EP3515828A1 - A method and apparatus of vertical positioning of slab-shaped objects on a pallet and of fastening of the slab-shaped objects to one another and to the pallet - Google Patents

A method and apparatus of vertical positioning of slab-shaped objects on a pallet and of fastening of the slab-shaped objects to one another and to the pallet

Info

Publication number
EP3515828A1
EP3515828A1 EP17793726.5A EP17793726A EP3515828A1 EP 3515828 A1 EP3515828 A1 EP 3515828A1 EP 17793726 A EP17793726 A EP 17793726A EP 3515828 A1 EP3515828 A1 EP 3515828A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
slab
pallet
shaped objects
shaped
shaped object
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
EP17793726.5A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP3515828B1 (en
Inventor
Luca IACARUSO
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.)
LK Lab SRL
Original Assignee
LK Lab SRL
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 LK Lab SRL filed Critical LK Lab SRL
Priority to PL17793726T priority Critical patent/PL3515828T3/en
Publication of EP3515828A1 publication Critical patent/EP3515828A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP3515828B1 publication Critical patent/EP3515828B1/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
    • B65B27/00—Bundling particular articles presenting special problems using string, wire, or narrow tape or band; Baling fibrous material, e.g. peat, not otherwise provided for
    • B65B27/02—Bundling bricks or other building blocks
    • 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
    • B65B51/00—Devices for, or methods of, sealing or securing package folds or closures; Devices for gathering or twisting wrappers, or necks of bags
    • B65B51/02—Applying adhesives or sealing liquids
    • B65B51/023—Applying adhesives or sealing liquids using applicator nozzles
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D19/00—Pallets or like platforms, with or without side walls, for supporting loads to be lifted or lowered
    • B65D19/38—Details or accessories
    • B65D19/44—Elements or devices for locating articles on platforms
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D71/00—Bundles of articles held together by packaging elements for convenience of storage or transport, e.g. portable segregating carrier for plural receptacles such as beer cans or pop bottles; Bales of material
    • B65D71/0088—Palletisable loads, i.e. loads intended to be transported by means of a fork-lift truck
    • B65D71/0092—Palletisable loads, i.e. loads intended to be transported by means of a fork-lift truck provided with one or more rigid supports, at least one dimension of the supports corresponding to a dimension of the load, e.g. skids
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D85/00—Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials
    • B65D85/30—Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials for articles particularly sensitive to damage by shock or pressure
    • B65D85/46—Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials for articles particularly sensitive to damage by shock or pressure for bricks, tiles or building blocks
    • 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
    • B65B23/00—Packaging fragile or shock-sensitive articles other than bottles; Unpacking eggs
    • B65B23/20—Packaging plate glass, tiles, or shingles

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to the technical sector concerning the positioning and fastening of slab-shaped objects on a pallet.
  • the invention relates to a method and relative apparatus of vertical positioning of slab-shaped objects on a pallet and of fastening of the slab-shaped objects to one another and to the pallet. DESCRIPTION OF THE PRIOR ART
  • the slab-shaped objects can be large-dimension slabs, such as for example slabs made of ceramic material, or other materials for construction, with dimensions of up to and beyond 3200x1600 mm.
  • the number of slab-shaped objects that can be placed on each pallet is limited because of the considerable weight of each slab-shaped object, which does not allow superposing a large number of slab-shaped objects due to the risk of breakage or damage to the slabs at the base of each group of slab-shaped objects.
  • the slab-shaped objects are arranged vertical, with a relative flank resting on the pallet.
  • the pallet is constituted by a base having a quadrangular shape.
  • a known method of vertical positioning of slab-shaped objects on a pallet, and fastening of the slab-shaped objects to one another includes steps of: positioning, with a positioning device, a first slab-shaped object substantially vertical on the pallet, so as to rest on a flank thereof on the base; maintaining the first slab-shaped object in vertical position, with a gripping device; positioning, using the same positioning device, a second slab-shaped object substantially vertical on the pallet, so that it rests by a relative flank on the base and by a relative face against a face of the first slab-shaped object; maintaining the first slab-shaped object and the second slab-shaped object in vertical position, with a gripping device.
  • the pallet loaded with slab-shaped objects is stored in stores or transported in containers or trucks, and can therefore be subjected to extreme climatic conditions.
  • heat dilation causes a lengthening of the strap rings, generally made of plastic: the strap rings become loose and the slab-shaped objects, first bound solidly by the strap rings, can now move in relation to one another, even becoming inclined by an angle with respect to a vertical plane.
  • pallets loaded with slab-shaped objects cannot be stacked on one another, as the stack would not be stable.
  • the slab-shaped objects, once inclined can project with respect to the pallet and this can make loading the pallet on a truck difficult, if not impossible.
  • the loading and unloading operations of the loaded pallets during which the pallet can be subjected to impacts and sharp movements, can cause the breaking of the strap rings.
  • An object of the present invention is to overcome the drawbacks of the prior art.
  • the above-described aim is obtained with a vertical positioning method of slab-shaped objects on a pallet and of fastening of the slab-shaped objects to one another and to the pallet according to claim 1 and a relative apparatus of vertical positioning of slab-shaped objects on a pallet and of fastening of the slab-shaped objects to one another and to the pallet according to claim 6.
  • the method and the apparatus of the invention of positioning and fastening of the slab-shaped objects to one another and to the pallet advantageously includes the use of a pallet comprising a rest element, which emerges perpendicularly from the base and which is arranged in an intermediate position with respect to the lateral flanks of the base, so that the slab-shaped objects can be arranged resting on the base and against a lateral portion of the rest element. In this way, the verticality of the slab-shaped objects and the stability thereof is ensured.
  • the present invention enables binding, with at least a strap ring, only a part of the slab-shaped objects, or several parts of slab-shaped objects, and alternating, with the binding operation, the fastening operation with adhesive substance.
  • the pallet can be loaded rapidly: the application of adhesive substance is in fact a simple and rapid operation.
  • - figures 1-6 are perspective views which illustrate different steps of a vertical positioning method of slab-shaped objects on a pallet and of fastening of the slab-shaped objects to one another and to the pallet, object of the present invention
  • - figure 7 is a front view of an apparatus of vertical positioning of slab-shaped objects on a pallet and of fastening of the slab-shaped objects to one another and to the pallet, object of the present invention, in accordance with a first embodiment, during a first operating step;
  • FIG. 8-10 are respectively a front, lateral and plan view of the apparatus of figure 7 during a second operating step
  • FIG. 11-13 are respectively a front, lateral and plan view of the apparatus of figure 7 during a third operating step;
  • - figures 14-16 are respectively a front, lateral and plan view of the apparatus of the present invention according to a second embodiment, during a first operating step;
  • FIG. 17-18 are respectively a front, lateral and plan view of the apparatus of figures 14-16 during a second operating step.
  • the pallet (3) comprises a base (5) which is delimited by lateral flanks (30), and a rest element (6) which rises perpendicularly from the base (5) and which is arranged in an intermediate position with respect to the lateral flanks (30), dividing the base (5) into a first base part (5a) and into a second base part (5b).
  • the method comprises steps of positioning a first slab-shaped object (41 a), being a part of a plurality of slab-shaped objects (41 ), substantially vertical on the pallet (3), so that it rests on a relative flank (4c) on the first base part (5a) and with a relative first face against a first lateral portion (31 ) of the rest element (6); positioning a second slab-shaped object (42a), being a part of a plurality of slab-shaped objects (41 ), substantially vertical on the pallet (3), so that it rests on a relative flank (4c) on the second base part (5b) and with a relative first face against a second lateral portion (32) of the rest element (6), opposite the first lateral portion (31 ) of the rest element (6); positioning, one by one, the remaining slab-shaped objects (4), being a part of the plurality of slab-shaped objects (41), substantially vertical on the pallet (3), so that each thereof rests on a relative flank (4c) on the first base part (5a), or on the second base part (5
  • each slab-shaped object (4) can be: a tile (4) or a pack comprising one or more tiles (4) and packing elements (43) for protecting the flanks and the corners of the one or more tiles (4).
  • each slab- shaped object (4) comprises a tile (4) and packing elements (43) comprising: cardboard sheets (43a) arranged perimetrally, along the flanks and at the corners of the tiles (4), and three binding rings (43b) for binding the cardboard sheets (43a) to the tile (4) (figure 2).
  • the slab-shaped objects (4) can preferably be positioned alternatively on the first base part (5a) and the second base part (5b), up to completion of the load on the pallet (3), as illustrated in figures from 2 to 5.
  • the strap rings (50) can be vertical (figures 2-5) or horizontal (figure 6), and can be one (figure 6) or a plurality (figures 1-5), as a function of the dimensions and number of slab-shaped objects (4) to be fixed to one another and to the pallet (3).
  • the base (5) can have a parallelepiped volume which extends mainly in length and width, and the lateral flanks (30) can be, therefore parallel two-by-two.
  • the rest element (6) can be arranged in an intermediate position with respect to a pair of lateral flanks (30) which are opposite one another and parallel to the horizontal extension direction of the rest element (6). Further, the rest element (6) can be perpendicular to the remaining pair of lateral flanks (30). In the same way, the rest element (6) too can have a parallelepiped volume which however develops mainly in height and length.
  • the slab-shaped object (4) can mainly develop in two directions, perpendicular to one another, forming two "larger" sides (46, 47).
  • the extension in a third direction, perpendicular to the other two above-mentioned directions, can define the thickness and therefore a "smaller” side (48).
  • flank" (4c) of the slab-shaped object (4) is meant the surface identified by a larger side (46) and by a smaller side (48), while by “face” (4a) of the slab- shaped object (4) is meant the surface identified by the two larger sides (46, 47) (see figure 4).
  • the strap ring (50) when applied, preferably embraces both the slab-shaped objects (4) which are at that time present on the pallet (3) (figures 3, 5), including the rest element (6): therefore, the strap ring (50) embraces both the slab-shaped objects (4) resting on the first base part (5a) and the slab-shaped objects (4) resting on the second base part (5b).
  • strap ring (50) is meant a ringed strap closed by welding, which can be made of polyethylene (PE) or polypropylene (PP) or metal.
  • Each fastening step using an adhesive substance (60) preferably comprises sub-steps of: applying an adhesive substance (60) to a first face (4a) of a third slab-shaped object (41 b) (figure 3); and subsequently resting a face (4b) of a fourth slab-shaped object (41c) against the first face (4a) ' of the third slab- shaped object (41 b) (figure 4).
  • the third slab-shaped object (41 b) and the fourth slab-shaped object (41c) preferably comprise packing elements (43); the adhesive substance (60) is applied to the packing elements (43) of the third slab-shaped object (41 b) and the step of resting the relative face of the fourth slab-shaped object (41c) against the first face (4a) of the third slab-shaped object (41 b) is done in such a way that the adhesive substance (60) applied to the packing elements (43) of the third slab-shaped object (41 b) adheres against the packing elements (43) of the fourth slab-shaped object (41c).
  • a comparison of figure 3 and figure 4 illustrates the above.
  • the adhesive substance (60) can be applied, including directly, on the surface of the tile (4); however, in order to prevent fouling, it is preferable, as explained in the foregoing, to apply the adhesive substance (60) on the packing elements (43).
  • the adhesive substance (60) can be applied at specific points, illustrated as circles in figures 1-6, or continuously along one or more lines, vertical and/or horizontal, see the broken lines illustrated in figure 2.
  • a fastening step using an adhesive substance (60) preferably comprises further sub-steps of: applying an adhesive substance (60) on the first lateral portion (31) of the rest element (6); and subsequently resting a relative face of the first slab-shaped object (41 a) against the first lateral portion (31).
  • FIG 1 in which a plurality of points are illustrated in which the adhesive substance (60) has been applied.
  • a fastening step using an adhesive substance (60) preferably comprises further sub-steps of: applying an adhesive substance (60) on the second lateral portion (32) of the rest element (6); and subsequently resting a relative face of the second slab-shaped object (42a) against the second lateral portion (32).
  • FIG. 1 An adhesive substance (60) is initially applied on the first lateral portion (31 ) of the rest element (6): see figure 1 in which the adhesive substance (60) is illustrated on three different points of the first lateral portion (31).
  • a first face of the first slab-shaped object (41a) is rested against the first lateral portion (31 ), so that it also rests with a relative flank (4c) on the first base part (5a).
  • an adhesive substance (60) is applied on the second lateral portion (32) of the rest element (6) and a first face of the second slab-shaped object (42a) is rested against the second lateral portion (32), so that each thereof rests also on a relative flank (4c) on the second base part (5b).
  • the adhesive substance (60) is applied to a second face (4a), opposite the first face, of the first slab-shaped object (41 a), see figure 2 once more: the adhesive substance (60) is applied to the packing elements (43) of the first slab-shaped object (41a). Subsequently a first face of another slab-shaped object (4) is rested against the second face (41 a) of the first slab-shaped object (4), so that the adhesive substance (60) adheres to the packing elements (43) of both the slab-shaped objects (4) described herein above.
  • each slab-shaped object (4) it is not necessary for each slab-shaped object (4) to be fixed by means of adhesive substance (60) to another slab-shaped object (4) adjacent thereto, as the fastening of the slab-shaped objects (4) requires also the application of the strap rings (50).
  • the fastening of the slab-shaped objects (4) to one another and to the rest element (6) can be realised by combining the fastening with the adhesive substance (60) with the fastening using the strap rings (50).
  • Figure 6 illustrates a pallet (3) loaded with slab-shaped objects (4), which slab- shaped objects (4) have been fixed to one another and to the rest element (6) by means of adhesive substance (60), as in the case described in figures 1-5, but to which one only horizontal strap ring (50) has been applied, and only once the loading has been completed, i.e. after all the slab-shaped objects (4) have been arranged on the pallet (3).
  • a further object of the present invention relates to a vertical positioning apparatus of slab-shaped objects (4) on a pallet (3) and of fastening of the slab-shaped objects (4) to one another and to the pallet (3), which actuates the above-described method.
  • a vertical positioning apparatus of slab-shaped objects (4) on a pallet (3) and of fastening of the slab-shaped objects (4) to one another and to the pallet (3) which actuates the above-described method.
  • the apparatus is denoted by reference numeral (1) and comprises: a positioning device (8) which: positions a first slab-shaped object (41 a), being a part of a plurality of slab-shaped objects (41 ), substantially vertical on the pallet (3), so that it rests on a relative flank (4c) on the first base part (5a) and with a relative first face against a first lateral portion (31 ) of the rest element (6); positions a second slab-shaped object (42a), being a part of the plurality of slab-shaped objects (41 ), substantially vertical on the pallet (3), so that it rests on a relative flank (4c) on the second base part (5b) and with a relative first face against a second lateral portion (32) of the rest element (6), opposite the first lateral portion (31 ) of the rest element (6); positions, one by one, the remaining slab-shaped objects (4), being a part of the plurality of slab-shaped objects (41 ), substantially vertical on the pallet (3), so that each thereof rests on a relative flank (4
  • the positioning device (8) can be an anthropomorphic robot.
  • the strapping device (7) can comprise a strapping head (710) and a strapping guide (70) for guiding the strap ring (50) during the application to the pallet (3).
  • the strapping device (7) is horizontally mobile in a second horizontal direction (X) which is perpendicular to the first horizontal direction (Y) and is configured so as to apply the at least a strap ring (50) in such a way that the strap ring (50) is vertically orientated.
  • the strapping device (7) which can have a portal-shaped frame (2) (figure 9), can translate along the second horizontal direction (X) so as to be arranged in various positions along the pallet (3) and carries out the strapping.
  • the strapping device (7) must time by time carry out two strap rings (50): in particular, figure 7 illustrates that the strapping device (7) has already carried out a first strap ring (50) and has moved into a suitable position for carrying out a second strap ring (50).
  • the second strap ring (50) is visible in figure 8, where it can be observed that the strapping device (7) has moved into a non-operating position.
  • the strapping device (7) preferably comprises a first vertical guide (13) and a second vertical guide (13a);
  • the apparatus (1 ) comprises a first arm (12) which is orientated in the second horizontal direction (X), which is mobile along the first vertical guide (13) and which bears the first dispensing head (17) and a second arm (12a) which is orientated in the second horizontal direction (X), which is mobile along the second vertical guide (13a) and which bears the second dispensing head (17a);
  • the strapping device (7) comprises a first actuator cylinder (19) which moves the first dispensing head (17) in the first horizontal direction (Y), in order to near the first dispensing head (17) to and distance the first dispensing head (17) from the rest element (6); and wherein the strapping device (7) comprises a second actuator cylinder (19a) which moves the second dispensing head (17a)
  • the first arm (12) and the second arm (12a) can further be rotatable substantially on a vertical plane between an operating position, wherein the first arm (12) and the second arm (12a) are orientated in the second horizontal direction (X), and a non-operating position, wherein the first arm (12) and the second arm (12a) are arranged at an angle of greater than sixty degrees with respect to the second horizontal direction (X).
  • Figures 7-13 illustrate some steps of the method described in the foregoing with reference to figure 1-5.
  • six slab-shaped objects (4) have already been fastened on the pallet (3) with adhesive substance (60), three on the first base part (5a) and three on the second base part (5b) (visible in figure 9), and a first vertical strap ring (50) has been applied (visible in figure 7).
  • Figure 7 illustrates the step in which a second vertical strap ring (50) is about to be applied: the strapping device (7), as already explained, is in a suitable position for applying the second vertical strap rings (50).
  • the first arm (12) and the second arm (12a) can be rotated so as to reach a vertical orientation and not to interfere with the anthropomorphic robot (8); if the frame (2) bearing the first arm (12) and the second arm (12a) is sufficiently wide, however, in this step it is not necessary to rotate the first arm (12) and the second arm (12a), as the first arm (12) and second arm (12a) do not interfere with the anthropomorphic robot (8) which occupies a volume comprised between the first arm (12) and second arm (12a).
  • the strapping device (7) moves along the second horizontal direction (X) so as to move into a non-operating position, visible in figure 8.
  • the first arm (12) and the second arm (12a) can be moved vertically in order to bring the first dispensing head (17) and the second dispensing head (17a) into the right position for dispensing the adhesive substance (60), for example by causing the first dispensing head (17) and the second dispensing head (17a) to face the most external packing elements (43) of the slab-shaped objects (4).
  • first dispensing head (17) and the second dispensing head (17a) are moved so as to near to the rest element (6), moving in proximity to or into contact with the most external slab-shaped objects (4), with the aim of applying the adhesive substance (60).
  • Figures 9 and 10 illustrate the application step of the adhesive substance (60).
  • first dispensing head (17) and the second dispensing head (17a) are moved so as to distance from the rest element (6) and the first arm (12) and the second arm (12) are lowered up to reaching a non-operating position wherein the first arm (12), the second arm (12a), the first applicator device (16) of adhesive substance (60) and the second applicator device (16a) of adhesive substance (60) do not interfere with the operation of the anthropomorphic robot (8), directed at positioning a slab-shaped object (4) on the first base part (5a) and a slab-shaped object (4) on the second base part (5b).
  • the non-operating position is also useful for enabling the collection of the loaded pallet (3) with the slab-shaped objects (4): this collection can for example be carried out using a forklift truck (not illustrated) which inserts the forks in the first horizontal direction (Y).
  • a forklift truck not illustrated
  • Y first horizontal direction
  • the strapping device (7) can be vertically mobile and is configured so as to apply the at least a strap ring (50) in such a way that the strap ring (50) is horizontally orientated.
  • the strapping device (7) preferably comprises a strapping guide (70) which embraces the pallet (3); the first dispensing head (17) and the second dispensing head (17a) are borne by the strapping guide (70) and slide along the strapping guide (70) in the second horizontal direction (X).
  • Figures 14-18 illustrate some steps of the method described in the foregoing with reference to figure 6.
  • all the slab-shaped objects (4) that are to make up the load both on the first base part (5a) and on the second base part (5b) (visible in figure 15), have already been fastened on the pallet (3) using adhesive substance (60).
  • Figures 14-16 illustrate the step in which a horizontal strap rings (50) is applied (the only one in this case): the strapping guide (70) is at a suitable height for applying the horizontal strap ring (50).
  • the first dispensing head (17) and the second dispensing head (17a) are distant from the most external slab-shaped objects (4) (figures 15, 16).
  • the strapping guide (70) is lowered down to reaching a non-operating position in which the strapping guide (70), the first applicator device (16) of adhesive substance (60) and the second applicator device (16a) of adhesive substance (60) do not interfere with the operation of the anthropomorphic robot (8).
  • This non-operating position is necessary when the anthropomorphic robot (8) has to position other slab-shaped objects (4) on the pallet (3).
  • the non-operating position is also useful for enabling the collection of the loaded pallet (3) with the slab-shaped objects (4): this collection can for example be carried out using a forklift truck (not illustrated) which inserts the forks in the first horizontal direction (Y).
  • a forklift truck not illustrated
  • Y first horizontal direction

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Civil Engineering (AREA)
  • Structural Engineering (AREA)
  • Architecture (AREA)
  • Basic Packing Technique (AREA)
  • Conveying And Assembling Of Building Elements In Situ (AREA)
  • Electrical Discharge Machining, Electrochemical Machining, And Combined Machining (AREA)
  • Machines For Laying And Maintaining Railways (AREA)
  • Automatic Assembly (AREA)

Abstract

A method and an apparatus (1) are described, of vertical positioning of slab- shaped objects (4) on a pallet (3) and of fastening of the slab-shaped objects (4) to one another and to the pallet (3), which pallet (3) comprises a base (5) and a rest element (6) which rises perpendicularly from the base (5). The method comprises steps of: positioning a first slab-shaped object (41a) and a second slab-shaped object (42a) substantially vertical on the pallet (3), so that the first slab-shaped object (41a) and the second slab-shaped object (42a) rest on a relative flank (4c) respectively on the first base part (5a) and on the second base part (5b) and with a relative first face, against a first lateral portion (31) and against a second lateral portion (32) of the rest element (6); positioning, one by one, the remaining slab-shaped objects (4) so that each thereof rests on a relative face against an opposite face of another slab- shaped object (4) which has already been positioned. During the above- described positioning steps, or on conclusion of the above-described positioning steps, binding, using at least a strap ring (50), the slab-shaped objects (4) already positioned on the pallet (3), to the rest element (6) and fastening all, or a part of, the slab-shaped objects (4) to one another using an adhesive substance (60).

Description

A METHOD AND APPARATUS OF VERTICAL POSITIONING OF SLAB- SHAPED OBJECTS ON A PALLET AND OF FASTENING OF THE SLAB- SHAPED OBJECTS TO ONE ANOTHER AND TO THE PALLET
FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to the technical sector concerning the positioning and fastening of slab-shaped objects on a pallet.
In particular, the invention relates to a method and relative apparatus of vertical positioning of slab-shaped objects on a pallet and of fastening of the slab-shaped objects to one another and to the pallet. DESCRIPTION OF THE PRIOR ART
In detail, the slab-shaped objects can be large-dimension slabs, such as for example slabs made of ceramic material, or other materials for construction, with dimensions of up to and beyond 3200x1600 mm.
For transport and storage, it is known to arrange the slab-shaped objects horizontally on pallet stacked one on the others and fastened for example by strap rings.
This solution presents various drawbacks. The number of slab-shaped objects that can be placed on each pallet is limited because of the considerable weight of each slab-shaped object, which does not allow superposing a large number of slab-shaped objects due to the risk of breakage or damage to the slabs at the base of each group of slab-shaped objects. Up to today, in order to increase the quantity of slab-shaped objects which can be stored or transported per each square metre of available surface for storage or transport, the slab-shaped objects are arranged vertical, with a relative flank resting on the pallet. The pallet is constituted by a base having a quadrangular shape.
A known method of vertical positioning of slab-shaped objects on a pallet, and fastening of the slab-shaped objects to one another, includes steps of: positioning, with a positioning device, a first slab-shaped object substantially vertical on the pallet, so as to rest on a flank thereof on the base; maintaining the first slab-shaped object in vertical position, with a gripping device; positioning, using the same positioning device, a second slab-shaped object substantially vertical on the pallet, so that it rests by a relative flank on the base and by a relative face against a face of the first slab-shaped object; maintaining the first slab-shaped object and the second slab-shaped object in vertical position, with a gripping device. Binding the first slab-shaped object and the second slab-shaped object, using a strapping head which applies a horizontal strap ring. Positioning a third slab-shaped object substantially in a vertical position on the pallet, so that it rests by a relative flank on the base and by a relative face against the other face of the first slab-shaped object and maintaining the first slab-shaped object and the second slab-shaped object and the third slab-shaped object in vertical position, with the gripping device.÷ Binding, with a horizontal strap ring, the third slab-shaped object to the assembly formed by the first slab-shaped object and the second slab-shaped object, already bound to one another.
The above-described steps are repeated in a like way for all the subsequent slab-shaped objects, to be positioned vertical on the pallet and fastened to one another. Lastly, all the slab-shaped objects are positioned on the pallet, on the right and left with respect to the first slab-shaped object and fastened to one another by horizontal strap rings.
However, the pallet loaded with slab-shaped objects is stored in stores or transported in containers or trucks, and can therefore be subjected to extreme climatic conditions. At high temperatures, in fact, heat dilation causes a lengthening of the strap rings, generally made of plastic: the strap rings become loose and the slab-shaped objects, first bound solidly by the strap rings, can now move in relation to one another, even becoming inclined by an angle with respect to a vertical plane. As a consequence, pallets loaded with slab-shaped objects cannot be stacked on one another, as the stack would not be stable. Further, the slab-shaped objects, once inclined, can project with respect to the pallet and this can make loading the pallet on a truck difficult, if not impossible. Further, the loading and unloading operations of the loaded pallets, during which the pallet can be subjected to impacts and sharp movements, can cause the breaking of the strap rings. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
An object of the present invention is to overcome the drawbacks of the prior art. The above-described aim is obtained with a vertical positioning method of slab-shaped objects on a pallet and of fastening of the slab-shaped objects to one another and to the pallet according to claim 1 and a relative apparatus of vertical positioning of slab-shaped objects on a pallet and of fastening of the slab-shaped objects to one another and to the pallet according to claim 6. The method and the apparatus of the invention of positioning and fastening of the slab-shaped objects to one another and to the pallet advantageously includes the use of a pallet comprising a rest element, which emerges perpendicularly from the base and which is arranged in an intermediate position with respect to the lateral flanks of the base, so that the slab-shaped objects can be arranged resting on the base and against a lateral portion of the rest element. In this way, the verticality of the slab-shaped objects and the stability thereof is ensured.
Further, the present invention enables binding, with at least a strap ring, only a part of the slab-shaped objects, or several parts of slab-shaped objects, and alternating, with the binding operation, the fastening operation with adhesive substance. In this way the pallet can be loaded rapidly: the application of adhesive substance is in fact a simple and rapid operation.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Specific embodiments of the invention will be described in the following part of the present description, according to what is set down in the claims and with the aid of the accompanying tables of drawings, in which:
- figures 1-6 are perspective views which illustrate different steps of a vertical positioning method of slab-shaped objects on a pallet and of fastening of the slab-shaped objects to one another and to the pallet, object of the present invention; - figure 7 is a front view of an apparatus of vertical positioning of slab-shaped objects on a pallet and of fastening of the slab-shaped objects to one another and to the pallet, object of the present invention, in accordance with a first embodiment, during a first operating step;
- figures 8-10 are respectively a front, lateral and plan view of the apparatus of figure 7 during a second operating step;
- figures 11-13 are respectively a front, lateral and plan view of the apparatus of figure 7 during a third operating step;
- figures 14-16 are respectively a front, lateral and plan view of the apparatus of the present invention according to a second embodiment, during a first operating step;
- figures 17-18 are respectively a front, lateral and plan view of the apparatus of figures 14-16 during a second operating step.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS With reference to figures 1-6, in the following a description is made of a method and relative apparatus of vertical positioning of slab-shaped objects on a pallet and of fastening of the slab-shaped objects to one another and to the pallet, object of the present invention.
The pallet (3) comprises a base (5) which is delimited by lateral flanks (30), and a rest element (6) which rises perpendicularly from the base (5) and which is arranged in an intermediate position with respect to the lateral flanks (30), dividing the base (5) into a first base part (5a) and into a second base part (5b).
The method comprises steps of positioning a first slab-shaped object (41 a), being a part of a plurality of slab-shaped objects (41 ), substantially vertical on the pallet (3), so that it rests on a relative flank (4c) on the first base part (5a) and with a relative first face against a first lateral portion (31 ) of the rest element (6); positioning a second slab-shaped object (42a), being a part of a plurality of slab-shaped objects (41 ), substantially vertical on the pallet (3), so that it rests on a relative flank (4c) on the second base part (5b) and with a relative first face against a second lateral portion (32) of the rest element (6), opposite the first lateral portion (31 ) of the rest element (6); positioning, one by one, the remaining slab-shaped objects (4), being a part of the plurality of slab-shaped objects (41), substantially vertical on the pallet (3), so that each thereof rests on a relative flank (4c) on the first base part (5a), or on the second base part (5b), and rests on a relative face against an opposite face of another slab-shaped object (4), which has already been positioned, which is adjacent thereto and is a part of the plurality of slab-shaped objects (41), thus forming a first load (410) of slab-shaped objects (4) which rests on the first base part (5a), and a second load (420) of slab-shaped objects (4) which rests on the second base part (5b); during the above-described positioning steps, or on conclusion of the above-described positioning steps, binding, using at least a strap ring (50), the slab-shaped objects (4) already positioned on the pallet (3), to the rest element (6); during the above-described positioning steps, using an adhesive substance (60) to fasten all or a part of the slab-shaped objects (4) to one another. In particular, the slab-shaped object (4) can be: a tile (4) or a pack comprising one or more tiles (4) and packing elements (43) for protecting the flanks and the corners of the one or more tiles (4). In the illustrated figures, each slab- shaped object (4) comprises a tile (4) and packing elements (43) comprising: cardboard sheets (43a) arranged perimetrally, along the flanks and at the corners of the tiles (4), and three binding rings (43b) for binding the cardboard sheets (43a) to the tile (4) (figure 2).
The slab-shaped objects (4) can preferably be positioned alternatively on the first base part (5a) and the second base part (5b), up to completion of the load on the pallet (3), as illustrated in figures from 2 to 5. The strap rings (50) can be vertical (figures 2-5) or horizontal (figure 6), and can be one (figure 6) or a plurality (figures 1-5), as a function of the dimensions and number of slab-shaped objects (4) to be fixed to one another and to the pallet (3).
As regards the base (5), it can have a parallelepiped volume which extends mainly in length and width, and the lateral flanks (30) can be, therefore parallel two-by-two. In this case, the rest element (6) can be arranged in an intermediate position with respect to a pair of lateral flanks (30) which are opposite one another and parallel to the horizontal extension direction of the rest element (6). Further, the rest element (6) can be perpendicular to the remaining pair of lateral flanks (30). In the same way, the rest element (6) too can have a parallelepiped volume which however develops mainly in height and length.
The slab-shaped object (4) can mainly develop in two directions, perpendicular to one another, forming two "larger" sides (46, 47). The extension in a third direction, perpendicular to the other two above-mentioned directions, can define the thickness and therefore a "smaller" side (48). By "flank" (4c) of the slab-shaped object (4) is meant the surface identified by a larger side (46) and by a smaller side (48), while by "face" (4a) of the slab- shaped object (4) is meant the surface identified by the two larger sides (46, 47) (see figure 4). The strap ring (50), when applied, preferably embraces both the slab-shaped objects (4) which are at that time present on the pallet (3) (figures 3, 5), including the rest element (6): therefore, the strap ring (50) embraces both the slab-shaped objects (4) resting on the first base part (5a) and the slab-shaped objects (4) resting on the second base part (5b). By strap ring (50) is meant a ringed strap closed by welding, which can be made of polyethylene (PE) or polypropylene (PP) or metal.
Each fastening step using an adhesive substance (60) preferably comprises sub-steps of: applying an adhesive substance (60) to a first face (4a) of a third slab-shaped object (41 b) (figure 3); and subsequently resting a face (4b) of a fourth slab-shaped object (41c) against the first face (4a)' of the third slab- shaped object (41 b) (figure 4).
The third slab-shaped object (41 b) and the fourth slab-shaped object (41c) preferably comprise packing elements (43); the adhesive substance (60) is applied to the packing elements (43) of the third slab-shaped object (41 b) and the step of resting the relative face of the fourth slab-shaped object (41c) against the first face (4a) of the third slab-shaped object (41 b) is done in such a way that the adhesive substance (60) applied to the packing elements (43) of the third slab-shaped object (41 b) adheres against the packing elements (43) of the fourth slab-shaped object (41c). A comparison of figure 3 and figure 4 illustrates the above. The adhesive substance (60) can be applied, including directly, on the surface of the tile (4); however, in order to prevent fouling, it is preferable, as explained in the foregoing, to apply the adhesive substance (60) on the packing elements (43).
In general, the adhesive substance (60) can be applied at specific points, illustrated as circles in figures 1-6, or continuously along one or more lines, vertical and/or horizontal, see the broken lines illustrated in figure 2.
A fastening step using an adhesive substance (60) preferably comprises further sub-steps of: applying an adhesive substance (60) on the first lateral portion (31) of the rest element (6); and subsequently resting a relative face of the first slab-shaped object (41 a) against the first lateral portion (31). In this regard see figure 1 , in which a plurality of points are illustrated in which the adhesive substance (60) has been applied.
A fastening step using an adhesive substance (60) preferably comprises further sub-steps of: applying an adhesive substance (60) on the second lateral portion (32) of the rest element (6); and subsequently resting a relative face of the second slab-shaped object (42a) against the second lateral portion (32).
In the following specific reference is made to figures 1-5, to describe a specific embodiment of the method of the invention. An adhesive substance (60) is initially applied on the first lateral portion (31 ) of the rest element (6): see figure 1 in which the adhesive substance (60) is illustrated on three different points of the first lateral portion (31).
Subsequently, see figure 2, a first face of the first slab-shaped object (41a) is rested against the first lateral portion (31 ), so that it also rests with a relative flank (4c) on the first base part (5a). In a like way, an adhesive substance (60) is applied on the second lateral portion (32) of the rest element (6) and a first face of the second slab-shaped object (42a) is rested against the second lateral portion (32), so that each thereof rests also on a relative flank (4c) on the second base part (5b). Then the adhesive substance (60) is applied to a second face (4a), opposite the first face, of the first slab-shaped object (41 a), see figure 2 once more: the adhesive substance (60) is applied to the packing elements (43) of the first slab-shaped object (41a). Subsequently a first face of another slab-shaped object (4) is rested against the second face (41 a) of the first slab-shaped object (4), so that the adhesive substance (60) adheres to the packing elements (43) of both the slab-shaped objects (4) described herein above.
These fastening steps using an adhesive substance (60) are also repeated for other slab-shaped objects (4). Then, two vertical strap rings (50) are applied to embrace the slab-shaped objects (4) arranged on the pallet (3), both those arranged on the first base part (5a) and those arranged on the second base part (5b), and for contemporaneously embracing the rest element (6). See figure 3.
The fastening steps, using adhesive substance (60), and binding, using vertical strap rings (50), are repeated up to completing the load on the pallet (3), see figures 4 and 5.
In general, it is not necessary for each slab-shaped object (4) to be fixed by means of adhesive substance (60) to another slab-shaped object (4) adjacent thereto, as the fastening of the slab-shaped objects (4) requires also the application of the strap rings (50). In fact the fastening of the slab-shaped objects (4) to one another and to the rest element (6) can be realised by combining the fastening with the adhesive substance (60) with the fastening using the strap rings (50).
Figure 6 illustrates a pallet (3) loaded with slab-shaped objects (4), which slab- shaped objects (4) have been fixed to one another and to the rest element (6) by means of adhesive substance (60), as in the case described in figures 1-5, but to which one only horizontal strap ring (50) has been applied, and only once the loading has been completed, i.e. after all the slab-shaped objects (4) have been arranged on the pallet (3).
A further object of the present invention relates to a vertical positioning apparatus of slab-shaped objects (4) on a pallet (3) and of fastening of the slab-shaped objects (4) to one another and to the pallet (3), which actuates the above-described method. Refer to figures from 7 to 18.
The apparatus is denoted by reference numeral (1) and comprises: a positioning device (8) which: positions a first slab-shaped object (41 a), being a part of a plurality of slab-shaped objects (41 ), substantially vertical on the pallet (3), so that it rests on a relative flank (4c) on the first base part (5a) and with a relative first face against a first lateral portion (31 ) of the rest element (6); positions a second slab-shaped object (42a), being a part of the plurality of slab-shaped objects (41 ), substantially vertical on the pallet (3), so that it rests on a relative flank (4c) on the second base part (5b) and with a relative first face against a second lateral portion (32) of the rest element (6), opposite the first lateral portion (31 ) of the rest element (6); positions, one by one, the remaining slab-shaped objects (4), being a part of the plurality of slab-shaped objects (41 ), substantially vertical on the pallet (3), so that each thereof rests on a relative flank (4c) on the first base part (5a), or on the second base part (5b), and rests on a relative face against an opposite face of another slab- shaped object (4), which has already been positioned, which is adjacent thereto and is a part of the plurality of slab-shaped objects (41), thus forming a first load (410) of slab-shaped objects (4) which rests on the first base part (5a), and a second load (420) of slab-shaped objects (4) which rests on the second base part (5b); a strapping device (7) which binds, with at least one strap ring (50), the slab-shaped objects (4) already positioned on the pallet (3), to the rest element (6); a first applicator device (16) of an adhesive substance (60) which comprises a first dispensing head (17) for dispensing the adhesive substance (60), which first dispensing head (17) is mobile in a vertical direction (Z) and in a first horizontal direction (Y) in order to near and distance the first dispensing head to and from the rest element (6), and applies an adhesive substance (60) to the first lateral portion (31 ) of the rest element (6) or to a face of a slab-shaped object (4) which is a part of the plurality of slab-shaped objects (41 ) and which has been positioned on the pallet (3), resting on the first base part (5a); a second applicator device (16a) of an adhesive substance (60) which comprises a second dispensing head (17a) for dispensing the adhesive substance (60), which second dispensing head (17a) is mobile in a vertical direction (Z) and in the first horizontal direction (Y) in order to near and distance the second dispensing head to and from the rest element (6), and applies an adhesive substance (60) to the second lateral portion (32) of the rest element (6) or to a face of a slab-shaped object (4) which is a part of the plurality of slab-shaped objects (41) and which has been positioned on the pallet (3), resting on the second base part (5b).
The positioning device (8) can be an anthropomorphic robot.
The strapping device (7) can comprise a strapping head (710) and a strapping guide (70) for guiding the strap ring (50) during the application to the pallet (3).
In a first embodiment of the apparatus (1 ), illustrated in figures 7-13, the strapping device (7) is horizontally mobile in a second horizontal direction (X) which is perpendicular to the first horizontal direction (Y) and is configured so as to apply the at least a strap ring (50) in such a way that the strap ring (50) is vertically orientated. In this way the strapping device (7), which can have a portal-shaped frame (2) (figure 9), can translate along the second horizontal direction (X) so as to be arranged in various positions along the pallet (3) and carries out the strapping. In the example illustrated in the drawings, the strapping device (7) must time by time carry out two strap rings (50): in particular, figure 7 illustrates that the strapping device (7) has already carried out a first strap ring (50) and has moved into a suitable position for carrying out a second strap ring (50).
The second strap ring (50) is visible in figure 8, where it can be observed that the strapping device (7) has moved into a non-operating position. The strapping device (7) preferably comprises a first vertical guide (13) and a second vertical guide (13a); the apparatus (1 ) comprises a first arm (12) which is orientated in the second horizontal direction (X), which is mobile along the first vertical guide (13) and which bears the first dispensing head (17) and a second arm (12a) which is orientated in the second horizontal direction (X), which is mobile along the second vertical guide (13a) and which bears the second dispensing head (17a); the strapping device (7) comprises a first actuator cylinder (19) which moves the first dispensing head (17) in the first horizontal direction (Y), in order to near the first dispensing head (17) to and distance the first dispensing head (17) from the rest element (6); and wherein the strapping device (7) comprises a second actuator cylinder (19a) which moves the second dispensing head (17a) in the first horizontal direction (Y), in order to near the second dispensing head (17a) to and distance the second dispensing head (17a) from the rest element (6).
The first arm (12) and the second arm (12a) can further be rotatable substantially on a vertical plane between an operating position, wherein the first arm (12) and the second arm (12a) are orientated in the second horizontal direction (X), and a non-operating position, wherein the first arm (12) and the second arm (12a) are arranged at an angle of greater than sixty degrees with respect to the second horizontal direction (X).
There follows a description of the functioning of the apparatus (1 ) in accordance with this first embodiment, and with reference to figures 7-13.
Figures 7-13 illustrate some steps of the method described in the foregoing with reference to figure 1-5. In detail, six slab-shaped objects (4) have already been fastened on the pallet (3) with adhesive substance (60), three on the first base part (5a) and three on the second base part (5b) (visible in figure 9), and a first vertical strap ring (50) has been applied (visible in figure 7). Figure 7 illustrates the step in which a second vertical strap ring (50) is about to be applied: the strapping device (7), as already explained, is in a suitable position for applying the second vertical strap rings (50). The first arm (12) and the second arm (12a) can be rotated so as to reach a vertical orientation and not to interfere with the anthropomorphic robot (8); if the frame (2) bearing the first arm (12) and the second arm (12a) is sufficiently wide, however, in this step it is not necessary to rotate the first arm (12) and the second arm (12a), as the first arm (12) and second arm (12a) do not interfere with the anthropomorphic robot (8) which occupies a volume comprised between the first arm (12) and second arm (12a).
Thereafter, the strapping device (7) moves along the second horizontal direction (X) so as to move into a non-operating position, visible in figure 8. In phase relation with the movement of the strapping device (7), the first arm (12) and the second arm (12a) can be moved vertically in order to bring the first dispensing head (17) and the second dispensing head (17a) into the right position for dispensing the adhesive substance (60), for example by causing the first dispensing head (17) and the second dispensing head (17a) to face the most external packing elements (43) of the slab-shaped objects (4). Thereafter, the first dispensing head (17) and the second dispensing head (17a) are moved so as to near to the rest element (6), moving in proximity to or into contact with the most external slab-shaped objects (4), with the aim of applying the adhesive substance (60). Figures 9 and 10 illustrate the application step of the adhesive substance (60).
Thereafter, the first dispensing head (17) and the second dispensing head (17a) are moved so as to distance from the rest element (6) and the first arm (12) and the second arm (12) are lowered up to reaching a non-operating position wherein the first arm (12), the second arm (12a), the first applicator device (16) of adhesive substance (60) and the second applicator device (16a) of adhesive substance (60) do not interfere with the operation of the anthropomorphic robot (8), directed at positioning a slab-shaped object (4) on the first base part (5a) and a slab-shaped object (4) on the second base part (5b).
The non-operating position is also useful for enabling the collection of the loaded pallet (3) with the slab-shaped objects (4): this collection can for example be carried out using a forklift truck (not illustrated) which inserts the forks in the first horizontal direction (Y). Like considerations relate to when it is necessary to release a pallet (3) to be loaded with slab-shaped objects (4).
The successive functioning steps of the apparatus take place according to the above-described method.
In a second embodiment of the apparatus (1 ), the strapping device (7) can be vertically mobile and is configured so as to apply the at least a strap ring (50) in such a way that the strap ring (50) is horizontally orientated. The strapping device (7) preferably comprises a strapping guide (70) which embraces the pallet (3); the first dispensing head (17) and the second dispensing head (17a) are borne by the strapping guide (70) and slide along the strapping guide (70) in the second horizontal direction (X).
There follows a description of the functioning of the apparatus (1) in accordance with this second embodiment, and with reference to figures 14-18.
Figures 14-18 illustrate some steps of the method described in the foregoing with reference to figure 6. In detail, all the slab-shaped objects (4) that are to make up the load, both on the first base part (5a) and on the second base part (5b) (visible in figure 15), have already been fastened on the pallet (3) using adhesive substance (60).
Figures 14-16 illustrate the step in which a horizontal strap rings (50) is applied (the only one in this case): the strapping guide (70) is at a suitable height for applying the horizontal strap ring (50). As can be observed, the first dispensing head (17) and the second dispensing head (17a) are distant from the most external slab-shaped objects (4) (figures 15, 16).
Thereafter, figures 17-18, the strapping guide (70) is lowered down to reaching a non-operating position in which the strapping guide (70), the first applicator device (16) of adhesive substance (60) and the second applicator device (16a) of adhesive substance (60) do not interfere with the operation of the anthropomorphic robot (8). This non-operating position is necessary when the anthropomorphic robot (8) has to position other slab-shaped objects (4) on the pallet (3).
In this case, the non-operating position is also useful for enabling the collection of the loaded pallet (3) with the slab-shaped objects (4): this collection can for example be carried out using a forklift truck (not illustrated) which inserts the forks in the first horizontal direction (Y). Like considerations relate to when it is necessary to release a pallet (3) to be loaded with slab- shaped objects (4).

Claims

1. A vertical positioning method of slab-shaped objects (4) on a pallet (3) and of fastening of the slab-shaped objects (4) to one another and to the pallet (3), which pallet (3) comprises a base (5) which is delimited by lateral flanks (30), and a rest element (6) which rises perpendicularly from the base (5) and which is arranged in an intermediate position with respect to the lateral flanks (30), dividing the base (5) into a first base part (5a) and into a second base part (5b), the method comprising steps of: positioning a first slab-shaped object (41a), being a part of a plurality of slab- shaped objects (41), substantially vertical on the pallet (3), so that the first slab-shaped object (41a) rests, on a relative flank (4c), on the first base part (5a) and with a relative first face against a first lateral portion (31 ) of the rest element (6); positioning a second slab-shaped object (42a), being a part of the plurality of slab-shaped objects (41), substantially vertical on the pallet (3), so that it rests on a relative flank (4c) on the second base part (5b) and with a relative first face against a second lateral portion (32) of the rest element (6), opposite the first lateral portion (31 ) of the rest element (6); positioning, one by one, the remaining slab-shaped objects (4), being a part of the plurality of slab-shaped objects (41), substantially vertical on the pallet (3), so that each thereof rests on a relative flank (4c) on the first base part (5a), or on the second base part (5b), and rests on a relative face against an opposite face of another slab-shaped object (4), which has already been positioned, which is adjacent thereto and is a part of the plurality of slab-shaped objects (41 ), thus forming a first load (410) of slab-shaped objects (4) which rests on the first base part (5a), and a second load (420) of slab-shaped objects (4) which rests on the second base part (5b); during the above-described positioning steps, or on conclusion of the above- described positioning steps, binding, using at least a strap ring (50), the slab- shaped objects (4) already positioned on the pallet (3), to the rest element (6); during the above-described positioning steps, using an adhesive substance (60) to fasten all or a part of the slab-shaped objects (4) to one another.
2. The method of the preceding claim, wherein each fastening step using an adhesive substance (60) comprises sub-steps of: applying an adhesive substance (60) to a first face (4a) of a third slab-shaped object (41 b); and subsequently resting a second face of a fourth slab-shaped object (41 c) against the first face (4a) of the third slab-shaped object (41 b).
3. The method of the preceding claim, wherein the third slab-shaped object (41 b) and the fourth slab-shaped object (41c) comprise packing elements (43); wherein the adhesive substance (60) is applied to the packing elements (43) of the third slab-shaped object (41 b) and the step of resting the second face of the fourth slab-shaped object (41c) against the first face (4a) of the third slab- shaped object (41 b) is done in such a way that the adhesive substance (60) applied to the packing elements (43) of the third slab-shaped object (41 b) adheres against the packing elements (43) of the fourth slab-shaped object (41c).
4. The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein a fastening step using an adhesive substance (60) comprises further sub-steps of: applying an adhesive substance (60) on the first lateral portion (31 ) of the rest element (6); and subsequently resting a first face of the first slab-shaped object (41 a) against the first lateral portion (31 ).
5. The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein a fastening step using an adhesive substance (60) comprises further sub-steps of: applying an adhesive substance (60) on the second lateral portion (32) of the rest element (6); and subsequently resting a first face of the second slab-shaped object (42a) against the second lateral portion (32).
6. A vertical positioning apparatus (1 ) of slab-shaped objects (4) on a pallet (3) and of fastening of the slab-shaped objects (4) to one another and to the pallet (3), which pallet (3) comprises a base (5) which is delimited by lateral flanks (30), and a rest element (6) which rises perpendicularly from the base (5) and which is arranged in an intermediate position with respect to the lateral flanks (30), dividing the base (5) into a first base part (5a) and into a second base part (5b), comprising: a positioning device (8) which: positions a first slab-shaped object (41 a), being a part of a plurality of slab- shaped objects (41 ), substantially vertical on the pallet (3), so that the first slab-shaped object (41 a) rests, on a relative flank (4c), on the first base part (5a) and with a relative first face against a first lateral portion (31) of the rest element (6); positions a second slab-shaped object (42a), being a part of the plurality of slab-shaped objects (41 ), substantially vertical on the pallet (3), so that it rests on a relative flank (4c) on the second base part (5b) and with a relative first face against a second lateral portion (32) of the rest element (6), opposite the first lateral portion (31) of the rest element (6); positions the remaining slab-shaped objects (4) one by one, being a part of the plurality of slab-shaped objects (41), substantially vertical on the pallet (3), so that each thereof rests on a relative flank (4c) on the first base part (5a), or on the second base part (5b), and rests on a relative face against an opposite face of another slab-shaped object (4), which has already been positioned, which is adjacent thereto and is a part of the plurality of slab-shaped objects (41), thus forming a first load (410) of slab-shaped objects (4) which rests on the first base part (5a), and a second load (420) of slab-shaped objects (4) which rests on the second base part (5b); a strapping device (7) which binds, with at least one strap ring (50), the slab- shaped objects (4) already positioned on the pallet (3), to the rest element (6); a first applicator device (16) of an adhesive substance (60) which comprises a first dispensing head (17) for dispensing the adhesive substance (60), which first dispensing head (17) is mobile in a vertical direction (Z) and in a first horizontal direction (Y) so as to near to, and distance from, the rest element (6), and applies an adhesive substance (60) to the first lateral portion (31 ) of the rest element (6) or to a face of a slab-shaped object (4) which is a part of the plurality of slab-shaped objects (41 ) and which has been positioned on the pallet (3), resting on the first base part (5a); a second applicator device (16a) of an adhesive substance (60) which comprises a second dispensing head (17a) for dispensing the adhesive substance (60), which second dispensing head (17a) is mobile in a vertical direction (Z) and in the first horizontal direction (Y) so as to near to, and distance from, the rest element (6), and applies an adhesive substance (60) to the second lateral portion (32) of the rest element (6) or to a face of a slab- shaped object (4) which is a part of the plurality of slab-shaped objects (41 ) and which has been positioned on the pallet (3), resting on the second base part (5b).
7. The apparatus (1 ) of the preceding claim, wherein the strapping device (7) is horizontally mobile in a second horizontal direction (X) which is perpendicular to the first horizontal direction (Y) and is configured so as to apply the at least a strap ring (50) in such a way that the strap ring (50) is vertically orientated.
8. The apparatus (1 ) of claim 7, wherein the strapping device (7) comprises a first vertical guide (13) and a second vertical guide (13a); wherein the apparatus (1 ) comprises a first arm (12) which is orientated in the second horizontal direction (X), which is mobile along the first vertical guide (13) and which bears the first dispensing head (17) and a second arm (12a) which is orientated in the second horizontal direction (X), which is mobile along the second vertical guide (13a) and which bears the second dispensing head (17a); wherein the strapping device (7) comprises a first actuator cylinder (19) which moves the first dispensing head (17) in the first horizontal direction (Y), in order to near the first dispensing head (17) to and distance the first dispensing head (17) from the rest element (6); and wherein the strapping device (7) comprises a second actuator cylinder (19a) which moves the second dispensing head (17a) in the first horizontal direction (Y), in order to near the second dispensing head (17a) to and distance the second dispensing head (17a) from the rest element (6).
9. The apparatus (1 ) of the preceding claim, wherein the first arm (12) and the second arm (12a) are further rotatable substantially on a vertical plane between an operating position, wherein the first arm (12) and the second arm (12a) are orientated in the second horizontal direction (X), and a non- operating position, wherein the first arm (12) and the second arm (12a) are arranged at an angle of greater than sixty degrees with respect to the second horizontal direction (X).
10. The apparatus (1) of claim 6, wherein the strapping device (7) is vertically mobile and is configured so as to apply the at least a strap ring (50) in such a way that the strap ring (50) is horizontally orientated.
11. The apparatus (1) of the preceding claim, wherein the strapping device (7) comprises a strapping guide (70) which embraces the pallet (3) and wherein the first dispensing head (17) and the second dispensing head (17a) are borne by the strapping guide (70) and slide along the strapping guide (70) in the second horizontal direction (X).
EP17793726.5A 2016-09-22 2017-09-22 An apparatus for vertical positioning of slab-shaped objects on a pallet and of fastening of the slab-shaped objects to one another and to the pallet Active EP3515828B1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
PL17793726T PL3515828T3 (en) 2016-09-22 2017-09-22 An apparatus for vertical positioning of slab-shaped objects on a pallet and of fastening of the slab-shaped objects to one another and to the pallet

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
IT102016000095499A IT201600095499A1 (en) 2016-09-22 2016-09-22 APPARATUS FOR POSITIONING VERTICAL ITEMS IN THE FORM OF SLAB ON A SUPPORT ELEMENT AND FIX THEM ON IT
PCT/IB2017/055774 WO2018055571A1 (en) 2016-09-22 2017-09-22 A method and apparatus of vertical positioning of slab-shaped objects on a pallet and of fastening of the slab-shaped objects to one another and to the pallet

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP3515828A1 true EP3515828A1 (en) 2019-07-31
EP3515828B1 EP3515828B1 (en) 2021-04-28

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EP17793726.5A Active EP3515828B1 (en) 2016-09-22 2017-09-22 An apparatus for vertical positioning of slab-shaped objects on a pallet and of fastening of the slab-shaped objects to one another and to the pallet

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EP (1) EP3515828B1 (en)
CN (1) CN109963788B (en)
BR (1) BR112019005512A2 (en)
ES (1) ES2881515T3 (en)
IT (1) IT201600095499A1 (en)
PL (1) PL3515828T3 (en)
PT (1) PT3515828T (en)
WO (1) WO2018055571A1 (en)

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN114802921B (en) * 2020-08-31 2024-03-08 青岛梵荣达科技有限公司 Packing system for stacking bricks
CN117228102B (en) * 2023-11-16 2024-02-13 山东铭城环保新材料科技有限公司 Autoclaved aerated concrete block packing device

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE19731470B4 (en) * 1997-07-22 2006-01-05 Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft zur Förderung der angewandten Forschung e.V. Packaging system for general cargo
US6858250B2 (en) * 2000-10-31 2005-02-22 Nordson Corporation Apparatus and method for applying siftproof adhesive pattern
TWI268892B (en) * 2002-06-26 2006-12-21 Asahi Glass Co Ltd Glass plate packing device and packing method, and package
JP2007091339A (en) * 2005-03-23 2007-04-12 Fujifilm Corp Packaging form and packaging method
ITMO20070106A1 (en) * 2007-03-27 2008-09-28 Aetna Group Spa APPARATUS FOR PLACING A COVER SHEET ON THE SUMMARY OF A PRODUCT
KR20120011005A (en) * 2009-05-01 2012-02-06 아사히 가라스 가부시키가이샤 Apparatus for packing glass plates
US20110197551A1 (en) * 2010-02-17 2011-08-18 Bill Book Active compression adhesive packaging method and apparatus
JP5665525B2 (en) * 2010-12-21 2015-02-04 サイデック株式会社 Plate-shaped body placing device and plate-shaped body conveying device
DE202011104001U1 (en) * 2011-08-03 2011-12-05 Caspari Gmbh & Co. Kg Pallet construction for the transport of goods, in particular solar panels or solar modules
FR2980463A1 (en) * 2011-09-27 2013-03-29 Sidel Participations PACKING MACHINE.
DE202014103799U1 (en) * 2014-08-15 2015-11-17 Carsten Böttcher Transport and / or storage rack and arrangement of a transport and / or storage rack on a base plate
CN104943941B (en) * 2015-06-01 2018-08-10 浙江双友物流器械股份有限公司 A kind of glass plate conveying device

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
CN109963788B (en) 2021-08-31
CN109963788A (en) 2019-07-02
PT3515828T (en) 2021-07-21
EP3515828B1 (en) 2021-04-28
PL3515828T3 (en) 2021-11-15
WO2018055571A1 (en) 2018-03-29
IT201600095499A1 (en) 2018-03-22
BR112019005512A2 (en) 2019-06-11
ES2881515T3 (en) 2021-11-29

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