EP3393915A1 - Machine for making filter-bags with stacking station - Google Patents

Machine for making filter-bags with stacking station

Info

Publication number
EP3393915A1
EP3393915A1 EP16825570.1A EP16825570A EP3393915A1 EP 3393915 A1 EP3393915 A1 EP 3393915A1 EP 16825570 A EP16825570 A EP 16825570A EP 3393915 A1 EP3393915 A1 EP 3393915A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
pocket
filter
bag
retaining element
drum
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.)
Granted
Application number
EP16825570.1A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP3393915B1 (en
Inventor
Sauro Rivola
Marco PETRILLO
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.)
IMA Industria Macchine Automatiche SpA
Original Assignee
IMA Industria Macchine Automatiche 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 IMA Industria Macchine Automatiche SpA filed Critical IMA Industria Macchine Automatiche SpA
Publication of EP3393915A1 publication Critical patent/EP3393915A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP3393915B1 publication Critical patent/EP3393915B1/en
Active legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

Links

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
    • B65B35/00—Supplying, feeding, arranging or orientating articles to be packaged
    • B65B35/10—Feeding, e.g. conveying, single articles
    • B65B35/16—Feeding, e.g. conveying, single articles by grippers
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
    • B65B29/00—Packaging of materials presenting special problems
    • B65B29/02—Packaging of substances, e.g. tea, which are intended to be infused in the package
    • B65B29/028—Packaging of substances, e.g. tea, which are intended to be infused in the package packaging infusion material into filter bags
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
    • B65B35/00—Supplying, feeding, arranging or orientating articles to be packaged
    • B65B35/10—Feeding, e.g. conveying, single articles
    • B65B35/26—Feeding, e.g. conveying, single articles by rotary conveyors
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
    • B65B35/00—Supplying, feeding, arranging or orientating articles to be packaged
    • B65B35/30—Arranging and feeding articles in groups
    • B65B35/50—Stacking one article, or group of articles, upon another before packaging
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
    • B65B35/00—Supplying, feeding, arranging or orientating articles to be packaged
    • B65B35/56—Orientating, i.e. changing the attitude of, articles, e.g. of non-uniform cross-section
    • B65B35/58—Turning articles by positively-acting means, e.g. to present labelled portions in uppermost position

Definitions

  • This invention relates to a machine for forming filter-bags containing infusion products.
  • infusion products means products such as tea, coffee, camomile (in powder, granules, or leaves).
  • a machine according to the invention is used for forming filter-bags of the so-called two-lobed type, that is to say, filter-bags comprising a single piece of filter paper defining two separate and closed chambers.
  • Each chamber contains a dose of infusion product.
  • the two chambers are folded towards each other forming a single upper end (in the shape of an upturned "V") and a bottom end in the shape of a "W".
  • the filter-bag may be equipped with a thread for association with a gripping tag.
  • That patent document describes a machine structured along a forming and feeding line on which are positioned:
  • - a station designed to close the web on itself, wrap the doses of product and, subsequently, longitudinally join the web;
  • a carousel equipped with radially protruding grippers, positioned beneath the folding station and configured to receive individual pieces of folded filter paper; the carousel, moved stepwise about a horizontal axis, moves each piece of filter paper in the proximity of stations arranged one after another to associate to the piece of filter paper a thread, suitably wrapped around the piece of filter paper, and a tag in turn associated with the thread.
  • the carousel transfers the filter-bag thus formed on a release and orientation unit configured to release the filter-bag to a stacking unit.
  • a release and orientation unit configured to release the filter-bag to a stacking unit.
  • the orientation and releasing unit (shown from patent document EP762973 in the name of the same Applicant) comprises:
  • a drum positioned alongside the carousel, comprising a plurality of housing pockets, arranged circumferentially and each designed to house and retain by interference a filter-bag whilst the drum rotates in a stepwise fashion;
  • a conveyor unit which picks up the filter-bag from a gripper of the carousel, and conveys (with substantially rectilinear motion) above the drum;
  • the drum moved stepwise about an axis parallel to the axis of the carousel, has, precisely, the duty of receiving, rotating and releasing the filter-bags inside the stacking unit for preparing groups of filter-bags for their final packaging.
  • the stacking unit comprises a fixed tubular conduit oriented in a radial direction relative to the drum, and having an end opening positioned facing the surface of the drum.
  • the placing means comprise a compacting head positioned above the drum which is able to push the filter-bag into the pocket.
  • orientation and release unit comprises an element for ejection of the filter-bag, when the respective pocket of the drum is positioned facing the stacking unit.
  • the ejector element has a pushing head and an actuator element configured to couple the pushing head to the bottom of each pocket, when the latter is facing the stacking unit.
  • Each pocket has a plurality of through holes in it, made on its bottom, which can be engaged by the pushing head to allow contact with the filter- bag and the consequent ejection thrust from the pocket towards the stacking unit.
  • this modification has generated a significant increase in the weight of the filter-bag in its entirety (by summing the weight of the two chambers) and, for this reason, operational difficulties have been encountered.
  • the structure of the orientation and release unit is designed to obtain a positioning and a corresponding release of the single filter-bag using the partial elastic deformability of the filter-bag, that is, the guarantee of a correct housing of the filter-bag is left to the snap fitting force generated on the filter-bag.
  • the latter in fact, is forced to enter into the pocket of the drum and, subsequently, pushed out from the pocket itself to drop into the stacking unit.
  • an increase in the weight of the filter-bag may create problems for positioning the filter-bag inside the pocket of the drum during stepwise rotation of the latter due to centrifugal forces applied to the filter-bag.
  • an incorrect positioning of the filter-bag or a greater resistance of the filter-bag to the thrust generated by the ejection head may create breakages on the filter-bag.
  • the current structure of the orientation and release unit does not guarantee a correct stability of the filter-bag in the pocket of the drum and its integrity during release towards the stacking unit.
  • the aim of this invention is to provide a machine for forming filter-bags for infusion products which can overcome the above-mentioned drawbacks. More specifically, the aim of this invention to provide a machine for forming filter-bags for infusion products which is able to operate at high production speed even with heavy and large filter-bags.
  • FIG. 1 schematically illustrates a front view, with some parts cut away to better illustrate others, of a machine for forming filter-bags containing infusion products according to this invention
  • Figure 1 in particular a drum for orientation of the filter-bags;
  • - Figure 3 illustrates a rear perspective view of the drum of Figure 2;
  • FIG. 6 shows a perspective view, with some parts cut away to better illustrate others, of a kinematic diagram of the control means present on the drum;
  • infusion products means products such as tea, coffee, camomile (in powder, granules, or leaves).
  • the filter-bag 1 formed by a machine according to the invention comprises a piece of filter paper with an elongate shape (tubular) having at least two chambers 3, 30 with corresponding doses D1 and D2 of infusion product separate from each other along the piece of filter paper.
  • the two chambers 3, 30 are folded towards each other forming an upper end 1 a (in the shape of an upturned "V") and a bottom end 1 b in the shape of a "W".
  • the machine 100 comprises a forming unit 2 (schematically illustrated with a block in Figure 1 ) configured to form individual pieces of tubular filter paper, each having at least one chamber 3 containing the dose D1 of infusion product (preferably two chambers 3, 30 with corresponding doses D1 , D2) distributed between the upper end 1 a and the closed bottom end 1 b of the piece of filter paper.
  • a forming unit 2 (schematically illustrated with a block in Figure 1 ) configured to form individual pieces of tubular filter paper, each having at least one chamber 3 containing the dose D1 of infusion product (preferably two chambers 3, 30 with corresponding doses D1 , D2) distributed between the upper end 1 a and the closed bottom end 1 b of the piece of filter paper.
  • the machine 100 comprises a carousel 4 designed to receive the pieces of filter paper from the forming unit 2.
  • the carousel 4 is positioned downstream of the forming unit 2 with respect to a feed direction of the filter-bag 1 being formed.
  • the carousel 4 rotates about a first axis 4X to bring the piece of filter paper to a plurality of stations arranged one after another (not illustrated) and configured to form a filter-bag 1 .
  • the stations in succession are designed to apply to the piece of filter paper a thread and a tag to obtain a filter-bag 1 .
  • the carousel 4 is moved by intermittent or stepwise movement, and rotates in an anticlockwise direction looking at Figure 1 .
  • the carousel 4 comprises a plurality of radial gripping arms 4a defining individual housings for the pieces of filter paper.
  • the machine 100 comprises a drum 5 for orientation of the filter-bags 1 , positioned alongside the carousel 4 and rotating about a second axis 5x Parallel to the first axis 4X of the carousel 4.
  • the drum 5 comprises a plurality of pockets 6 designed to house a corresponding filter-bag 1 .
  • the pockets 6 are arranged circumferentially on the drum 5.
  • the drum 5 comprises four pockets 6 spaced at equal angular intervals from each other along the drum 5.
  • the drum 5 is moved intermittently, or in a stepwise fashion, and rotates about the second axis X5 synchronised with the carousel 4 in a direction, preferably, clockwise anticlockwise (in the same direction as the direction of the carousel 4).
  • the machine 100 comprises a conveyor unit 7 configured to pick up from the carousel 4 (in particular from a gripper 4a), convey and release the filter-bag 1 to a free pocket 6 located in a receiving position during the rotation of the drum 5 (see Figures 1 to 3).
  • the machine 100 also comprises a stacking element 8 positioned beneath the drum 5, at a pocket 6 located in a release position.
  • the release position is rotated by an angle a relative to the receiving position.
  • the stacking unit 8 having an open area 8a for receiving the filter-bag 1 .
  • the drum 5 comprises, for each pocket 6, a first retaining element 9 and a second retaining element configured to retain the filter- bag 1 inside the pocket 6 between the receiving position and the release position.
  • a first retaining element 9 of a given pocket 6 and a second retaining element 1 1 of an adjacent pocket 6 are movable in rotation about a shared axis X9b of rotation.
  • the first retaining element 9 and the second element comprise, for each pocket 6, respective active portions 9a, 1 1 a, which are configured to retain corresponding opposite portions of the filter-bag 1 .
  • the drum 5 comprises control means 10 connected to respective of support and drive portions 9b and 1 1 b of the first 9 and second 1 1 retaining element of each pocket 6 for allowing a synchronised movement of the respective active portions 9a, 1 1 a.
  • control means 10 are configured for moving, in synchrony with the rotation of the drum 5, between a first operating position, wherein the active portions 9a, 1 1 a are spaced apart from the pocket 6 and allow to the latter to receive or release the filter-bag 1 , and a second operating position, wherein the active portions 9a, 1 1 a are configured to retain the filter-bag 1 inside the pocket 6.
  • the positioning and retaining of the filter-bag 1 is secure irrespective of the dimensions and the weight of the filter- bag 1 .
  • the presence of the retaining elements 9, 1 1 guarantees a high stability of the filter-bag 1 inside the pocket 6 even at high operating speeds (with rotation of the drum).
  • the first 9 and the second 1 1 retaining element make contact with and retain using the respective active portions 9a, 1 1 a, respectively, an upper end 1 a and a bottom end 1 b of the filter-bag 1 housed in the pocket 6.
  • the first 9 and the second 1 1 retaining element are positioned circumferentially on the drum 5, mutually facing the ends of the pocket 6 (see Figures 1 to 9).
  • the active portion 1 1 a of the second retaining element 1 1 is designed to come into contact with the bottom end 1 b of the filter-bag 1 .
  • the active portion 9a of the first retaining element 9 comes into contact with bottom end 1 b of the filter- bag 1
  • the active portion 1 1 a of the second retaining element 1 1 comes into contact with the upper end 1 a of the filter-bag.
  • first retaining element 9 and the second retaining element 1 1 of a pocket 6 form a pair designed to retain a filter-bag 1 housed in the pocket 6 with any orientation.
  • Each retaining element 9, 1 1 of each pair is connected to the control means 10 configured to allow a synchronised movement of the respective active portions 9a, 1 1 a between the first and second operating position of the first 9 and the second 1 1 retaining element.
  • the control means 10 allow movement of the active portions 9a, 1 1 a of the retaining elements 9, 1 1 to receive and release (first operating position of the retaining elements 9 and 1 1 , or retain (second operating position of the retaining elements 9 and 1 1 ) the filter-bag 1 housed in the pocket 6.
  • a first retaining element 9 of a given pocket 6 and a second retaining element 1 1 of an adjacent pocket 6 are movable in rotation about a shared axis X9b of rotation.
  • the shared axis X9b of rotation is defined by at least one shaft 12 to which corresponding support and drive portions 9b, 1 1 b of the first retaining element 9 of a pocket 6 and of the second retaining element 1 1 of an adjacent pocket 6 are connected.
  • the active portion 9a, 1 1 a comprises at least one prong 13, 14 and the supporting and drive portion 9b, 1 1 b comprises at least one flanged body
  • the active portion 9a of the first retaining element 9 comprises a plurality of first prongs 13.
  • the active portion 1 1 a of the second retaining element 1 1 comprises a plurality of second prongs 14.
  • the at least one prong 13 of a first retaining element 9 of a pocket 6 and the at least one prong 14 of a second retaining element 1 1 of an adjacent pocket 6 are positioned mutually alternated.
  • first prongs 13 and the second prongs 14 are positioned in such a way as to create an alternation of empty and full spaces wherein the empty spaces defined by the first prongs 13 are engaged by the second prongs 14 and vice versa.
  • each prong (13 or 14) has an arc-shape in such a way as to reach or leave the filter-bag 1 (with a rotating movement) passing beyond the outer perimeter profile of the pocket 6.
  • the machine 100 comprises an ejector element 17 designed to eject the filter-bag 1 from a pocket 6 of the drum 5 in the direction of the stacking unit 8 when the pocket unit 6 is positioned in the release position.
  • the pocket 6 has a bottom 6a with at least one groove 18. In the embodiment illustrated, the bottom 6a has two grooves 18.
  • the ejector element 17 is movable between a non-operating position away from the at least one groove 18 and an operating position wherein the ejector element 17 engages the at least one groove 18 for pushing the filter-bag 1 towards the stacking unit 8.
  • the retaining elements 9, 1 1 are positioned in the first operating position when the ejector element 17 is in an operating position.
  • the grooves 18 can be engaged by the ejector element 17; more specifically, in the second operating position the ejector element 17 engages the grooves 18, passing beyond them.
  • the ejector element 17 comprises an operating head 17a having two walls configured to engage the grooves 1 8.
  • the operating head 17a is connected to at least one arm 17b connected and controlled by control means for moving the head 17a, in synchrony with the movement of the drum 5, between the non-operating away position and the operating position.
  • control means 10 are arranged inside the drum 5 and are configured for synchronising the movement of the first 9 and of the second 1 1 retaining element of a pocket 6 along opposite directions V9, V1 1 of rotation to reach the corresponding first and second operating positions.
  • control means 10 are configured for determining the movement of the first 9 and the second 1 1 retaining element located on the shared axis X9b according to directions V9, V1 1 , of rotation opposite to each other to reach the corresponding first and second operating positions.
  • control means 10 are configured to rotate all the first retaining elements 9 according to a first direction V9 and all the second retaining elements 1 1 according to a second direction V1 1 .
  • first direction V9 is opposite the second direction V1 1 .
  • control means 10 of the retaining elements 9, 1 1 are positioned circumferentially inside the drum 5.
  • control means 10 comprise two series of kinematic mechanisms serving a single operating component.
  • each first retaining element 9 (in the case illustrated there are four) is keyed to the shaft 12 with the flanged body 15.
  • the shaft 12 has, at one end, a crank 19 equipped with a cam follower roller 20 constrained and slidable along a cam track 21 formed on a plate 22 lateral to the drum 5 and fixed relative to the drum 5.
  • the crank 19 and cam follower roller 20 form the first control mechanism.
  • the cam track 21 is configured for moving the first retaining element 9 from the first to the second operating position and vice versa upon reaching a predetermined angular position of the cam follower roller 20 and to maintain this position until reaching a subsequent angular position.
  • the control means 10 comprise a second kinematic mechanism comprising, for each shaft 12, a connecting body 23 keyed on the shaft 12 and alongside the flanged body 15 of the first retaining element 9.
  • the first end of a connecting rod 24 is articulated on the connecting body 23.
  • the second end of the connecting rod 24 is articulated to the flanged body 16 of the second retaining element 1 1 which together with the first retaining element 9 forms a pair.
  • the rotation of the shaft 12 allows a direct command (that is, of rotation) of the first retaining element 9 and a indirect command of rotation of the second retaining element 1 1 : in this way, the pair of retaining elements is synchronised to obtain the first or the second operating position.
  • the entire conveyor and orientation unit of the filter-bag is compact and has a reduced size.

Abstract

Described is a machine for forming filter-bags (1) containing infusion products, comprising: an orientation drum (5), positioned alongside a carousel (4) and comprising a plurality of pockets (6), designed to receive a filter-bag (1) and movable in rotation between a receiving position and a release position; a conveyor unit (7) configured to pick up from the carousel (4) and deliver the filter-bag (1 ) to a pocket (6) of the drum (5) located in the receiving position; a stacking unit (8) positioned beneath the drum (5) at a pocket (6) positioned in the release position; the drum (5) comprising, for each pocket (6), a first retaining element (9) and a second retaining element (11) configured to make contact with and retain the filter-bag () inside the pocket (6) between the receiving position and the release position.

Description

DESCRIPTION
MACHINE FOR MAKING FILTER-BAGS WITH STACKING STATION Technical field
This invention relates to a machine for forming filter-bags containing infusion products.
The expression "infusion products" means products such as tea, coffee, camomile (in powder, granules, or leaves).
Background art
Advantageously, a machine according to the invention is used for forming filter-bags of the so-called two-lobed type, that is to say, filter-bags comprising a single piece of filter paper defining two separate and closed chambers. Each chamber contains a dose of infusion product. The two chambers are folded towards each other forming a single upper end (in the shape of an upturned "V") and a bottom end in the shape of a "W".
For example, the filter-bag may be equipped with a thread for association with a gripping tag.
A type of machine for forming this type of filter-bag is known from patent document EP765274 (in the name of the same Applicant).
That patent document describes a machine structured along a forming and feeding line on which are positioned:
- a station for feeding a web of filter paper along a feed surface;
- a station for feeding doses of product on the web of filter paper at predetermined distances;
- a station designed to close the web on itself, wrap the doses of product and, subsequently, longitudinally join the web;
- a station for folding individual pieces of filter paper with double chamber;
- a carousel equipped with radially protruding grippers, positioned beneath the folding station and configured to receive individual pieces of folded filter paper; the carousel, moved stepwise about a horizontal axis, moves each piece of filter paper in the proximity of stations arranged one after another to associate to the piece of filter paper a thread, suitably wrapped around the piece of filter paper, and a tag in turn associated with the thread.
In some machine solutions, depending on the type of filter-bag, there may be:
- a further station for transversal closing of the ends of the piece before or at the same time as the separation from the remaining film; or
- a station for folding the open ends of the two chambers of the piece along the path of the carousel.
If necessary, there may also be a station for applying an overwrapping material to the filter-bag thus obtained along the path of the carousel.
Moreover, the carousel transfers the filter-bag thus formed on a release and orientation unit configured to release the filter-bag to a stacking unit. Of particular interest in this specification is the latter release and orientation unit.
The orientation and releasing unit (shown from patent document EP762973 in the name of the same Applicant) comprises:
- a drum, positioned alongside the carousel, comprising a plurality of housing pockets, arranged circumferentially and each designed to house and retain by interference a filter-bag whilst the drum rotates in a stepwise fashion;
- a conveyor unit which picks up the filter-bag from a gripper of the carousel, and conveys (with substantially rectilinear motion) above the drum;
- means for placing the filter-bag in a corresponding pocket of the drum when the pocket is in a predetermined transfer position during rotation of the drum.
The drum, moved stepwise about an axis parallel to the axis of the carousel, has, precisely, the duty of receiving, rotating and releasing the filter-bags inside the stacking unit for preparing groups of filter-bags for their final packaging.
The stacking unit comprises a fixed tubular conduit oriented in a radial direction relative to the drum, and having an end opening positioned facing the surface of the drum.
The placing means comprise a compacting head positioned above the drum which is able to push the filter-bag into the pocket.
Lastly, the orientation and release unit comprises an element for ejection of the filter-bag, when the respective pocket of the drum is positioned facing the stacking unit.
The ejector element has a pushing head and an actuator element configured to couple the pushing head to the bottom of each pocket, when the latter is facing the stacking unit.
Each pocket has a plurality of through holes in it, made on its bottom, which can be engaged by the pushing head to allow contact with the filter- bag and the consequent ejection thrust from the pocket towards the stacking unit.
Both for market strategies and in order to increase the infusion quality of each single filter-bag, it is necessary in every chamber to increase the quantity of product which constitutes the single dose which, in effect, has created drawbacks on the machine.
In effect, this modification has generated a significant increase in the weight of the filter-bag in its entirety (by summing the weight of the two chambers) and, for this reason, operational difficulties have been encountered.
More specifically, the structure of the orientation and release unit is designed to obtain a positioning and a corresponding release of the single filter-bag using the partial elastic deformability of the filter-bag, that is, the guarantee of a correct housing of the filter-bag is left to the snap fitting force generated on the filter-bag.
The latter, in fact, is forced to enter into the pocket of the drum and, subsequently, pushed out from the pocket itself to drop into the stacking unit.
Now, an increase in the weight of the filter-bag may create problems for positioning the filter-bag inside the pocket of the drum during stepwise rotation of the latter due to centrifugal forces applied to the filter-bag.
Similarly, in the step for ejection of the filter-bag, an incorrect positioning of the filter-bag or a greater resistance of the filter-bag to the thrust generated by the ejection head may create breakages on the filter-bag. In other words, the current structure of the orientation and release unit does not guarantee a correct stability of the filter-bag in the pocket of the drum and its integrity during release towards the stacking unit.
Disclosure of the invention
The aim of this invention is to provide a machine for forming filter-bags for infusion products which can overcome the above-mentioned drawbacks. More specifically, the aim of this invention to provide a machine for forming filter-bags for infusion products which is able to operate at high production speed even with heavy and large filter-bags.
These aims are fully achieved by the machine for forming filter-bags containing infusion products according to this invention as characterised in the appended claims.
Brief description of the drawings
The features of the invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description of a preferred, non-limiting embodiment of it, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
- Figure 1 schematically illustrates a front view, with some parts cut away to better illustrate others, of a machine for forming filter-bags containing infusion products according to this invention;
- Figure 2 illustrates a front perspective view of part of the machine of
Figure 1 , in particular a drum for orientation of the filter-bags; - Figure 3 illustrates a rear perspective view of the drum of Figure 2;
- Figures 4 and 5 show the drum of the previous drawings, with an ejector element in two different configurations;
- Figure 6 shows a perspective view, with some parts cut away to better illustrate others, of a kinematic diagram of the control means present on the drum;
- Figures 7 to 9 illustrate front views of an operational diagram of the drum of the above-mentioned drawings in corresponding operating positions. Detailed description of preferred embodiments of the invention
With reference to the accompanying drawings, in particular Figure 1 , the machine according to the invention, labelled 100 in its entirety, is used for forming filter-bags 1 containing infusion products.
The expression "infusion products" means products such as tea, coffee, camomile (in powder, granules, or leaves).
Preferably, but not necessarily, the filter-bag 1 formed by a machine according to the invention comprises a piece of filter paper with an elongate shape (tubular) having at least two chambers 3, 30 with corresponding doses D1 and D2 of infusion product separate from each other along the piece of filter paper.
More specifically, in an area of the machine 100 the two chambers 3, 30 are folded towards each other forming an upper end 1 a (in the shape of an upturned "V") and a bottom end 1 b in the shape of a "W".
The machine 100 comprises a forming unit 2 (schematically illustrated with a block in Figure 1 ) configured to form individual pieces of tubular filter paper, each having at least one chamber 3 containing the dose D1 of infusion product (preferably two chambers 3, 30 with corresponding doses D1 , D2) distributed between the upper end 1 a and the closed bottom end 1 b of the piece of filter paper.
The machine 100 comprises a carousel 4 designed to receive the pieces of filter paper from the forming unit 2. The carousel 4 is positioned downstream of the forming unit 2 with respect to a feed direction of the filter-bag 1 being formed.
The carousel 4 rotates about a first axis 4X to bring the piece of filter paper to a plurality of stations arranged one after another (not illustrated) and configured to form a filter-bag 1 . Advantageously, the stations in succession are designed to apply to the piece of filter paper a thread and a tag to obtain a filter-bag 1 .
In light of this, the carousel 4 is moved by intermittent or stepwise movement, and rotates in an anticlockwise direction looking at Figure 1 . It should be noted that the carousel 4 comprises a plurality of radial gripping arms 4a defining individual housings for the pieces of filter paper. As illustrated, the machine 100 comprises a drum 5 for orientation of the filter-bags 1 , positioned alongside the carousel 4 and rotating about a second axis 5x Parallel to the first axis 4X of the carousel 4.
The drum 5 comprises a plurality of pockets 6 designed to house a corresponding filter-bag 1 . The pockets 6 are arranged circumferentially on the drum 5.
Preferably, the drum 5 comprises four pockets 6 spaced at equal angular intervals from each other along the drum 5.
It should be noted that the drum 5 is moved intermittently, or in a stepwise fashion, and rotates about the second axis X5 synchronised with the carousel 4 in a direction, preferably, clockwise anticlockwise (in the same direction as the direction of the carousel 4).
Moreover, the machine 100 comprises a conveyor unit 7 configured to pick up from the carousel 4 (in particular from a gripper 4a), convey and release the filter-bag 1 to a free pocket 6 located in a receiving position during the rotation of the drum 5 (see Figures 1 to 3).
The machine 100 also comprises a stacking element 8 positioned beneath the drum 5, at a pocket 6 located in a release position. The release position is rotated by an angle a relative to the receiving position.
The stacking unit 8 having an open area 8a for receiving the filter-bag 1 . As illustrated, the drum 5 comprises, for each pocket 6, a first retaining element 9 and a second retaining element configured to retain the filter- bag 1 inside the pocket 6 between the receiving position and the release position.
Again as illustrated, a first retaining element 9 of a given pocket 6 and a second retaining element 1 1 of an adjacent pocket 6 are movable in rotation about a shared axis X9b of rotation.
Preferably, the first retaining element 9 and the second element comprise, for each pocket 6, respective active portions 9a, 1 1 a, which are configured to retain corresponding opposite portions of the filter-bag 1 .
Preferably, the drum 5 comprises control means 10 connected to respective of support and drive portions 9b and 1 1 b of the first 9 and second 1 1 retaining element of each pocket 6 for allowing a synchronised movement of the respective active portions 9a, 1 1 a.
In light of this, the control means 10 are configured for moving, in synchrony with the rotation of the drum 5, between a first operating position, wherein the active portions 9a, 1 1 a are spaced apart from the pocket 6 and allow to the latter to receive or release the filter-bag 1 , and a second operating position, wherein the active portions 9a, 1 1 a are configured to retain the filter-bag 1 inside the pocket 6.
Thanks to the retaining elements 9, 1 1 , the positioning and retaining of the filter-bag 1 is secure irrespective of the dimensions and the weight of the filter- bag 1 .
The presence of the retaining elements 9, 1 1 guarantees a high stability of the filter-bag 1 inside the pocket 6 even at high operating speeds (with rotation of the drum).
Preferably, the first 9 and the second 1 1 retaining element make contact with and retain using the respective active portions 9a, 1 1 a, respectively, an upper end 1 a and a bottom end 1 b of the filter-bag 1 housed in the pocket 6. Advantageously, the first 9 and the second 1 1 retaining element are positioned circumferentially on the drum 5, mutually facing the ends of the pocket 6 (see Figures 1 to 9).
Advantageously, the active portion 1 1 a of the second retaining element 1 1 is designed to come into contact with the bottom end 1 b of the filter-bag 1 . In an alternative embodiment not illustrated, the active portion 9a of the first retaining element 9 comes into contact with bottom end 1 b of the filter- bag 1 , whilst the active portion 1 1 a of the second retaining element 1 1 comes into contact with the upper end 1 a of the filter-bag.
Basically, the first retaining element 9 and the second retaining element 1 1 of a pocket 6 form a pair designed to retain a filter-bag 1 housed in the pocket 6 with any orientation.
Each retaining element 9, 1 1 of each pair is connected to the control means 10 configured to allow a synchronised movement of the respective active portions 9a, 1 1 a between the first and second operating position of the first 9 and the second 1 1 retaining element. In other words, the control means 10 allow movement of the active portions 9a, 1 1 a of the retaining elements 9, 1 1 to receive and release (first operating position of the retaining elements 9 and 1 1 , or retain (second operating position of the retaining elements 9 and 1 1 ) the filter-bag 1 housed in the pocket 6.
As already mentioned, a first retaining element 9 of a given pocket 6 and a second retaining element 1 1 of an adjacent pocket 6 are movable in rotation about a shared axis X9b of rotation.
The shared axis X9b of rotation is defined by at least one shaft 12 to which corresponding support and drive portions 9b, 1 1 b of the first retaining element 9 of a pocket 6 and of the second retaining element 1 1 of an adjacent pocket 6 are connected.
The active portion 9a, 1 1 a comprises at least one prong 13, 14 and the supporting and drive portion 9b, 1 1 b comprises at least one flanged body
15, 16 connected to the control means 10 and to the at least one prong 13, 14.
Advantageously, the active portion 9a of the first retaining element 9 comprises a plurality of first prongs 13.
Advantageously, the active portion 1 1 a of the second retaining element 1 1 comprises a plurality of second prongs 14.
Advantageously, the at least one prong 13 of a first retaining element 9 of a pocket 6 and the at least one prong 14 of a second retaining element 1 1 of an adjacent pocket 6 are positioned mutually alternated.
In other words, the first prongs 13 and the second prongs 14 are positioned in such a way as to create an alternation of empty and full spaces wherein the empty spaces defined by the first prongs 13 are engaged by the second prongs 14 and vice versa.
Preferably, each prong (13 or 14) has an arc-shape in such a way as to reach or leave the filter-bag 1 (with a rotating movement) passing beyond the outer perimeter profile of the pocket 6.
Preferably, the machine 100 comprises an ejector element 17 designed to eject the filter-bag 1 from a pocket 6 of the drum 5 in the direction of the stacking unit 8 when the pocket unit 6 is positioned in the release position. In light of this, the pocket 6 has a bottom 6a with at least one groove 18. In the embodiment illustrated, the bottom 6a has two grooves 18.
The ejector element 17 is movable between a non-operating position away from the at least one groove 18 and an operating position wherein the ejector element 17 engages the at least one groove 18 for pushing the filter-bag 1 towards the stacking unit 8. The retaining elements 9, 1 1 are positioned in the first operating position when the ejector element 17 is in an operating position.
In other words, the grooves 18 can be engaged by the ejector element 17; more specifically, in the second operating position the ejector element 17 engages the grooves 18, passing beyond them.
Preferably, the ejector element 17 comprises an operating head 17a having two walls configured to engage the grooves 1 8. The operating head 17a is connected to at least one arm 17b connected and controlled by control means for moving the head 17a, in synchrony with the movement of the drum 5, between the non-operating away position and the operating position.
Again as illustrated, the control means 10 are arranged inside the drum 5 and are configured for synchronising the movement of the first 9 and of the second 1 1 retaining element of a pocket 6 along opposite directions V9, V1 1 of rotation to reach the corresponding first and second operating positions.
Again as illustrated, the control means 10 are configured for determining the movement of the first 9 and the second 1 1 retaining element located on the shared axis X9b according to directions V9, V1 1 , of rotation opposite to each other to reach the corresponding first and second operating positions.
Advantageously, the control means 10 are configured to rotate all the first retaining elements 9 according to a first direction V9 and all the second retaining elements 1 1 according to a second direction V1 1 . Advantageously, the first direction V9 is opposite the second direction V1 1 .
It should be noted that the control means 10 of the retaining elements 9, 1 1 are positioned circumferentially inside the drum 5.
In a preferred, but non-limiting, embodiment, the control means 10 comprise two series of kinematic mechanisms serving a single operating component.
More specifically, each first retaining element 9 (in the case illustrated there are four) is keyed to the shaft 12 with the flanged body 15.
The shaft 12 has, at one end, a crank 19 equipped with a cam follower roller 20 constrained and slidable along a cam track 21 formed on a plate 22 lateral to the drum 5 and fixed relative to the drum 5.
In light of this, the crank 19 and cam follower roller 20 form the first control mechanism. The cam track 21 is configured for moving the first retaining element 9 from the first to the second operating position and vice versa upon reaching a predetermined angular position of the cam follower roller 20 and to maintain this position until reaching a subsequent angular position. It should be noted that the control means 10 comprise a second kinematic mechanism comprising, for each shaft 12, a connecting body 23 keyed on the shaft 12 and alongside the flanged body 15 of the first retaining element 9.
The first end of a connecting rod 24 is articulated on the connecting body 23. The second end of the connecting rod 24 is articulated to the flanged body 16 of the second retaining element 1 1 which together with the first retaining element 9 forms a pair.
In light of this, the rotation of the shaft 12 allows a direct command (that is, of rotation) of the first retaining element 9 and a indirect command of rotation of the second retaining element 1 1 : in this way, the pair of retaining elements is synchronised to obtain the first or the second operating position.
This description clearly shows how, thanks to the machine structured in this way, the filter-bag 1 is always kept in a secure condition inside the pocket 6, between the receiving position and the release position.
In addition, the entire conveyor and orientation unit of the filter-bag is compact and has a reduced size.

Claims

1 . A machine for forming filter-bags (1 ) containing infusion products, comprising:
- a forming unit (2) configured to form individual pieces of tubular filter paper having at least one chamber (3) containing a dose (D1 ) of infusion product;
- a carousel (4) rotating about a first axis (4X) designed to receive from the forming unit (2), and carry, the pieces of filter paper to a plurality of stations arranged one after another and configured for forming a filter-bag
(1 );
- an orientation drum (5), positioned alongside the carousel (4) and rotating about a second axis (5X) parallel to the first axis (4X), and comprising a plurality of pockets (6), each pocket (6) being designed to house a filter-bag (1 ) and being movable between a receiving position and a release position rotated by an angle (a) relative to the receiving position;
- a conveyor unit (7) configured to pick up from the carousel (4), convey and release the filter-bag (1 ) at one of the plurality of pockets (6) in the receiving position;
- a stacking unit (8) having an open area (8a) for receiving the filter-bag (1 ) in the release position;
characterised in that the drum (5) comprises, for each pocket (6), a first retaining element (9) and a second retaining element (1 1 ) configured to make contact with and retain the filter-bag (1 ) inside the pocket (6) between the receiving position and the release position; a first retaining element (9) of a given pocket (6) and a second retaining element (1 1 ) of a pocket (6) adjacent to the given pocket (6) being movable in rotation about a shared axis (X9b) of rotation.
2. The machine according to claim 1 , wherein the first (9) and the second (1 1 ) retaining element, comprise, for each pocket (6), respective active portions (9a, 1 1 a) which are configured to retain corresponding opposite portions of the filter-bag (1 ); control means (10) being connected to respective support and drive portions (9b, 1 1 b) of the first (9) and second (1 1 ) retaining element of each pocket (6) to allow a synchronised movement of the respective active portions (9a, 1 1 a) between a first operating position, wherein the active portions (9a, 1 1 a) are spaced apart from the pocket (6) and allow the latter to receive or release the filter-bag (1 ), and a second operating position, wherein the active portions (9a, 1 1 a) are configured to retain the filter-bag (1 ) inside the pocket (6).
3. The machine according to claim 1 , wherein the shared axis (X9b) of rotation is defined by at least one shaft (12) to which corresponding support and drive portions (9b, 1 1 b) of the first retaining element (9) of a given pocket (6) and the second retaining element (1 1 ) of an adjacent pocket (6) are connected.
4. The machine according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the control means (10) are arranged inside the drum (5) and are configured for synchronising the movement of the first (9) and of the second (1 1 ) retaining element of a pocket (6) along opposite directions (V9, V1 1 ) of rotation to reach the corresponding first and second operating positions.
5. The machine according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the active portion (9a, 1 1 a) comprises at least one prong and the supporting and drive portion (9b, 1 1 b) comprises at least one flanged body (15, 16) connected to the control means (10) and to the at least one prong.
6. The machine according to claim 5, wherein the at least one prong (13) of a first retaining element (9) of a given pocket (6) and the at least one prong (14) of a second retaining element (1 1 ) of a pocket (6) adjacent to the given pocket (6) are positioned mutually alternated.
7. The machine according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising an ejector element (17) configured to ejecting the filter-bag (1 ) from a pocket (6) of the drum (5) in the direction of the stacking unit (8) when the pocket (6) is positioned in the release position.
8. The machine according to claim 7, wherein each pocket (6) has a bottom (6a) with at least one groove (18), and wherein the ejector element (17) is movable between a non-operating position away from the at least one groove (18) and an operating position wherein the ejector element (17) engages the at least one groove (18) for pushing the filter-bag (1 ) towards the stacking unit (8); the retaining elements (9, 1 1 ) being spaced from the pocket (6) for allowing the latter to release the filter-bag (1 ) when the ejector element (17) is in the operating position.
9. The machine according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the pockets (6) are arranged circumferentially on the drum (5).
10. The machine according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the control means (10) are positioned circumferentially inside the drum (5).
EP16825570.1A 2015-12-23 2016-12-16 Machine for making filter-bags with stacking station Active EP3393915B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
ITUB2015A009401A ITUB20159401A1 (en) 2015-12-23 2015-12-23 MACHINE FOR FORMING BAGS-FILTERS WITH STACKING STATION.
PCT/IB2016/057708 WO2017109656A1 (en) 2015-12-23 2016-12-16 Machine for making filter-bags with stacking station

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP3393915A1 true EP3393915A1 (en) 2018-10-31
EP3393915B1 EP3393915B1 (en) 2020-02-05

Family

ID=55642692

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP16825570.1A Active EP3393915B1 (en) 2015-12-23 2016-12-16 Machine for making filter-bags with stacking station

Country Status (4)

Country Link
EP (1) EP3393915B1 (en)
ES (1) ES2784907T3 (en)
IT (1) ITUB20159401A1 (en)
WO (1) WO2017109656A1 (en)

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
IT201900017489A1 (en) * 2019-09-30 2021-03-30 Ima Spa PACKAGING MACHINE FOR THE PRODUCTION OF FILTER BAGS WITH INFUSION PRODUCTS.

Family Cites Families (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
IT1282483B1 (en) * 1995-04-04 1998-03-23 Tecnomeccanica Srl MACHINE FOR PACKAGING FILTER BAGS CONTAINING AN INFUSION PRODUCT PROVIDED WITH A SOCKET LABEL CONNECTED TO THE BAG
IT1313728B1 (en) * 1999-09-15 2002-09-17 Maisa Italia S R L EQUIPMENT WITH MULTIPLE ROTARY TRANSLATORS AND CLAMPS FOR THE ASSOCIATION OF A GRIPPING LABEL AND A HANDLING WIRE
IT1320887B1 (en) * 2000-02-22 2003-12-10 Ima Spa METHOD FOR PACKAGING BAGS - FILTER FOR INFUSION PRODUCTS IN RELATED CLOSED OVER-WRAPS AND RELEVANT IMPLEMENTING MACHINE
EP1153833B1 (en) * 2000-05-11 2004-03-31 TEEPACK SPEZIALMASCHINEN GMBH & CO. KG Apparatus for continuously separating strand material, in particular a strip of infusion bags
ITBO20060422A1 (en) * 2006-05-31 2007-12-01 Ima Spa AUTOMATIC PACKAGING MACHINE FOR THE PRODUCTION OF FILTER BAGS FOR INFUSION PRODUCTS
IT1392017B1 (en) * 2008-12-12 2012-02-09 Ima Flavour S R L Ora Ima Ind S R L MACHINE FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF BAGS-FILTERS IN BAGS WITH INFUSION PRODUCTS

Cited By (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
IT201900017489A1 (en) * 2019-09-30 2021-03-30 Ima Spa PACKAGING MACHINE FOR THE PRODUCTION OF FILTER BAGS WITH INFUSION PRODUCTS.
WO2021064528A1 (en) * 2019-09-30 2021-04-08 I.M.A. Industria Macchine Automatiche S.P.A. Packaging machine for making filter bags with infusion products
CN114514178A (en) * 2019-09-30 2022-05-17 I.M.A.工业机械自动装置股份公司 Packaging machine for making filter bags with infusion product
CN114514178B (en) * 2019-09-30 2024-01-30 I.M.A.工业机械自动装置股份公司 Packaging machine for producing filter bags with infusion products

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
ITUB20159401A1 (en) 2017-06-23
WO2017109656A1 (en) 2017-06-29
EP3393915B1 (en) 2020-02-05
ES2784907T3 (en) 2020-10-01

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