EP3260260B1 - Method for pressing ceramic articles - Google Patents

Method for pressing ceramic articles Download PDF

Info

Publication number
EP3260260B1
EP3260260B1 EP17175631.5A EP17175631A EP3260260B1 EP 3260260 B1 EP3260260 B1 EP 3260260B1 EP 17175631 A EP17175631 A EP 17175631A EP 3260260 B1 EP3260260 B1 EP 3260260B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
load
pressing
side walls
leveler
zones
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Active
Application number
EP17175631.5A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP3260260A1 (en
Inventor
Franco Stefani
Franco Gozzi
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
System Ceramics SpA
Original Assignee
System Ceramics SpA
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by System Ceramics SpA filed Critical System Ceramics SpA
Publication of EP3260260A1 publication Critical patent/EP3260260A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP3260260B1 publication Critical patent/EP3260260B1/en
Active legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

Links

Images

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B28—WORKING CEMENT, CLAY, OR STONE
    • B28B—SHAPING CLAY OR OTHER CERAMIC COMPOSITIONS; SHAPING SLAG; SHAPING MIXTURES CONTAINING CEMENTITIOUS MATERIAL, e.g. PLASTER
    • B28B3/00—Producing shaped articles from the material by using presses; Presses specially adapted therefor
    • B28B3/02—Producing shaped articles from the material by using presses; Presses specially adapted therefor wherein a ram exerts pressure on the material in a moulding space; Ram heads of special form
    • B28B3/024—Producing shaped articles from the material by using presses; Presses specially adapted therefor wherein a ram exerts pressure on the material in a moulding space; Ram heads of special form the pressure on the material being transmitted through flexible or resilient wall parts, e.g. flexible cushions on the ramming surface, resilient wall parts pressing as a result of deformation caused by ram pressure
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B28—WORKING CEMENT, CLAY, OR STONE
    • B28B—SHAPING CLAY OR OTHER CERAMIC COMPOSITIONS; SHAPING SLAG; SHAPING MIXTURES CONTAINING CEMENTITIOUS MATERIAL, e.g. PLASTER
    • B28B3/00—Producing shaped articles from the material by using presses; Presses specially adapted therefor
    • B28B3/02—Producing shaped articles from the material by using presses; Presses specially adapted therefor wherein a ram exerts pressure on the material in a moulding space; Ram heads of special form
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B28—WORKING CEMENT, CLAY, OR STONE
    • B28B—SHAPING CLAY OR OTHER CERAMIC COMPOSITIONS; SHAPING SLAG; SHAPING MIXTURES CONTAINING CEMENTITIOUS MATERIAL, e.g. PLASTER
    • B28B13/00—Feeding the unshaped material to moulds or apparatus for producing shaped articles; Discharging shaped articles from such moulds or apparatus
    • B28B13/02—Feeding the unshaped material to moulds or apparatus for producing shaped articles
    • B28B13/0215—Feeding the moulding material in measured quantities from a container or silo
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B28—WORKING CEMENT, CLAY, OR STONE
    • B28B—SHAPING CLAY OR OTHER CERAMIC COMPOSITIONS; SHAPING SLAG; SHAPING MIXTURES CONTAINING CEMENTITIOUS MATERIAL, e.g. PLASTER
    • B28B13/00—Feeding the unshaped material to moulds or apparatus for producing shaped articles; Discharging shaped articles from such moulds or apparatus
    • B28B13/02—Feeding the unshaped material to moulds or apparatus for producing shaped articles
    • B28B13/0295—Treating the surface of the fed layer, e.g. removing material or equalization of the surface
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B28—WORKING CEMENT, CLAY, OR STONE
    • B28B—SHAPING CLAY OR OTHER CERAMIC COMPOSITIONS; SHAPING SLAG; SHAPING MIXTURES CONTAINING CEMENTITIOUS MATERIAL, e.g. PLASTER
    • B28B5/00—Producing shaped articles from the material in moulds or on moulding surfaces, carried or formed by, in or on conveyors irrespective of the manner of shaping
    • B28B5/02—Producing shaped articles from the material in moulds or on moulding surfaces, carried or formed by, in or on conveyors irrespective of the manner of shaping on conveyors of the endless-belt or chain type
    • B28B5/021—Producing shaped articles from the material in moulds or on moulding surfaces, carried or formed by, in or on conveyors irrespective of the manner of shaping on conveyors of the endless-belt or chain type the shaped articles being of definite length
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B30—PRESSES
    • B30B—PRESSES IN GENERAL
    • B30B11/00—Presses specially adapted for forming shaped articles from material in particulate or plastic state, e.g. briquetting presses, tabletting presses
    • B30B11/02—Presses specially adapted for forming shaped articles from material in particulate or plastic state, e.g. briquetting presses, tabletting presses using a ram exerting pressure on the material in a moulding space
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B30—PRESSES
    • B30B—PRESSES IN GENERAL
    • B30B11/00—Presses specially adapted for forming shaped articles from material in particulate or plastic state, e.g. briquetting presses, tabletting presses
    • B30B11/02—Presses specially adapted for forming shaped articles from material in particulate or plastic state, e.g. briquetting presses, tabletting presses using a ram exerting pressure on the material in a moulding space
    • B30B11/14—Presses specially adapted for forming shaped articles from material in particulate or plastic state, e.g. briquetting presses, tabletting presses using a ram exerting pressure on the material in a moulding space co-operating with moulds on a movable carrier other than a turntable or a rotating drum
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B30—PRESSES
    • B30B—PRESSES IN GENERAL
    • B30B15/00—Details of, or accessories for, presses; Auxiliary measures in connection with pressing
    • B30B15/30—Feeding material to presses
    • B30B15/302—Feeding material in particulate or plastic state to moulding presses

Definitions

  • the object of the present invention is a method for pressing ceramic articles, in particular plates, tiles and the like.
  • the upper pad is provided with a frame, fixed or replaceable, that projects downward.
  • a forming frame also has the task of generating in the load, following the pressing, an edge characterized by a compaction or material density greater than that of the internal zones, wherein by greater material density it is intended a reduction of the overall space occupied by the material.
  • the presence of denser and more compact lateral zones considerably simplifies the removal and trimming of the loads after pressing. This occurs since the denser zones can perfectly withstand, without crumbling, the removal of the incoherent material that is situated along the external edges of the pressed load, allowing the obtainment of precise, clear edges of the load.
  • the currently available device while being effective and functional, can be improved regarding flexibility with respect to the change of size of the articles to be pressed. Indeed, in the currently available device, changing the size of the ceramic article requires changing the projecting frame with a frame shaped for executing the pressing of the new size. This represents a drawback both regarding processing times, since the substitution of the frame requires stopping the pressing line, and regarding costs, since it requires the availability of a certain number of different-size frames.
  • the object of the present invention is to offer a pressing method according to claim 1 that allows overcoming the abovementioned drawbacks.
  • One advantage of the pressing method according to the present invention is to allow a change of size in considerably lower times with respect to those of the currently available devices.
  • the pressing device is provided with a conveyor belt (T) that is movable along a main direction (X), for the forward movement of a load (S) of incoherent ceramic material to be pressed.
  • a press (P) is arranged along the conveyor belt (T) in a manner so as to receive the load (S) carried forward by the conveyor belt (T). Both the belt (T) and the load (S) arranged on the belt (T) move between the two pads of the press (P), such that the load (S) is pressed directly on the belt (T).
  • width will indicate a size measured on a horizontal plane perpendicular to the main direction (X), while “height” or “thickness” will indicate a size measured along a vertical direction.
  • the compacting device comprises a first leveler (2), which is structured to come into contact with two lateral zones of the load (S) and to push such lateral zones towards one another, perpendicular to the main direction (X).
  • the first leveler (2) in other words, compacts the load (S) perpendicular to the main direction (X), pushing the two lateral zones thereof, which are overall parallel to the main direction (X), towards one another.
  • the incoherent material of the lateral zones of the load is collected, forming two stacks (As), substantially parallel to the main direction (X), whose maximum level exceeds the level of the remaining zones of the load (S) itself.
  • the first leveler (2) comprises a pair of side walls (21,22) movable towards and away from one another along a horizontal direction, perpendicular to the main direction (X).
  • the intervention of the side walls (21,22) is actuated during a rest phase of the load (S), i.e. during a stop of the conveyor belt (T).
  • a load (S) is carried into and stopped in an intermediate position with respect to the side walls (21,22). Starting from a position of maximum mutual distance, in which they do not interfere with the load (S), the side walls (21,22) are moved closer together by means of actuators that are not illustrated in detail, for example pneumatic or hydraulic cylinders.
  • the side walls (21,22) By moving closer together up to a minimum distance position ( figure 4 ), the side walls (21,22) come into contact with the lateral zones of the load (S), creating the previously-described stacks of greater height. Once the step of compaction of the lateral zones of the load (S) has terminated, the side walls (21,22) return to the maximum distance position, such that the load (S) can once again be moved forward and a new load (S) can be carried to the side walls (21,22).
  • the actuators which drive the side walls (21,22) can advantageously be remotely controlled by means of a control module, for example in order to adapt the travel of the side walls (21,22) to different-size loads (S).
  • the side walls (21,22) have a front surface, intended to come into contact with the load (S), which is arranged in a substantially vertical position.
  • the side walls (21,22) can have the form of laminas or strips, arranged with the greater surface thereof vertical.
  • the front surface of the side walls (21,22) could also assume a different shape, e.g. convex or tilted.
  • the first leveler (2) comprises a pair of side walls (21,22) arranged to converge with each other in a forward direction of the load (S).
  • the lateral zones of the load (S) come into contact with the side walls (21,22), and are compacted, during the transport of the load (S).
  • the side walls (21,22) remain fixed during the forward movement of the load (S).
  • Each side wall (21,22) comprises a front surface, directed towards the belt (T) and towards the other side wall, situated above the belt (T), at a height such to be able to come into contact with the load (S).
  • the side walls (21,22) are in the form of laminas or strips, arranged with the greater surface thereof in substantially vertical position.
  • the compacting device can also be provided with a second leveler (3), which is structured to come into contact with a front zone and with a rear zone of the load (S) and to push such zones towards one another, parallel to the main direction (X).
  • the second leveler performs, on the front zone and on the rear zone of the load (S), the same action that the first leveler (2) performs on the lateral zones of the load (S).
  • the incoherent material of the front and rear zones of the load is collected, forming two stacks (Af,Ar), substantially perpendicular to the main direction (X), whose maximum level exceeds the level of the remaining zones of the load (S) itself.
  • the load (S) then has a substantially rectangular perimeter zone, comprising a stack (As,Af,Ar) of incoherent material whose maximum level exceeds the level of the remaining zones of the load (S) itself.
  • a stack As,Af,Ar
  • the load (S) comprises a closed perimeter zone, which follows the entire border of the load (S) itself, in which the incoherent material has greater compaction and material density. This allows facilitating and making more precise the trimming operations of the entire border of the load (S).
  • the second leveler (3) is movable along a vertical direction between a lower position ( figure 1 ), in which it is able to come into contact with a load (S), and an upper position ( figure 2 ), in which it does not interfere with the load (S).
  • the second leveler (3) In the upper position ( figure 2 ), the second leveler (3) allows the transit of the load (S) on the conveyor surface (T).
  • Actuators of known type, not illustrated in detail, are arranged for allowing the vertical movement of the second leveler (3).
  • the second leveler (3) comprises a pair of side walls (31,32) movable towards and away from one another, parallel to the main direction (X).
  • the side walls (31,32) have a front surface, intended to come into contact with the load (S), which is arranged in a substantially vertical position.
  • the side walls (31,32) can have the form of laminas or strips, arranged with the greater surface thereof vertical.
  • Actuators that are within the capacity of the man skilled in the art can be used for driving the side walls (31,32). Such actuators can advantageously be remotely controlled by means of a control module, for example for adapting the travel of the side walls (31,32) to different-size loads (S).
  • the intervention of the side walls (31,32) is actuated during a rest phase of the load (S), or during a stop of the conveyor belt (T).
  • a load (S) can be carried into and stopped in a zone comprised between the side walls (31,32).
  • the second leveler (3) is moved into its lower position ( figure 2 ), in which the side walls (31,32) can come into contact with the load (S).
  • the side walls (31,32) are moved closer together by means of actuators not illustrated in detail, e.g. pneumatic or hydraulic cylinders.
  • the side walls (31,32) By moving closer to each other up to a position of minimum distance ( figure 5 ), the side walls (31,32) come into contact with the front and rear zones of the load (S), creating the previously-described stacks of greater height. Once the step of compaction of the front and rear zones of the load (S) has terminated, the side walls (31,32) return to the position of maximum distance and they are lifted towards the upper position, such that the load (S) can once again be moved forward and a new load (S) can be carried to the side walls (31,32).
  • the first leveler (2) is movable along a vertical direction between a lower position ( figure 2 ), in which it is able to come into contact with a load (S), and an upper position ( figure 1 ), in which it does not interfere with the load (S).
  • the first leveler (2) in the embodiment comprising the side walls (21,22), can be associated with the second leveler (3) in order to form a group that is integral with respect to the vertical translation.
  • the intervention of the two levelers (2,3) is actuated during a stop of the conveyor belt (T).
  • the two levelers which are initially found in upper position, are lowered into lower position. In such position, each successively executes its own compaction travel. Once the compaction travels have terminated, the two levelers (2,3) are brought back into upper position and the conveyor belt (T) once again moves forward towards the press (P).
  • the first leveler (2) could also not be integral with the second leveler (3) with respect to the vertical translation. This occurs since the second leveler (2) does not obstruct the forward movement of the load (S) when the side walls (21,22) are situated in widened position. The second leveler (2), during the operation of the pressing device, could therefore always remain in lower position, and be lifted for example for the execution of maintenance operations.
  • the pressing device is particularly effective when the conveyor belt (T) assumes a continuous configuration, or in a configuration in which it comprises a first portion (T1) and a second portion (T2), consecutive with respect to each other, which are movable independently of one another.
  • a feeding device (F) is arranged along an initial portion of the conveyor belt (T). If the conveyor belt (T) comprises the two portions (T1,T2), the feeding device (F) is arranged along the first portion (T1) in order to deposit a load (S) on the first portion (T1) itself.
  • the feeding device (F) is, for example, in the form of a hopper provided with a lower discharge opening.
  • the feeding device (F) operates on the first portion (T1), i.e. the loads (S) are deposited on the first portion (T1).
  • the front end of the first portion (T1) is at least partially above a rear end of the second portion (T2), at a height slightly greater than the second portion (T2).
  • first and a second portion (T1,T2), independent of one another, allows managing the intervention of the compacting device with considerable flexibility.
  • the first portion (T1) can be driven to move forward in order to allow the deposition of a load (S).
  • the step of depositing a load (S) can be synchronized with the intervention of the compacting device, so as to terminate before or simultaneously with the intervention of the compacting device.
  • the first and the second portion can be driven forward in order to execute the transfer of the load (S) deposited on the first portion, and to simultaneously transfer the load (S) that has undergone compaction towards the press (P).
  • the front zone of the load (S) transits from the first portion (T1) to the second portion (T2)
  • the pressing device allows obtaining important advantages.
  • the compacting device allows attaining loads (S) with a perimeter zone of greater material density, without arranging pressing pads provided with projecting edges or frames. This allows reducing the cost of the pressing pads and simultaneously reducing the adaptation times with a change of size of the loads (S) to be pressed. Indeed, it is sufficient to modify the travel and/or the mutual distance of the side walls (21,22,31,32) in order to be able to attain the stacks (As,Af,Ar) in loads (S) of different size.
  • the changes of size of the loads (S) can be managed without having to stop the pressing line so to execute adaptation interventions; rather, it will suffice to simply adjust the travel or the mutual distance between the side walls (21,22,31,32).
  • Such adjustment can occur through remote controls on the actuators set for driving the side walls themselves, or on suitable regulators that can be arranged for the levelers (2,3).

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Manufacturing & Machinery (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Ceramic Engineering (AREA)
  • Press Drives And Press Lines (AREA)
  • Devices For Post-Treatments, Processing, Supply, Discharge, And Other Processes (AREA)
  • Structure Of Belt Conveyors (AREA)
  • Delivering By Means Of Belts And Rollers (AREA)
  • Press-Shaping Or Shaping Using Conveyers (AREA)

Description

  • The object of the present invention is a method for pressing ceramic articles, in particular plates, tiles and the like.
  • The invention is particularly advantageous in a method for pressing ceramic articles, ideated by the applicant itself and known in the field from the publication EP1500480 , in which the powder material to be pressed is arranged in layer form on an abutment plane constituted by the upper face of a conveyor belt, which is slidably supported on a pressing member or lower pad. The pressing is executed with a pressing member or upper pad through the interposition of a closed-loop belt, whose external surface is directed towards the conveyor belt.
  • For the purpose of delimiting the perimeter of a pressing zone, the upper pad is provided with a frame, fixed or replaceable, that projects downward. In addition to delimiting the perimeter of the pressing zone, such forming frame also has the task of generating in the load, following the pressing, an edge characterized by a compaction or material density greater than that of the internal zones, wherein by greater material density it is intended a reduction of the overall space occupied by the material. As is known, the presence of denser and more compact lateral zones considerably simplifies the removal and trimming of the loads after pressing. This occurs since the denser zones can perfectly withstand, without crumbling, the removal of the incoherent material that is situated along the external edges of the pressed load, allowing the obtainment of precise, clear edges of the load.
  • The currently available device, while being effective and functional, can be improved regarding flexibility with respect to the change of size of the articles to be pressed. Indeed, in the currently available device, changing the size of the ceramic article requires changing the projecting frame with a frame shaped for executing the pressing of the new size. This represents a drawback both regarding processing times, since the substitution of the frame requires stopping the pressing line, and regarding costs, since it requires the availability of a certain number of different-size frames.
  • Document WO2006/095249 discloses a method for pressing ceramic articles according to the preamble of claim 1 using a different pressing process, which envisages pressing into a mould. A box device is provided to transfer a load of material from a conveyor plane into a mould. The box device isolates and presses the load of material on the conveyor plane before transferring into the mould.
  • The object of the present invention is to offer a pressing method according to claim 1 that allows overcoming the abovementioned drawbacks.
  • One advantage of the pressing method according to the present invention is to allow a change of size in considerably lower times with respect to those of the currently available devices.
  • Further characteristics and advantages of the present invention will be clearer from the following detailed description of one embodiment of the present invention, illustrated as a non-limiting example in the enclosed figures in which:
    • figure 1 shows a schematic representation of a pressing device provided with a compacting device;
    • figure 2 shows the compacting device of figure 1 in a different operating configuration;
    • figure 3 shows a top view of the device of figures 1 and 2;
    • figures 4 and 5 show two different operating steps of the compacting device shown in figure 3;
    • figure 6 shows a schematic representation, in top view, of a different embodiment of the compacting device;
    • figure 7 shows a sectional view according to the plane VII-VII of figures 4 and 6.
  • The pressing device is provided with a conveyor belt (T) that is movable along a main direction (X), for the forward movement of a load (S) of incoherent ceramic material to be pressed. A press (P) is arranged along the conveyor belt (T) in a manner so as to receive the load (S) carried forward by the conveyor belt (T). Both the belt (T) and the load (S) arranged on the belt (T) move between the two pads of the press (P), such that the load (S) is pressed directly on the belt (T).
  • For greater clarity, in the following description it is specified that "width" will indicate a size measured on a horizontal plane perpendicular to the main direction (X), while "height" or "thickness" will indicate a size measured along a vertical direction.
  • The compacting device comprises a first leveler (2), which is structured to come into contact with two lateral zones of the load (S) and to push such lateral zones towards one another, perpendicular to the main direction (X).
  • The first leveler (2), in other words, compacts the load (S) perpendicular to the main direction (X), pushing the two lateral zones thereof, which are overall parallel to the main direction (X), towards one another. The incoherent material of the lateral zones of the load is collected, forming two stacks (As), substantially parallel to the main direction (X), whose maximum level exceeds the level of the remaining zones of the load (S) itself. Since the travel of the pressing pad is the same over the entire load (S), during pressing, the stacks in the lateral zones of the load (S), formed due to the action of the first leveler (2), undergo a compaction that is considerably greater than that of the other zones of the load (S), and they assume a material density likewise greater than that of the other zones of the load (S). As is known, the presence of denser and more compact lateral zones considerably simplifies the removal and the trimming of the incoherent material that is situated outside the lateral zones, allowing the obtainment of precise and clear edges of the load (S).
  • In one possible embodiment, illustrated in figures 1 to 5, the first leveler (2) comprises a pair of side walls (21,22) movable towards and away from one another along a horizontal direction, perpendicular to the main direction (X). In this embodiment, the intervention of the side walls (21,22) is actuated during a rest phase of the load (S), i.e. during a stop of the conveyor belt (T). In substance, a load (S) is carried into and stopped in an intermediate position with respect to the side walls (21,22). Starting from a position of maximum mutual distance, in which they do not interfere with the load (S), the side walls (21,22) are moved closer together by means of actuators that are not illustrated in detail, for example pneumatic or hydraulic cylinders. By moving closer together up to a minimum distance position (figure 4), the side walls (21,22) come into contact with the lateral zones of the load (S), creating the previously-described stacks of greater height. Once the step of compaction of the lateral zones of the load (S) has terminated, the side walls (21,22) return to the maximum distance position, such that the load (S) can once again be moved forward and a new load (S) can be carried to the side walls (21,22). The actuators which drive the side walls (21,22) can advantageously be remotely controlled by means of a control module, for example in order to adapt the travel of the side walls (21,22) to different-size loads (S).
  • The side walls (21,22) have a front surface, intended to come into contact with the load (S), which is arranged in a substantially vertical position. For example, the side walls (21,22) can have the form of laminas or strips, arranged with the greater surface thereof vertical. The front surface of the side walls (21,22) could also assume a different shape, e.g. convex or tilted.
  • In an alternative embodiment, shown in figure 6, the first leveler (2) comprises a pair of side walls (21,22) arranged to converge with each other in a forward direction of the load (S). In this manner, the lateral zones of the load (S) come into contact with the side walls (21,22), and are compacted, during the transport of the load (S). Preferably, the side walls (21,22) remain fixed during the forward movement of the load (S). Each side wall (21,22) comprises a front surface, directed towards the belt (T) and towards the other side wall, situated above the belt (T), at a height such to be able to come into contact with the load (S). The height of the side walls (21,22) can be adjustable with respect to the conveyor belt (T), in order to adapt the position of the side walls (21) to the thickness or height of the load (S). The position of the side walls (21,22) can be adjustable along a horizontal direction perpendicular to the main direction (X), in order to allow adapting the position of the side walls (21,22) to the width of the load (S), as well as adjusting the level of compaction on the lateral zones of the load (S), and hence adjusting the height of the stacks that are formed in the lateral zones of the load (S). In order to adjust the position of the side walls (21,22), it is possible to arrange motorized or manual regulators, as is within the capacity of the man skilled in the art. The use of motorized regulators allows modifying the position of the side walls (21,22) by means of remote controls, for example for an adaptation to loads (S) of different size.
  • In the embodiment represented in figure 6, the side walls (21,22) are in the form of laminas or strips, arranged with the greater surface thereof in substantially vertical position.
  • The compacting device can also be provided with a second leveler (3), which is structured to come into contact with a front zone and with a rear zone of the load (S) and to push such zones towards one another, parallel to the main direction (X). The second leveler performs, on the front zone and on the rear zone of the load (S), the same action that the first leveler (2) performs on the lateral zones of the load (S).
  • Following the intervention of the second leveler (3), the incoherent material of the front and rear zones of the load is collected, forming two stacks (Af,Ar), substantially perpendicular to the main direction (X), whose maximum level exceeds the level of the remaining zones of the load (S) itself.
  • Following the intervention of the first and second leveler (2,3), the load (S) then has a substantially rectangular perimeter zone, comprising a stack (As,Af,Ar) of incoherent material whose maximum level exceeds the level of the remaining zones of the load (S) itself. During pressing, both the stacks in the front and rear zones of the load (S), formed due to the action of the second leveler (3), and the stacks formed in the lateral zones of the load (S), formed due to the action of the first leveler (2), undergo a compaction that is considerably greater than that of the other zones of the load (S), assuming a material density that is likewise greater than that of the other zones of the load (S). In this manner, at the end of the pressing, the load (S) comprises a closed perimeter zone, which follows the entire border of the load (S) itself, in which the incoherent material has greater compaction and material density. This allows facilitating and making more precise the trimming operations of the entire border of the load (S).
  • Preferably the second leveler (3) is movable along a vertical direction between a lower position (figure 1), in which it is able to come into contact with a load (S), and an upper position (figure 2), in which it does not interfere with the load (S). In the upper position (figure 2), the second leveler (3) allows the transit of the load (S) on the conveyor surface (T). Actuators of known type, not illustrated in detail, are arranged for allowing the vertical movement of the second leveler (3).
  • In the illustrated embodiment, the second leveler (3) comprises a pair of side walls (31,32) movable towards and away from one another, parallel to the main direction (X). Preferably, but not exclusively, the side walls (31,32) have a front surface, intended to come into contact with the load (S), which is arranged in a substantially vertical position. For example, the side walls (31,32) can have the form of laminas or strips, arranged with the greater surface thereof vertical. Actuators that are within the capacity of the man skilled in the art can be used for driving the side walls (31,32). Such actuators can advantageously be remotely controlled by means of a control module, for example for adapting the travel of the side walls (31,32) to different-size loads (S).
  • The intervention of the side walls (31,32) is actuated during a rest phase of the load (S), or during a stop of the conveyor belt (T). Starting from a configuration in which the second leveler (3), and the side walls (31,32), are situated in upper position, a load (S) can be carried into and stopped in a zone comprised between the side walls (31,32). Subsequently, the second leveler (3) is moved into its lower position (figure 2), in which the side walls (31,32) can come into contact with the load (S). Starting from a position of maximum mutual distance, in which they do not interfere with the load (S), the side walls (31,32) are moved closer together by means of actuators not illustrated in detail, e.g. pneumatic or hydraulic cylinders. By moving closer to each other up to a position of minimum distance (figure 5), the side walls (31,32) come into contact with the front and rear zones of the load (S), creating the previously-described stacks of greater height. Once the step of compaction of the front and rear zones of the load (S) has terminated, the side walls (31,32) return to the position of maximum distance and they are lifted towards the upper position, such that the load (S) can once again be moved forward and a new load (S) can be carried to the side walls (31,32).
  • In the embodiment represented in figures 1 and 2, also the first leveler (2) is movable along a vertical direction between a lower position (figure 2), in which it is able to come into contact with a load (S), and an upper position (figure 1), in which it does not interfere with the load (S). Preferably the first leveler (2), in the embodiment comprising the side walls (21,22), can be associated with the second leveler (3) in order to form a group that is integral with respect to the vertical translation. In this embodiment, the intervention of the two levelers (2,3) is actuated during a stop of the conveyor belt (T). The two levelers, which are initially found in upper position, are lowered into lower position. In such position, each successively executes its own compaction travel. Once the compaction travels have terminated, the two levelers (2,3) are brought back into upper position and the conveyor belt (T) once again moves forward towards the press (P).
  • In a variant of the represented embodiment, the first leveler (2) could also not be integral with the second leveler (3) with respect to the vertical translation. This occurs since the second leveler (2) does not obstruct the forward movement of the load (S) when the side walls (21,22) are situated in widened position. The second leveler (2), during the operation of the pressing device, could therefore always remain in lower position, and be lifted for example for the execution of maintenance operations.
  • The pressing device is particularly effective when the conveyor belt (T) assumes a continuous configuration, or in a configuration in which it comprises a first portion (T1) and a second portion (T2), consecutive with respect to each other, which are movable independently of one another. In both cases, a feeding device (F) is arranged along an initial portion of the conveyor belt (T). If the conveyor belt (T) comprises the two portions (T1,T2), the feeding device (F) is arranged along the first portion (T1) in order to deposit a load (S) on the first portion (T1) itself. The feeding device (F) is, for example, in the form of a hopper provided with a lower discharge opening.
  • The feeding device (F) operates on the first portion (T1), i.e. the loads (S) are deposited on the first portion (T1).
  • The front end of the first portion (T1) is at least partially above a rear end of the second portion (T2), at a height slightly greater than the second portion (T2). By driving the first and the second portion (T1,T2) in a synchronized forward-moving manner, i.e. at the same forward movement velocity, the load (S) is transferred from the first portion (T1) to the second portion (T2) by executing a small downward jump at the front end of the first portion (T1).
  • The presence of a first and a second portion (T1,T2), independent of one another, allows managing the intervention of the compacting device with considerable flexibility. In particular, while the second portion is stopped in order to allow the intervention of the compacting device, or in order to allow the intervention of the press (P), the first portion (T1) can be driven to move forward in order to allow the deposition of a load (S). The step of depositing a load (S) can be synchronized with the intervention of the compacting device, so as to terminate before or simultaneously with the intervention of the compacting device. In this manner, once the intervention of the compacting device has terminated, the first and the second portion (T1,T2) can be driven forward in order to execute the transfer of the load (S) deposited on the first portion, and to simultaneously transfer the load (S) that has undergone compaction towards the press (P).
  • If the conveyor belt (T) comprises the first and the second portion (T1,T2) that are movable independently of one another, it is possible to form the stacks (Af,Ar) in the front and rear zones of the load by modifying the forward movement velocity of the two portions, in a manner such that, during the transfer of the front zone and of the rear zone of the load (S) from the first portion to the second portion, a reduction of the forward movement velocity of the load is produced. This causes the formation of the stacks (Af,Ar). For example, while the front zone of the load (S) transits from the first portion (T1) to the second portion (T2), it is possible to increase the velocity of the first portion (T1) with respect to the second portion (T2), and/or reduce the velocity of the second portion (T2) with respect to the velocity of the first portion (T1). In this manner, it is possible to obtain the stack (Af) in the front zone, without requiring the second leveler (3). In the same manner, it is possible to obtain the stack (Ar) in the rear zone of the load (S), by increasing the velocity of the first portion (T1) with respect to the second portion (T2), and/or reducing the velocity of the second portion (T2) with respect to the velocity of the first portion (T1).
  • The pressing device allows obtaining important advantages. First of all, the compacting device allows attaining loads (S) with a perimeter zone of greater material density, without arranging pressing pads provided with projecting edges or frames. This allows reducing the cost of the pressing pads and simultaneously reducing the adaptation times with a change of size of the loads (S) to be pressed. Indeed, it is sufficient to modify the travel and/or the mutual distance of the side walls (21,22,31,32) in order to be able to attain the stacks (As,Af,Ar) in loads (S) of different size. In fact, the changes of size of the loads (S) can be managed without having to stop the pressing line so to execute adaptation interventions; rather, it will suffice to simply adjust the travel or the mutual distance between the side walls (21,22,31,32). Such adjustment can occur through remote controls on the actuators set for driving the side walls themselves, or on suitable regulators that can be arranged for the levelers (2,3).

Claims (2)

  1. A method for pressing ceramic articles, comprising the following steps: depositing a load (S) of incoherent material on a conveyor belt (T); conveying the load (S) along a main direction (X); by means of a first leveler (2), pushing two lateral zones of the load (S) towards one another, perpendicular to the main direction (X), so as to form two stacks (As), substantially parallel to the main direction (X), whose maximum level exceeds the level of the remaining zones of the load (S); characterised by moving both the belt (T) and the load (S) arranged on the belt (T) between two pressing pads of the press (P) and pressing the load (S) directly on the conveyor belt (T) following the formation of the stacks (As).
  2. The method according to claim 1, wherein, before pressing the load (S), a step is provided for pushing a front zone and a rear zone of the load (S), parallel to the main direction (X), towards one another by means of a second leveler (3), so as to form two stacks (Af,Ar) that are substantially perpendicular to the main direction (X), whose maximum level exceeds the level of the remaining zones of the load (S).
EP17175631.5A 2016-06-16 2017-06-13 Method for pressing ceramic articles Active EP3260260B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
ITUA2016A004452A ITUA20164452A1 (en) 2016-06-16 2016-06-16 Compactor device for pressing ceramic products

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP3260260A1 EP3260260A1 (en) 2017-12-27
EP3260260B1 true EP3260260B1 (en) 2021-08-04

Family

ID=57750354

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP17175631.5A Active EP3260260B1 (en) 2016-06-16 2017-06-13 Method for pressing ceramic articles

Country Status (4)

Country Link
EP (1) EP3260260B1 (en)
CN (1) CN107520945B (en)
ES (1) ES2893104T3 (en)
IT (1) ITUA20164452A1 (en)

Families Citing this family (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
IT201800005064A1 (en) * 2018-05-04 2019-11-04 Leveling device for materials in powder or granules
IT202000016273A1 (en) * 2020-07-06 2022-01-06 Siti B & T Group Spa EQUIPMENT FOR THE CREATION OF SLABS IN CERAMIC MATERIAL
CN112810336B (en) * 2021-01-25 2023-08-01 南京驭逡通信科技有限公司 Inkpad forming equipment for stationery production
CN114592690B (en) * 2022-04-07 2024-05-07 深圳大学 Construction device and construction method for compression pouring reinforced concrete beam and column

Citations (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CH387293A (en) * 1961-07-20 1965-01-31 Interwood Ag Method and plant for the continuous production of plate-shaped bodies from fiber material, in particular for the production of chipboard
FR1474341A (en) * 1966-03-25 1967-03-24 Becker & Van Huellen Heatable press, working in cycles, for chipboard or similar panels

Family Cites Families (12)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO1995012486A1 (en) * 1993-11-04 1995-05-11 Nikkiso Company Limited Pressure molding apparatus and pressure molding method
IT1294941B1 (en) * 1997-08-01 1999-04-23 Ariostea S P A SYSTEM FOR LOADING THE MOLDS OF THE PRESSES FOR THE FORMING OF TILES AND RELATED MEANS OF IMPLEMENTATION.
DE19858096A1 (en) * 1998-12-16 2000-06-21 Timberex Timber Exports Ltd Device and method for scattering particles into a nonwoven
ITRE20010127A1 (en) * 2001-12-21 2003-06-21 Sacmi METHOD AND PLANT FOR THE MANUFACTURE OF CERAMIC TILES AND SLABS, AND TILES AND SLABS OBTAINED WITH THE SAID
ITMO20020175A1 (en) * 2002-06-20 2003-12-22 Ronflette Sa DUST LOADING DEVICE
CN1223440C (en) * 2002-12-16 2005-10-19 徐建 Large size ceramic sheet shaping apparatus and method
ITMO20030209A1 (en) 2003-07-22 2005-01-23 System Spa DEVICE FOR FORMING CERAMIC ARTICLES,
ITRE20040150A1 (en) * 2004-12-10 2005-03-10 Sacmi IMPROVED PLANT FOR FORMING CERAMIC SHEETS OR TILES
ITRE20040152A1 (en) * 2004-12-22 2005-03-22 Sacmi COMPACT SYSTEM WITH CERAMIC TAPES FOR SLAB FORMING
ITRE20050023A1 (en) * 2005-03-09 2006-09-10 Mira Di Algeri Maris MOLD FOR ISOSTATIC PRESSING
DE102011076655A1 (en) * 2011-05-28 2012-11-29 Dieffenbacher GmbH Maschinen- und Anlagenbau Method and plant for the production of material plates, such as chip, chip, fiber or similar wood-based panels and plastic plates and a device for compacting the narrow sides of a pressed material mat
CN105563630A (en) * 2014-10-15 2016-05-11 钟细环 Distribution mechanism of ceramic bricks

Patent Citations (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CH387293A (en) * 1961-07-20 1965-01-31 Interwood Ag Method and plant for the continuous production of plate-shaped bodies from fiber material, in particular for the production of chipboard
FR1474341A (en) * 1966-03-25 1967-03-24 Becker & Van Huellen Heatable press, working in cycles, for chipboard or similar panels

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
CN107520945A (en) 2017-12-29
ES2893104T3 (en) 2022-02-08
EP3260260A1 (en) 2017-12-27
CN107520945B (en) 2021-07-20
ITUA20164452A1 (en) 2017-12-16

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
EP3260260B1 (en) Method for pressing ceramic articles
CA2625939C (en) Plant for producing slabs of conglomerate stone material
ITMO960151A1 (en) METHOD AND MEANS FOR PRESSING CERAMIC TILES
CN108995017A (en) One kind exempting from supporting plate static pressure block machine
DE102012008444A1 (en) Tandem Press Line
US2831213A (en) Feeding moist mass cakes to presses
US5281125A (en) Device for the production or manufacture of stones or blocks
US5567113A (en) Apparatus and method for palletizing work pieces
CN209425695U (en) One kind exempting from supporting plate static pressure block machine
CN106976153B (en) Double-layer cloth brick making press machine
CN107263674A (en) The happy high brick forming machine of one kind
CN201579861U (en) Forming device of porcelain plate brick
CN203611340U (en) Tile cloth and pre-pressing device
EP1500480B1 (en) A device for forming ceramic products, including slabs, tiles and the like, by powder pressing
CN108214827B (en) Double-layer block making press
EP0384745B1 (en) System for making composite blocks
EP0873832A1 (en) Apparatus for pressing two-layer ceramic tiles
NL194117C (en) Device for manufacturing wall elements.
CN207954206U (en) A kind of bilayer clamp dog forcing press
EP0916461A1 (en) Pressing device
CN207156058U (en) The happy high brick forming machine of one kind
EP0519373B1 (en) Device for loading powder in molds of ceramic presses
CN106738193B (en) Concrete formwork block manufacturing machine
EP1358983B1 (en) Device for loading moulds in a press to produce tiles
JP2521465B2 (en) Concrete product molding equipment

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: THE APPLICATION HAS BEEN PUBLISHED

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR

AX Request for extension of the european patent

Extension state: BA ME

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: REQUEST FOR EXAMINATION WAS MADE

17P Request for examination filed

Effective date: 20180410

RBV Designated contracting states (corrected)

Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: EXAMINATION IS IN PROGRESS

17Q First examination report despatched

Effective date: 20190416

RAP1 Party data changed (applicant data changed or rights of an application transferred)

Owner name: SYSTEM CERAMICS S.P.A.

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: EXAMINATION IS IN PROGRESS

RIC1 Information provided on ipc code assigned before grant

Ipc: B30B 15/30 20060101ALI20201209BHEP

Ipc: B28B 13/02 20060101ALI20201209BHEP

Ipc: B28B 5/02 20060101ALI20201209BHEP

Ipc: B28B 3/02 20060101AFI20201209BHEP

Ipc: B30B 11/14 20060101ALI20201209BHEP

Ipc: B30B 11/02 20060101ALI20201209BHEP

GRAP Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR1

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: GRANT OF PATENT IS INTENDED

INTG Intention to grant announced

Effective date: 20210301

GRAS Grant fee paid

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR3

GRAA (expected) grant

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: THE PATENT HAS BEEN GRANTED

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: B1

Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: GB

Ref legal event code: FG4D

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: AT

Ref legal event code: REF

Ref document number: 1416508

Country of ref document: AT

Kind code of ref document: T

Effective date: 20210815

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: EP

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R096

Ref document number: 602017043222

Country of ref document: DE

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: IE

Ref legal event code: FG4D

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: LT

Ref legal event code: MG9D

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: NL

Ref legal event code: MP

Effective date: 20210804

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: AT

Ref legal event code: MK05

Ref document number: 1416508

Country of ref document: AT

Kind code of ref document: T

Effective date: 20210804

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: RS

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210804

Ref country code: SE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210804

Ref country code: PT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20211206

Ref country code: NO

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20211104

Ref country code: HR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210804

Ref country code: FI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210804

Ref country code: AT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210804

Ref country code: BG

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20211104

Ref country code: LT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210804

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: ES

Ref legal event code: FG2A

Ref document number: 2893104

Country of ref document: ES

Kind code of ref document: T3

Effective date: 20220208

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: PL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210804

Ref country code: LV

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210804

Ref country code: GR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20211105

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: NL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210804

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: DK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210804

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R097

Ref document number: 602017043222

Country of ref document: DE

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: SM

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210804

Ref country code: SK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210804

Ref country code: RO

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210804

Ref country code: EE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210804

Ref country code: CZ

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210804

Ref country code: AL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210804

PLBE No opposition filed within time limit

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009261

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: NO OPPOSITION FILED WITHIN TIME LIMIT

26N No opposition filed

Effective date: 20220506

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: SI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210804

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R119

Ref document number: 602017043222

Country of ref document: DE

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: MC

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210804

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: PL

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: BE

Ref legal event code: MM

Effective date: 20220630

GBPC Gb: european patent ceased through non-payment of renewal fee

Effective date: 20220613

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: LU

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20220613

Ref country code: LI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20220630

Ref country code: IE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20220613

Ref country code: FR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20220630

Ref country code: CH

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20220630

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: GB

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20220613

Ref country code: DE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20230103

Ref country code: BE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20220630

P01 Opt-out of the competence of the unified patent court (upc) registered

Effective date: 20230525

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: ES

Payment date: 20230703

Year of fee payment: 7

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: HU

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT; INVALID AB INITIO

Effective date: 20170613

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: MK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210804

Ref country code: CY

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210804

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: TR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210804

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: MT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210804

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IT

Payment date: 20240619

Year of fee payment: 8

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: ES

Payment date: 20240701

Year of fee payment: 8