EP2206651B1 - Method and device for assembling a plurality of tiles - Google Patents

Abstract

The method involves wrapping a layer of a retractable and/or stretchable film around assemblies (4, 4', 4'') of tiles (3), and bringing the film over a part of the assemblies of the film. The film is maintained with respect to the tiles to be assembled. The assemblies of the tiles are rotated around a horizontal axis parallel to an axis of a roller, where the horizontal axis is located perpendicular to an extension direction of the film for rolling the layer of the film around the assemblies of the tiles. Independent claims are also included for the following: (1) a device for assembling multiple tiles, comprising a receiving unit (2) a tiles conditioning installation comprising a device for assembling multiple tiles.

Description

The present invention relates to a method and to a device for assembling a plurality of tiles.

This invention relates to the field of design of facilities for conditioning tiles after their manufacture, for the purpose of their handling and transport.

Such installations are known from now on which usually comprise at least one device designed to assemble a plurality of tiles.

In particular, such an installation may comprise a device for producing an assembly adopting the shape of a tile bundle (usually called mini-bundle) and containing a small number of superimposed tiles, usually between 4 and 7 tiles, more particularly 5 or 6 tiles. In fact, the number of tiles that contains such a package is chosen to allow hand transport of such a package, especially for moving on a roof.

Such an installation may also include a device for making an assembly of a plurality of tiles (more particularly grouped within a plurality of mini-packets of tiles) constituting a tile beam. In this regard, it will be observed that, for their transport, the tiles (more particularly grouped in the form of mini-packets of tiles) are positioned on a pallet so as to constitute such tiles beams and that it is, then , provided an assembly of the tiles (including mini-packs) of such a beam (or even at least a portion of the tile beams resting on the pallet), this in order to give these tiles and these beams the cohesion necessary for proper handling and transport of the pallet.

In this regard, it will be observed that the assembly device that includes such an installation is usually designed to surround the tiles (a set of tiles and / or a plurality of packets of tiles) by a strapping in the form of a single link consisting of a flat and narrow ribbon whose ends are welded together to close the strapping.

The assembly of these tiles using such a unique link has a number of disadvantages.

In this respect, it will be observed that the tiles present, usually, at least one rib which, when several tiles are superimposed within the same packet, generates an instability between the tiles of this packet to which such a single link can in no way remedy. A solution to this problem can be found by multiplying the number of these links. This solution is, however, only partial since the majority of the problems described below and relating to a single link are only amplified by the multiplication of these links.

Another disadvantage is that such a link is likely to break, especially at the weld between the two ends of the ribbon. Such a break inevitably leads to a destructuration of the package, the beam, or even all the tiles arranged on a pallet. Such a destructuring causes the falling of the tiles which can, then, to break up, to split, even to break.

According to an additional disadvantage, the narrowness of such a tape concentrates the stresses exerted on the tiles so that, during the handling thereof, this ribbon causes these tiles deteriorations detrimental to the performance of their function.

Yet another disadvantage is that a roofer, who wishes to handle such a package, usually seizes this package bare hand and its link. Such a seizure is, in fact, particularly traumatic for the hand of this roofer because of the weight of the package and the cutting nature of the link.

In addition, this roofer, when he wants to use a tile of a package, must cut the assembly link of this package using a suitable tool (usually a cutter) which forces this roofer to always have such a tool on oneself.

Finally, after severing the link of a package and using the tiles in that package, only the link that should be treated as waste remains. In this respect, it will be observed that the cutting nature of this link is, again, likely to cause trauma to an operator in charge of the collection, handling and treatment of such a type of waste. In addition, this link has a semi-rigid structure that prevents such operator deform sufficiently such a link to minimize the volume occupied by such a waste.

Already known, a device for assembling a plurality of tiles, the subject of the document EP-0091323 , and comprising, on the one hand, a means for receiving at least one set of tiles and, on the other hand, a means for assembling the tiles of at least one such set of tiles constituted by means for enclosing the tiles of at least one set of tiles with at least one layer of stretchable and / or shrinkable film.

In the document FR-2518957 there is described a method and apparatus for wrapping a plurality of articles or objects in an expandable sheet.

The document GB-861 304 relates to a machine for applying an adhesive tape.

In the document CA-559480 there is described a packaging machine for bottles.

The document US 5287678 relates to a packaging machine.

In the document US2003 / 182900 there is described a system and method for providing a controlled atmosphere for packaging perishable goods.

The document US 4850177 relates to a device for packaging a package with an extensible band.

Finally, in the document US 4178739 there is described a construction for the application of an adhesive tape.

The present invention is intended to overcome the disadvantages of links of the state of the art.

• on regroupe une pluralité de tuiles sous forme d'au moins un ensemble de tuiles;
• on assemble les tuiles d'au moins un tel ensemble de tuiles en entourant ces tuiles par au moins une couche d'un film étirable et/ou rétractable.

For this purpose, the invention relates to a method of assembling a plurality of tiles consisting of:

• grouping a plurality of tiles in the form of at least one set of tiles;
• assembling the tiles of at least one such set of tiles by surrounding these tiles by at least one layer of a stretch and / or shrink film.

• en amenant ce film par-dessus une partie d'un tel ensemble de tuiles en pinçant ce film à l'aide d'au moins une pince et, à l'aide d'un moyen pour entraîner en déplacement une telle pince, en entraînant en déplacement une telle pince par-dessus l'ensemble de tuiles ;
• en maintenant ce film par rapport aux tuiles à assembler;
• en assurant la rotation de cet ensemble de tuiles autour d'un axe horizontal, parallèle à l'axe d'un rouleau constitué par un enroulement de ce film, et perpendiculaire à la direction d'extension de ce film, ceci pour enrouler au moins une couche de ce film autour de cet ensemble de tuiles.

This assembly method is characterized in that when surrounding these tiles by at least one layer of a stretch and / or shrink film, a film layer is wrapped around a set of tiles, this:

• by bringing this film over a portion of such a set of tiles by pinching this film with at least one clip and, with the aid of a means for moving such a clip in motion, causing moving such a clamp over the set of tiles;
• by keeping this film in relation to the tiles to be assembled;
• by rotating this set of tiles around a horizontal axis, parallel to the axis of a roll constituted by a winding of this film, and perpendicular to the direction of extension of this film, this to wind at least a layer of this film around this set of tiles.

• un rouleau constitué par un enroulement du film étirable et/ou rétractable ;
• un moyen pour amener ce film par-dessus une partie au moins d'un ensemble de tuiles et comportant, d'une part, au moins une pince conçue pour pincer le film, notamment au niveau de son extrémité libre, et, d'autre part, au moins un moyen, auquel est associé au moins une pince, pour entraîner en déplacement une telle pince par-dessus un ensemble de tuiles ;
• un moyen de montage en rotation du moyen de réception d'un ensemble de tuiles, ceci autour d'un axe horizontal, parallèle à l'axe du rouleau du film et perpendiculaire à la direction d'extension de ce film;
• un moyen d'entraînement en rotation de ce moyen de réception.

This invention also relates to a device for assembling a plurality of tiles comprising, on the one hand, a means for receiving at least one set of tiles and, on the other hand, a means for assembling the tiles. at least one such set of tiles consisting of a means for surrounding the tiles of at least one set of tiles with at least one layer of stretch and / or shrinkable film. This device is characterized in that the means for surrounding the tiles of at least one set of tiles with at least one layer of a stretchable and / or shrinkable film is constituted by a means for winding, directly around these tiles, at least one layer of stretchable and / or shrinkable film and comprising:

• a roll constituted by a winding of the stretchable and / or shrinkable film;
• means for bringing this film over at least a portion of a set of tiles and comprising, on the one hand, at least one clip designed to grip the film, in particular at its free end, and, on the other hand, on the one hand, at least one means, to which at least one clamp is associated, for driving such a clamp in displacement over a set of tiles;
• a rotational mounting means of the means for receiving a set of tiles, this around a horizontal axis, parallel to the axis of the roll of the film and perpendicular to the direction of extension of this film;
• means for rotating this receiving means.

Thus, the present invention consists in assembling the tiles of at least one set of tiles (or even the tiles of a tile beam), this by surrounding these tiles with at least one layer of a stretchable and / or retractable film.

According to a first advantage, such a film has a small thickness compared to the link of the state of the art and is wound to form a roller whose dimensions and weight are substantially lower than those of the link coils. This results in a substantial gain in space, weight and storage volume and a reduction in transportation costs.

In addition, such a film takes the form of a band having a certain width which advantageously makes it possible to stabilize a superposition of tiles which, in the absence of such a bandwidth and because of the presence of a element generating instability as a rib, would be particularly unstable.

An additional advantage is that the film perfectly fits any type of tile shape and the relief of these tiles. This allows, then, to consider the implementation of the method and the use of the device according to the invention both for so-called standard tiles (95% of the roof) and for tiles called accessories (flaps, banks, catches, sockets or other). This also makes it possible to substantially improve the maintenance of the tiles of a tile assembly, in particular consisting of a pack or a mini-pack of these tiles.

Another advantage is that it is possible to modulate the number of layers of this film depending on the desired holding of the assembly. Thus, with a minimum of two layers of film, it is advantageous to ensure the tension and the maintenance without fault of the tiles of an assembly of tiles.

According to an additional advantage, the film has a thickness allowing both a permanent maintenance of the assembled tiles (especially for their handling and transport) that tearing and / or voluntary tearing and manual when it comes to use these tiles on site.

Yet another advantage is that after removal of the film assembling a set of tiles, this film can easily be compacted by hand so as to occupy a reduced volume of waste.

Other objects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description relating to embodiments which are given by way of indicative and non-limiting examples.

• la figure 1 est une vue schématisée d'une installation de conditionnement de tuiles comportant au moins un dispositif d'assemblage d'une pluralité de tuiles ;
• la figure 2 est une vue schématisée et en perspective d'un premier mode de réalisation d'un dispositif d'assemblage (sous forme d'un paquet) d'une pluralité de tuiles ;
• la figure 3 est une vue schématisée, partielle et en détail d'un moyen de réception et d'un moyen d'assemblage que comporte le dispositif d'assemblage illustré figure 2 ;
• les figures 4, 4a et 4b sont des vues schématisées, respectivement, de face, de dessus et de côté d'un deuxième mode de réalisation d'un dispositif d'assemblage (sous forme d'un paquet) d'une pluralité de tuiles ;
• les figures 5, 5a et 5b sont des vues schématisées, respectivement, de face, de dessus et de côté d'un dispositif d'assemblage d'une pluralité de tuiles sous forme d'une poutre de tuiles.

The understanding of this description will be facilitated by reference to the appended drawings in which:

• the figure 1 is a schematic view of a tile conditioning installation comprising at least one assembly device of a plurality of tiles;
• the figure 2 is a schematic and perspective view of a first embodiment of an assembly device (in the form of a package) of a plurality of tiles;
• the figure 3 is a schematic view, partial and in detail of a receiving means and an assembly means that comprises the assembly device illustrated figure 2 ;
• the Figures 4, 4a and 4b are schematic views, respectively, front, top and side of a second embodiment of an assembly device (in the form of a package) of a plurality of tiles;
• the Figures 5, 5a and 5b are schematic views, respectively, of front, top and side of an assembly device of a plurality of tiles in the form of a tile beam.

The present invention relates to the field of the design of facilities for the conditioning of tiles after their manufacture, for the purpose of their handling and transport.

Such an installation 1 comprises at least one device (2, 2 ') designed to assemble a plurality of tiles 3.

In particular, this installation 1 may comprise a device 2 designed to ensure the assembly of a set (4; 4 '; 4 ") of tiles 3 constituted by a small number of tiles 3 (usually between 4 and 7 tiles, more particularly 5 or 6 tiles), this for the realization of a pack (5; 5 '; 5 ") of tiles 3 (usually called mini-package) likely to be easily transportable by hand by a roofer.

In such a case, the installation 1 additionally comprises a means 6 situated upstream of this device 2 assembly, and adapted to group a plurality of tiles 3 to form at least one set (4; 4 '; 4 ") of tiles 3 to enter the composition of the same package (5; 5'; 5 ") of tiles 3. Such a grouping means 6 may, advantageously, be constituted by a means for superimposing such tiles 3 at their output from a means 7 for storing them 3, this for the realization of at least one set (4; 4 '; 4 ") of tiles (3) superimposed and extending substantially horizontally.

This installation 1 may also include a device 2 'for assembling a set of tiles 3 consisting of a larger number of tiles 3, this for the realization of a beam 8 of tiles 3 intended to be positioned on a pallet.

In such a case, the installation 1 additionally comprises a means 6 'located upstream of the assembly device 2' and designed to group a plurality of tiles 3 in order to constitute at least one set of tiles 3 intended to constitute such a beam 8.

It should be noted that, according to a particular embodiment, such an installation 1 may comprise these two. types of assembly devices (2; 2 ').

Finally, another feature of this installation 1 consists in that it comprises means (9; 9 ') for conveying the sets (4, 4', 4 ") of tiles 3, respectively 5 tile packs 3 , in the direction of devices (2, respectively 2 ') for assembling tiles 3 of such a set (4, 4', 4 ") of tiles 3, respectively of these packets 5 of tiles 3.

Such conveying means (9; 9 ') preferably adopt the form of a conveyor, in particular with a belt or with rollers, as illustrated figures 1 , 4 and 5 .

As mentioned above, the packaging installation 1 comprises at least one device (2; 2 ') for assembling a plurality of tiles 3.

In fact, in the remainder of the description, various embodiments of such an assembly device (2; 2 ') will be described which, whatever this embodiment, comprises, on the one hand, a means of 20 for receiving at least one set (4; 4 '; 4 "; 8) of tiles 3 and, secondly, means 21 for joining the tiles 3 of at least one such assembly (4; '; 4 "; 8) tiles 3.

According to the invention, such means 21 for assembling the tiles 3 comprises at least one means 22 for surrounding the tiles 3 with at least one set (4; 4 '; 4' '; 8) of tiles 3 with at least a layer of stretchable and / or shrinkable film.

A preferred embodiment consists, in fact, in that the means 22 for surrounding the tiles 3 with at least one set (4; 4 '; 4 "; 8) of tiles 3 is designed to surround these tiles 3 with minus two layers of film 23.

Preferably, this stretchable and / or shrinkable film is constituted by a pre-stretched film.

In this connection, it should be observed that such a stretchable and / or shrinkable film 23 is in the form of a strip wound so as to constitute a roll 220.

This film 23 has, on the one hand, a thickness of between 5 and 70 μm, preferably between 15 and 35 μm, in particular of the order of 23 μm.

On the other hand, this stretchable and / or shrinkable film 23 has a width less than the length, or even the width, of the tiles 3 to be assembled. A preferred embodiment is that this width is between 50 and 150mm, preferably between 80 and 100, in particular of the order of 90mm.

It has been illustrated Figures 2 to 5 various embodiments of a means 22 for surrounding the tiles 3 of at least one set (4, 4 ', 4 ", 8) of tiles 3 with at least one layer of a film 23 stretchable and / or retractable.

In fact, this means 22 for surrounding the tiles 3 is constituted by a means 22 for winding, directly around these tiles 3, at least one stretchable and / or shrinkable film layer 23. This or these film layers 23 adopt, then substantially, the shape of a stretchable and / or shrinkable film strip 23.

• un rouleau 220, constitué par un enroulement du film 23 étirable et/ou rétractable, et monté en rotation selon un axe de rotation ;
• un moyen 221 pour amener ce film 23 par-dessus une partie au moins d'un ensemble (4, 4', 4") de tuiles 3 ;
• un moyen 222 de montage en rotation du moyen 20 de réception d'un ensemble (4, 4', 4") de tuiles 3, ceci autour d'un axe horizontal, parallèle à l'axe du rouleau 220 du film 23 et perpendiculaire à la direction d'extension de ce film 23 ;
• un moyen 223 d'entraînement en rotation de ce moyen de réception 20.

According to a first illustrated embodiment figures 2 and 3 the winding means 22 comprises:

• a roller 220, constituted by a winding of the stretchable and / or shrinkable film 23, and mounted in rotation about an axis of rotation;
• means 221 for bringing this film 23 over at least part of a set (4, 4 ', 4 ") of tiles 3;
• a means 222 for rotating the means 20 for receiving an assembly (4, 4 ', 4 ") of tiles 3, this around a horizontal axis, parallel to the axis of the roll 220 of the film 23 and perpendicular to the extension direction of this film 23;
• a means 223 for rotating this receiving means 20.

Regarding the means 221 for bringing the film 23, the latter 221 comprises, on the one hand, at least one clamp 2210 designed to clamp the film 23, in particular at its free end. According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, this supply means 221 comprises, in fact, a single clamp 2210 designed to clamp the lateral edge of this film 23, more particularly near or at its free end. This clamp 2210 has dimensions adapted to those of the film 23 which should be brought to the assembly (4, 4 ', 4'') of tiles 3.

On the other hand, this means 221 for feeding comprises at least one means 2211, which is associated with at least one clamp 2210, and designed to drive such a clamp 2210 over at least a part of a set (4). , 4 ', 4 ") of tiles 3.

In this regard, it will be observed that a particular embodiment is that such a drive means 2211 in displacement of a clamp 2210 is, at least in part, constituted by at least one rodless cylinder.

In fact, such a drive means 2211 may be designed to exert a certain tension (traction) on the stretchable and / or shrinkable film 23, for the placement of this film 23 on the tiles 3. However, when this film 23 is pre-stretched type, it is not necessary that such a drive means 2211 exerts such a tension which allows to simplify, advantageously, the design of such a supply means 221.

As mentioned above, the winding means 22 comprises a means 222 for rotating the receiving means 20 of a set (4, 4 ', 4 ") of tiles 3.

In this respect and as illustrated figures 2 and 3 such receiving means 20 is in the form of a pair of flanges (200; 200 '), preferably parallel, each having at least one immobilizing means of this assembly (4, 4', 4 ") of tiles 3.

In fact, during the assembly of the tiles 3 of a set (4, 4 ', 4 ") of tiles 3, these flanges (200, 200') are positioned on either side of this assembly (4, 4 ', 4 ") of tiles 3 (preferably laterally to the tiles 3 of this set 4, 4', 4" of tiles 3), each of these flanges (200, 200 ') cooperating with a longitudinal side or ( and preferably) side of this set (4, 4 ', 4 ") of tiles 3 (more particularly with a longitudinal side or, preferably, lateral of the tiles 3 of this set (4, 4', 4") of 3), and maintain these tiles 3 at least during the rotation of these flanges (200; 200 ').

Regarding the means 223 for rotating this receiving means 20, the latter 223 is preferably constituted by a brushless type motor.

In this respect, it will be observed that the piloting of such a rotation drive means 223 advantageously makes it possible to confer on a bundle of assembled tiles 3 a position and / or an orientation facilitating, after assembly, the use and / or the handling of this pack 5 of tiles 3, more particularly its assembly with other packets 5 of tiles 3, this for the purpose of producing a beam 8 as will be described below.

In particular, this control makes it possible to choose the side by which such a pack of tiles 3 will rest on a conveying means (9, 9 '). Thus, and preferably, this control makes it possible to position these tiles 3 vertically and extending at 90 ° with respect to a conveying means (9; 9 ') of such a pack 5 of tiles 3.

The presence of this rotational driving means 223 thus makes it possible and advantageously to dispense with an additional machine for positioning the tiles after assembly which comprises the installations of the state of the art.

In this regard, it should be noted that the installation 1 according to the invention then comprises means for taking a set (4, 4 ', 4 ") of tiles 3 to be assembled at such a means. routing (9; 9 ') and a means for depositing the tiles 3 of this set (4, 4', 4 ") of tiles 3 on the conveying means (9; 9 ') after their assembly.

Such a sampling means and / or such a removal means may, at least in part, be constituted by means for mounting in displacement (preferably vertical) the conveying means (9; 9 ') towards the means of reception 20 and / or by mounting means in displacement (preferably vertical) of the receiving means 20 towards this conveying means (9; 9 '). In a preferred manner, this sampling means and this mounting means are combined.

An additional feature of this first embodiment is that the means 22 for winding the film 23 further comprises means 224 for holding, preferably temporarily, the film 23 on the assembly (4, 4 '). , 4 ") of tiles 3.

In fact, this holding means 224 is designed to ensure such holding during at least part of the rotation of this set (4, 4 ', 4 ") of tiles 3, more particularly at least during the start of the rotation of the receiving means 20, in particular during at least a portion of a first turn of this receiving means 20.

According to a first embodiment of the invention, such a holding means 224 may be of the retractable and / or retractable type and is designed so that it can be retracted and / or retracted to prevent its trapping between two film layers 23.

In such a case, this holding means 224 may be constituted by at least one retractable and / or retractable finger that more particularly comprises the means 20 for receiving a set (4, 4 ', 4 ") of tiles 3 , in particular by being associated with a flange (200; 200 ').

However, and according to a preferred embodiment, such a holding means 224 is constituted by at least one clamp comprising two parallel fingers, between which the film 23 is positioned, and extending substantially perpendicular to the direction of extension ( unwinding) of this film 23.

A first type of embodiment consists in that at least one of these fingers is movable with respect to the other and towards the latter, so as to allow the film 23 to be pinched.

However, according to a preferred embodiment of the visible invention figures 2 and 3 , the fingers of this clamp are fixed relative to the body of the clamp while this clamp is rotatable about an axis substantially parallel to at least one of these fingers for, as the case and rotation, maintain or release the movie 23.

Such a clamp is preferably made integral with one of the flanges (200; 200 ') of the receiving means 20. The actuation (as the case may be, in pinching or rotation) of this clamp can be ensured by a electrical control means or, and preferably, by a pneumatic control means pneumatically supplied by a supply means comprising a rotary coupling associated with the flange (200; 200 ') receiving the clamp.

Yet another feature is that the winding means 22 comprises means for moving the film 23 in a direction perpendicular to the winding direction of the film 23 around the tiles 3 (or in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation of the roll 220), this before the winding of this film 23 on these tiles 3.

In this respect, it will be observed that, according to this first embodiment, this moving means makes it possible, in fact, to move the film 23 in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation of the receiving means 20 of the assembly 4 of 3 tiles to assemble.

The presence of such a displacement means makes it possible to offset the film layers 23 laterally, which advantageously makes it possible to extend this film 23 (over a set of tiles 3) over a width greater than that of this film. 23.

Another advantage is that this moving means makes it possible to avoid the involuntary covering of a holding means 224 by a film layer 23.

In fact, such a moving means may consist of a means for displacing the roller 220 relative to the receiving means 20 and / or by means for guiding the film 23 in displacement with respect to this receiving means 20.

In this regard, it will be observed that a particular embodiment consists in that such a guiding means can be constituted by a "U" -shaped part, extending perpendicular to the winding direction of the film 23, moving in parallel at the axis of the roll (220), and within which scrolls this film 23.

It will be observed that this first embodiment is, more particularly, adapted to the assembly of the tiles 3 of a single assembly 4 of tiles 3, in order to produce a package 5 of tiles 3.

It has been illustrated figures 4 and 5 a second, respectively, a third embodiment of a means 22 for winding, directly around the tiles 3 of at least one assembly 4 of tiles 3, at least one stretchable and / or shrinkable film layer 23.

• un rouleau 220, constitué par un enroulement du film 23 étirable et/ou rétractable, et monté en rotation selon un axe de rotation ;
• un moyen 225 de montage en déplacement du rouleau 220 autour des tuiles 3 à assembler ;
• un moyen 226 d'entraînement en déplacement de ce rouleau 220.

As visible on these figures 4 and 5 such means 22 for winding at least one layer of film 23 around tiles 3 comprises:

• a roller 220, constituted by a winding of the stretchable and / or shrinkable film 23, and mounted in rotation about an axis of rotation;
• a means 225 for moving the roller 220 around the tiles 3 to be assembled;
• a drive means 226 for moving this roller 220.

With regard to the means 225 for mounting in displacement, the latter 225 comprises at least one arm 2250, mounted in rotation about an axis, and extending substantially perpendicular to this axis, more particularly in a vertical plane. .

As visible on the figures 4 and 5 , such an arm 2250 has two ends (a proximal end and a distal end) knowing that it is, more particularly, the proximal end of this arm 2250 which is mounted in rotation, this along an axis of rotation preferably located at proximity of at least one assembly 4 of tiles 3 to assemble.

According to another characteristic, it is, more particularly to such an arm 2250 is associated the roller 220 mounted at least in rotation on the arm 2250, this along an axis parallel to the axis of rotation of the arm 2250.

The Figures 4, 4a and 4b illustrate the second embodiment of a means 22 for surrounding tiles 3.

According to this second embodiment, the roller 220 is rotatably mounted on a shaft fixedly secured to the distal end of the arm 2250.

Such an embodiment allows, then, a rotational displacement of the roller 220 around at least together 4 tiles 3, this in accordance with a substantially circular movement.

In fact and as visible on the Figures 4, 4a, and 4b , this second embodiment is, more particularly (but not exclusively), adapted to the assembly of the tiles 3 of a single assembly 4 of tiles 3, in order to produce a package 5 of tiles 3.

The Figures 5, 5a and 5b illustrate the third embodiment of a means 22 for surrounding tiles 3.

According to this third embodiment, the roller 220 is rotatably mounted on a shaft which is itself slidably mounted along the arm 2250.

In this respect and as visible on the figure 5 , this arm 2250 comprises a light receiving an insert, slidably mounted within this light, and receiving the rotational mounting shaft of the roller 220.

According to an additional characteristic, the moving mounting means 225 comprises, in addition to the arm 2250 mentioned above, a means 2251 for moving the roller 220.

As visible on the figure 5 such a guide means 2251 comprises, on the one hand, a guide rail, more particularly integral with a frame, shaped in a loop and extending substantially in a vertical plane.

On the other hand, this guide means 2251 comprises a guide shoe, cooperating with the guide rail, and associated with the insert which is, moreover, associated with the rotational mounting shaft of the roller 220.

Regarding the guide rail, it may adopt a circular shape (solution not shown) for a rotational movement of the roller relative to at least one set 4 of tiles 3, more particularly with respect to a single assembly 4 of tiles 3 for the realization of a pack 5 of tiles 3.

However and as visible figure 5 this guide rail may adopt an oval or elliptical shape for a displacement of the roller 220 relative to at least one set (4; 4 '; 4 ", 8) of tiles 3, more particularly intended, after assembly, to constitute a beam 8 of tiles 3.

Such an embodiment is particularly suitable for assembling at least one set (4; 4 '; 4 ") of tiles 3, for the realization of a beam 8.

In this regard, it will be observed that the characteristic of a guide means 2251 of the roller 220 advantageously makes it possible to ensure a movement of this roller 220 as close as possible to the tiles 3 (of the assembly or assemblies (4, 4 ', 4 ") of tiles 3 or of the beam 8) and thus, to marry at best the periphery of these tiles 3.

With regard to the drive means 226 for moving the roller 220, the latter 226 is, in fact, constituted by a driving means of the arm 2250 adopting, for example, the shape of a motor for driving in rotation of this arm 226 about its axis.

It should be noted that the winding means 22 according to the second and third embodiments can be further supplemented by means for maintaining, preferably temporarily, the film 23 on at least one set 4 of tiles. 3.

In fact, this holding means is designed to ensure such a holding for at least part of the movement of the roller 220 around the tiles 3, more particularly at least during the beginning of the movement of the roller 220, especially during at least a part of a first turn of this roll 220.

Again, such a holding means may be retractable and / or retractable type and / or adopt the shape of a finger or a clamp as described above.

In addition, the winding means 22 of these second and third embodiments may further comprise means for moving the film 23 in a direction perpendicular to the winding direction of this film 23 around the tiles 3, this before the winding of this film 23 on these tiles 3, this as mentioned above.

Another feature is that the assembly device (2, 2 '), comprising a winding means 22 according to this second and third embodiments, also comprises a receiving means 20 of minus one set 4 of tiles 3.

About this and as visible Figures 4a, 4b , 5a and 5b such a receiving means 20 comprises two parallel conveyors (201; 201 '), more particularly with a belt or rollers.

It is, at the same time, on these two conveyors (201; 201 ') that come to rest the or sets (4; 4'; 4 ", 8) of tiles 3 for their assembly. Figures 4a, 4b , 5a and 5b a part (more particularly longitudinal) of such an assembly (4; 4 '; 4 ", 8) rests on the first conveyor 201 while another part (more particularly longitudinal) of this same assembly (4; 4' 4 ", 8) rests on the second conveyor 201 '.

These two conveyors (201; 201 ') have, between them, a spacing corresponding at least to the width of the stretchable and / or shrinkable film 23, to allow the passage of this film 23 during the assembly of the tiles 3 by displacement of the roller 220 around these tiles 3.

Finally, whatever the embodiment and the embodiments, the assembly device (2; 2 ') comprises a means for cutting the film after assembling at least one assembly 4 of tiles 3.

In fact, such a cutting means can advantageously be defined at the level of the means 221 for feeding the film 23, plus particularly the clamp 2210 constituting, at least in part, the supply means 221.

As mentioned above, the packaging installation 1 comprises at least one means (6; 6 ') for grouping a plurality of tiles 3 in the form of at least one set (4, 4', 4 "; This installation 1 also comprises at least one device (2; 2 ') for assembling a plurality of tiles 3 and which comprises at least one means 21 for assembling the tiles 3 of at least one such assembly (4, 4 ', 4 "; 8) of tiles 3. According to the invention, such an assembly means 21 comprises at least one means 22 for surrounding the tiles 3 of at least one such assembly (4, 4 ', 4' '; 8) of tiles 3 with at least one layer of stretchable and / or shrinkable film 23.

The set of characteristics of this installation 1 then makes it possible to implement a method of assembling a plurality of tiles 3 and that, on the one hand, a plurality of tiles 3 in the form of at least one set (4; 4 '; 4 ", 8) of tiles 2 and, on the other hand, the tiles 3 of at least one such assembly (4; 4'; 4", 8) of tiles 3.

According to the invention, this method consists, then, in that, when assembling the tiles 3 of at least one set (4; 4 '; 4 ", 8) of tiles 3, these tiles are surrounded by 3 minus one layer of stretchable and / or shrinkable film.

In this regard, it will be observed that, by surrounding these tiles 3 with at least one such film layer 23 stretchable and / or retractable, these tiles 3 are, in fact, surrounded by a strip of such a film 23.

According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, these tiles 3 are surrounded by at least two layers of such a stretchable and / or shrinkable film.

According to another characteristic of the invention, when surrounding at least one layer of film 23, the tiles 3 to be assembled of at least one set (4; 4 '; 4 ", 8) of tiles 3, 3, at least one stretchable and / or retractable film layer 23 is wound directly around these tiles 3.

• on amène (voire on tend) ce film 23 par-dessus une partie d'un tel ensemble (4, 4', 4") de tuiles 3 et on maintien ce film 23 par rapport aux tuiles 3 à assembler;
• on assure, ensuite, la rotation de cet ensemble (4, 4', 4") de tuiles 3 (plus particulièrement du moyen 20 de réception de cet ensemble (4, 4', 4") de tuiles 3) autour d'un axe horizontal, parallèle à l'axe d'un rouleau 220 (constitué par un enroulement de ce film 23), et perpendiculaire à la direction d'extension de ce film 23, ceci pour enrouler au moins une couche de ce film 23 autour de cet ensemble (4, 4', 4") de tuiles 3.

According to a first illustrated embodiment figures 2 and 3 when wrapping a film layer 23 around a set of tiles 3:

• this film 23 is brought (or even stretched) over a part of such a set (4, 4 ', 4 ") of tiles 3 and this film 23 is held in relation to the tiles 3 to be assembled;
• it then ensures the rotation of this set (4, 4 ', 4 ") of tiles 3 (more particularly the means 20 for receiving this set (4, 4', 4") of tiles 3) around a horizontal axis, parallel to the axis of a roller 220 (constituted by a winding of this film 23), and perpendicular to the direction of extension of the film 23, this to wind at least one layer of this film 23 around this set (4, 4 ', 4 ") of tiles 3.

According to another characteristic of this method, after grouping the tiles (3) of a set (4, 4 ', 4 ") of tiles (3) and before winding a film layer 23 around such a set ( 4, 4 ', 4 ") of tiles 3, this set (4, 4', 4") of tiles 3 is taken from a conveying means 9, this by the above-mentioned receiving means 20 and mounted in This levy is ensured by implementing the aforementioned means of sampling.

In particular, when these tiles 3 are taken with the aid of the receiving means 20, the tiles (3) of such a set (4, 4 ', 4 ") of tiles (3) are immobilized between two flanges ( 200; 200 ') that comprises means of receiving (20) such a set (4, 4', 4 ") of tiles (3).

According to another characteristic, when the film 23 is brought over a part of such a set (4, 4 ', 4 ") of tiles 3, this film 23 is clamped with at least one clamp 2210 and, using a means 2211 for driving in displacement such a clamp 2210, is driven in displacement such a clamp 2210 over the assembly (4, 4 ', 4 ") of tiles 3.

After bringing the film 23 over a set (4, 4 ', 4' ') of tiles (3), the method consists, then, in that at least one layer of stretchable film and / or retractable around the tiles 3 of this set (4, 4 ', 4 ") of tiles 4, this ensuring the rotation of this set (4, 4', 4") of tiles (3). In fact, it ensures such a rotation by ensuring at least the rotation of the receiving means 20 (more particularly that of the flanges (200; 200 ') that comprises the receiving means 20), this around a horizontal axis.

This method consists, then, also in that one ensures the orientation and / or the positioning of the tiles 3 of the assembly of this set (4, 4 ', 4 ") of tiles 3 by ensuring the rotation of this receiving means, before depositing the assembly on the conveying means 9.

In fact, this orientation and / or positioning are provided, either during the entourage of the tiles 3, or after this entourage (particularly after cutting the film 23), so that the tiles 3 adopt an orientation / appropriate position for their subsequent use / handling as described above.

In particular, this method consists in ensuring that the tiles 3 of the assembly of this assembly (4, 4 ', 4 ") are vertically oriented and / or positioned, which advantageously allows to orient the tiles 3 appropriately for the realization of a beam 8 of tiles 3.

After this orientation and / or positioning, the assembly of tiles 3 is deposited on a conveying means 9 by the abovementioned removal means.

It should be noted that this first embodiment is, more particularly, suitable for producing packets 5 of tiles 3 containing a small number of tiles 3 (usually called mini-pack) as described above.

• on maintien le film 23 par rapport aux tuiles 3 à assembler ;
• on assure le déplacement, autour des tuiles 3 à assembler, d'un rouleau 220 constitué par un enroulement du film 23 ;
• par déplacement de ce rouleau 220, on déroule au moins une couche de film 23 autour des tuiles 3 à assembler.

According to the second ( figure 4 ) and the third ( figure 5 ) embodiments, when surrounding at least one layer of film 23 the tiles 3 to be assembled of at least one set (4; 4 '; 4 ", 8) of tiles 3:

• the film 23 is held in relation to the tiles 3 to be assembled;
• it ensures the movement around the tiles 3 to be assembled, a roller 220 constituted by a winding of the film 23;
• by moving this roller 220, at least one layer of film 23 is unwound around the tiles 3 to be assembled.

The method according to these modes (second and third) of embodiment consists, before surrounding a set (4, 4 ', 4 ", 8) of tiles 3 of a film 23, in that one has, all of first, at least one such assembly (4, 4 ', 4 ", 8) of tiles 3 on a receiving means 20 having two parallel conveyors (201, 201'), between which is defined a spacing corresponding at least to the width of the film 23 stretchable and / or retractable, and on which (201, 201 ') rests at least one such set (4, 4', 4 ", 8) of tiles 3.

This method consists, then, when these tiles 3 are surrounded by at least one layer of a stretchable and / or shrinkable film 23, in that a layer of film 23 is wound around a set (4, 4 '). , 4 ", 8) of tiles 3, this, on the one hand, by maintaining the film 23 with respect to the tiles 3 to be assembled and, on the other hand, by unrolling at least one film layer 23 around the tiles 3 to to assemble by moving, around the tiles 3 to assemble, a roll 220 constituted by a winding of the film 23. In fact, one moves such a roll 220 by ensuring, on the one hand, the rotation, about an axis, of an arm 2250 which is associated with the roller 220 which is mounted at least in rotation on the arm 2250, this along an axis parallel to the axis of rotation of the arm 2250, and, secondly, the passage of the film 23 in the spacing between the two conveyors (201; 201 ').

These (second and third) embodiments make it possible to produce assemblies of tiles 3 which may as well comprise a small number of tiles 3 (such as a mini-pack as described above) than a larger number of tiles 3 ( in particular a beam 8 of tiles 3).

Another feature is that, regardless of the embodiments described above of the method, when tiles 3 are grouped together to form at least one set (4, 4 '; 4 ") of tiles 3, to a superposition of a plurality of tiles 3 to make such an assembly (4, 4 ', 4 ") of these tiles 3.

As mentioned above, the invention also relates to an installation 1 for making an assembly of a set (4, 4 ', 4 ", 8) of tiles 3, in order to constitute either a pack 5 of tiles 3, that is a beam 8 of tiles 3.

In this connection, the invention also relates to a method of assembling a plurality of tiles 3 that comprises a beam 8 of tiles 3.

According to the invention, when assembling, for each of the packets 5 of tiles 3, the tiles 3 of a set (4, 4 ', 4 ") of tiles 3, on the one hand, a plurality of tiles is grouped together 3 in the form of at least one set (4, 4 ', 4 ") of tiles 3 (more particularly by means of the grouping means 6) and, on the other hand, the tiles (3) are surrounded by a such assembly (4, 4 ', 4 ") of tiles 3 by at least one layer of a stretchable and / or shrinkable film 23.

In this respect, it will be observed that when assembling, for each of the packets 5 of tiles 3, the tiles 3 of a set (4, 4 ', 4 ") of tiles 3, the tiles 3 of such a set (4, 4', 4") of tiles 3 are surrounded by at least one layer of stretchable and / or shrinkable film 23, this in accordance with any of the above-described types or embodiments of the joining method, preferably in accordance with the first of the embodiments of this joining method ( figures 2 and 3 ).

Finally, whatever the types and the embodiments, the method consists, again, in that the film 23 is cut after assembling at least one set (4, 4 ', 4 ", 8) of tiles 3 .

Claims (9)

1. Method for assembling a plurality of tiles (3), consisting in that:

   - a plurality of tiles (3) in the form of at least one set (4, 4', 4") of tiles (3) is grouped;

   - the tiles (3) of at least one such set (4, 4', 4") of tiles (3) are grouped by wrapping these tiles (3) with at least one layer of a stretchable and/or shrinkable film (23),

   wherein, when these tiles (3) are wrapped with at least one layer of a stretchable and/or shrinkable film 23), one layer of film (23) is wound about a set (4, 4', 4") of tiles (3):

   - by bringing this film (23) over part of such a set (4, 4', 4") of tiles (3) by clamping this film (23) by means of at least one clamp (2210) and by one means (2211) for driving such clamp (2210) in displacement, by driving such a clamp (2210) in displacement above the set (4, 4', 4") of tiles (3);

   - by holding this film (23) with respect to the tiles (3) to be assembled;

   - by ensuring the rotation of this set (4, 4', 4") of tiles (3) about a horizontal axis, parallel to the axis of a reel (220) formed by a rolling up of this film (23), and perpendicular to the direction of extension of this film (23), in order to wind at least one layer of this film (23) about this set (4, 4', 4") of tiles (3).
2. Method for assembling according to claim 1, wherein, when the tiles (3) are grouped in order to form at least one set (4, 4', 4") of tiles (3), a superposition of a plurality of tiles (3) is carried out in order to form a set (4, 4', 4") of these tiles (3).
3. Method for assembling according to any of the preceding claims, wherein upon grouping the tiles (3) of a set (4, 4', 4") of tiles (3) the tiles (3) of such a set (4, 4', 4") of tiles (3) are immobilized between two side plates (200; 200'), which a means for receiving (20) such a set (4, 4', 4") of tiles (3) includes, and the rotation of this set (4, 4', 4") of tiles (3) is ensured by ensuring the rotation of these two side plates (200; 200') about a horizontal axis.
4. Method for assembling according to any of the preceding claims, wherein:

   - before a layer of film (23) is wound around a set (4, 4', 4") of tiles (3), this set (4, 4', 4") of tiles (3) is taken at the level of a conveying means (9), by a rotationally mounted receiving means (20);

   - at least one layer of stretchable and/or shrinkable film (23) is wound around the tiles (3) of this set (4, 4', 4") of tiles (3), by ensuring at least the rotation of this receiving means (20);

   - the vertical orientation and/or positioning of the tiles (3) of the assembly of this set (4, 4', 4") of tiles (3) is ensured by ensuring the rotation of this receiving means (20), before placing the assembly on the conveying means (9).
5. Device (2) for assembling a plurality of tiles (3), including, on the one hand, a means (20) for receiving at least one set (4, 4', 4") of tiles (3), and, on the other hand, a means (21) for assembling the tiles (3) of at least one such set (4, 4', 4") of tiles (3) formed by a means (22) for wrapping the tiles (3) of at least one set (4, 4', 4") of tiles (3) with at least one layer of a stretchable and/or shrinkable film (23), wherein the means (22), for wrapping the tiles (3) of at least one set (4, 4', 4") of tiles (3) with at least one layer of a stretchable and/or shrinkable film (23) is formed by a means for winding, directly around these tiles (3), at least one layer of stretchable and/or shrinkable film (23), and including:

   - a reel (220) formed by a rolling up of the stretchable and/or shrinkable film (23);

   - a means (221) for bringing this film (23) above part of at least one set (4, 4', 4") of tiles (3) and including, on the one hand, at least one clamp (2210) designed capable of clamping the film (23), namely at the level of its free end and, on the other hand, at least one means (2211), which at least one clamp (2210) is associated with, for driving such a clamp (2210) in displacement above a set (4, 4', 4") of tiles (3);

   - a means (222) for rotationally mounting the means for receiving (20) a set (4, 4', 4") of tiles (3) about a horizontal axis parallel to the reel (220) of the film (23) and perpendicular to the direction of extension of this film (23);

   - a means (223) for rotationally driving this receiving means (20).
6. Device (2) for assembling according to claim 5, wherein the means (20) for receiving a set (4, 4', 4") of tiles (3) includes a pair of parallel side plates (200, 200') positioned on both sides of such a set (4, 4', 4") of tiles (3), each of them (200, 200') cooperating with a longitudinal or lateral side of this set (4, 4', 4") of tiles (3), and each of them including at least one means for immobilizing this set (4, 4', 4") of tiles (3).
7. Device (2) for assembling according to any of claims 5 or 6, wherein it includes a means (224) for temporarily holding the film (23) over the set (4, 4', 4") of tiles (3), this maintaining means (224) being formed by at least one clamp including, on the one hand, two parallel fingers, fixed with respect to the body of the clamp and extending substantially perpendicularly to the direction of extension of this film (23), and between which is located the film (23), and, on the other hand, movable in rotation about an axis substantially parallel to at least one of these fingers, in order to, as the case may be and through rotation, maintain or release the film (23).
8. Device (2) for assembling according to claims 6 and 7, wherein the clamp is made integral with one of the side plates (200; 200') of the receiving means (20) and the actuation of this clamp is ensured by a pneumatic control means pneumatically supplied by a supply means including a rotary fitting associated with the side plate (200; 200') receiving the clamp.
9. Device (2) for assembling according to any of claims 5 to 8, wherein it includes a means for moving the film (23) in a direction perpendicular to the direction of winding up of this film (23) around these tiles (3), before winding up this film (23) onto these tiles (3), this means for moving being formed by a means for guiding the film (23) in displacement with respect to this receiving means (20) and adopting the form of a U-shaped extending perpendicularly to the direction of winding up of the film (23), movable parallel to the axis of the reel (220), and inside which moves this film (23).

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