upper horizontal face of the load consisting of a plate or upper end frame with non-folded edge (FIG.
• FIG. 6C brought from the angles with the edges remaining non-folded (FIG. 6D), once the angles are in place t held in this way, folding down of the two edges of plates or end frames (FIG. 6E), subsequent jamming of the angles which can be ceased to be maintained, being so by the folded edges (FIG. 6F).
• FIG. 7 is a top view of a machine for overwrapping the vertical lateral faces of a palletized load by wrapping of the fixed table type and film reel with an axis rotating around the load helically, according to the invention , for both overpacking the load and maintaining the angle.
• Figure 8 is a vertical elevation view of the machine of figure 7.
• Figure 9 is a partial top view on a larger scale of a device for gripping, moving, depositing and maintaining angles.
• FIG. 10 is a front elevation view of the device in FIG. 9.
• FIG. 11 is a side elevation view of the device in FIG. 9.
• Figures 12 and 13 are two schematic views respectively in vertical elevation and from above of a wrapping machine by wrapping of the rotary table type, according to the invention, for both the overpacking of the load and the maintenance of the angle iron.
• FIGS. 14A to 141 are nine schematic elevational views illustrating the steps of a possible method of implementing the machine with the rotary table in FIGS.
• FIG. 15 is a vertical view in elevation of a packaging machine of the fixed table type, in which is incorporated a device for feeding plates or end frames, this figure not showing the gripping, moving devices. , filing and retaining angle for reasons of simplicity and clarity, the gripping device may include a device for folding the edge of the plate or frame.
• Figure 16 is a partial side view of the device of Figure 15 illustrating its movable part.
• Figure 17 is a side view, partial, of the device of Figure 15 illustrating the variant with several magazines and constant level gripping device.
• Figure 18 is a horizontal plan view of a possible variant of a device for folding the flap of the plate or end frame, more particularly applicable to a plate or upper end frame.
• Figure 19 is a schematic horizontal plan view of another possible variant of a device for folding the flap of the plate or end frame, more particularly applicable to a plate or lower end frame.
• FIG. 20 is a side view of the device in FIG. 19.
• Figure 21 is a view of the same type as that of Figure 20 showing the operation of the device.
• the invention relates to the packaging of a load comprising on at least one edge 3 a separate and attached protective angle 4 rigidly held on the load 1. According to an alternative embodiment such an angle 4 is interposed between the load 1 and an outer overwrap film 2.
• the load 1 is a prismatic palletized load - in this case parallelepipedic - limited by four vertical lateral faces 5, and two upper 6 and lower 7 horizontal faces, the latter resting on a pallet or forming a "false pallet".
• the edges 3 are preferably the four vertical edges between and separating the faces 5 but can also be the four horizontal edges limiting a horizontal face 6, 7.
• the angles 4 used have a general longitudinal direction which is then respectively substantially vertical or horizontal.
• the invention is applicable in the case of a charge different in particular extending lengthwise, horizontally, the edges 3 (and the protective angles 4 on which they are applied) being horizontal (not shown).
• a machine for overwrapping a load 1 as seen here with overwrap film 2, this machine ensuring the maintenance of the angle iron 4 and / or the actual overpacking of the load generally comprises:
• load support means 8
• movable means 10 to allow the covering of at least part of certain faces of the load carried by the means 8 with the film 2 coming from the means 9.
• the means 8 are a table with a substantially vertical axis; the means 9 comprise a reel of film in a strip (overwrapping by wrapping) or in the form of a flattened sheath (overwrapping by covering); and the means 10 comprising: or means for ensuring a relative pivoting of the table 8 about its axis 11 with respect to the film reel 9 or to the film coming from this the table 8 being either fixed and the reel 9 of strip film rotating around, or the table 8 rotating around its vertical axis 11 and the reel 9 of strip film having a fixed position axis (wrapping by wrapping); or means for ensuring the opening of the sheath coming from the flattened sheath coil 9 as well as the threading of the sheath thus opened on the load 1 carried by the table (overwrapping by covering).
• the table 8 is fixed and the means 10 comprise a ring 12 of axis 11 supporting the film reel 9, mounted to slide in parallel to the axis 11 between a lower position close to the horizontal plane of the table 8 and a parallel upper position distant from the table 8, in particular lying at a level slightly above that of the upper horizontal face 6.
• the crown 12 defines a particularly circular path for the axis of the film reel 9 around the vertical lateral faces 5. Given the axial sliding movement of the crown 12, the film reel 9 performs, in addition to a rotation about its axis, of the made of the unwinding of the film, a helical movement of axis 11.
• a crown 12 it is possible, instead of a crown 12, to have means for supporting the film reel 9 equivalent and ensuring a path identical or equivalent to the latter or to its axis.
• These support means can be, for example, a bent arm (horizontal upper and vertical down) rotating around a vertical axis of its horizontal section, parallel and spaced from the vertical section.
• the load 1 and the (or them) can be covered by wrapping angle (s) 4 by wrapping with the film 2 in strip coming from the film reel 9.
• wrapping angle (s) 4 for this purpose, successively, an initial free end part of the film strip 2 is associated with the load 1; a relative movement of the load 1 and of the film reel 9 is ensured so as to rotate the axis of the film reel 9 around the axis 11 of wrapping the load; the film strip 2 is cut transversely once the wrapping has been carried out; and an end free end portion of the film strip 2 is associated with the film previously streamer or with the load.
• An overwrapping machine for wrapping the vertical lateral faces 5 of a load 1 by wrapping and allowing both the overpackaging of the load and the maintenance of the angles can also be of the table type 8 rotating around its vertical axis 11 by a pin 8a, the film reel having a generally fixed vertical direction axis.
• Such a machine is shown diagrammatically in FIGS. 12 and 13.
• a roof presser plate of a device 54 for folding down the projecting edge or flap 53 of a plate or upper end frame 52 placed on the upper face 6 of the load 1 this device 54 being arranged like such a pressure plate, that is to say carried pivotally free by an axis 48 located above, coaxial with the axis 11 of the table 8, itself carried by a bracket 49 carried sliding by a column 50 forming a frame so as to be able to slide upwards downwards, thanks to training means.
• the device 54 for folding down can be applied to the upper horizontal face 6 of a load 1 placed on the table 8 and turn at the same time as this.
• This column 50 also receives the means for feeding a film 9 most often comprising a carriage generally also mounted to slide vertically.
• the device 54 can be incorporated into a device 51 for supplying the plate or frame, these two devices 51, 54 being described below.
• An overpacking machine implemented in the invention for overpacking the load and / or maintaining an angle can also be (not shown) of the "curtain” type, the load sliding horizontally on a conveyor and meeting a curtain of vertical film of general horizontal longitudinal direction stretched between two film reels with vertical axes, the curtain then being deformed into a U then closed in on itself and finally welded transversely and cut; or of the "hooded” type, the film coming from a sheath, in particular with bellows, originally flattened which is then opened with members such as belts, fingers, suction boxes or the like and then strung open on the load, from above.
• a packaging machine of the "hooding" type successively the sheath is opened, it is threaded onto the load and the angle iron, the sheath is cut transversely to the desired length.
• An overwrapping machine as implemented may also include (not shown) a film reel with a horizontal axis rotating around an elongated load in the longitudinal direction and movable to slide along it.
• Film 2 is full or openwork like a net. It is of the stretch type or of the heat-shrink type. In the in the case of a stretch film, the film is preferably pre-stretched before its application to the load.
• the covering of the load 1 with the film 2 by means of an overwrapping machine as mentioned above is such that the film surrounds the load (in at least one direction) as well as the angle or angles thereon .
• the film covers all of the adjoining faces of the load in this direction or only a part.
• the covering is simple (full width) or comprises several juxtaposed sections, in particular overlapping in the case of a helical wrapping. This helical wrapping can be crossed up and down.
• an overwrapping machine as has just been described can be used not only to ensure the overwrapping of the palletized load 1 furnished with one or more angles 4, when '' such an overwrap is desired, the overwrapping step then taking place at the end of the packaging process, but also to ensure substantially alone or in combination with the overwrap the maintenance of the angle iron (s) 4 temporarily maintained, moreover, on the load 1.
• the overwrapping machine for maintaining the angle or angles 4
• angle iron 4 held in place by the device 14, until it is trapped by the film 2 applied to the load and, consequently, held in place by the only overwrapping film.
• a device 14 for gripping, moving, depositing and maintaining protective angle 4 placed between a store 15 of angles of protection 4 and the edge 3 of the load 1 to be fitted with an angle iron 4.
• a protective angle iron 4 is brought in and deposited on an edge 3 of the load from the magazine 15 by means of said device 14.
• An angle iron 4 has in the embodiment considered substantially the length of the corresponding edge 3.
• the first zone 16 is, in this embodiment, the lower half of the angle iron 4 and the second zone 17 its upper end part. According to other possible variants, the zones 16, 17 are different.
• protective angles 4 are placed on the four substantially parallel lateral edges 3 of the load 1. This positioning takes place simultaneously with several, in particular four, separate devices 14 for gripping, moving, depositing and maintenance operating in synchronism.
• Such a device 14 generally comprises:
• the outlet opening 19 of the magazine 15 has an elongated shape substantially complementary to that of the protective angles 4. Such an opening 19 therefore has a longitudinal direction 19a substantially parallel to the general longitudinal direction of the angles 4. Its longitudinal edges 19b are substantially parallel to direction 19a.
• an angle iron 4 is both directed towards the outlet opening 19 when the angle iron 4 is in the magazine 15 and opposite the load l when the angle iron 4 is on it ci, and even when the outlet opening 19 is generally turned towards the load 1, the process is such that during the movement of a protective angle 4 from the magazine 15 to the corresponding edge 3 of the load 1 by means of said device 14, by means of the same said device 14, the relative pivoting of the angle iron 4 is approximately 180 ° relative to its general longitudinal direction.
• one starts from flattened angles they are grabbed and moved in this flattened state and they are given the desired configuration of angle by deforming them in situ on the corresponding edge 3 of the load 1.
• the angle is gripped only in the vicinity of its longitudinal edges 23 and it is applied between these two edges 23 on the protruding edge 3 of the load 1.
• the support arm 20 is movable and pivotable because it is mounted as such at its first end portion 24 on the frame 18 around a fixed hinge axis 25, substantially parallel to the general longitudinal direction 19a.
• the gripping and holding means 22 are supported at the second end portion 26 of the support arm 20.
• the first drive means 21 comprise a jack which ensures the pivoting of the support arm 20 around the axis 25 and between its two extreme positions. These are angularly spaced apart by a fraction of a turn, for example of the order of an eighth of a turn.
• the support arm 20 is: mobile with pivoting about an axis arranged or arranged differently; sliding mobile, in particular horizontal in the direction of the edge 3 to be covered with the angle iron; articulated around a point; carried by a handling robot; or finally is mobile according to a combination of these different movements (articulation, pivoting, sliding).
• the movement is more or less complex depending on the displacement imposed on the angle iron between the magazine 15 more or less distant from the load 1 or its support means 8 and from the load 1 or its support means 8.
• the gripping and holding means 22 can use at least one suction cup 27 which in the gripping position of the support arm 20 is situated substantially in the opening 19 of the magazine 15, the opening of the suction cup 27 being then able to come and take an angle 4 located in the opening 19, by its upper surface.
• At least two suction cups 27 are provided which, in the gripping position of the support arm 20, are located near the longitudinal edges 19b of the outlet opening 19 of the magazine 15.
• the suction cups 27 are associated with suction means with a cut-off such that when the suction means are operating, the suction cups then in the active state, suck air through their gripping faces. When the suction means are cut, the suction cups, then in the inactive state, do not suck the air.
• suction cups 27 are commonly used in the packaging field. There is no need to describe them further. They can be replaced by equivalent members such as suction box or even finger or gripping pliers.
• the gripping and holding means 22 comprise at least one conformation 28 in general form of angle iron.
• a shaping member 28 aims to ensure pressure on the upper surface of the protective angle 4 during its installation so that it is well conformed to. load 1 at the location and in the vicinity of the edge 3 and that there is no substantial clearance between the load 1 and the protective angle 4.
• This shaping member which can also be used in the case of Pre-formed angles allows, in the case of originally flat angles, to conform them according to a form of angle.
• the gripping and holding means 22 in addition to the overall movement of the support arm 20, provision is made for the gripping and holding means 22 to be mounted relatively displaceable on the support arm 20 between two extreme relative positions, namely a gripping position and a deposit position.
• second drive means 29 are provided for gripping and holding means 22 ensuring the displacement of the means 22 from one to the other of the two extreme positions and allowing blocking in one or the other. 'other of these.
• the general control means already mentioned ensure the coordination of the second drive means 29 with the first control means and the specific control means.
• the gripping and holding means 22 are pivotally mounted on the support arm 20, at its second end portion 26 around an axis of articulation 30 substantially parallel to the general direction 19a as well as to the axis 25.
• the second drive means 29 comprise a jack 31 which is articulated on the one hand to the support arm 20 on the side of the second end portion 26, on the other hand to a toothed pinion 32 articulated at 33 on the support arm 20 and on which a toothed pinion 34 fixed in rotation on the axis 30.
• the second drive means 29 ensure the pivoting of the gripping and holding means between its two extreme relative positions angularly spaced apart by a fraction of a turn, in particular the order of a U-turn.
• the second drive means 29 can be the subject of other embodiments, corresponding as well to the same kinematics of movement of the gripping and holding means 22 as to another kinematics.
• the general control means are arranged to allow the following situations:
• the gripping and holding means 22 are in the gripping position. Their location is then in or in the immediate vicinity of the opening 19. Then, the means 22 are either in the active state, or in the inactive state. In the active state the suction cups 27 suck against them and thus maintain a protective angle 4. In the inactive state, the suction cups 27 cannot maintain against them a protective angle 4. The latter situation occurs when the device 14 is at the waiting state.
• the gripping means 22 are in the removal position. They are then moved away from the magazine 15 and located in the immediate vicinity of the edge 3 concerned. Then, the means 22 are either in the active state to continue to ensure the effective maintenance of the protective angle 4, or in the inactive state to release the protective angle 4, and while the latter is applied to the edge, 3 back to store 15.
• the general control means ensure, in relation to an initial situation where the support arm 20 is in the gripping position and the gripping and holding means 22 in the gripping position and in the inactive state - waiting state - the following sequence:
• Step a allows to enter the protective angle 4 located in the opening 19 and this in the area 16.
• step b the two passages considered occur simultaneously or not.
• This step b / makes it possible to transport the angle iron carried by the means 22 to the load and the edge 3 concerned.
• step c the reinforcing angle 4 is separated from the holding means 22. This is made possible without substantial movement of the protective angle 4 because, simultaneously, the film 2 keeps the angle 4 applied to the load 1 in the second zone 17.
• step d / the device returns to the waiting state. This step d / occurs in masked time since simultaneously the covering of the load 1 and the angle iron 4 with the film can continue.
• step a / and the start of step b / can occur while film 2 is deposited on the load 1 including, possibly on the edge 3 which must receive the angle iron 4.
• the edge 3 must be free of film 2 to allow the angle 4 to be applied to this edge 3.
• the gripping and holding means 22 comprise a support profile 35 extending substantially parallel to the general longitudinal direction 19b of the outlet opening 19 of the magazine 15, along which are arranged several pairs of suction cup assemblies 27- shaping members 28.
• the support profile 35 is in this case placed in a median manner relative to the opening 19, the suction cups 27 and the shaping member 28 being located on either side of the support profile 35.
• the pairs of suction cup assemblies 27 shaping member 28 are, in the embodiment considered two in number, one at each lower 36 and upper 37 end portion of the support profile 35.
• the support profile 35 is journalled on the support arm 20.
• the toothed pinion 34 and more generally the second drive means 29 are located at an end part of the support profile 35, in this case the lower end part. re 36 where the support profile 35 is carried by the support arm 20.
• the support arm 20 and the gripping and holding means 22 are located sectorally with respect to the general longitudinal direction of an angle iron. This arrangement makes it possible to maintain the protective angle 4 by its first zone 16 only, leaving its second zone 17 free.
• the magazine 15 To allow flexibility of use of the device 14, namely the use of angles 4 of different lengths (heights when the angles are of generally vertical direction as in the embodiment considered), provision is made for the magazine 15 to have a transverse end 38 ( in this case upper) open through which can protrude more or less the angles 4.
• the magazine 15 also comprises projections 39 for holding the first angle located in the opening in the vicinity of the suction cups 27 and transverse ends 38, 40, the latter lower and close to the horizontal plane of the support arm 20.
• the device 14 also comprises means 41 able on the one hand to permanently bring an angle iron into the outlet opening 19 of the magazine 15, whatever the degree of filling of the magazine 15 and, on the other part, to exert at least on the angle iron being in this opening 19 a force tending to prevent it from entering more into the store 15.
• This constructive arrangement is particularly efficient in the case where the angles are arranged vertically and are of great length (in this case height) for example of the order of 2 meters. Otherwise, there would be a risk of the angles 4 collapsing or, when the device 14 is brought to grip an angle in the opening 19, this would risk entering the store and, consequently, not being caught by the means of gripping and holding 22.
• These means 41 comprise for example a rear support plate 42 of the angles, movable with transverse sliding and biased towards the outlet opening of the magazine by a suitable member 43 as well as a support conveyor 44 of angles of the magazine 15.
• D ' other embodiments can be envisaged, in the form of mechanical, electrical, pneumatic means.
• the device 14 is arranged in a packaging machine so that it can be adjusted as a function of the dimensions of the load 1.
• This adjustment requires that the gripping and holding means 22 be placed more or less close to the axis il, in the removal and holding position, with a given orientation.
• the frame 18 is mounted as a whole displaceable and biocable in the required position with a view to adjusting the device as a function of the dimensions of the load 1 concerned, by means of mobile support means 46 in particular rollers and drive means 47, in particular jacks, depending on the device control means.
• the frame 18 is mounted slidingly movable in a direction substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal direction 19a of the outlet opening 19 of the magazine 15.
• the rollers 46 can roll on a track 45 on the ground.
• the jack 47 can be associated on the one hand with the ground or with a support fixed to it and on the other hand with the frame 18 or with a support fixed to it.
• the gripping and holding means 22 are mounted to be displaceable on the support arm 20 according to an adjustable stroke for the purpose of adjusting the device as a function of the dimensions of the load l concerned, depending on the means for controlling the device.
• the jack 31 can have an adjustable stroke, the effective stroke of the jack of the cylinder 31 depending on the dimensions of the load 1 concerned.
• the control means coordinate the movements of the frame 18 and the adjustment of the stroke of the jack 31 in particular according to standard operating programs corresponding to standardized load dimensions 1.
• the first means of drive 21 are arranged adjustable as regards the stroke of the support arm 20 between its two extreme positions, depending on the device control means, for adjusting the device 14 according to the dimensions of the load 1.
• the pivoting stroke of the support arm 20 can be more or less important as adjustable, the sliding stroke of the cylinder of the first drive means 21 being itself adjustable.
• the invention also relates to a packaging machine as already described with which is associated at least one device 14 for gripping, moving, depositing and holding as it has already been described.
• pivoting makes it possible to move the magazines away from the load to be treated or from its support means.
• the free space between them allows the passage of the packaging or overwrapping means.
• the machine comprises a plurality (for example four) of gripping, moving, depositing and holding devices 14 of protective angles 4 substantially similar to one another for the same plurality of edges 3 of the load 1 to be packaged.
• This plurality of devices 14 is arranged to that the longitudinal general directions 19b are substantially parallel to each other and that the plurality of support arms 20 is substantially in the same common plane (or between two common planes parallel to each other) perpendicular to the direction 19b.
• the general control means ensure the synchronous operation of the plurality of devices 14.
• the plurality of gripping and holding means 22 are in their gripping position which is relatively distant from one another and in their relatively closest positioning and holding position.
• the overwrapping machine under consideration may comprise several devices 14 which comprise partially or completely common constituent members.
• two devices 14 may have a common support arm 20 which supports, by means of a cross member, two gripping and holding assemblies for two angles 4 and two edges 3.
• the magazine (s) 15 have vertical general directions 19a and its (or their) lower transverse end (s) 40 is ( are) substantially coplanar (s) with the table 8.
• the devices 14 are essentially placed outside and close to the crown 12 and its path.
• the overwrapping machine can also be according to the other types envisaged and described and, by example, with reference to FIGS. 12 and 13, as well as to the functional diagrams of FIGS. 14A to 141, of the rotary table type 8.
• This machine then comprises a device capable of ensuring at least temporary maintenance of the angles 4 put in place by the devices 14 until they are trapped and therefore maintained by the overwrap film 2.
• This device can be, in l occurrence, the functional combination of a device 51 for supplying and depositing a plate or upper end frame 52 having an outer flap 53 and a device 54 for folding this flap 53, originally coplanar with the plate or frame, substantially perpendicular thereto, towards the load 1 and against the upper free end parts of the angles 4.
• the device 54 is carried by the axis 48 as already indicated, so as to be able to pivot freely, while the device 51 is mounted on an annex frame 55, fixed, so that it can slide doubly vertically up or down and horizontally between a retracted position away from the plumb of the tab the 8 and of the device 54 (FIGS. 12 and 14A) and a position located directly above the table 8 and above the upper face 6 and of the load 1 (FIG. 14B), the device 54 being in this position , as shown in Figure 12 being then retracted, to allow the passage of the device 51, by vertical sliding upward, as shown in Figures 14H and 141.
• the device 51 is first implemented, the device 54 being retracted ( Figures 14A and 14B). Then the device 51 is retracted and the device 54 implemented once the angles have been removed and are held by the device 14 (FIG. 14E). The angles 4 are thus temporarily held in place by the device 54, the wrapping can be started, preferably to table 8 ( Figure 14F). The angles 4 are then trapped by the overwrap film 2 (FIG. 14G). The device 54 can then in turn be removed by vertical upward sliding (FIG. 14H).
• a narrow strip such as a strip 56 providing localized support on the angle iron 4 (FIGS. 2A , 2B, 2C, 2D).
• strips 56 can be placed offset from one another.
• One or such bands maintain the angle 4 in a second zone 17 distinct from the first zone 16 or the angle 4 is held by the device 14.
• Such a strip 56 forming a strip opposes a wide band such as the film 2 in a strip for the overpack put in place by wrapping ( Figures 3A to 3C).
• the strip 56 (or possibly 2) is implemented in the manner of a strapping or a straight wrapping or a helical wrapping. As already mentioned, it is possible either to leave the load 1 with the angles 4 held by the strip (s) 56 (not shown), or to ensure an additional overwrap ( Figures 2C and 2D).
• Figures 3A to 3C correspond to the implementation of an overwrapping machine by wrapping.
• glue, soda, staple, clip bond the angle iron 4 to the load 1 or a packaging element of the latter in order to maintain the angle iron 4.
• This variant is illustrated by the diagrams of the figures 4A, 4B, 4C in the case of stapling by means of staples 57.
• the load packaging element in question can be chosen from the group comprising the pallet 1a, a spacer, a plate or frame end 52, a container of the same load 1.
• We glue, weld, staple, clip connect the angle iron 4 to the load 1 or a packaging element thereof in or away from a first zone 16.
• the second zone 17 is identical to the first 16 in the case where the application of the angle iron to the load 1 ensures, by this very fact, the desired permanent connection, for example because the angle 4 has, on its lower surface of the adhesive, or functional equivalent ensuring the desired connection during the pressing of the angle iron on the load 1 by the device 14. Or a stapling device or equivalent can be incorporated into the device 14.
• the second zone 17 is distinct from the first 16 in the other cases
• the angle iron 4 is rigidly associated, for example by gluing or stapling on the one hand at its upper end to a plate or upper end frame 52 whose flap 53 has been previously folded down and is therefore below of the angle iron 4 and, on the other hand, at its lower end, in the same way to the pallet la, the angle iron 4 having a suitable length.
• a plate or lower end frame 52 with a flap also folded up, as taught with reference to the third variant and FIGS. 6A and following which the angle iron, placed above on the outside, would be rigidly associated.
• the angle iron 4 is clamped on the load 1 at at least one of its ends in a zone spaced 17 from the first zone 16 by means of an end plate or frame 52 having a folded edge 53 on the angle iron 4 by wedging it and for this purpose: the angle iron 4 is brought to the edge 3 and an end plate or frame 52 with edge 53 not folded over at least one end face 6,7 of the load 1 ; then the edge 53 of the plate or frame 52 is positively folded down on the angle iron 4.
• FIGS. 6A to 6G is more particularly represented by FIGS. 6A to 6G in the case where the angle iron 4 is held at its upper and lower ends by two flaps 53a , 53b of two end plates 52a, 52b respectively lower and upper.
• devices such as 51, 54 are used for each of the two plates or frames 52a, 52b and each of the corresponding flaps 53a, 53b.
• a pallet 1a the plate or frame 52a of the lower end, the edge 53a not folded down, that is to say, say substantially coplanar with the plate or frame 52a.
• the elementary packages lb or the load 1 is brought on the plate or frame 52a (igure 6B), up to that the plate or frame 52a is trapped under the load, its edge or flap 53a still not folded down.
• the flaps 53a, 53b can be joined by a strip of tape, glue, staples or the like (not shown). Or it can be put in place an overwrap film 2, by wrapping ( Figure 6G) or by covering ( Figure 6H) or other.
• Figure 6G wrapping
• Figure 6H covering
• end plates or frames 52 are for example of cardboard grooved at the location of the fold line of the flaps 53. Such plates or frames are such that once the flaps 53 are folded with a certain force, they keep a substantial residual folding even with slight external stresses going in the direction of the spacing of the flaps 53.
• such plates or frames 52 can, by themselves, ensure sufficient temporary retention of the angles 4 in order to their subsequent overwrapping, or even permanent support, without even overwrapping, especially when the flaps 53 are secured to each other and / or to the angles 4.
• Such plates or frames 52 also have the advantage of allowing the angles 4 to be held in one or their two ends.
• the feed devices 14 or 51 for depositing an end plate or frame 52 or 54 to fold the edge or flap 53 thereof are functionally associated according to a sequence chosen from the group comprising the following sequence: the device 51 for depositing an end plate or frame 52 is first put in work, then the device 54 for folding the edge 53, finally the device 14, the angle iron 4 then being placed towards the outside of the folded edge 53; the device 14 and the device 51 for depositing a plate or frame 52 are first implemented then the device 54 for folding the edge 53, the angle iron 4 then being placed towards the inside of the folded edge 3.
• the invention also relates, on the one hand to the feed and deposit device
• These two devices 51, 54 are in a first embodiment, isolated and distinct from each other. In a second embodiment, the two devices 51, 54 are incorporated into a common assembly.
• Such a feed and deposit device 51 comprises
• gripping means 60 between a gripping location where the gripping means 60 are located in or near the discharge opening 63 of the magazine 59 and a location of deposit where the gripping means 60 are located in or near the area where the plate or frame 52 must be on the load 1;
• control means coordinating the operation of the gripping means 60 and of the drive means 62.
• the frame 58 can be more or less incorporated into the frame of the packaging machine and installation of angles.
• a magazine 59 is arranged to allow stacking of the plates or frames 52 so that they are placed horizontally, the discharge opening 63 being upper.
• This discharge opening 63 can also be a reloading opening for the magazine in plates or frames 52.
• two magazines 59 are provided placed side by side on a movable frame of means such as a jack, ensuring relative movement of magazines 59 and support means 61.
• the drive means 62 are arranged to ensure double vertical and horizontal sliding respectively for on the one hand the gripping operation and that of depositing, on the other hand the transition from one location to another.
• the support means 61 in the form of a plate may include a contactor or detector 69 which stops the downward sliding movement when the gripping means 60 can engage on a plate or frame 52.
• the gripping means 60 are separated from the load and situated rather downwards, the gripping means are made to pass before the inactive state to their active state. In the inactive state, the gripping means are not able to pick up and maintain a plate or frame 52 while, on the contrary, they are in this situation in the active state. Consequently, the passage of the input means 60 from the inactive state to the active state makes it possible to associate a plate or frame 52 with the input means 60 carried by the support means 61 including a support plate 70.
• the drive means 62 then control the upward vertical movement of the gripping means 60, these always remain in the active state. Then, the drive means 62 move the gripping means 60 from their location away from the load to the location of removal, in particular by bringing the plate or frame 52 vertically vertically from the place where it is to be deposited. on the load or a packaging element thereof (upper horizontal face of the load or pallet 1a).
• the drive means 62 can then be used to bring about a vertical downward movement of the gripping means 60, the gripping means 60 always being in the active state and still holding a plate or frame 52.
• the supply device 51 can return to the initial state by a double movement of vertical ascending sliding then of sliding until the location is removed, the gripping means 60 being in the inactive state.
• this frame 58 does not interfere with the movable members of the machine. To this end, the frame 58 is in particular placed above and towards the outside of these members. In this case, the magazine 59 can be placed horizontally next to the packaging machine as is clearly visible in FIG. 15.
• the frame 58 comprises pillars 71 or extensions of machine pillars situated generally towards the outside thereof and, at the upper part, side members 72, arranged horizontally.
• These beams 72 constitute a path of guide (in particular rolling) for a carriage 73.
• This carriage 73 is slidably mounted between the two end parts of the beam 72 corresponding to the two locations of the gripping means 60.
• drive members such as cylinder, gearmotor, motorized endless chain, etc.
• the carriage 73 itself comprises the vertical sliding means 74 such as a jack supporting, at the lower end 75, the support plate 70 on the lower face of which are the gripping means 60 and if necessary the contactor or detector 69.
• the gripping means 60 are preferably vacuum suction cups. To ensure proper maintenance of the plate or frame 52 gripped by such suction cups 60, there are generally provided several suction cups
• the magazine 59 is preferably located in the immediate vicinity of the means for depositing overwrap film.
• the supply device 51 has one or more magazines 59
• a magazine can be provided (see FIG. 17) with a device 64 ensuring a constant level of grip in the magazine 59 whatever its degree of filling .
• This device 64 can be constituted for example by a lifting table.
• the downward vertical stroke in the location of removal is greater than when the device is intended to deposit the plate or frame 52 on the horizontal face 6 of the load.
• the supply device 51 is functionally combined with a palletizer.
• a device 54 will now be described more specifically in relation to FIGS. 18 to 21.
• such a device 54 comprises:
• At least one member 66 for moving the flap carried by the frame 65 movably between an inactive position where the flap 53 can be placed substantially coplanar with the plate or frame 52 and an active position where the flap 53 is placed substantially orthogonally to the plate or frame 52;
• the frame 65 is incorporated into the support means 61, in the general form of the support plate 70.
• the displacement member (s) 66 at the periphery 76 of said support plate 70 are placed the displacement member (s) 66, the drive means 67 also being carried by the support plate 65, 70.
• the control means mentioned above ensure the coordination of movements of the member 66 with the gripping means 60.
• a member 66 is in the form of a finger pivotally mounted on the support plate 65, 70 at the periphery 76.
• the support plate 65, 70 comprises projecting corners 77 supporting bearings 78 for axes 79 on which the fingers 66 are mounted wedged.
• the drive means 67 may comprise a jack carried by the support plate 65, 70 articulated by a link 80 to the axis 79
• the two active and inactive positions are spaced from each other by a quarter of a turn.
• the fingers 66 are substantially coplanar with the support plate 65, 70 while being directed towards the outside thereof.
• the members 66 are substantially orthogonal to the support plate 65, 70 while being directed towards the gripping means or on the side of the face of the plate supporting the gripping means 60.
• a plurality of gripping means 60 there is generally provided a plurality of displacement members 66, for example two fingers on each of the axes situated on each of the sides of the support plate 65, 70.
• the member 66 is in the inactive position during the gripping phase of the plate or frame 52.
• the passage from the inactive position to the active position occurs when the plate or frame 52 has already been deposited on the load l.
• the two devices 51 and 54 can be incorporated into each other as well as into a swivel table type overwrapping machine.
• the devices 51 and 54 can then be carried with free pivoting by the axis 48 of the overwrapping machine, this being coaxial with that 11 of the table 8.
• the axis 48 is, as already indicated, carried by the bracket 49 slidingly mounted on column 50 of the overwrapping machine.
• the device 54 in the case where the device 54 is intended to fold down the flap of a plate or frame 52 placed on a pallet 1a, the device 54 is incorporated into a table 8 of the overwrapping machine while being separate from the device 51.
• the table 8 is provided with a passage opening 68.
• a plurality of displacement members 66 are provided in locations close to the level of load 1.
• the table 8 is a roller table 81. These rollers 81 include the necessary interruptions defining the passages 68.
• the table comprises an elevator rack 82 comprising longitudinal members capable of passing between the rollers 81, carried by an underlying plate 83.
• the vertically sliding drive members move the plate 83 and the rack 82 so that the upper bearing surface 82a of the rack can be moved between a lower retracted position (FIG. 20) and an upper active position. (figure 21). In the retracted position, the load rests on the rollers 81 while in the active position, the load rests on the bearing surface 82a of the rack 82.
• the displacement members 66 are, in the embodiment under consideration, in the form of flattened fingers or equivalent mounted with vertical sliding and, for this purpose, associated with guide means with vertical sliding 85 and driving means with vertical sliding 86 such as a jack. These means 85, 86 are carried while being directed upwards so that the finger 66 is also directed upwards, at the end of an arm 87 mounted articulated in its median part around a vertical axis 88 carried by the built.
• a jack 89 mounted articulated on the one hand on the frame and on the other hand on the arm 87 ensures its pivoting around the axis 88.
• a return spring 90 can be provided to bring the arm 87 therefore the finger 66 in a discarded situation where the flap 53 is not folded down.
• the drive means 67 therefore include the drive means 86 and the jack 89.
• the arm 87, the pin 88, the jack 89, the spring 90 are placed as a whole in below the rollers 81.

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• Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
• Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
• Basic Packing Technique (AREA)
• Auxiliary Methods And Devices For Loading And Unloading (AREA)

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• 1990
  • 1990-11-09 FR FR9013928A patent/FR2669002B1/fr not_active Expired - Fee Related
• 1991
  • 1991-11-07 WO PCT/FR1991/000869 patent/WO1992008644A1/fr active IP Right Grant
  • 1991-11-07 EP EP91920169A patent/EP0510159B1/de not_active Expired - Lifetime
  • 1991-11-07 ES ES91920169T patent/ES2094827T3/es not_active Expired - Lifetime
  • 1991-11-07 DE DE69122080T patent/DE69122080T2/de not_active Expired - Fee Related
• 1995
  • 1995-02-01 US US08/383,690 patent/US5564254A/en not_active Expired - Lifetime

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