EP1300224B1 - Machine for assembling glued corks - Google Patents

Abstract

The machine for assembly of bottle cork stoppers has an assembly station (12) in which the components (C1,2) to be glued together to form the stopper are fed along parallel paths (30,34) in which their radial faces are spaced. Glue applicators are provided to apply glue to oat least one radial face and the sections are brought together and removed by a discharge feed (14).

Description

The invention relates to a machine for assembling glued plugs, according to the preamble of claim 1.

Such a machine is described in the document EP 1 092 519 A.

Throughout this description and in claims by "glued plug" means any cap made up of several parts and intended for capping bottle necks by elastic expansion, be it obtained with pieces of cork, agglomerates of cork, or with any other synthetic material having characteristics which can be extended to those natural cork.

Good quality natural cork stoppers become more and more expensive because of the increase in demand for this natural product, the quantities of which available are not likely to increase as they do not arise from the possibility of growing crops cork oaks, and therefore we tend not to use only for corking quality wines and not gaseous, especially if they are intended for aging in bottle.

In order to reduce costs we resort more and more frequently when using single cork stoppers agglomerated, i.e. a material made from grains of cork ground, bonded with suitable glues.

The sealing of these plugs is good, but they have the downside that over time the glue that holds together grains can affect organoleptic properties wine or any other drink contained in the bottle.

In order to avoid this inconvenience and thanks to special characteristics offered by the agglomerate of cork with regard to pressure tightness, when it comes to corking sparkling wines or sparkling wines are used more and more frequently glued plugs, that is to say to the expedient of gluing, on the end of a main cylindrical cork component agglomerated, called "body" (which can be replaced possibly by synthetic materials of corresponding characteristics), to which the primary function of ensuring good sealing of the bottle closure, one or more components additional cylindrical in the form of washers, in quality natural cork or in materials having similar characteristics.

Often these washers are applied to each end of the main component or body, to avoid problems to select the orientation of an end rather than the other in the capping machines.

Ship to apply one or two end washers is also used in the case of cork bodies natural, if cork is not of first choice and by therefore it does not offer sufficient guarantees of cleanliness and hygiene.

We have known and used for several years machines according to the preamble of claim 1, in which an assembly station has a platform driven in step-by-step rotation. On this platform are distributed housing that receives, in posts successive shutdown, the various components intended for build a plug, as well as the layers of glue required. In a final stop station the units composed, whose axes are vertical and which are constituted by the various components and by the glue, which is still substantially fluid, are transferred after the others by means of pressing and transport that keep them tight for the time needed so that the glue sets.

The pressing and transport means used are under shape of pliers transported by a double chain motorized which circulates with the axes of the grippers oriented horizontally.

In the area where the clamps pick up the units composed, whose axes are vertical, the double chain should instead be oriented so that the clamps open and close in the vertical direction corresponding. To be able to operate in this area, the double chain must therefore be twisted, first by 90 ° in one direction and then 90 ° in the opposite direction

The known machines described above have as first disadvantage of being mechanically complicated, rather slow and such that they no longer meet the demands of compound corks, if not at the cost of one costly multiplication of the number of machines in the same factory.

These same known machines have the second drawback to require, in order to obtain said twist of the double chain, a complicated, expensive and cause system wear.

The object of the invention is that of making a machine for the assembly of glued plugs of the kind considered, which does not have the aforementioned drawbacks.

According to the invention this object is achieved thanks to a machine as claimed in claim 1.

In a machine according to the invention all the movements of the components to be assembled are substantially continuous and can be obtained, in a first step, in simple gravity feed down conduits and, in a second step, in simple horizontal channels using pushers with linear movement back and forth.

As long as the compound units arrive at the clamps with their axis oriented horizontally, are no longer necessary complicated systems to get the twist of the double chain carrying the pliers.

la figure 1 est un vue d'ensemble schématique en élévation latérale d'une machine selon l'invention,

la figure 2 est un vue latérale de détail à plus grande échelle, partiellement en coupe dans un plan longitudinal, d'une station d'assemblage de la machine, indiquée dans son ensemble par la flèche II sur la figure 1,

la figure 3 est un vue de dessus de la même station d'assemblage, selon la flèche III de la figure 2,

la figure 4 est un vue de détail semblable à celle de la figure 2, mais partiellement en coupe dans un plan longitudinal différent,

la figure 5 est une vue en perspective de la zone indiquée par la flèche V sur la figure 4,

la figure 6 est une vue en perspective de la zone de la machine, indiquée par la flèche VI sur la figure 1, qui représente en partie la station d'assemblage et en partie les moyens de pressage et de transport qui suivent cette station,

la figure 7 est un vue en perspective qui montre les moyens préférés d'application de la colle,

la figure 8 est une vue en coupe verticale des moyens d'application de la colle, prise dans le plan indiqué par VII-VII sur la figure 7,

la figure 9 est une vue latérale schématique à plus grande échelle des moyens de pressage et de transport, qui correspond à la zone indiquée dans son ensemble par la flèche IX sur la figure 1,

la figure 10 est un vue en plan de dessus et partiellement en coupe de la zone de la machine indiquée par la flèche X sur la figure 9,

la figure 11 est un vue en perspective des moyens de pressage et de transport des figures 9 et 10,

la figure 12 est une vue en perspective d'une des pinces des moyens du pressage et de transport des figures 9 à 11, dans laquelle est également représenté un bouchon collé avec un corps intermédiaire et deux rondelles d'extrémité, qui peut être obtenu à l'aide d'une station d'assemblage telle que montrée sur les figures 2 à 6,

la figure 13 est un vue en perspective d'un bouchon collé avec un corps latéral et une paire de rondelles d'extrémité,

la figure 14 est une vue en perspective d'une variante de la station d'assemblage pour la composition de bouchons collés tels que celui montré sur la figure 13,

la figure 15 est une vue en plan schématique de dessus selon la flèche XV de la figure 14.

la figure 16 est un vue latérale de détail, analogue à la figure 2, qui représente notamment une variante des moyens d'alimentation et des moyens d'encollage,

la figure 17 est une vue en perspective partielle, analogue à la figure 6, de la variante de la figure 16,

la figure 18 est une vue en coupe partielle prise dans le plan transversal indiqué par XVIII - XVIII sur la figure 16,

la figure 19 est une vue en élévation partielle selon la flèche XIX de la figure 17, qui montre une transmission d'entraínement en rotation pas à pas d'une roue de transfert à encoches des moyens d'alimentation selon ladite variante, et

la figure 20 est une vue en plan partielle avec arrachements partiels, selon la flèche XX de la figure 16, En faisant référence à la figure 1, une machine pour l'assemblage de bouchons collés comprend en succession, de gauche à droite sur la figure, des moyens d'alimentation 10 en composants destinés à constituer des bouchons collés, une station d'assemblage 12, des moyens de pressage et de transport 14 et une chambre 16 dans laquelle les moyens du pressage et de transport circulent pendant le temps nécessaire pour la prise d'une colle, de laquelle il sera dit plus loin, qui maintiendra unis lesdits composants.

Les moyens d'alimentation 10, dans leur mode de réalisation montré sur les figures 2 à 6, sont conçus pour la composition de bouchons collés comme celui indiqué par S sur la figure 12.The invention will be better clarified by reading the following detailed description, made with reference to the appended drawings, given by way of nonlimiting example and in which:

FIG. 1 is a schematic overall view in side elevation of a machine according to the invention,

FIG. 2 is a detail side view on a larger scale, partially in section in a longitudinal plane, of a machine assembly station, indicated as a whole by arrow II in FIG. 1,

FIG. 3 is a top view of the same assembly station, according to arrow III in FIG. 2,

FIG. 4 is a detail view similar to that of FIG. 2, but partially in section in a different longitudinal plane,

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the area indicated by the arrow V in FIG. 4,

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the zone of the machine, indicated by the arrow VI in FIG. 1, which partly represents the assembly station and partly the pressing and transport means which follow this station,

FIG. 7 is a perspective view which shows the preferred means of applying the adhesive,

FIG. 8 is a view in vertical section of the means for applying the adhesive, taken in the plane indicated by VII-VII in FIG. 7,

FIG. 9 is a schematic side view on a larger scale of the pressing and transport means, which corresponds to the zone indicated as a whole by the arrow IX in FIG. 1,

FIG. 10 is a plan view from above and partially in section of the area of the machine indicated by the arrow X in FIG. 9,

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the pressing and transport means of FIGS. 9 and 10,

Figure 12 is a perspective view of one of the clamps of the pressing and transport means of Figures 9 to 11, in which is also shown a plug bonded with an intermediate body and two end washers, which can be obtained at using an assembly station as shown in FIGS. 2 to 6,

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a plug glued with a lateral body and a pair of end washers,

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a variant of the assembly station for the composition of glued plugs such as that shown in FIG. 13,

FIG. 15 is a schematic plan view from above according to the arrow XV in FIG. 14.

FIG. 16 is a detailed side view, similar to FIG. 2, which represents in particular a variant of the supply means and of the gluing means,

FIG. 17 is a partial perspective view, similar to FIG. 6, of the variant of FIG. 16,

FIG. 18 is a partial section view taken in the transverse plane indicated by XVIII - XVIII in FIG. 16,

FIG. 19 is a partial elevation view along arrow XIX of FIG. 17, which shows a drive transmission in step-by-step rotation of a notched transfer wheel of the supply means according to said variant, and

Figure 20 is a partial plan view with partial cutaway, according to arrow XX of Figure 16, Referring to Figure 1, a machine for the assembly of glued plugs comprises in succession, from left to right in the figure , supply means 10 for components intended to constitute glued plugs, an assembly station 12, pressing and transport means 14 and a chamber 16 in which the pressing and transport means circulate for the time necessary for taking an adhesive, of which it will be said later, which will keep the said components united.

The supply means 10, in their embodiment shown in FIGS. 2 to 6, are designed for the composition of glued plugs like that indicated by S in FIG. 12.

Each of these plugs S comprises a main component intermediate, constituted by a cylindrical body C1, and two additional cylindrical components consisting of C2 washers applied to both end faces of the intermediate body C1.

The intermediate bodies C1 generally have a height greater than 20 mm and the C2 washers generally have a height or thickness equal to or less than 10 mm.

Returning to FIG. 1, the supply means 10 include a feeder, shown schematically in 18, for loading the bodies C1, and a feeder, shown schematically at 20, loading washers C2.

In Figure 1 is also shown schematically in 22 an evacuation transporter on which, as we will see, the stuck plugs S fall off when they are released by the pressing and transport means 14 after setting the glue.

Referring now to Figures 2 to 6, of the feeder 18 of FIG. 1 leaves a conduit gravity feed 24 in body C1, in which the components descend with their radial faces in contact with each other.

The conduit 24 is formed of a first tubular section 26, first vertical and then angled, 90 ° deflection, which leads into a second horizontal section 28, in the form conveyor belt.

The conduit 28 opens laterally into the initial part a central horizontal channel 30 which defines a path advancement of the bodies C1 in the assembly station 12.

From the feeder 20 of FIG. 1, two conduits leave vertical prismatic feeders by gravity 32, parallel and placed side by side, in C2 rings, in which the washers descend with their surfaces of perimeter in contact with each other.

The vertical channels 32 open from above into the initial parts of the horizontal lateral channels 34 respective which flank on each side the central channel 30 and which define the respective progression paths of washers C2 in the assembly station 12.

An initial part of the central channel 30 is located further downstream than the initial parts of the lateral channels 34.

A section of the central channel 30 between its part initial and the initial parts of the lateral channels 34 are associated with glue applicator means, indicated overall by 36, to apply glue to both radial faces of each intermediate body C1.

A preferred embodiment of the applicator means of glue 36 will be described later with reference to Figures 7 and 8.

For the moment it will suffice to say that the means glue applicators 36 are supplied by pipes 38 from a source of fluid adhesive (not shown), and that, in the embodiment of the Figures 2 to 6, these glue applicator means 36 are located on both sides of the central channel 30 in a position fixed such that they apply the adhesive by contact to both opposite radial faces of the intermediate body C1 while that these faces pass to the right of these applicator means glue 36.

The means for supplying body C1 comprises a prismatic pusher 40 capable of moving horizontally back and forth in the central channel 30 and driven by a reciprocating linear actuator 42, preferably pneumatic.

The pusher 40 each time engages the body C1 which is arrived in the initial part of central channel 30, in order to push the line of bodies C1 which is in front of him.

The C2 washer supply means include, for each lateral channel 34, a respective pusher 44, likely to move horizontally back and forth in the respective side channel 34.

As is better represented in FIGS. 4 and 5, each pusher 44 is driven by a linear actuator common back and forth 46, preferably pneumatic, and each time engages the respective C2 washer which is arrival in the initial part of the lateral canal 34 correspondent, in order to push the respective line of C2 washers in front of him.

As shown in particular in FIGS. 4 and 5, the rod of the common actuator 46, which is located below the central channel 30, is made integral with the two pushers side 44 by a transverse plate 48. The pushers lateral 44 are fixed to the lateral edges of the plate 48 and flank on both sides the central channel 30.

Each lateral pusher 44 is constituted by an element dish having a square shape, with a vertical branch 50, fixed to the corresponding lateral edge of the plate 48, and with a horizontal branch 52 which extends forward (to the right in Figures 4 and 5).

The two actuators 42 and 46 are driven back and forth in synchronism so that an intermediate body C1 and two opposite side bodies C2 arrive at the same time, with their axes aligned, at a final end of the channels 30 and 34, corresponding to a transfer area, from the assembly means 12, by means of pressing and transport 14, which will be described in detail later.

On the way to the final end of the central canal 30, the two opposite radial faces of the intermediate body C1 receive glue applicator means 36 a sufficient glue to immediately secure wetting of these faces and then that of the faces of the two washers C2.

Towards the final ends of the central channels 30 and lateral 34 and downstream of the adhesive applying means 36, guide means are provided in the form of blades converging 56 in order to bring together, under the pressure of pushers 40, 44 and after applying the glue, the three components C1, C2 to be brought together, until almost bringing contact their radial faces to glue, to form thus a unit, indicated by U in FIGS. 3 and 4, having the composition of the plug S of FIG. 12, but in which glue has not yet set.

Reference will now be made in a specific manner in Figures 7 and 8 to describe the preferred means of glue application indicated as a whole by 36 in Figures 2 to 6.

The glue applicator means 36 each have a cylindrical glue roller 58.

In FIGS. 2 to 6 the glue applicator means 36 are duplicated and placed side by side, each with a roller 58 to apply the adhesive at the same time two opposite radial faces of successive bodies C1.

On each roller 58, which rotates around a vertical axis, is associated with an adhesive dispenser body 60.

In Figure 7 the distributor body 60 has been shown in a false position in which he is removed from the roller 58, in order to make visible a contact face 62 with roller 58.

The distributor body 60 is equipped with a lateral arm 64 by which it is pivotally mounted on an axis vertical 66.

A pin spring 68 is provided to recall the body 60 in a direction such that said contact face 62 is kept pressed elastically against the surface peripheral of the glue roller 58,

The distributor body 60 has an interior cavity, indicated overall by 70, which through pipe 38, is connected to the source of fluid adhesive.

The contact face 62 has a window 72 which communicates with the cavity 70 to yield the glue to the roller surface 58.

Each glue roller 58 is arranged in such a way that it is licked tangentially by the radial face corresponding of each of the C1 bodies which must be coated with glue.

Preferably, as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the peripheral surface of the glue roller 58 has a regular arrangement of cells 74 to promote the transfer of the adhesive from the surface of the roller 58 to the radial side to be coated.

The elasticity of cork or other elastic material, which tends to recover its volume after its compression by the roller 58, produces a pumping effect due to the compression of the fluid adhesive inside the cells 74. This ensures that the glue penetrates into the micro-cavities of the surface of the body C1, to any advantage of future adhesion.

Also preferably, as shown in the figure 8, the interior cavity 70 of the distributor body 60 is formed as a U-shaped siphon whose first branch 76 is connected to pipe 38 and a second branch of which is defined jointly by a bottom wall of window 72 and by the peripheral surface of the glue roller 58.

In an upper part of the distributor body is formed a well 78, which communicates by a narrowed conduit 80 with the top of the second branch 72 and in which finds an electrical sensor 82 for the presence of glue fluid in well 78.

If during the operation of the machine the fluid adhesive is missing in well 78, this means that the glue roller 58 is not restocked correctly of glue and the sensor 82 then emits a signal which causes the machine to stop.

On a side of the distributor body 60 is a channel vertical 84 in which the excess fluid adhesive, which overflows from well 78 under normal conditions, descends in a suitable receptacle (not shown) to be pumped back into the tank.

Preferably, each glue roller 58 is driven in rotation by a gear motor (not shown), at a peripheral speed slightly lower than that of the body C1 intermediate reached at the time of its passage through the roller under the push of the central pusher 40 of the figures 2 to 6.

Also preferably, the glue roller 58 is rotated by means of a freewheel (not shown), interposed between the gear motor and the roller.

This last characteristic has the advantage that glue rollers 56 can adjust their speed by exact match with that of body passage intermediate C1, thanks to the freedom offered by said freewheel.

Reference will be made now again to the figure 2 to describe some preferred features that the machine present in the means transfer area assembly 12 to the pressing and transport means 14.

The central channel 30 is equipped (as are also the lateral channels 34) of a spaced upper wall 86 components C1 (or C2) which advance in the channel.

As long as the components C1 (or C2) are cylindrical, under the push of their pushers they tend to roll not only on the bottom of the canal but also on each the others, that is to say overlapping.

To counter this trend it may be enough to provide an upper wall like that indicated by 86.

Preferably, to better counter the overlap the upper wall 86 is equipped with a series of mustaches elastic 88 directed obliquely downwards and towards the front, which rub on the components C1 (or C2) and, during the advancement of these, press them on the bottom of the canal to an extent sufficient to prevent them from overlap.

Referring now to Figures 2, 3 and 6 to 11, we will describe the means of pressing and transport indicated by 14 in Figure 1.

The pressing and transport means 14 comprise a double motorized conveyor chain 90 with closed circuit which carries a plurality of equidistant clamps 92, one which are shown in detail in Figure 12.

Referring to Figure 12, each clamp 92 includes a fixed jaw 94 and a movable jaw 96.

The movable jaw 96 is sliding on a crosspiece 98 and is returned to the fixed jaw 94 by a spring helical compression 100, at a position like that of figure 12, which corresponds to the tightening of a unit compound U intended to become a glued stopper S.

Preferably, the movable jaw 96 is equipped with a plastic pad or wedge 102 which is interchangeable with other similar buffers of different thicknesses to adapt the pliers to caps of different heights.

The movable jaw 96 is equipped with a stop in the form of spout 104 whose function will be clarified below.

The double chain 90 is circulated at constant speed from a common electric motor 106, according to a winding route, in circulation chamber 16 for the time required to set the glue.

The glue can be polyurethane, in which case the room 16 is heated to a temperature suitable for polymerization.

In the area adjacent to the assembly station 90 the double chain is returned by a double toothed wheel 108 corresponding.

The double toothed wheel 108 is driven by a movement of intermittent unidirectional rotation from the motor 106 through, in order, a transmission to chain 110, a transverse shaft 112, a unit of intermittent rotation 114 with parallel axes, of a type known, a toothed belt transmission 116 and a transverse shaft 118 on which the two wheels are fixed 108.

Said intermittent rotational movement has the purpose of making park each clamp 92 in a position for taking a compound unit which is in the position indicated by U in Figures 3 and 4.

Referring to Figures 9 and 11, in two branches opposites of the double chain circuit are incorporated respective return wheels 120, which are forced to move towards each other and in the opposite direction, to allow the passage of the double chain 90 of the condition continuous movement (right part of figure 9) to that intermittent movement (left part Figure 9) and Conversely.

Referring to Figures 2, 4 and 6, the channels 30, 34 have a bottom wall 122 which ends in an included area between the jaws of the pliers 92 which are on the right of these channels.

In this terminal area, the bottom wall is not surmounted by the upper wall 86, in order to allow the clamps 92 to lift up the compound unit U which is in this area because the return wheels 108 rotate intermittently according to arrow F of the figure 2.

Channels 30 and 34 are fitted with a transverse wall fixed stop 124 which extends upwards between the gripper jaws 92 from the sampling area, to prevent the compound unit U from advancing beyond the area between them.

Since in said terminal area, in the absence of a whatever expedient, the compound unit U could rise undesirably under the push of the C1 bodies which follow, before it is gripped by a jaw 92 for its removal, preferably a stop is provided 126, which is located above the terminal part channels 30 and 34.

The stop 126 is capable of moving vertically at back and forth to the right of the space between the jaws of clamps 92 and is driven by a linear actuator 128 synchronized, so that the stop 126 is lowered, as in Figures 2 and 4, in the position where it is engaged by said compound unit U to prevent that this lifts until when it has not been seized by the corresponding clamp 92.

Once the compound unit U has been entered, the actuator 128 raises the stop 126 by removing it from the this unit U which, being transported by the clamp 92, leaves the assembly station 12.

Referring to Figures 6, 10 and 11, will now be describes a cam mechanism, indicated as a whole by 130, for controlling the opening and closing movements pliers 92.

This mechanism includes a cam 132 with a front track which is likely to perform a back and forth angular movement coaxial with the double deflection wheel 108.

The back and forth angular movements of the cam 132 are ordered with suitable synchronism from common engine 106 through a specified mechanism as a whole by 134.

This mechanism 134 includes a driving eccentric cam 136 wedged on the transverse shaft 112, a push rod 138 driven back and forth by the driving cam 136 and a driven crank 140, angularly driven back and forth by the rod 138 and secured to the front cam 132.

As is better represented in FIGS. 3 and 10, the double wheel of the reference 108 is equipped with follower rods 142 capable of sliding parallel to the axis of the wheels 108 and each of which is fitted with a probe 144 that a corresponding spring 146 maintains in contact with the front track of cam 132.

Each of the follower rods 142 is provided with a stop in beak shape 148 (Figure 3) which is likely to be engaged by thrust in turn by a stop 104 corresponding to one of the movable jaws 96.

The beak shapes of the stops 104, 148 ensure that their engagement happen with certainty.

The track of cam 132 has a track portion in relief to move in turn, through stops 104, 148, the movable jaw 96 in the direction of the opening of the clamp 92 which is about to arrive at from the bottom to the assembly station 12, in order to release a composite cap S after setting the glue and drop on the evacuation conveyor 22 (figure 1).

Thus also, the cam 132 has a track portion lowered to allow each clamp 92 to close under the action of its spring 100, in order to capture a compound unit U which is located to the right of the station assembly 12 and the conveyor.

FIG. 13 shows a glued stopper T which comprises, in succession, a main lateral component constituted by a cylindrical body C3 and two additional components consisting of a pair of contiguous washers, one intermediate C4 and the other end C5.

This type of glued stopper T is particularly intended for corking bottles of sparkling wines or cider bottles.

Figures 14 and 15 show a variant of the only assembly station of a machine for the assembly of glued plugs, like the one illustrated in figure 13.

In Figures 14 and 15 the parts of the station assembly, indicated as a whole by 212, which are equal or similar to those of the assembly station 12, are indicated as far as possible by the same numbers reference increased by 200, with the addition of suffixes alphabetical when necessary.

It should be noted that the tightening and transport, which are only shown in small part on the Figures 14 and 15, are the same which have been described previously, and they will not be described a second time.

The assembly station 212 is powered by gravity by respective down conduits which originate respective feeders, such as those indicated schematically at 18 and 20 in Figure 1.

From one of these feeders comes a prismatic conduit vertical 224 to feed it with washers intermediaries C4 an initial part of a central channel horizontal 230.

From another feeder, containing the cylindrical bodies C3, leaves a tubular conduit 232, quite similar to the conduit 24 of Figures 2 to 4, but which opens on one side of a lateral channel 234a.

Yet another feeder leaves a prismatic conduit vertical 226 to feed with end washers C5 an initial part of another lateral horizontal channel 234b, located on the outer side of the central canal horizontal 230 where the intermediate washers are housed C4.

The initial part of the central channel 230 is located further upstream with respect to the initial parts of the lateral channels 234a, 234b.

The glue applicator means 236, which is entirely similar to the applicator means 36 already described, are associated with central channel 230 to apply glue to two radial faces of the intermediate washers C4.

The means for supplying lateral bodies C3 and C4 end washers include, for each channel lateral 234a, 234b, a common pusher 244, which comprises two pairs of appendages projecting forward, 244a, 244b, which play the role of pushers properly said and its sized to engage and push in forward at the same time, in the horizontal conduits respective 234a, 234b, both the last of the bodies lateral C3, from the lateral outlet of the conduit 232, than the last of the C5 end washers, from lower outlet of conduit 226.

Pusher 244 is driven back and forth by a linear actuator 246, preferably pneumatic.

By 240 is indicated a central sword-shaped pusher, which is driven back and forth by a central actuator 242 and which is likely to move in a canal central 230.

A section of the central canal 230 which is immediately upstream of the glue applicator means 236, is defined by a horizontal platform 250 on which rests a centering pliers 252 with branches 254 directed towards the applicator means 236 and whose movements opening and closing are controlled by a actuator, not shown.

The vertical supply pipe 224 in washers intermediaries C4 leads to branches 254 of the clamp 252.

The sword-shaped pusher 240 is driven back and forth by the actuator 242 in synchronism with the pusher 244, all in such a way that the branches 254 grab at each time a lower C4 washer, which rests on the platform 250, to ensure that it is vertical, after what the pusher 240 advances between the branches 254 and push the lower washer C4 passing it between the glue applicator means 236, while the the following C4 washer rests on the pusher 240.

Then, the pusher 240 moves back and the clamp 252 is moved aside temporarily to receive this next C4 washer, which descends on platform 250.

In this case also, downstream of the outlets of the conduits 226 and 232 are provided converging guide means 256 to bring C3 components closer to one another, C4, C5 to be brought together, until bringing almost into contact with each other with the others their radial faces to be glued.

Reference will now be made to Figures 16 to 20 for describe a variant of the supply means and sizing means, this variant being applied, as nonlimiting, progression and body gluing intermediaries such as those indicated by C1.

In FIGS. 16 to 20, parts similar to those of supply and gluing means of FIGS. 1 to 6 are indicated as much as possible by the same numbers reference increased by 300, with the addition of suffixes alphabetical if necessary.

Referring first to Figures 16 and 17, a machine for assembling glued plugs, which include an intermediate cylindrical body C1 e two opposite end washers C2, has a channel horizontal central which includes an upstream part 330a and a downstream portion 330b, better visible in FIG. 20, at which will be referred to later.

A gravity supply duct 324 in body C1, similar to the conduit 24 of Figures 3, 4 and 6, opens laterally in the upstream part 330a of the central channel.

Between the upstream parts 330a and downstream 330b east interposed a transfer wheel 400 which has on its around a series of radial notches 402 angularly equidistant.

The wheel 400 is rotated step by step, around a horizontal axis, transverse to the channel central 330a, 330b, by a transmission which will be described further on with reference to Figure 19.

In the upstream part 330a of the central channel is arranged a upstream prismatic pusher 340a, similar to pusher 40 Figures 3, 4 and 6 and likely to move horizontally, being driven back and forth by a linear actuator 342 analogous to actuator 42 of Figures 3, 4 and 6.

The transfer wheel 400 is rotated step by step not in synchronism with the back and forth movements of the upstream pusher 340a, so that a body intermediate C1, which the upstream pusher 340a removes by its thrust from the outlet of the central channel 324, be received at each time in one of the notches 402 of the wheel transfer 400.

The intermediate bodies C1 are thus transferred step by step and in succession from the upstream portion 340a to the portion downstream 340b from the central canal.

In their journey from the upstream part 340a to the part downstream 340b, the central bodies C1, inserted in the notches 402 of the transfer wheel 400, pass through glue applicator means, indicated as a whole by 336 and located towards the top of the course of the bodies C1 intermediates in the transfer wheel 400, which apply a layer of glue to the two radial faces end of each intermediate body C1.

An embodiment of the adhesive applicator means 336, preferred for the variant of FIGS. 16 to 20, will be described later.

The downstream part 330b of the central channel is associated with minus a downstream pusher, indicated by 340b in the figure 20.

For now it will suffice to say that the downstream pusher 340b moves back and forth in synchronism with the upstream pusher 340a and with transfer wheel 400 for expel each time from a notch 402 a body intermediate C1, the two end faces of which have been coated with glue by means 336, and introduce this body C1, with a pair of end washers C2, between the jaws of a pending clamp 392, which is part pressing and transport means 314 analogous to pressing and transport means 14 of FIGS. 9 to 12, this clamp 392 preferably being identical to the clamps 92 of these 14 means.

The clamp 392 is carried by a double motorized chain 390 closed circuit carrying a plurality of clamps equidistant 392, as in the embodiment of the figure 6.

As in this embodiment, the 390 chain is returned on a double gear 408 corresponding, animated by a rotational movement intermittent one-way to park each clamp 392 in a gripping position of a compound unit U.

We will now refer to Figure 19 to describe the transmission of drive in step-by-step rotation of the transfer wheel 400.

The transfer wheel 400 is rotated step by step not, from the shaft 410 of the double toothed wheel 408, by a transmission which includes a toothed belt 412, a driving toothed pulley 414, wedged on the shaft 410, and a driven toothed pulley 416, wedged on a shaft 418 on which is also chocked the transfer wheel 400.

Returning to Figures 16 and 17, as in the realization of FIGS. 2 to 6, of a feeder, similar to the feeder 20 of FIG. 1, two conduits leave 332 vertical prismatics (also visible on the figure 18), parallel and placed side by side, feed by gravity into C2 end washers, in which these washers descend with their surfaces perimeter in contact with each other.

Referring to Figure 20, the vertical channels 332 open from above into the initial parts of the canals respective horizontal sides 334, which flank each side the downstream part 330b of the central channel and which define respective paths for advancement of washers C2 towards the clamps 392 of the pressing means and transport 314.

The arrangement of the downstream part 330b of the central canal and side channels 334 is quite analogous to that channels 30 and 34 in Figure 3. In particular, the channels 330b and 334 are separated by longitudinal partitions 335 in the form of blades and the channels 334 are delimited at outside by longitudinal side walls under shape of converging blades 356 whose purpose is still a times to bring closer, under the push of the pushers downstream 330b, which will be better explained below, and after applying the glue, the three components C1, C2 to reunite, until almost bringing their faces into contact radials to be bonded, thus forming a unit, again indicated by U in Figures 17 and 20, having the composition of the plug S of FIG. 12, but in which glue has not yet set.

At the downstream part 330b of the central canal and at the two canals side 334 are associated with respective pushers for push a compound unit U, comprising a central body C1 and two end washers C2, in a clamp 392 in waiting.

Preferably, the two downstream pushers, indicated by 340b in Figure 20, are in a couple with a pair of 344 side lifters having the same function as the pushers 44 of Figures 4 and 5, to advance at the same time each central body C1 and its end washers C2 in the lateral channels 334 in order to introduce them in same time, in the form of a compound unit U, in the pliers 392. Also preferably, as shown in the figures 16 and 20, each downstream pusher 340b and each pusher lateral 344 is part of a flat element 345 having a square shape, just like the lateral pushers 44 of the Figures 4 and 5.

Each 345 square element includes a branch vertical 350 and a horizontal branch 352 which extends to pliers 392.

The horizontal branch 352 preferably consists of an insert made of a plastic material resistant to wear.

As can be seen in Figure 20, each horizontal branch 352 has a longitudinal slot 353 thanks to which it is divided into two parts constituting, respectively, one of the downstream pushers 340b and one of the side pushers 344.

The longitudinal slot 353 allows each branch horizontal 352 to receive, between its two parts 340b and 344, the corresponding partition 335.

The layout is such that the horizontal branches 352 constituting the downstream pushers 340b and the pushers 344 are likely to engage, at the same time, respectively, a central body C1 and two washers C2 opposite ends which, coming from their channels vertical 332 respective, arose on the bottom of their respective horizontal channels 334.

Also, each time the four pushbuttons 340b and 344 advance (to the right in Figures 16 and 18), they grow a whole compound unit U (see also Figures 3 and 4) and introduce it into a clamp 392 in waiting.

Reference will now be made to Figures 16 and 20 for describe a preferred arrangement of the two angled elements 345 which include the two downstream pushers 340b and the two side lifters 344.

A horizontal rod 420 is attached to the machine frame on which a sleeve 421 is slidably mounted on which a collar 422 is formed.

The collar 422 has a pair of tangential grooves opposite 423, only one of which is visible on the figure 16.

The grooves 423 constitute respective housings in which are fixed the vertical branches of the elements square 345.

A lower part of the vertical branch 350 of each angled element 345 is hinged to the stem of a 346 linear reciprocating actuator, analogous to the actuator 46 of FIGS. 4 and 5.

The four pushbuttons 340b and 344 are therefore integral with the from each other, as well as from the socket 424.

Thus, the four pushbuttons 340b and 344 are driven to back and forth by actuator 346 to push each time a unit U, i.e. the whole of a central body C1 and two end washers C2, between the jaws pliers 392 pending.

An elastic pad 424 is provided around the rod 420 to absorb the shocks that could occur during push backs (to the left in Figure 16).

To keep the pushers 340b, 344 in the position angular suitable so that their horizontal branches 352 can engage at the same time with certainty too the central body C1 as well as the two end washers C2 of a compound unit U, without interfering with the longitudinal partitions 335, vertical branches 350 angle elements 345 bear, close to their horizontal branches 352, a shoe in the form of a 426 self-lubricating plastic tablet and wear-resistant, which rubs against the wheel 400 and prevents square elements 345 and their pushers 340b, 344 to pivot around the rod 420.

Referring again to Figures 16-18, as well that in FIG. 20, the glue applicator means 336 include a pair of 428 movable slides horizontally towards each other and in opposite directions under the action of respective linear actuators 430.

A device is attached to each of the 428 slides sizing machine 432, known per se. Each of the two devices opposite glueers 432 comprises a box 434 making, among others, glue tank office, which, as well as shown in figure 18, communicates with the outside at through a 436 glue applicator pad made of a material porous, preferably consisting of a pellet of a sintered metal.

The glue contained in the housing 434 is thermostatically controlled.

Thanks to the 430 actuators, which are synchronized with the step-by-step rotation movements of the transfer wheel 400, the two gluing devices 432 and their buffers 436 are moved towards each other each time a body central C1 is at a standstill between buffers 436, and these apply a layer of fluid glue to both end faces of the body C1.

Par 438 are indicated flexible hoses coming from a source of fluid adhesive and which feed the tanks 434 with this.

In the case of the sizing devices 432, it has been found advantageous to use, in tanks 434, an adhesive in fusion, likely to solidify by cooling.

In this case the circulation chamber 16 of FIG. 1 may not be necessary and the double chain 390 may have a very short closed circuit and be animated possibly intermittent movement all along this course.

A machine according to the invention lends itself to an order programmed electronics of all its motors and actuators, with the possibility of using a program capable of self-learning.

The invention is not limited to the embodiments described and illustrated by way of example.

Also, while it has been described in its application to the assembly of glued plugs which include a body and two washers, it is applicable to the assembly of caps which include a body and a single washer.

Claims (27)

1. A machine for assembling glued corks, which corks include a main cylindrical component (C1; C3) and at least one additional cylindrical component (C2; C4, C5) glued together by their abutting radial faces, said machine including means (10) for supplying an assembly station (12; 212) successively with the components, and in which machine the assembly station (12; 212) comprises adhesive applicator means (36; 236; 336) for coating with a liquid adhesive the face or faces to be glued of one of the components (C1; C4), and means (56; 256) for bringing into contact the adhesive-coated face or each of the adhesive-coated faces with the corresponding face of the other component or components, and also including pressing and conveying means (14; 314) comprising clamps (92) for mutually pressing together the components thus joined to form respective composite units (U), removing these units from the assembly station (12; 212) and keeping them pressed together for the time required for the adhesive to set, characterised in that:

   the supply means (10) are designed to feed the main components (C1; C3) and the additional components (C2; C4, C5) successively and in synchronism to the assembly station (12; 212) along respective horizontal feed channels (30, 34; 230, 234a, 234b; 330a, 330b, 334) situated side by side and substantially parallel in an arrangement wherein the radial faces of two or more components to be glued together to form a glued cork (S; T) are mutually facing and mutually spaced apart and the axes of the components are horizontal and mutually aligned;

   the adhesive applicator means (36; 236; 336) are disposed alongside one of the feed paths in a fixed position so that they apply the adhesive by contact to at least one radial face to be glued of one of the components (C1; C4) while this face passes through the applicator means;

   in a portion of the feed paths between the adhesive applicator means (36; 236; 336) and the pressing and conveying means (14; 314) there are provided guiding means (56; 256) for mutually bringing together the components (C1, C2; C3, C4, C5) to be joined until the radial faces to be glued are brought substantially into mutual contact; and

   the pressing and conveying means (14; 314) are designed to grasp the composite units (U) one after the other by a horizontal pressing motion when the said units have arrived between the jaws of the clamps (92; 392).
2. A machine according to claim 1, characterised in that it is designed for the assembly of glued corks including one interposed component (C1; C4) and two end components (C2; C3, C5), in that the said machine includes three feed paths arranged side by side in the form of channels (30, 34; 230, 234a, 234b; 330a, 330b, 334), each of which receives in succession the respective components at one initial end, and of which the central channel (30; 230; 330a, 330b) can accommodate the interposed components (C1; C4) and the two side channels (34; 234a, 234b; 334) can accommodate the respective end components (C2; C3, C5), in that an initial portion of the central channel (30; 230) is disposed further upstream of the initial portions of the side channels (34; 234a, 234b), and in that there is combined with a portion of the central channel path, between its initial portion and the initial portions of the side channels (34; 234a, 234b; 334), the adhesive applicator means (36; 236; 336) for the purpose of applying the adhesive to the two radial faces of the interposed component (C1; C4).
3. A machine according to claim 2, characterised in that it comprises a gravity supply tube (24; 232; 332) for the main components (C1; C3), in which tube these components are fed with their radial faces in mutual contact, and which tube consists of a first tubular length (26), initially vertical and then elbowed with a 90° bend, and a second horizontal length (28) in the form of a channel which opens sideways into an initial portion of the horizontal feed channel (30; 234a; 330a) for the main components.
4. A machine according to claim 2 or 3, characterised in that it comprises vertical gravity supply tubes (32; 224, 226; 326) for discs (C2; C4, C5), in which tubes the discs fall with their circumferential surfaces in mutual contact, and which tubes open from above into the respective horizontal feed channels (34; 230, 234b; 334) for the discs.
5. A machine according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the component supply means comprise, for each horizontal feed channel (30, 34; 230, 234a, 234b), a respective push member (40, 44; 240, 244) capable of moving horizontally in a reciprocating motion and driven by a linear actuator (42, 46; 242, 246), which push member engages on each occasion the respective component (C1, C2; C3, C4, C5) that has arrived in the initial portion of the component feed channel in order to push the line of components disposed in front of the said component, and in that the movements of the push members are synchronised with the pressing movements of the clamps (92; 392) of the pressing and conveying means (14) in such a way that pressing occurs each time that a composite unit (U) consisting of the joined components (C1, C2; C3, C4, C5) arrives between the jaws of a clamp (92; 392).
6. A machine according to claim 5, characterised in that the feed channels (30, 34) are provided with an upper wall (86) which is spaced apart from the components being fed along the channel.
7. A machine according to claim 6, characterised in that the upper wall (86) is provided with a series of flexible flaps (88) which extend obliquely downwards and forwards and which brush over the components to prevent them from overlapping.
8. A machine according to claim 6 or 7, characterised in that the feed channels (30, 34) have a lower wall (122) which ends in an area between the jaws of the clamps (92) and is not surmounted by the upper wall (86), to permit the upward removal by the clamps (92) of the composite unit (U) located in this area, and in that the said channels (30, 34) are provided with a dead-stop transverse wall (124) to prevent the said composite unit (U) from being fed beyond the area between the jaws of the clamps.
9. A machine according to claim 8, characterised in that it comprises a stop (126) disposed above the said lower wall (122) in the area not surmounted by the upper wall (86), the said stop (126) being capable of moving vertically in a reciprocating motion on a line with the gap between the jaws of the clamps (92) and being driven by a linear actuator (128) synchronised so that the stop is lowered in the position in which it is engaged by the said composite unit (U) to prevent the said unit from rising before it has been grasped by the clamp (92), after which the stop (126) is lifted again out of the path of the composite unit (U), which unit, being conveyed by the clamp, leaves the assembly station.
10. A machine according to any one of claims 2 to 9, characterised in that it is designed for the assembly of glued corks (S) which include one main interposed component or body (C1) and two additional components consisting of discs (C2) applied to two end faces of the main component (C1), in that the central channel (30; 330a, 330b) can accommodate the main components (C1) and the two side channels (34; 334) can accommodate the discs (C2), and in that the adhesive applicator means (36; 336) are combined with the central channel (30; 330a, 330b) for the purpose of applying the adhesive to the two radial faces of the main component (C1).
11. A machine according to any one of claims 2 to 9, characterised in that it is designed for the assembly of glued corks (T) which successively include a main component or body (C3) and two additional components consisting of a pair of abutting discs (C4, C5), the one (C4) an interposed disc and the other (C5) an end disc, in that the central channel (230) can accommodate the interposed discs (C4) and, of the two side channels (234a, 234b), the one (234a) can accommodate the main components (C3) and the other (234b) can accommodate the end discs, and in that the adhesive applicator means (236) are combined with the central channel (230) for the purpose of applying the adhesive to the two radial faces of the interposed discs (C4).
12. A machine according to claim 11, characterised in that a length of the central channel (230) located immediately upstream of the adhesive applicator means (236) is defined by a horizontal platform (250) whereon rests a centring clamp (252) which has arms (254) directed towards the adhesive applicator means (236) and the opening and closing movements of which are controlled, in that the vertical supply tube (224) for interposed discs (C4) opens out on a line with the arms (254) of the clamp (252), and in that the corresponding push member (240) is a sword-shaped member driven in reciprocating motion in synchronism with push members (244a, 244b) matching the main bodies (C3) and the end discs (C5), respectively, the opening and closing movements of the clamp (252) being such that the arms (254) on each occasion grasp a lowermost disc (C4) to ensure that it is vertical before the sword-shaped push member (240) moves forward between the arms (254) and pushes the lowermost disc, causing it to pass between the adhesive applicator means (236) while the next disc rests on the sword-shaped push member, after which the sword-shaped push member (240) retracts and the clamp (252) spreads apart to accept this next disc which has fallen onto the platform (250).
13. A machine according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that it comprises a motorised closed-loop double conveyor chain (90; 390) supporting a plurality of equidistant clamps (92; 392), in that, on a line with the assembly station (12), the double chain (90; 392) is returned by a matching toothed double return wheel (108; 408) driven by an intermittent unidirectional rotational movement in order to station each clamp (92; 392) in a position where it can take up a composite unit (U), and in that there is combined with the double return wheel (108; 408) a cam mechanism (130) controlling the opening and closing movements of the clamps (92).
14. A machine according to claim 13, characterised in that each clamp (92) comprises one stationary jaw (94) and one movable jaw (96) which is returned towards the stationary jaw by a spring (100), in that the movable jaw (96) is provided with a stop (104), in that it comprises a cam (132) having a frontal track which is driven in an angular reciprocating motion coaxially with the double return wheel (108), in that the double return wheel (108) is provided with follower rods (142) that are slidable in parallel with the axis of the wheels (108), each of the said rods being provided with a sensor (144) which is kept in contact with the track of the cam (132) by means of 'a corresponding spring (146), the said rods also being provided with a stop (148) which can be pressure-engaged on each occasion by the matching stop (104) of a movable jaw (96), in that the track of the cam (132) has a raised portion of track for the purpose of moving, on each occasion, a movable jaw (96) in the direction in which the clamp (92) opens when it is about to arrive at the assembly station (12) in order to release a glued cork (S) after the adhesive has set, and a lowered portion of track to permit closing of the clamp (92) by the action of the spring (100) for the purpose of grasping a composite unit (U) located at the end of the assembly station (12).
15. A machine according to claim 14, characterised in that it comprises a common motor (106) which controls the circulation, at constant speed, of the double chain (90) in the portion thereof which does not match the said double return wheel (108) and which, by the interposition of respective mechanisms (114, 134), controls in a synchronised manner the intermittent unidirectional rotational movement of the double chain wheel (108) and the angular reciprocating motion of the cam (132), and in that two opposite arms of the double chain loop (90) incorporate respective return wheels (120) capable of moving towards each other and in the opposite direction to enable the double chain (90) to pass from the continuous-motion state to the intermittent-motion state and vice versa.
16. A machine according to any one of claims 13 to 15, characterised in that it comprises a circulation chamber (16) wherein the double chain (90) circulates at constant speed along a winding path for the time required for the adhesive to set.
17. A machine according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the adhesive applicator means (36; 236) include a cylindrical adhesive-spreading roller (58), which rotates about a vertical axis, and an adhesive-distributing body (60) with an interior cavity (70) joined to a source of liquid adhesive, and with a contact face (62) which bears against the peripheral surface of the adhesive-spreading roller (58), this contact face having a window (72) which communicates with the cavity (70) to enable the adhesive to pass onto the surface of the adhesive-spreading roller (58), the adhesive-spreading roller being arranged in such a way that it is tangentially swept by the corresponding radial face of the component (C1) that is to be coated with adhesive.
18. A machine according to claim 17, characterised in that the peripheral surface of the adhesive-spreading roller (58) has a regular arrangement of openings (74).
19. A machine according to claim 17 or 18, characterised in that there is combined with the distributor body (60) a spring (68) arranged in such a way that it keeps the said contact face (62) resiliently pressed against the peripheral surface of the adhesive-spreading roller (58).
20. A machine according to any one of claims 17 to 19, characterised in that the interior cavity (70) of the distributor body (60) is made like a U-shaped trap, a first arm of which (76) is connected to the container and a second arm of which is jointly defined by a lower wall of the window (72) and the peripheral surface of the adhesive-spreading roller (58), and in that there is made in an upper portion of the distributor body (60) a well (78), which communicates via a narrow tube (80) with the top end of the second arm and in which well there is located a sensor (82) that senses the presence of the liquid adhesive in the well (78).
21. A machine according to claim 20, characterised in that the adhesive-spreading roller (58) is rotated at a peripheral speed slightly lower than that attained by the interposed body (C1) at the time it passes through the roller.
22. A machine according to claim 21, characterised in that the adhesive-spreading roller (58) is rotated by a motor by the interposition of a free wheel between the motor and the roller.
23. A machine according to any one of claims 5 to 16, characterised in that the central channel includes an upstream portion (330a) and a downstream portion (330b) between which portions there is interposed a transfer wheel (400) having angularly equidistant radial notches (402), the said wheel being rotated stepwise about a through-going shaft relative to this channel and in synchronism with the reciprocating motion of an upstream push member (340), the notches (402) of the wheel (400) receiving an interposed component (C1) on each occasion from the upstream push member (340) and on each occasion transferring this interposed component (C1) to the downstream portion (330b) of the central channel, in that there is combined with this downstream portion (330b) of the central channel at least one downstream push member (340b) moving in reciprocating motion in synchronism with the upstream push member (340) and with the transfer wheel (400) to remove, on each occasion, an interposed component (C1) from a notch (402) of the wheel (400) and to insert it between the jaws of a waiting clamp (392), and in that the adhesive applicator means (336) include a pair of mutually facing adhesive-spreading devices (432) which are disposed on each side of the path of the notches (402) and each of which comprises an adhesive applicator pad (436) controlled to make a reciprocating motion in synchronism with the stepwise rotational movements of the transfer wheel (400), the two mutually facing pads (436) being moved towards each other each time that an interposed component (C1) is located between these pads, in order to apply the adhesive to the two opposite faces thereof.
24. A machine according to claim 23, characterised in that it comprises a pair of downstream push members (340b) for the purpose of expelling each interposed component from a notch (402) of the transfer wheel (400), these downstream push members (340b) being disposed on the two sides of the transfer wheel (400), and also a pair of side push members (344) disposed on the two sides of the downstream push members (340b) for the purpose of feeding the end components (C2) forward in the side channels (334) and inserting them into the clamps (392) at the same time as the interposed component (C1), the downstream push members (340b) and the side push members (344) being mutually rigidly joined and being driven in a reciprocating motion by a common linear actuator (346).
25. A machine according to claim 24, characterised in that the side channels (344) and the downstream portion (330b) of the central channel are separated by longitudinal partitions (335) and the side channels (344) are outwardly defined by converging longitudinal side walls (356), in that each downstream push member (340b) and each side push member (344) forms part of a flat element (345) having an angle-iron shape which includes a vertical arm (350) and a horizontal arm (352) extending towards the clamps (392), and in that each horizontal arm (352) has a longitudinal aperture (353) by which the said arm is divided into two portions forming one of the downstream push members (340b) and one of the side push members (344), respectively, the said longitudinal aperture (353) enabling each horizontal arm (352) to receive, between the two portions thereof (340b, 344), the corresponding partition, and the four downstream (340b) and side (344) push members being capable of engaging, respectively and simultaneously, the interposed (C1) and end (C2) components of the successive composite units (U) for the purpose of pushing them into the clamps (392).
26. A machine according to claim 25, characterised in that the two angle iron elements (345) are supported by a stationary horizontal rod (420), on which is slidably mounted a sleeve (421) on which a collar (422) is formed and to which the vertical arms (350) of the two angle iron elements (345) are rigidly connected, in that a lower portion of the vertical arm (350) of each angle iron element (345) is pivotably connected to the rod of a linear actuator (346) in order to drive in simultaneous reciprocating motion the two angle iron elements (345) and the four push members (340b, 344) thereof, in that the sleeve (421) and the collar (422) thereof and the two angle iron elements (345) are pivotable about the stationary rod (420), and in that, in order to keep the angle iron elements (345) in the appropriate angular position to enable their horizontal arms (352) reliably to engage simultaneously both the central component (C1) and the two end components (C2), respectively, of a composite unit (U), the vertical arms (350) of the angle iron elements (345) support, close to their horizontal arms (352), a respective skid in the form of a self-lubricating and wear-resistant plastic plate (426), which rubs against the wheel (400) and prevents the two angle iron elements (345) from pivoting about the stationary rod (420), to ensure that the horizontal arms (352) reliably engage simultaneously both the central body (C1) and the two end discs (C2) of a composite unit (U) without interfering with the longitudinal partitions (335).
27. A machine according to claim 23, characterised in that the adhesive applicator means (316) include a pair of slides (428) which are movable horizontally towards each other and in the opposite direction by respective linear actuators (430), and to each of which is attached an adhesive-spreading device (432), each of the two mutually facing adhesive-spreading devices (432) comprising a housing (434) acting as a container for adhesive, which communicates with the exterior via an adhesive applicator pad (436) made of a porous material, and in that the said actuators (430) of the slides (428) are synchronised with the stepwise rotational movements of the transfer wheel (400) in order to move the two adhesive-spreading devices (432) and their pads (436) towards each other each time that a central body (C1) stops between the pads (436).

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