EP0671327A1 - Method and apparatus for handling pyramid stump-shaped trays and placing these in a package - Google Patents

Method and apparatus for handling pyramid stump-shaped trays and placing these in a package Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0671327A1
EP0671327A1 EP95460009A EP95460009A EP0671327A1 EP 0671327 A1 EP0671327 A1 EP 0671327A1 EP 95460009 A EP95460009 A EP 95460009A EP 95460009 A EP95460009 A EP 95460009A EP 0671327 A1 EP0671327 A1 EP 0671327A1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
trays
assembly
row
conveyor
support means
Prior art date
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Granted
Application number
EP95460009A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP0671327B1 (en
Inventor
Laurent Koenig
Jacques Bernard
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DISPAC Sarl
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DISPAC Sarl
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Publication of EP0671327A1 publication Critical patent/EP0671327A1/en
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    • 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
    • B65B35/00—Supplying, feeding, arranging or orientating articles to be packaged
    • B65B35/30—Arranging and feeding articles in groups
    • B65B35/36—Arranging and feeding articles in groups by grippers

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a method and an installation for handling trays in the shape of a pyramid trunk and placing them in a package.
  • Transparent plastic trays in the shape of a pyramid trunk are widely used for packaging food products such as lamb's lettuce, kiwi fruit, tomatoes, pears, etc. These are high-shaped trays with a substantially rectangular base. Their pyramidal trunk shape, namely slightly flared towards their opening, is intended to allow their stacking when they are empty.
  • Such trays when filled with food products, are coated with a transparent plastic film and then packaged in larger packages, such as wooden or cardboard crates, for storage and storage. their transport to the places of sale.
  • the problem that the present invention aims to solve is that which consists in handling trays in the shape of a trunk of a pyramid and putting them in place in a package, this in a grouped fashion, that is to say several trays at a time and correctly, that is to say without it being necessary to replace the trays inside the packaging, by manual intervention.
  • said assembly is also grasped by exerting a clamping in a direction generally parallel to said contiguous edges.
  • the present invention also relates to an installation for implementing such a method.
  • tray 1 of transparent plastic which can be used in the context of the method of the present invention.
  • This installation which has the general reference 2, essentially comprises a conveyor 3, a support and transfer station 4, a packaging shaping station 5, a loading station 6 and mobile loading means with clamps 7 .
  • the installation 2 comprises a frame formed essentially of metal beams 20 between which take place all of the stations mentioned below. We do not specifically describe the structure of this frame.
  • the installation comprises a conveyor 3 with an endless belt, of known type, the two outward and return strands of which are arranged in horizontal planes. As shown in Figure 2, the upper strand of this conveyor moves in the direction of arrow f , that is to say towards the center of the installation.
  • the motor means which make it possible to move the strands of the conveyor are for example of the electrical type and have not been shown in FIG. 2, so as not to overload it unnecessarily.
  • This conveyor is intended to transport, at the tail leu leu, trays 1. These trays have been previously filled with food products and their opening preferably closed by means of a sealing film.
  • the conveyor 3 may be at the end of another conveyor on the path from which these filling and sealing operations have been carried out.
  • a stop 42 which extends transversely and extends on its right side, when we consider FIG. 2.
  • each of these jacks extends horizontally and perpendicular to the strands of the conveyor 3.
  • the vertical face of these elements, opposite the jacks, is provided with two rubber pads 403, 403 'respectively.
  • These jacks are arranged in such a way that in the position of maximum extension of the rod, the pusher elements 402 and 402 ′ are located on the path of the conveyor 3, slightly above its upper strand.
  • the cylinder 40 ′ closest to the upstream end of the conveyor 3 has its rod retracted, that is to say that the pusher element 402 does not interfere with the trajectory of the conveyor 3.
  • the second cylinder 40 has its rod 401 in the position of maximum extension so that the pusher element 402 is located above the upper strand of the conveyor 3.
  • support means 41 formed by a series of flat and parallel rods. More specifically, substantially opposite each pusher element 402, 402 ′ and therefore of each cylinder 40, 40 ′, two pairs of rods 41 are provided. The spacing between the rods of each pair is identical. All the rods 41 extend in the same horizontal plane which is slightly below that in which the upper strand of the conveyor 3 is contained.
  • the installation comprises transfer means, one element of which is shown in perspective in FIG. 3. It comprises a series of four identical arches 80 formed by a metal rod of circular section. These arches have a curved base 800, the end wings 801 of which are raised upwards. Each arch is held, not far from its raised ends but on the side opposite to them, by a pair of flat and vertical rods 81 so that the assemblies formed by a pair of rods and the corresponding arch extend in parallel vertical planes. The lower end of these rods 81 arranged on the same side of the arches is welded to the horizontal wing of an "L" angle 82.
  • the element 8 therefore comprises two pairs of arches 80 and the spacing between the hoops of each pair is the same.
  • angles 82 are interconnected by a series of crosspieces 83, one of these being attached to the rod of a double-acting cylinder 85.
  • the body of this cylinder extends vertically, that is to say parallel to the rods 81.
  • the installation 2 comprises two transfer elements 8 such as that described above. Each element is associated with a jack 40, 40 ′ and is arranged in the space situated below the pairs of support rods 41, as shown in FIG. 4.
  • the arrangement of the arches 80 and their spacing is such that each pair of arches 80 takes place between a corresponding pair of support rods 41. Indeed, the spacing D1 which separates two arches d 'The same pair is less than the spacing D2 which separates the two associated support rods 41.
  • the actuator 85 is actuated so as to cause the extension of its rod, the element 8 is moved upwards so that the arches 80 pass between the support rods 41 until it extends at a level higher than the plane materialized by these rods.
  • the lengths of the actuator and its rod will have been provided accordingly.
  • the installation also includes a packaging shaping station 5.
  • This station includes a movable endless conveyor belt 50 which extends transversely relative to the conveyor 3, that is to say parallel and to the rear of the stop 42, and on which can be placed a cardboard C intended to constitute, after shaping a package C ' in the form of crate.
  • the cardboard C When the cardboard C is shaped, it is transferred by means of the endless belt conveyor 50 to a loading station 6 located in the extension of the support rods 41 (see FIG. 2) and at the second end of the conveyor.
  • Item 5 is optional.
  • the packaging can be shaped at a station independent of the installation and the packaging brought to the installation for filling.
  • the installation comprises mobile loading means with clamps 7 (not visible in FIG. 2).
  • These means are mounted at the level of a longitudinal beam 20 which extends along the support and transfer station 4 and the loading station 6.
  • These means comprise a kind of bracket 72 which extends horizontally above the installation and which is supported by a vertical mast 71, which comprises guide and displacement means 70 along the beam 20.
  • These means consist, for example, of rollers coupled to motor means and associated with rails provided on the beam.
  • the means 7 can be moved along the beam to bring them either to the loading station 6 or to the support and transfer station 4.
  • clamps 73 movable along the bracket but also around a horizontal axis in order to allow them to pivot. They can be operated remotely.
  • FIGS. 9 and 10 differs from that described above by the structure of its support and transfer station 4.
  • This station includes two endless belt conveyors 3 and 3 'arranged in the extension of one another.
  • the conveyor 3 is of the same type as that described in connection with the first embodiment, while the conveyor 3 'has a much greater width.
  • the ratio between their respective widths is of the order of 1 to 5.
  • the conveyor 3 extends along the median longitudinal axis XX 'of the conveyor 3'.
  • a switching device 9' movable around a vertical axis 90.
  • This device is equipped with means not shown which allow it to successively occupy different angular positions.
  • This is for example a known type of indexing mechanism such as that sold under the trade name ROTOBLOCK.
  • the device can successively occupy five different angular positions.
  • FIG. 9 represents a central arrangement of the switching device.
  • a stop 92 (shown only in FIG. 10) which are adapted to retract periodically and allow free passage along the corridor Cor.
  • This stop is for example made up of a finger secured to a sequencer pneumatic type 91.
  • each of the partitions is chosen in such a way that, during its movement, the switching device 9 does not interfere with them.
  • the partitions 30 define two by two of the corridors C1 to C5 and it is easily understood that, depending on the location of the switching device, the corridor Co can be brought opposite one or the other of the corridors C1 to C5.
  • transverse bar 31 ' which can be moved in a vertical plane by means of jack 32'.
  • Figure 10 is shown the low position of the bar 31 ', in which it obstructs the exit from the corridors C1 to C5.
  • rollers 41 ' Under the horizontal plane defined by the rollers 41 'is mounted an element 8 of the same type as that described in connection with the first embodiment.
  • the arrangement and the spacing of the rollers 41 ' are adapted so as not to hinder the movement of the element 8 during its lifting.
  • Trays 1, previously filled with food products and coated with a film are placed in turn on the conveyor 3, which is started so that its upper strand moves in the direction of arrow f .
  • the advancement of the trays 1 on the conveyor is limited by the rod 42 which forms a stop, so that trays accumulate at the tail leu leu on the conveyor.
  • Means such as a photoelectric cell detect the presence of trays on the conveyor and control the extension of the rod 401 of the jack 40, that is to say that which is placed closest to the stop 42. From this way, a pair of trays are pushed on the rods 41 arranged next to the conveyor. This maneuver is repeated each time that a pair of trays abuts against the rod 42. Thus, the trays in place on the rods 41 push each other, so that two rows 1A and 1B of trays 1 parallel to the stop 42, forming identical sets E.
  • the automatic control means then actuate the stop of the first cylinder 40 and the above operations are then repeated with the second cylinder 40 'placed on the side of the upstream end of the conveyor.
  • the jack 85 which equips the transfer element 8 placed under the corresponding rods 41 is actuated so as to cause the extension of its rod.
  • the element 8 is moved in the direction of the rows 1A and 1B of trays, which are lifted and then supported by the hoops 80 so as to form parallel rows of curved shape.
  • the trays 1 of row 1A (and 1B) are arranged on the hoops so that the facing faces of the two adjacent trays are substantially parallel and contiguous.
  • the length of the arc formed by each of the arches is determined so as to correspond substantially to five times the width of a tray, at its bottom.
  • the rows could be formed of four or six trays and the length of the hoops would be provided accordingly.
  • the wings 801 of the arches form with their base 800 an angle slightly greater than 90 °.
  • the trays are therefore supported at their bottom but also retained transversely for the end trays by the wings 80.
  • rows 1A and 1B are successively entered by their ends by exerting a tightening.
  • This tightening is carried out in a generally transverse direction relative to the contiguous or substantially contiguous edges of the trays of each row.
  • the mobile loading means 7 are piloted so that the bracket 72 comes into line with a row of trays, for example row 1A.
  • the clips 73 are then piloted so as to come and grasp the row 1A of trays by exerting a clamping action to apply the trays against each other by their opposite faces.
  • Row 1A thus entered forms an assembly E which has a certain mechanical cohesion, which means that no tray can be detached from the assembly.
  • the tray placed in the central part of the row is similar to a keystone which is used to keep the other trays in balance.
  • the length L2 of the row 1A is much less than the width L1 of the packaging, so that the row of trays can be deposited therein by gravity without problem, that is to say without encountering problems of implementation in an inadequate manner.
  • the second row 1B is manipulated and then transferred to the packaging C ' .
  • the forward speed of the conveyor 3 ' is higher than that of the conveyor 3.
  • the switching device is controlled so as to "connect" with the corridor C1, that is to say to be arranged in the extension of the latter.
  • the switching device is then transferred by the conveyor 3 'from the corridor Co to the corridor C1 where they come into abutment against the bar 31'.
  • the switching device is then moved in the extension of the corridor C2, the finger 92 having in the meantime returned to its non-retracted position.
  • the ten trays then slide on the rollers 41 'and then are stopped by the stop 42'. They then form two rows 1A and 1B of trays.
  • the actuator of the transfer element 8 is then actuated to cause it to be raised.
  • FIG. 11 This is what has been shown in FIG. 11 in which an assembly E formed of a row of four trays 1 is grasped in a first direction F1 transverse to the upper contiguous edges of the trays, and in a second direction F2 , perpendicular to the first, that is to say parallel to the contiguous edges.
  • a first pair of pliers 73 is used, but also a second pair 73 '. These are preferably carried by the same bracket 72 which, when viewed from above, takes the form of a cross.
  • a set E formed by several rows of trays, for example two, three or four.
  • the assembly E is formed of two identical rows and joined 1A and 1B of trays.
  • the rows 1A and 1B are formed from identical trays but arranged in a different manner. There is shown in dotted lines, an additional row 1C formed of trays of a different model.
  • the four clamps used to grip these assemblies must have sufficient dimensions to be applied against a substantial part of the four sides of these assemblies.
  • the tightening directions are referenced F1 and F2 .
  • a curved shape can be given to them beforehand by means of a transfer member such as that 8 already described. This will form a bend along an axis parallel to the contiguous edges of the trays of the same row.
  • a second bending along an axis parallel to the contiguous edges of the rows 1A, 1B (or 1B and 1C) will be produced due to tightening in the direction F2 .
  • a transfer member 8 such as that shown in FIG. 14. It differs from that already described only by the fact that the hoops 80 ′ arranged furthest apart. interior, extend to a height greater than that of the arches 80 arranged outside. The difference in height is for example of the order of 1 to 1.2 cm.
  • the transfer element proves to be very useful for an assembly formed from 'at least three rows.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Packaging Frangible Articles (AREA)
  • Packaging Of Special Articles (AREA)
  • Container, Conveyance, Adherence, Positioning, Of Wafer (AREA)

Abstract

The procedure for handling pastry boats (1) comprises stages which consist in giving a row of boats (1A,1B,1C,1D) an arched shape so that the opposite faces of two neighbouring pastry boats are parallel and contiguous. The row is then taken hold of by its ends and a transverse clamping exerted on the boats. The row is then led above the packaging (C') and deposited by gravity into the packaging. The installation comprises a support plane (41,41') for the pastry boat row. The row is arched by means of a curved transfer part, located above the support, which is moved vertically to raise , support and arch the row. A pair of clamps grab hold of the row by its end and exert a transverse clamping.

Description

La présente invention concerne un procédé et une installation pour manipuler des barquettes en forme de tronc de pyramide et les mettre en place dans un emballage.The present invention relates to a method and an installation for handling trays in the shape of a pyramid trunk and placing them in a package.

Des barquettes en matière plastique transparente et en forme de tronc de pyramide sont largement employées pour le conditionnement de produits alimentaires tels que de la mâche, des kiwis, des tomates, des poires, etc. Il s'agit de barquettes de forme haute et à base sensiblement rectangulaire. Leur forme en tronc de pyramide, à savoir légèrement évasée en direction de leur ouverture, est destinée à autoriser leur empilement lorsqu'elles sont vides.Transparent plastic trays in the shape of a pyramid trunk are widely used for packaging food products such as lamb's lettuce, kiwi fruit, tomatoes, pears, etc. These are high-shaped trays with a substantially rectangular base. Their pyramidal trunk shape, namely slightly flared towards their opening, is intended to allow their stacking when they are empty.

De telles barquettes, lorsqu'elles sont remplies de produits alimentaires, sont revêtues d'un film transparent de matière plastique puis conditionnées dans des emballages de plus grandes dimensions, tels que des cagettes en bois ou en carton, en vue de leur stockage et de leur transport vers les lieux de vente.Such trays, when filled with food products, are coated with a transparent plastic film and then packaged in larger packages, such as wooden or cardboard crates, for storage and storage. their transport to the places of sale.

On a cherché à automatiser le plus possible ce genre d'opération. Ainsi, on connaît une installation qui comprend un convoyeur à tapis mobile sur lequel circulent, à la queue leu leu les barquettes et qui comprend également des moyens aptes à pousser latéralement une rangée de barquettes et à les évacuer du convoyeur. Un emballage est disposé à proximité du convoyeur et en contrebas par rapport à celui-ci de sorte que, lorsque l'on pousse les barquettes, celles-ci tombent par gravité dans l'emballage. L'emballage a, par exemple, des dimensions suffisantes pour recevoir deux rangées de cinq barquettes.We tried to automate this kind of operation as much as possible. Thus, there is known an installation which comprises a movable conveyor belt on which circulate, at the tail leu leu trays and which also comprises means capable of laterally pushing a row of trays and evacuating them from the conveyor. A package is placed near the conveyor and below it so that when the trays are pushed, they fall by gravity into the package. The packaging has, for example, sufficient dimensions to receive two rows of five trays.

Ce mode opératoire n'est pas satisfaisant car il arrive très souvent que les barquettes se retrouvent dans une position incorrecte à l'intérieur de l'emballage, de sorte qu'il est nécessaire de les manipuler manuellement pour les remettre en place. Ceci est dû en particulier au fait que la longueur d'une rangée de barquettes correspond sensiblement à la plus grande dimension de l'emballage et qu'au cours du transfert des barquettes dans l'emballage, au moins l'une d'entre elles en heurte un rebord, ce qui provoque un désordre dans l'agencement des barquettes.This procedure is not satisfactory because it very often happens that the trays are found in an incorrect position inside the packaging, so it is necessary to manipulate them manually to replace them. This is due in particular to the fact that the length of a row of trays corresponds substantially to the largest dimension of the packaging and that during the transfer of the trays into the packaging, at least one of them hits a rim, which causes a disorder in the arrangement of the trays.

Le problème que la présente invention vise à résoudre est celui qui consiste à manipuler des barquettes en forme de tronc de pyramide et les mettre en place dans un emballage, ceci de manière groupée, c'est-à-dire plusieurs barquettes à la fois et correctement, c'est-à-dire sans qu'il soit nécessaire de procéder à une remise en place des barquettes à l'intérieur de l'emballage, par une intervention manuelle.The problem that the present invention aims to solve is that which consists in handling trays in the shape of a trunk of a pyramid and putting them in place in a package, this in a grouped fashion, that is to say several trays at a time and correctly, that is to say without it being necessary to replace the trays inside the packaging, by manual intervention.

Ce problème est résolu, conformément à la présente invention, par le fait qu'elle propose un procédé pour manipuler des barquettes en forme de tronc de pyramide et les mettre en place dans un emballage qui comprend les étapes qui consistent à :

  • a) forme un ensemble de barquettes constitué d'au moins une rangée de barquettes dans laquelle leurs bords supérieurs sont accolés ou sensiblement accolés ;
  • b) donner à cet ensemble une forme cintrée selon un axe de courbure parallèle auxdits bords accolés ;
  • c) saisir ledit ensemble en exerçant un serrage dans une direction généralement transversale par rapport auxdits bords accolés, pour appliquer les barquettes les unes contre les autres par leurs faces en regard ;
  • d) amener ledit ensemble au-dessus de l'emballage ;
  • e) laisser se déposer par gravité lesdites barquettes dans l'emballage, par suite de l'arrêt du serrage.
This problem is solved, in accordance with the present invention, by the fact that it provides a method for handling trays in the shape of a trunk of a pyramid and placing them in a package which comprises the steps which consist in:
  • a) forms a set of trays consisting of at least one row of trays in which their upper edges are contiguous or substantially contiguous;
  • b) give this assembly a curved shape along an axis of curvature parallel to said contiguous edges;
  • c) gripping said assembly by exerting a clamping in a generally transverse direction with respect to said contiguous edges, to apply the trays against each other by their opposite faces;
  • d) bringing said assembly above the packaging;
  • e) allowing said trays to settle by gravity in the packaging, as a result of stopping tightening.

De cette manière, on forme et on déplace un ensemble de barquettes qui présente une certaine cohésion mécanique, sans risque que les barquettes ne se désolidarisent les unes des autres. De plus, du fait de sa forme cintrée, la longueur de cet ensemble, à sa base, est nécessairement inférieure à la longueur correspondante d'une rangée de barquettes en place sur un support plan, de sorte que sa mise en place dans un emballage est facilitée, le risque de positionnement incorrect dans l'emballage étant nettement réduit.In this way, a set of trays is formed and moved which has a certain mechanical cohesion, without the risk that the trays will separate from each other. In addition, because of its curved shape, the length of this assembly, at its base, is necessarily less than the corresponding length of a row of trays in place on a flat support, so that its placement in a package is facilitated, the risk of incorrect positioning in the packaging being significantly reduced.

De manière particulièrement avantageuse, on saisit également ledit ensemble en exerçant un serrage selon une direction généralement parallèle auxdits bords accolés.In a particularly advantageous manner, said assembly is also grasped by exerting a clamping in a direction generally parallel to said contiguous edges.

Selon d'autres caractéristiques avantageuses mais non limitatives de ce procédé :

  • ledit ensemble comprend au moins deux rangées accolées ou sensiblement accolées et on lui donne un second cintrage selon un axe de courbure perpendiculaire au premier, c'est-à-dire parallèle aux bords accolés des rangées ;
  • on donne audit ensemble une forme cintrée au moyen d'un élément de transfert cintré de manière correspondante ;
  • à l'étape a), on forme un ensemble de barquettes et on lui donne une forme cintrée en amenant ledit élément de transfert par le dessous de l'ensemble.
According to other advantageous but non-limiting characteristics of this process:
  • said assembly comprises at least two rows contiguous or substantially contiguous and it is given a second bending along an axis of curvature perpendicular to the first, that is to say parallel to the contiguous edges of the rows;
  • said assembly is given a curved shape by means of a correspondingly curved transfer element;
  • in step a), a set of trays is formed and it is given a curved shape by bringing said transfer element from below the set.

La présente invention se rapporte également à une installation pour la mise en oeuvre d'un tel procédé.The present invention also relates to an installation for implementing such a method.

Conformément à l'invention, cette installation se caractérise par le fait qu'elle comprend :

  • des moyens de support d'un ensemble de barquettes formé d'au moins une rangée de barquettes dans laquelle leurs bords supérieurs sont accolés ou sensiblement accolés ;
  • au moins un élément cintré disposé en-dessous et à l'aplomb des moyens de support et mobile verticalement en direction de ceux-ci pour soulever et supporter ledit ensemble de telle sorte que ledit ensemble affecte une forme cintrée selon au moins un axe de courbure parallèle aux bords accolés de la rangée, les faces en regard des deux barquettes voisines étant alors sensiblement parallèles et contiguës ;
  • au moins une paire de pinces adaptée pour ledit ensemble en exerçant un serrage au moins selon une direction généralement transversale par rapport au bord accolés.
According to the invention, this installation is characterized by the fact that it comprises:
  • means for supporting a set of trays formed of at least one row of trays in which their upper edges are contiguous or substantially contiguous;
  • at least one curved element disposed below and directly above the support means and movable vertically in the direction of the latter to lift and support said assembly so that said assembly has a curved shape along at least one axis of curvature parallel to the contiguous edges of the row, the opposite faces of the two adjacent trays then being substantially parallel and contiguous;
  • at least one pair of pliers adapted for said assembly by exerting a clamping at least in a generally transverse direction relative to the joined edge.

Selon d'autres caractéristiques avantageuses mais non limitative de cette installation :

  • I'élément de transfert comporte au moins une paire d'arceaux comportant une base cintrée dont les extrémités sont relevées, I'écartement entre les arceaux d'une paire étant adapté pour pouvoir supporter lesdites barquettes d'une même rangée ;
  • la paire de pinces est mobile et est adaptée pour être transférée dudit élément de support jusqu'à l'aplomb d'un emballage ;
  • les moyens de support consistent en une paire de tiges planes et parallèles ;
  • I'écartement entre les arceaux d'une même paire est inférieur à l'écartement d'une paire de tiges et, lors du déplacement de l'élément de transfert en direction des tiges, lesdits arceaux se placent entre les tiges d'une même paire ;
  • les moyens de support sont disposés perpendiculairement à un convoyeur à tapis sans fin mobile, adapté pour déplacer des barquettes à la queue leu leu et l'installation comporte des moyens pour transférer les barquettes du convoyeur sur les moyens de support pour former au moins une rangée ;
  • les moyens comprennent au moins un élément poussoir disposé dans l'alignement des moyens de support mais du côté du convoyeur, cet élément poussoir étant adapté pour déplacer transversalement les barquettes du convoyeur sur les moyens de support ;
  • I'élément poussoir est solidaire d'un vérin à double effet ;
  • l'installation comprend un dispositif d'aiguillage et un convoyeur à tapis mobile aptes à répartir lesdites barquettes en lignes parallèles à l'intérieur de couloirs et les moyens de support sont disposés dans le prolongement dudit convoyeur ;
  • l'installation comporte, entre le convoyeur et les moyens de support, une butée escamotable, celle-ci étant escamotée lorsque les lignes de barquettes sont formées, de façon à permettre leur transfert sur les moyens de support.
According to other advantageous but non-limiting characteristics of this installation:
  • The transfer element comprises at least one pair of hoops comprising a curved base whose ends are raised, the spacing between the hoops of a pair being adapted to be able to support said trays of the same row;
  • the pair of pliers is mobile and is adapted to be transferred from said support element to the vertical position of a package;
  • the support means consist of a pair of flat and parallel rods;
  • The spacing between the hoops of the same pair is less than the spacing of a pair of rods and, when the transfer element moves in the direction of the rods, said hoops are placed between the rods of the same pair;
  • the support means are arranged perpendicular to a movable endless conveyor belt, suitable for moving trays at the rear end and the installation comprises means for transferring the trays from the conveyor to the support means to form at least one row ;
  • the means comprise at least one pusher element disposed in alignment with the support means but on the side of the conveyor, this pusher element being adapted to transversely move the trays of the conveyor on the support means;
  • The pusher element is integral with a double-acting cylinder;
  • the installation comprises a switching device and a conveyor belt movable capable of distributing said trays in parallel lines within the corridors and the support means are arranged in the extension of said conveyor;
  • the installation comprises, between the conveyor and the support means, a retractable stop, the latter being retracted when the lines of trays are formed, so as to allow their transfer to the support means.

D'autres caractéristiques et avantages de l'invention apparaîtront à la lecture de la description détaillée qui va suivre, faite en référence aux dessins annexés dans lesquels :

  • la figure 1 est une vue de face d'une barquette du commerce et pouvant être utilisée dans le cadre du présent procédé ;
  • la figure 2 est une vue de dessus simplifiée de l'installation de transfert et de mise en place des barquettes ;
  • la figure 3 est une vue en perspective d'un élément de transfert de barquettes permettant de les agencer selon des rangées de forme cintrée ;
  • la figure 4 est une vue de face de l'élément de transfert de la figure 3, destinée à montrer son positionnement par rapport aux moyens de support des barquettes ;
  • la figure 5 est une vue de dessus de deux barquettes en place sur les moyens de support, cette figure montrant également l'emplacement relatif des arceaux d'un élément de transfert ;
  • les figures 6 à 8 sont des vues simplifiées de certaines parties de l'installation, destinées à illustrer la mise en oeuvre du procédé ;
  • la figure 9 est une vue de dessus partielle d'une variante de réalisation de l'installation ;
  • la figure 10 est une vue schématique de côté de l'installation de la figure 9, destinée à en illustrer le fonctionnement ;
  • la figure 11 est un schéma montrant un ensemble formé d'une rangée de barquettes, vue de dessus et illustrant le principe de manipulation de cet ensemble, selon deux directions de serrage ;
  • la figure 12 est un schéma équivalent à celui de la figure 11, l'ensemble étant constitué de deux rangées identiques de barquettes ;
  • la figure 13 est encore un autre schéma d'un ensemble de barquettes, dans lequel ces dernières sont agencées selon des rangées disparates ;
  • la figure 14 est une vue schématique en coupe transversale de l'élément de transfert supportant deux rangées de barquettes, la disposition de ses arceaux permettant de conférer à l'ensemble une forme cintrée selon deux axes de courbure.
Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will appear on reading the detailed description which follows, made with reference to the appended drawings in which:
  • Figure 1 is a front view of a commercial tray and can be used in the present process;
  • Figure 2 is a simplified top view of the transfer installation and placement of trays;
  • Figure 3 is a perspective view of a tray transfer element for arranging them in rows of curved shape;
  • Figure 4 is a front view of the transfer member of Figure 3, intended to show its positioning relative to the support means of the trays;
  • Figure 5 is a top view of two trays in place on the support means, this figure also showing the relative location of the hoops of a transfer element;
  • Figures 6 to 8 are simplified views of certain parts of the installation, intended to illustrate the implementation of the method;
  • Figure 9 is a partial top view of an alternative embodiment of the installation;
  • Figure 10 is a schematic side view of the installation of Figure 9, intended to illustrate its operation;
  • FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an assembly formed by a row of trays, seen from above and illustrating the principle of manipulation of this assembly, according to two tightening directions;
  • Figure 12 is a diagram equivalent to that of Figure 11, the assembly consisting of two identical rows of trays;
  • FIG. 13 is yet another diagram of a set of trays, in which the latter are arranged in disparate rows;
  • Figure 14 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the transfer element supporting two rows of trays, the arrangement of its hoops making it possible to give the assembly a curved shape along two axes of curvature.

On a représenté à la figure 1 une barquette 1 en matière plastique transparente qui peut être utilisée dans le cadre du procédé de la présente invention.There is shown in Figure 1 a tray 1 of transparent plastic which can be used in the context of the method of the present invention.

Il s'agit d'une barquette dont les quatre grandes faces 10, 11 forment chacune avec la verticale un angle a de l'ordre de quelques degrés de sorte qu'elle affecte sensiblement la forme d'un tronc de pyramide à base rectangulaire, évasé en direction de son ouverture supérieure 12.It is a tray whose four large faces 10, 11 each form with the vertical an angle a of the order of a few degrees so that it substantially affects the shape of a trunk of a pyramid with a rectangular base, flared towards its upper opening 12.

Comme nous le verrons dans la suite de la description, cette forme particulière est utile pour la mise en oeuvre du procédé de la présente invention.As we will see in the following description, this particular form is useful for implementing the method of the present invention.

Pour mieux comprendre le déroulement des différentes étapes qui le composent, nous commencerons par décrire l'installation représentée notamment à la figure 1, installation qui permet la mise en oeuvre de ce procédé.To better understand the progress of the different stages that make it up, we will start by describing the installation shown in particular in Figure 1, installation that allows the implementation of this process.

Cette installation, qui porte la référence générale 2, comporte essentiellement un convoyeur 3, un poste de support et de transfert 4, un poste de mise en forme d'emballage 5, un poste de chargement 6 et des moyens de chargement mobiles à pinces 7.This installation, which has the general reference 2, essentially comprises a conveyor 3, a support and transfer station 4, a packaging shaping station 5, a loading station 6 and mobile loading means with clamps 7 .

L'installation 2 comporte un bâti formé essentiellement de poutrelles métalliques 20 entre lesquelles prennent place l'ensemble des postes cités ci-dessous. Nous ne décrivons pas spécifiquement la structure de ce bâti.The installation 2 comprises a frame formed essentially of metal beams 20 between which take place all of the stations mentioned below. We do not specifically describe the structure of this frame.

L'installation comprend un convoyeur 3 à tapis sans fin, de type connu, dont les deux brins aller et retour sont disposés dans des plans horizontaux. Comme le montre la figure 2, le brin supérieur de ce convoyeur se déplace dans le sens de la flèche f, c'est-à-dire en direction du centre de l'installation. Les moyens moteurs qui permettent de déplacer les brins du convoyeur sont par exemple de type électrique et n'ont pas été représentés, sur la figure 2, afin de ne pas la surcharger inutilement.The installation comprises a conveyor 3 with an endless belt, of known type, the two outward and return strands of which are arranged in horizontal planes. As shown in Figure 2, the upper strand of this conveyor moves in the direction of arrow f , that is to say towards the center of the installation. The motor means which make it possible to move the strands of the conveyor are for example of the electrical type and have not been shown in FIG. 2, so as not to overload it unnecessarily.

Ce convoyeur est destiné à véhiculer, à la queue leu leu, des barquettes 1. Ces barquettes ont été préalablement remplies de produits alimentaires et leur ouverture de préférence obturée au moyen d'un film d'operculage. Le convoyeur 3 peut se trouver à l'extrémité d'un autre convoyeur sur le chemin duquel ont été opérées ces opérations de remplissage et d'obturation.This conveyor is intended to transport, at the tail leu leu, trays 1. These trays have been previously filled with food products and their opening preferably closed by means of a sealing film. The conveyor 3 may be at the end of another conveyor on the path from which these filling and sealing operations have been carried out.

A l'extrémité aval du convoyeur est prévue une butée 42 qui s'étend transversalement et se prolonge sur son côté droit, lorsque l'on considère la figure 2.At the downstream end of the conveyor is provided a stop 42 which extends transversely and extends on its right side, when we consider FIG. 2.

Transversalement par rapport au convoyeur et sur son côté gauche lorsque l'on considère la figure 2, sont prévus deux vérins hydrauliques 40 et 40'. Le corps 400, respectivement 400', de chacun de ces vérins s'étend horizontalement et perpendiculairement aux brins du convoyeur 3. Il s'agit de vérins à double effet par exemple de type hydraulique dont l'extrémité libre de la tige 401, respectivement 401', porte un élément parallélépipèdique allongé 402, respectivement 402', formant poussoir. La face verticale de ces éléments, opposée aux vérins est pourvue de deux tampons en caoutchouc 403, respectivement 403'.Crosswise with respect to the conveyor and on its left side when considering FIG. 2, two hydraulic cylinders 40 and 40 'are provided. The body 400, respectively 400 ′, of each of these jacks extends horizontally and perpendicular to the strands of the conveyor 3. These are double-acting jacks, for example of the hydraulic type, the free end of the rod 401, respectively 401 ', carries an elongated parallelepipedic element 402, respectively 402', forming a pusher. The vertical face of these elements, opposite the jacks, is provided with two rubber pads 403, 403 'respectively.

Ces vérins sont disposés de telle manière qu'en position d'extension maximale de la tige, les éléments poussoir 402 et 402' se situent sur la trajectoire du convoyeur 3, légèrement au-dessus de son brin supérieur.These jacks are arranged in such a way that in the position of maximum extension of the rod, the pusher elements 402 and 402 ′ are located on the path of the conveyor 3, slightly above its upper strand.

Dans la représentation de la figure 2, on notera que le vérin 40' le plus près de l'extrémité amont du convoyeur 3 a sa tige rétractée, c'est-à-dire que l'élément poussoir 402 n'interfère pas avec la trajectoire du convoyeur 3. Par contre, le second vérin 40 a sa tige 401 en position d'extension maximale de sorte que l'élément poussoir 402 se situe au-dessus du brin supérieur du convoyeur 3. On comprendra plus loin dans la description l'intérêt d'un tel agencement.In the representation of FIG. 2, it will be noted that the cylinder 40 ′ closest to the upstream end of the conveyor 3 has its rod retracted, that is to say that the pusher element 402 does not interfere with the trajectory of the conveyor 3. By cons, the second cylinder 40 has its rod 401 in the position of maximum extension so that the pusher element 402 is located above the upper strand of the conveyor 3. We will understand later in the description l interest of such an arrangement.

De l'autre côté du convoyeur 3 s'étendent horizontalement, et perpendiculairement à celui-ci des moyens de support 41 formés par une série de tiges planes et parallèles. Plus précisément, sensiblement en regard de chaque élément poussoir 402, 402' et donc de chaque vérin 40, 40' sont prévues deux paires de tiges 41. L'écartement entre les tiges de chaque paire est identique. Toutes les tiges 41 s'étendent dans un même plan horizontal qui est légèrement en-dessous celui dans lequel est contenu le brin supérieur du convoyeur 3.On the other side of the conveyor 3 extend horizontally, and perpendicular thereto, support means 41 formed by a series of flat and parallel rods. More specifically, substantially opposite each pusher element 402, 402 ′ and therefore of each cylinder 40, 40 ′, two pairs of rods 41 are provided. The spacing between the rods of each pair is identical. All the rods 41 extend in the same horizontal plane which is slightly below that in which the upper strand of the conveyor 3 is contained.

On notera qu'en-dessous des tiges 41 est prévu un espace dans lequel sont montés des moyens de transfert que l'on décrira ci-après.Note that below the rods 41 is provided a space in which are mounted transfer means which will be described below.

Les vérins 40, 40' ainsi que les moyens de support 41 qui viennent d'être décrits, font partie du poste 4 de support et de transfert de l'installation.The jacks 40, 40 ′ as well as the support means 41 which have just been described, form part of the station 4 for supporting and transferring the installation.

Comme déjà dit ci-dessus, l'installation comporte des moyens de transfert dont un élément 8 est représenté en perspective à la figure 3. Il comporte une série de quatre arceaux identiques 80 formés d'une tige métallique de section circulaire. Ces arceaux comportent une base cintrée 800 dont le ailes d'extrémité 801 sont relevées vers le haut. Chaque arceau est tenu, non loin de ses extrémités relevées mais du côté opposé à celles-ci, par une paire de tiges plates et verticales 81 de sorte que les ensembles formés par une paire de tiges et l'arceau correspondant s'étendent dans des plans verticaux parallèles. L'extrémité inférieure de ces tiges 81 disposées d'un même côté des arceaux est soudée sur l'aile horizontale d'une cornière en "L" 82. L'élément 8 comprend donc deux paires d'arceaux 80 et l'écartement entre les arceaux de chacun des paires est le même.As already said above, the installation comprises transfer means, one element of which is shown in perspective in FIG. 3. It comprises a series of four identical arches 80 formed by a metal rod of circular section. These arches have a curved base 800, the end wings 801 of which are raised upwards. Each arch is held, not far from its raised ends but on the side opposite to them, by a pair of flat and vertical rods 81 so that the assemblies formed by a pair of rods and the corresponding arch extend in parallel vertical planes. The lower end of these rods 81 arranged on the same side of the arches is welded to the horizontal wing of an "L" angle 82. The element 8 therefore comprises two pairs of arches 80 and the spacing between the hoops of each pair is the same.

Comme le montre la figure 4, les cornières 82 sont reliées entre elles par une série de traverses 83, l'une de celles-ci étant rattachée à la tige d'un vérin à double effet 85. Le corps de ce vérin s'étend verticalement c'est-à-dire parallèlement aux tiges 81.As shown in Figure 4, the angles 82 are interconnected by a series of crosspieces 83, one of these being attached to the rod of a double-acting cylinder 85. The body of this cylinder extends vertically, that is to say parallel to the rods 81.

L'installation 2 comprend deux éléments de transfert 8 tels que celui décrit précédemment. Chaque élément est associé à un vérin 40, 40' et est disposé dans l'espace situé au-dessous des paires de tiges de support 41, comme le montre la figure 4.The installation 2 comprises two transfer elements 8 such as that described above. Each element is associated with a jack 40, 40 ′ and is arranged in the space situated below the pairs of support rods 41, as shown in FIG. 4.

Comme cela est visible à la figure 5, la disposition des arceaux 80 et leur écartement est tel que chaque paire d'arceaux 80 prend place entre une paire correspondante de tiges de support 41. En effet, I'écartement D1 qui sépare deux arceaux d'une même paire est inférieur à l'écartement D2 qui sépare les deux tiges de support 41 associées.As can be seen in FIG. 5, the arrangement of the arches 80 and their spacing is such that each pair of arches 80 takes place between a corresponding pair of support rods 41. Indeed, the spacing D1 which separates two arches d 'The same pair is less than the spacing D2 which separates the two associated support rods 41.

On notera que si l'on actionne le vérin 85 de manière à provoquer l'extension de sa tige, on déplace vers le haut l'élément 8 de sorte que les arceaux 80 passent entre les tiges de support 41 jusqu'à s'étendre à un niveau supérieur au plan matérialisé par ces tiges. Bien entendu, les longueurs du vérin et de sa tige auront été prévues en conséquence.It will be noted that if the actuator 85 is actuated so as to cause the extension of its rod, the element 8 is moved upwards so that the arches 80 pass between the support rods 41 until it extends at a level higher than the plane materialized by these rods. Of course, the lengths of the actuator and its rod will have been provided accordingly.

L'installation comporte également un poste de mise en forme d'emballages 5. Ce poste comporte un convoyeur à tapis sans fin mobile 50 qui s'étend transversalement par rapport au convoyeur 3, c'est-à-dire parallèlement et à l'arrière de la butée 42, et sur lequel peut être déposé un carton C destiné à constituer, après mise en forme un emballage C' en forme de cagette.The installation also includes a packaging shaping station 5. This station includes a movable endless conveyor belt 50 which extends transversely relative to the conveyor 3, that is to say parallel and to the rear of the stop 42, and on which can be placed a cardboard C intended to constitute, after shaping a package C ' in the form of crate.

Lorsque le carton C est mis en forme, on le transfère au moyen du convoyeur à tapis sans fin 50 à un poste de chargement 6 situé dans le prolongement des tiges de support 41 (voir figure 2) et à la seconde extrémité du convoyeur.When the cardboard C is shaped, it is transferred by means of the endless belt conveyor 50 to a loading station 6 located in the extension of the support rods 41 (see FIG. 2) and at the second end of the conveyor.

Le poste 5 est facultatif. La mise en forme des emballages peut être effectuée sur un poste indépendant de l'installation et les emballages amenés sur l'installation en vue de leur remplissage.Item 5 is optional. The packaging can be shaped at a station independent of the installation and the packaging brought to the installation for filling.

Enfin, l'installation comprend des moyens de chargement mobiles à pinces 7 (non visibles sur la figure 2). Ces moyens sont montés au niveau d'une poutrelle longitudinale 20 qui s'étend le long du poste de support et de transfert 4 et du poste de chargement 6. Ces moyens comprennent une sorte de potence 72 qui s'étend horizontalement au-dessus de l'installation et qui est supportée par un mât vertical 71, lequel comporte des moyens de guidage et de déplacement 70 le long de la poutrelle 20. Ces moyens consistent par exemple en des galets couplés à des moyens moteurs et associés à des rails prévus sur la poutrelle. Ainsi, on peut déplacer les moyens 7 le long de la poutrelle pour les amener soit au niveau du poste de chargement 6, soit au niveau du poste de support et de transfert 4.Finally, the installation comprises mobile loading means with clamps 7 (not visible in FIG. 2). These means are mounted at the level of a longitudinal beam 20 which extends along the support and transfer station 4 and the loading station 6. These means comprise a kind of bracket 72 which extends horizontally above the installation and which is supported by a vertical mast 71, which comprises guide and displacement means 70 along the beam 20. These means consist, for example, of rollers coupled to motor means and associated with rails provided on the beam. Thus, the means 7 can be moved along the beam to bring them either to the loading station 6 or to the support and transfer station 4.

Sur la partie 72 sont montées deux pinces 73 mobiles le long de la potence mais également autour d'un axe horizontal afin de leur permettre de pivoter. Leur maniement peut être opéré à distance.On the part 72 are mounted two clamps 73 movable along the bracket but also around a horizontal axis in order to allow them to pivot. They can be operated remotely.

Le mode de réalisation de l'installation représenté aux figures 9 et 10 se distingue de celui décrit précédemment par la structure de son poste de support et de transfert 4.The embodiment of the installation shown in FIGS. 9 and 10 differs from that described above by the structure of its support and transfer station 4.

Ce poste comprend deux convoyeurs à tapis sans fin 3 et 3' disposés dans le prolongement l'un de l'autre.This station includes two endless belt conveyors 3 and 3 'arranged in the extension of one another.

Le convoyeur 3 est du même type que celui décrit en liaison avec le premier mode de réalisation, tandis que le convoyeur 3' présente une largeur beaucoup plus importante. Le rapport entre leurs largeurs respectives est de l'ordre de 1 à 5.The conveyor 3 is of the same type as that described in connection with the first embodiment, while the conveyor 3 'has a much greater width. The ratio between their respective widths is of the order of 1 to 5.

Comme le montre la figure 9, le convoyeur 3 s'étend selon l'axe longitudinal médian XX' du convoyeur 3'.As shown in Figure 9, the conveyor 3 extends along the median longitudinal axis XX 'of the conveyor 3'.

Au-dessus de la partie amont du brin supérieur du convoyeur 3' (à droite des figures 9 et 10) et dans le prolongement du convoyeur 3 est monté un dispositif d'aiguillage 9' mobile autour d'un axe vertical 90. Ce dispositif est équipé de moyens non représentés qui permettent de lui faire occuper successivement des positions angulaires différentes. Il s'agit par exemple d'un mécanisme d'indexage de type connu tel que celui vendu sous la dénomination commerciale ROTOBLOCK. Dans le cas présent, le dispositif peut occuper successivement cinq positions angulaires différentes. La situation de la figure 9 représente une disposition médiane du dispositif d'aiguillage.Above the upstream part of the upper strand of the conveyor 3 '(to the right of FIGS. 9 and 10) and in the extension of the conveyor 3 is mounted a switching device 9' movable around a vertical axis 90. This device is equipped with means not shown which allow it to successively occupy different angular positions. This is for example a known type of indexing mechanism such as that sold under the trade name ROTOBLOCK. In the present case, the device can successively occupy five different angular positions. The situation in FIG. 9 represents a central arrangement of the switching device.

Ce dernier est délimité latéralement par deux paires de tiges horizontales 93 qui forment un couloir Co.The latter is delimited laterally by two pairs of horizontal rods 93 which form a corridor Co.

Il comporte également des moyens formant butée 92 (représentés seulement à la figure 10) qui sont adaptés pour s'escamoter périodiquement et laisser libre le passage le long du couloir Co. Cette butée est par exemple constituée d'un doigt solidaire d'un séquenceur de type pneumatique 91.It also includes means forming a stop 92 (shown only in FIG. 10) which are adapted to retract periodically and allow free passage along the corridor Cor. This stop is for example made up of a finger secured to a sequencer pneumatic type 91.

Au-dessus de la partie aval du brin supérieur du convoyeur 3' (à gauche des figures 9 et 10) est prévue une série de six cloisons verticales 30' disposées longitudinalement et à égale distance les unes des autres. La longueur respective de chacune des cloisons est choisie de telle manière que, lors de son déplacement, le dispositif d'aiguillage 9 n'interfère pas avec elles.Above the downstream part of the upper strand of the conveyor 3 ′ (to the left of FIGS. 9 and 10) is provided a series of six vertical partitions 30 ′ arranged longitudinally and at equal distance from each other. The respective length of each of the partitions is chosen in such a way that, during its movement, the switching device 9 does not interfere with them.

Les cloisons 30' définissent deux à deux des couloirs C1 à C5 et on comprend aisément qu'en fonction de l'emplacement du dispositif d'aiguillage, on peut amener le couloir Co en face de l'un ou l'autre des couloirs C1 à C5.The partitions 30 'define two by two of the corridors C1 to C5 and it is easily understood that, depending on the location of the switching device, the corridor Co can be brought opposite one or the other of the corridors C1 to C5.

Dans le prolongement des cloisons 30', du côté de l'extrémité aval du convoyeur 3', est prévue une barre transversale 31' qui peut être déplacée dans un plan vertical au moyen de vérin 32'. A la figure 10 est représentée la position basse de la barre 31', dans laquelle elle obstrue la sortie des couloirs C1 à C5.In the extension of the partitions 30 ', on the side of the downstream end of the conveyor 3', there is provided a transverse bar 31 'which can be moved in a vertical plane by means of jack 32'. In Figure 10 is shown the low position of the bar 31 ', in which it obstructs the exit from the corridors C1 to C5.

Dans le prolongement du convoyeur 3' est prévue une série de rouleaux horizontaux 41' disposés perpendiculairement à l'axe longitudinal du convoyeur et montés fous en rotation dans des paliers (non représentés).In the extension of the conveyor 3 'is provided a series of horizontal rollers 41' arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the conveyor and mounted idly in rotation in bearings (not shown).

Sous le plan horizontal défini par les rouleaux 41' est monté un élément 8 du même type que celui décrit en liaison avec le premier mode de réalisation. Bien entendu, la disposition et l'écartement des rouleaux 41' sont adaptés pour ne pas gêner le déplacement de l'élément 8 lors de son relevage.Under the horizontal plane defined by the rollers 41 'is mounted an element 8 of the same type as that described in connection with the first embodiment. Of course, the arrangement and the spacing of the rollers 41 'are adapted so as not to hinder the movement of the element 8 during its lifting.

Enfin, en aval des rouleaux 41' est prévue une butée transversale 42'.Finally, downstream of the rollers 41 'is provided a transverse stop 42'.

Nous allons ci-après expliquer comment fonctionne l'installation et parallèlement la mise en oeuvre du procédé de l'invention.We will explain below how the installation works and in parallel the implementation of the method of the invention.

On notera que les différents éléments de l'installation susceptibles de se mouvoir ou d'être entraînés en rotation, peuvent être pilotés par des moyens automatiques de type connu tels qu'un automate à commande numérique.It will be noted that the various elements of the installation liable to move or to be driven in rotation, can be controlled by automatic means of known type such as a numerically controlled automaton.

La description sera faite, dans un premier temps, en référence au mode de réalisation de la figure 2.The description will be made, firstly, with reference to the embodiment of FIG. 2.

Des barquettes 1, au préalable remplies de produits alimentaires et revêtues d'un film sont déposées tour à tour sur le convoyeur 3, lequel est mis en route de manière que son brin supérieur se déplace dans le sens de la flèche f.Trays 1, previously filled with food products and coated with a film are placed in turn on the conveyor 3, which is started so that its upper strand moves in the direction of arrow f .

L'avancement des barquettes 1 sur le convoyeur est limité par la tige 42 qui forme butée, de sorte que des barquettes s'accumulent à la queue leu leu sur le convoyeur.The advancement of the trays 1 on the conveyor is limited by the rod 42 which forms a stop, so that trays accumulate at the tail leu leu on the conveyor.

Des moyens tels qu'une cellule photoélectrique détectent la présence de barquettes sur le convoyeur et pilotent l'extension de la tige 401 du vérin 40, c'est-à-dire celui qui est placé le plus près de la butée 42. De cette façon, une paire de barquettes se trouvent poussées sur les tiges 41 disposées à côté du convoyeur. Cette manoeuvre est répétée à chaque fois qu'une paire de barquettes vient en butée contre la tige 42. Ainsi, les barquettes en place sur les tiges 41 se poussent les unes les autres, de sorte que l'on constitue progressivement deux rangées 1A et 1B de barquettes 1 parallèles à la butée 42, formant des ensembles identiques E.Means such as a photoelectric cell detect the presence of trays on the conveyor and control the extension of the rod 401 of the jack 40, that is to say that which is placed closest to the stop 42. From this way, a pair of trays are pushed on the rods 41 arranged next to the conveyor. This maneuver is repeated each time that a pair of trays abuts against the rod 42. Thus, the trays in place on the rods 41 push each other, so that two rows 1A and 1B of trays 1 parallel to the stop 42, forming identical sets E.

Les moyens de pilotage automatiques actionnent alors l'arrêt du premier vérin 40 et les opérations précitées sont alors renouvelées avec le second vérin 40' placé du côté de l'extrémité amont du convoyeur.The automatic control means then actuate the stop of the first cylinder 40 and the above operations are then repeated with the second cylinder 40 'placed on the side of the upstream end of the conveyor.

Lorsque les deux rangées 1A et 1B sont formées, le vérin 85 qui équipe l'élément de transfert 8 placé sous les tiges 41 correspondantes, est actionné de manière à provoquer l'extension de sa tige. De cette façon, l'élément 8 est déplacé en direction des rangées 1A et 1B de barquettes, lesquelles sont soulevées puis supportées par les arceaux 80 de manière à former des rangées parallèles de forme cintrée. Comme le montre la figure 7 correspondant à cette opération, les barquettes 1 de la rangée 1A (et 1B) sont disposées sur les arceaux de sorte que les faces en regard des deux barquettes voisines soient sensiblement parallèles et contiguës.When the two rows 1A and 1B are formed, the jack 85 which equips the transfer element 8 placed under the corresponding rods 41 is actuated so as to cause the extension of its rod. In this way, the element 8 is moved in the direction of the rows 1A and 1B of trays, which are lifted and then supported by the hoops 80 so as to form parallel rows of curved shape. As the FIG. 7 corresponding to this operation, the trays 1 of row 1A (and 1B) are arranged on the hoops so that the facing faces of the two adjacent trays are substantially parallel and contiguous.

Bien entendu, la longueur de l'arc formé par chacun des arceaux est déterminée de manière à correspondre sensiblement à cinq fois la largeur d'une barquette, au niveau de son fond. Dans une autre forme de réalisation, les rangées pourraient être formées de quatre ou de six barquettes et la longueur des arceaux serait prévue en conséquence.Of course, the length of the arc formed by each of the arches is determined so as to correspond substantially to five times the width of a tray, at its bottom. In another embodiment, the rows could be formed of four or six trays and the length of the hoops would be provided accordingly.

Par ailleurs, les ailes 801 des arceaux forment avec leur base 800 un angle légèrement supérieur à 90°.Furthermore, the wings 801 of the arches form with their base 800 an angle slightly greater than 90 °.

Les barquettes sont donc soutenues au niveau de leur fond mais également retenues transversalement pour les barquettes d'extrémité par les ailes 80.The trays are therefore supported at their bottom but also retained transversely for the end trays by the wings 80.

L'élément 8 étant dans la position de la figure 7, on saisit successivement les rangées 1A et 1B par leurs extrémités en exerçant un serrage. Ce serrage s'exerce selon une direction généralement transversale par rapport aux bords accolés ou sensiblement accolés des barquettes de chaque rangée. Pour ce faire, on pilote les moyens de chargement mobiles 7 de manière à ce que la potence 72 arrive à l'aplomb d'une rangée de barquettes, par exemple la rangée 1A. On pilote alors les pinces 73 de manière à venir saisir la rangée 1A de barquettes en exerçant un serrage pour appliquer les barquettes les unes contre les autres par leurs faces en regard. On se trouve alors dans la position de la figure 8.The element 8 being in the position of FIG. 7, rows 1A and 1B are successively entered by their ends by exerting a tightening. This tightening is carried out in a generally transverse direction relative to the contiguous or substantially contiguous edges of the trays of each row. To do this, the mobile loading means 7 are piloted so that the bracket 72 comes into line with a row of trays, for example row 1A. The clips 73 are then piloted so as to come and grasp the row 1A of trays by exerting a clamping action to apply the trays against each other by their opposite faces. We are then in the position of FIG. 8.

La rangée 1A ainsi saisie forme un ensemble E qui possède une certaine cohésion mécanique, ce qui signifie qu'aucune barquette ne peut se désolidariser de l'ensemble. La barquette disposée dans la partie centrale de la rangée est assimilable à une clé de voûte qui sert à maintenir en équilibre les autres barquettes.Row 1A thus entered forms an assembly E which has a certain mechanical cohesion, which means that no tray can be detached from the assembly. The tray placed in the central part of the row is similar to a keystone which is used to keep the other trays in balance.

Il suffit alors de déplacer les moyens de chargement au-dessus de l'emballage cartonné C' puis de relâcher le serrage des pinces pour laisser se déposer par gravité la rangée de barquettes dans l'emballage.It then suffices to move the loading means above the cardboard packaging C ' and then to release the clamping of the clamps to allow the row of trays to settle in the packaging by gravity.

A ce sujet, on notera que du fait de son agencement en arc de cercle, la longueur L2 de la rangée 1A est nettement inférieure à la largeur L1 de l'emballage, de sorte que la rangée de barquettes peut y être déposée par gravité sans problème, c'est-à-dire sans qu'on se heurte à des problèmes de mise en place de manière inadéquate.In this regard, it will be noted that due to its arrangement in an arc, the length L2 of the row 1A is much less than the width L1 of the packaging, so that the row of trays can be deposited therein by gravity without problem, that is to say without encountering problems of implementation in an inadequate manner.

L'élément de transfert 8 étant toujours en position relevée, on procède à la manipulation de la seconde rangée 1B puis à son transfert dans l'emballage C'.Since the transfer element 8 is still in the raised position, the second row 1B is manipulated and then transferred to the packaging C ' .

Bien entendu, les phases de transfert et de mise en place des rangées 1A et 1B de barquettes auront été mises à contribution pour former deux nouvelles rangées de barquettes 1C et 1D qui seront alors ultérieurement transférées dans un emballage de la manière indiquée ci-dessus.Of course, the phases of transfer and establishment of rows 1A and 1B of trays will have been used to form two new rows of trays 1C and 1D which will then be subsequently transferred into a packaging in the manner indicated above.

Dans le mode de réalisation des figures 9 à 10, les barquettes sont acheminées vers l'installation au moyen du convoyeur 3 puis sont immédiatement reprises par le convoyeur 3'. Bien entendu, ces convoyeurs se déplacent tous les deux dans le même sens.In the embodiment of FIGS. 9 to 10, the trays are conveyed to the installation by means of the conveyor 3 then are immediately taken up by the conveyor 3 '. Of course, these conveyors both move in the same direction.

Avantageusement, la vitesse d'avancement du convoyeur 3' est supérieure à celle du convoyeur 3.Advantageously, the forward speed of the conveyor 3 'is higher than that of the conveyor 3.

Le dispositif d'aiguillage est piloté de manière à se "connecter" avec le couloir C1, c'est-à-dire à se disposer dans le prolongement de ce dernier.The switching device is controlled so as to "connect" with the corridor C1, that is to say to be arranged in the extension of the latter.

Lorsque deux barquettes arrivent en butée contre le doigt 92 du séquenceur 91, ce dernier est actionné afin de provoquer l'escamotage du doigt 92. Les barquettes sont alors transférées par le convoyeur 3' du couloir Co au couloir C1 où elles arrivent en butée contre la barre 31'.When two trays come into abutment against finger 92 of the sequencer 91, the latter is actuated in order to cause retraction of finger 92. The trays are then transferred by the conveyor 3 ′ from lane Co to lane C1 where they come into abutment against the bar 31 '.

Le dispositif d'aiguillage est alors transférer par le convoyeur 3' du couloir Co au couloir C1 où elles arrivent en butée contre la barre 31'.The switching device is then transferred by the conveyor 3 'from the corridor Co to the corridor C1 where they come into abutment against the bar 31'.

Le dispositif d'aiguillage est alors déplacé dans le prolongement du couloir C2, le doigt 92 ayant dans l'intervalle retrouvé sa position non escamotée.The switching device is then moved in the extension of the corridor C2, the finger 92 having in the meantime returned to its non-retracted position.

Les opérations décrites ci-dessus sont alors renouvelées pour chacun des couloirs C2 à C5.The operations described above are then repeated for each of the corridors C2 to C5.

Lorsque les cinq couloirs sont chacun occupés par une paire de barquettes qui forment ensemble cinq lignes parallèles, la barre 31' est relevée, suite à l'actionnement des vérins 32'.When the five lanes are each occupied by a pair of trays which together form five parallel lines, the bar 31 'is raised, following the actuation of the jacks 32'.

Les dix barquettes glissent alors sur les rouleaux 41' et puis sont stoppées par la butée 42'. Elles forment alors deux rangées 1A et 1B de barquettes.The ten trays then slide on the rollers 41 'and then are stopped by the stop 42'. They then form two rows 1A and 1B of trays.

On actionne alors le vérin de l'élément de transfert 8 pour provoquer son relevage.The actuator of the transfer element 8 is then actuated to cause it to be raised.

La suite du fonctionnement de l'installation est similaire à celui déjà décrit en référence au premier mode de réalisation.The rest of the operation of the installation is similar to that already described with reference to the first embodiment.

Lorsque les produits en place dans les barquettes sont relativement lourds, par exemple des kiwis ou des tomates, il peut être préférable de procéder au serrage d'une rangée de barquettes selon deux directions perpendiculaires.When the products in place in the trays are relatively heavy, for example kiwis or tomatoes, it may be preferable to tighten a row of trays in two perpendicular directions.

C'est ce qui a été représenté à la figure 11 dans laquelle un ensemble E formé d'une rangée de quatre barquettes 1 est saisi selon une première direction F₁ transversale par rapport aux bords supérieurs accolés des barquettes, et selon une seconde direction F₂, perpendiculaire à la première, c'est à dire parallèle aux bords accolés.This is what has been shown in FIG. 11 in which an assembly E formed of a row of four trays 1 is grasped in a first direction F₁ transverse to the upper contiguous edges of the trays, and in a second direction F₂ , perpendicular to the first, that is to say parallel to the contiguous edges.

Pour ce faire, on utilise non seulement une première paire de pinces 73 mais également une seconde paire 73'. Celles-ci sont de préférence portées par une même potence 72 qui affecte, en vue de dessus, la forme d'une croix.To do this, not only a first pair of pliers 73 is used, but also a second pair 73 '. These are preferably carried by the same bracket 72 which, when viewed from above, takes the form of a cross.

De cette manière, la cohésion mécanique de l'ensemble E est renforcée, ce qui en rend encore plus sûre l'étape de transfert des barquettes dans un emballage.In this way, the mechanical cohesion of the assembly E is reinforced, which makes it even safer the step of transferring the trays into a package.

D'une manière similaire, on peut saisir un ensemble E formé de plusieurs rangées de barquettes, par exemple deux, trois ou quatre.Similarly, one can enter a set E formed by several rows of trays, for example two, three or four.

Ainsi, à la figure 12, l'ensemble E est formé de deux rangées identiques et accolées 1A et 1B de barquettes.Thus, in Figure 12, the assembly E is formed of two identical rows and joined 1A and 1B of trays.

A la figure 13, les rangées 1A et 1B sont formées de barquettes identiques mais disposées de manière différente. On y a représenté en traits pointillés, une rangée supplémentaire 1C formée de barquettes d'un modèle différent.In FIG. 13, the rows 1A and 1B are formed from identical trays but arranged in a different manner. There is shown in dotted lines, an additional row 1C formed of trays of a different model.

Les quatre pinces utilisées pour saisir ces ensembles devront avoir des dimensions suffisantes pour s'appliquer contre une partie substantielle des quatre côtés de ces ensembles.The four clamps used to grip these assemblies must have sufficient dimensions to be applied against a substantial part of the four sides of these assemblies.

Les directions de serrage sont référencées F₁ et F₂.The tightening directions are referenced F₁ and F₂ .

Une forme cintrée peut leur être donnée préalablement au moyen d'un organe de transfert tel que celui 8 déjà décrit. Celui-ci va former un cintrage selon un axe parallèle aux bords accolés des barquettes d'une même rangée.A curved shape can be given to them beforehand by means of a transfer member such as that 8 already described. This will form a bend along an axis parallel to the contiguous edges of the trays of the same row.

Un second cintrage selon un axe parallèle aux bords accolés des rangées 1A, 1B (ou 1B et 1C) va être réalisé du fait du serrage selon la direction F₂.A second bending along an axis parallel to the contiguous edges of the rows 1A, 1B (or 1B and 1C) will be produced due to tightening in the direction F₂ .

Toutefois, pour mettre en oeuvre ce cintrage, il est possible d'utiliser un organe de transfert 8 tel que celui représenté à la figure 14. Il se distingue de celui déjà décrit uniquement par le fait que les arceaux 80' disposés les plus à l'intérieur, s'étendent à une hauteur supérieure à celle des arceaux 80 disposés à l'extérieur. La différence de hauteur est par exemple de l'ordre de 1 à 1,2 cm.However, to implement this bending, it is possible to use a transfer member 8 such as that shown in FIG. 14. It differs from that already described only by the fact that the hoops 80 ′ arranged furthest apart. interior, extend to a height greater than that of the arches 80 arranged outside. The difference in height is for example of the order of 1 to 1.2 cm.

Si le second cintrage peut être réalisé simplement par serrage (c'est-à-dire sans élément de transfert) quand on souhaite manipuler un ensemble formé de deux rangées de barquettes, l'élément de transfert se révèle très utile pour un ensemble formé d'au moins trois rangées.If the second bending can be carried out simply by tightening (that is to say without transfer element) when it is desired to handle an assembly formed from two rows of trays, the transfer element proves to be very useful for an assembly formed from 'at least three rows.

Claims (15)

Procédé pour manipuler des barquettes (1) en forme de tronc de pyramide et les mettre en place dans un emballage (C'), caractérisé en ce qu'il comprend les étapes qui consistent à : a) former un ensemble (E) de barquettes (1) constitué d'au moins une rangée (1A, 1B, 1C, 1D) de barquettes (1) dans laquelle leurs bords supérieurs sont accolés ou sensiblement accolés ; b) donner à cet ensemble (E) une forme cintrée selon un axe de courbure parallèle auxdits bords accolés ; c) saisir ledit ensemble (E) en exerçant un serrage dans une direction généralement transversale par rapport auxdits bords accolés, pour appliquer les barquettes (1) les unes contre les autres par leurs faces en regard ; d) amener ledit ensemble (E) au-dessus de l'emballage (C') ; e) laisser se déposer par gravité lesdites barquettes (1) dans l'emballage (C'), par suite de l'arrêt du serrage. Method for handling trays (1) in the form of a pyramid trunk and placing them in a package (C '), characterized in that it comprises the steps which consist in: a) forming a set (E) of trays (1) consisting of at least one row (1A, 1B, 1C, 1D) of trays (1) in which their upper edges are contiguous or substantially contiguous; b) give this assembly (E) a curved shape along an axis of curvature parallel to said contiguous edges; c) grip said assembly (E) by exerting a clamping in a generally transverse direction with respect to said contiguous edges, to apply the trays (1) against each other by their opposite faces; d) bringing said assembly (E) above the package (C '); e) allowing said trays (1) to settle by gravity in the packaging (C ′), as a result of the tightening being stopped. Procédé selon la revendication 1, caractérisé en ce qu'on saisit également ledit ensemble (E) en exerçant un serrage selon une direction généralement parallèle auxdits bords accolés.Method according to claim 1, characterized in that the said assembly (E) is also grasped by exerting a clamping in a direction generally parallel to the said contiguous edges. Procédé selon l'une des revendications 1 ou 2, caractérisé en ce que ledit ensemble (E) comprend au moins deux rangées (1A, 1B, 1C, 1D) accolées ou sensiblement accolées et en ce qu'on lui donne un second cintrage selon un axe de courbure perpendiculaire au premier, c'est-à-dire parallèle aux bords accolés des rangées (1A, 1B, 1C, 1D).Method according to one of claims 1 or 2, characterized in that said assembly (E) comprises at least two rows (1A, 1B, 1C, 1D) joined or substantially joined and in that it is given a second bending according to an axis of curvature perpendicular to the first, that is to say parallel to the contiguous edges of the rows (1A, 1B, 1C, 1D). Procédé selon l'une des revendications 1 à 3, caractérisé en ce qu'on donne audit ensemble (E) une forme cintrée au moyen d'un élément de transfert (8) cintré de manières correspondantes.Method according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that said assembly (E) is given a curved shape by means of a transfer element (8) curved in corresponding ways. Procédé selon la revendication 4, caractérisé en ce que, à l'étape a), on forme un ensemble plan (E) de barquettes (1) et en ce qu'on lui donne une forme cintrée en amenant ledit élément de transfert (8) par le dessous de l'ensemble (E).Method according to claim 4, characterized in that, in step a), a flat assembly (E) of trays (1) is formed and that it is given a curved shape by bringing said transfer element (8 ) from below the assembly (E). Installation pour manipuler des barquettes (1) en forme de tronc de pyramide et les mettre en place dans un emballage (C'), caractérisée en ce qu'elle comprend : - des moyens de support (41, 41') d'un ensemble (E) de barquettes (1) formé d'au moins une rangée (1A, 1B, 1C, 1D) de barquettes dans laquelle leurs bords supérieurs sont accolés ou sensiblement accolés ; - au moins un élément cintré (8) disposé au-dessous et à l'aplomb des moyens de support (41, 41') et mobile verticalement en direction de ceux-ci pour soulever et supporter ledit ensemble (E) de telle sorte que ledit ensemble (E) affecte une forme cintrée selon au moins un axe de courbure parallèle aux bords accolés de la rangée, les faces en regard de deux barquettes voisines (1) étant alors sensiblement parallèles et contiguës ; - au moins une paire de pinces (73) adaptée pour ledit ensemble (E) en exerçant un serrage au moins selon une direction généralement transversale par rapport aux bords accolés. Installation for handling trays (1) in the shape of a pyramid trunk and placing them in a package (C '), characterized in that it comprises: - Support means (41, 41 ') of a set (E) of trays (1) formed of at least one row (1A, 1B, 1C, 1D) of trays in which their upper edges are joined or substantially joined; - at least one curved element (8) disposed below and vertically above the support means (41, 41 ') and movable vertically in the direction of the latter to lift and support said assembly (E) so that said assembly (E) has a curved shape along at least one axis of curvature parallel to the contiguous edges of the row, the opposite faces of two adjacent trays (1) then being substantially parallel and contiguous; - At least one pair of pliers (73) adapted for said assembly (E) by exerting a clamping at least in a generally transverse direction relative to the contiguous edges. Installation selon la revendication 6, caractérisée en ce que ledit élément de transfert (8) comporte au moins une paire d'arceaux (80) comportant une base cintrée (800) dont les extrémités (801) sont relevées, l'écartement entre les arceaux (80) d'une paire étant adapté pour pouvoir supporter les barquettes (1) d'une rangée (1A, 1B, 1C, 1D).Installation according to claim 6, characterized in that said transfer element (8) comprises at least one pair of arches (80) comprising a curved base (800) whose ends (801) are raised, the spacing between the arches (80) of a pair being adapted to be able to support the trays (1) of a row (1A, 1B, 1C, 1D). Installation selon la revendication 6 à 7, caractérisée en ce que ladite paire de pinces (73) est mobile et en e qu'elle est adaptée pour être transférée desdits moyens de support (41, 41') jusqu'à l'aplomb d'un emballage (C').Installation according to claim 6 to 7, characterized in that said pair of clamps (73) is mobile and in that it is adapted to be transferred from said support means (41, 41 ') to the level of a package (C '). Installation selon l'une des revendications 6 à 8, caractérisée en ce que lesdits moyens de support (41) consistent en une paire de tiges planes et parallèles.Installation according to one of claims 6 to 8, characterized in that said support means (41) consist of a pair of flat and parallel rods. Installation selon les revendications 7 et 9 prises en combinaison, caractérisée en ce que l'écartement entre les arceaux (80) d'une même paire est inférieur à l'écartement d'une paire de tiges (41) et en e que, lors du déplacement de l'élément de transfert (8) en direction des tiges (41), lesdits arceaux (80) se placent entre les tiges (41) d'une même paire.Installation according to claims 7 and 9 taken in combination, characterized in that the spacing between the poles (80) of the same pair is less than the spacing of a pair of rods (41) and in e that, when movement of the transfer element (8) towards the rods (41), said arches (80) are placed between the rods (41) of the same pair. Installation selon l'une des revendications 6 à 10, caractérisée en ce que lesdits moyens de support (41) sont disposés perpendiculairement à un convoyeur à tapis sans fin mobile (3), adapté pour déplacer des barquettes (1) à la queue leu leu et en e qu'elle comporte des moyens (40, 40') pour transférer les barquettes (1) du convoyeur (3) sur les moyens de support (41) pour former un ensemble (E) constitué d'au moins une rangées (1A, 1B, 1C, 1D).Installation according to one of claims 6 to 10, characterized in that said support means (41) are arranged perpendicular to a movable endless conveyor belt (3), suitable for moving trays (1) at the tail leu leu and in that it comprises means (40, 40 ′) for transferring the trays (1) of the conveyor (3) onto the support means (41) to form an assembly (E) consisting of at least one row ( 1A, 1B, 1C, 1D). Installation selon la revendication 11, caractérisée en ce que lesdits moyens (40, 40') comprennent au moins un élément poussoir (402, 402') disposé dans l'alignement des moyens de support (41) mais du côté opposé du convoyeur (3), cet élément poussoir (402, 402') étant adapté pour déplacer transversalement les barquettes (1) du convoyeur (3) sur les moyens support (41).Installation according to claim 11, characterized in that said means (40, 40 ') comprise at least one pusher element (402, 402') arranged in alignment with the support means (41) but on the opposite side of the conveyor (3 ), this pusher element (402, 402 ') being adapted to transversely move the trays (1) of the conveyor (3) on the support means (41). Installation selon la revendication 2, caractérisée en ce que ledit élément poussoir (402, 402') est solidaire d'un vérin (40, 40') à double effet.Installation according to claim 2, characterized in that said pusher element (402, 402 ') is integral with a double-acting jack (40, 40'). Installation selon l'une des revendications 6 à 8, caractérisée en ce qu'elle comprend un dispositif d'aiguillage (9) et un convoyeur à tapis mobile (3') aptes à répartir lesdites barquettes (1) en lignes parallèles à l'intérieur de couloirs (C1, C2, C3, C4, C5) et en e que lesdits moyens de support (41') sont disposées dans le prolongement dudit convoyeur (3').Installation according to one of claims 6 to 8, characterized in that it comprises a switching device (9) and a movable conveyor belt (3 ') capable of distributing said trays (1) in lines parallel to the inside corridors (C1, C2, C3, C4, C5) and in that said support means (41 ') are arranged in the extension of said conveyor (3'). Installation selon la revendication 14, caractérisée en ce qu'elle comporte, entre ledit convoyeur (3') et les moyens de support (41'), une butée escamotable (31'), celle-ci étant escamotée lorsque les lignes de barquettes (1) sont formées, de façon à permettre leur transfert sur les moyens de support (41').Installation according to claim 14, characterized in that it comprises, between said conveyor (3 ') and the support means (41'), a retractable stop (31 '), this being retracted when the lines of trays ( 1) are formed, so as to allow their transfer to the support means (41 ').
EP95460009A 1994-02-25 1995-02-23 Method and apparatus for handling pyramid stump-shaped trays and placing these in a package Expired - Lifetime EP0671327B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR9402423 1994-02-25
FR9402423A FR2716666B1 (en) 1994-02-25 1994-02-25 Method and installation for handling trays in the shape of a pyramid trunk and placing them in a package.

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Publication Number Publication Date
EP0671327A1 true EP0671327A1 (en) 1995-09-13
EP0671327B1 EP0671327B1 (en) 1997-08-13

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EP95460009A Expired - Lifetime EP0671327B1 (en) 1994-02-25 1995-02-23 Method and apparatus for handling pyramid stump-shaped trays and placing these in a package

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EP (1) EP0671327B1 (en)
AT (1) ATE156765T1 (en)
DE (1) DE69500535D1 (en)
ES (1) ES2108546T3 (en)
FR (1) FR2716666B1 (en)

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN109515837A (en) * 2018-10-29 2019-03-26 昆明鼎承科技有限公司 The system that manipulation cigarette packet is automatically loaded single layer barrel

Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3491508A (en) * 1966-07-25 1970-01-27 Johns Nigrelli Johns Inverted case loader
DE2440199A1 (en) * 1974-08-22 1976-03-04 4 P Verpackungen Gmbh Packing tongues for compressing stack of box cut-outs - has two relatively movable jaws mounted in stationary frame
DE2510686A1 (en) * 1975-03-12 1976-09-23 Ammann Siegfried Sequential packing of numbers of containers such as yoghurt containers - involves gripper truck with reciprocating gripper rails on ots underside
EP0167138A2 (en) * 1984-06-30 1986-01-08 Alfons Güldenring Method and device for filling cartons

Patent Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3491508A (en) * 1966-07-25 1970-01-27 Johns Nigrelli Johns Inverted case loader
DE2440199A1 (en) * 1974-08-22 1976-03-04 4 P Verpackungen Gmbh Packing tongues for compressing stack of box cut-outs - has two relatively movable jaws mounted in stationary frame
DE2510686A1 (en) * 1975-03-12 1976-09-23 Ammann Siegfried Sequential packing of numbers of containers such as yoghurt containers - involves gripper truck with reciprocating gripper rails on ots underside
EP0167138A2 (en) * 1984-06-30 1986-01-08 Alfons Güldenring Method and device for filling cartons

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN109515837A (en) * 2018-10-29 2019-03-26 昆明鼎承科技有限公司 The system that manipulation cigarette packet is automatically loaded single layer barrel

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
FR2716666B1 (en) 1996-05-10
ES2108546T3 (en) 1997-12-16
ATE156765T1 (en) 1997-08-15
FR2716666A1 (en) 1995-09-01
DE69500535D1 (en) 1997-09-18
EP0671327B1 (en) 1997-08-13

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