EP3732121A1

EP3732121A1 - Transfer of products between a transit zone and a collecting surface

Info

Publication number: EP3732121A1
Application number: EP18842637.3A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Julien Berger; Anthony GEHIN; Zmaj Petrovic
Original assignee: Sidel Engineering and Conveying Solutions SAS
Current assignee: Sidel Engineering and Conveying Solutions SAS
Priority date: 2017-12-27
Filing date: 2018-12-20
Publication date: 2020-11-04
Also published as: WO2019129966A1; CN112074473B; CN112074473A; US20210061582A1; JP7344901B2; US11767177B2; FR3075769B1; FR3075769A1; JP2021509388A

Abstract

The invention relates to a device for transferring products (2) on an industrial line for the in-line processing of products (2) between a collecting surface (3) and a transit zone (4; 4') bordering the collecting surface (3), said transit zone (4; 4') comprising at least two longitudinal conveyors (5; 5'; 6; 6') that are spaced apart from slider bed (7; 7') and are each intended to transport a line of products (2), said device (1) comprising said collecting surface (3); said transit zone (4; 4'); and a tool (8) for transferring between the collecting surface (3) and the transit zone (4; 4'), said tool (8) being provided with at least three longitudinal vertical walls (9) and being intended to transversely push longitudinal rows (10) of products (2) that are each disposed between two walls (9). This device is characterized in that at least one wall (9) of the transfer tool (8) is mounted so as to be movable in translation on said tool (8) in a transverse direction for a pushing movement of said products (2). The invention also relates to corresponding methods.

Description

TRANSFER OF PRODUCTS BETWEEN A TRANSIT ZONE AND A ACCUMULATION SURFACE

The present invention relates to the field of conveying products within an industrial processing line, and has for its object, on the one hand, a device for transferring to and from an accumulation surface, and, on the other hand, two methods implementing this transfer device, namely a feeding process and a method of evacuating an accumulation surface.

In this field, the products, which may be bottles, cans, bottles, boxes, boxes, cartons, bundles, or other, are routed between successive processing stations using conveyors essentially of the endless belt type. The products are processed or even conveyed in single-line, multi-wire, and conveyed and even in bulk.

In order to have a complete line capable of producing continuously despite the stops of the various stations, for various reasons such as defects or lack of consumables, it is necessary to have accumulation solutions between the stations, which host the products processed by the upstream station while the downstream station can not operate, and / or providing the downstream station with products to be processed while the upstream station can not operate. The preparation of products for the downstream station is also necessary, for example by arranging the flow in plurifilar, etc.

Many accumulation solutions are known, in which the products can enter and exit in single or multi-filament. The present invention is more particularly concerned with accumulation solutions whose entry and / or exit of products is single-ended.

As such, it is known from WO2014076390 an accumulation device with a single-wire conveyor input, a transverse accumulation surface on a horizontal surface, and a single-ended conveyor output. To feed and evacuate this device the products are transferred by respectively pushing the products of the input conveyor to the accumulation surface and the products of the accumulation surface to the output conveyor. These transfers require the end of the conveyor concerned to reduce the risk of falling products. In order to feed and evacuate the accumulation surface with a continuous flow of products, this document implements upstream and downstream conveyors input and output means dedicated, in particular to accelerate or slow down the products so as to create or resorb holes.

However, at high speed, this principle of transition between a continuous flow and a discontinuous flow is problematic because generator accelerations, shocks and decelerations for products that can be fragile, as typically empty glass bottles.

To overcome these drawbacks, the applications FR1556106 and FRI 65959569 describe transfer devices comprising a transit zone disposed along the accumulation surface respectively between the single-input conveyor and the accumulation surface (transit zone d). input) and between the accumulation surface and the single output conveyor (exit transit area). This transit zone is formed of two longitudinal conveyors operating alternately and spaced apart from a sliding sole. The presence of such a zone respectively, depending on whether it is an input or output transit zone, a supply or an evacuation of the accumulation surface devoid of the defects mentioned above.

The transfer of the products from the input transit zone to the accumulation surface is carried out in particular as follows, and as illustrated in FIG. 1: the continuous single-wire flow of the input conveyor is directed alternately towards the longitudinal conveyor 6 of the transit zone 4 farthest from the accumulation surface 3 and to the longitudinal conveyor 5 of the transit zone 4 which is abutted at the accumulation zone 3, with the aid of a deflector. The two conveyors 5; 6 of the transit zone 4 then operate alternately to accommodate or not products of the input conveyor. When a conveyor 5; 6 of the transit zone 4 is at a standstill, the products therein are pushed towards the accumulation surface 3 while the other conveyor 5; from the input conveyor. More specifically, when the conveyor 6 of the transit zone 4 farthest from the accumulation surface 3 is stopped, the row 10 of products therein is then pushed onto the sliding floor 7 to using a longitudinal vertical thrust plate 13 initially arranged on the side of the transit zone 4 opposite the accumulation surface 3. When the conveyor 5 abutting the accumulation zone 3 is stopped, the two rows 10 which are on the sliding floor 7 and on this conveyor 5 are transferred simultaneously by transverse thrust, using a double cap tool 14 coming from above, on the accumulation surface 3.

The transfer of the products from the accumulation surface to the exit transit zone is effected in particular as follows, and as illustrated in FIG. 2: the exit conveyor disposed downstream of the transit zone 4 'receives permanently products coming alternately from one or the other of the conveyors 5 ', 6' of the transit zone 4 '. To do this, when the conveyor 5 'of the transit zone 4' closest to the accumulation surface 3 is stopped, two longitudinal rows of products lying on the accumulation surface 3 are transferred simultaneously. by transverse thrust, using a tool 14 in double cap from above, respectively on the conveyor 5 'at the stop and on the sliding sole 7'. Meanwhile, the output conveyor receives products from the other conveyor 6 'of the transit area. When the longitudinal conveyor 6 'of the transit zone 4' farthest from the accumulation surface 3 is stopped, the products on the sliding floor 7 'are transferred by transverse thrust on the conveyor 7' using the tool 14 in double cover, while the other conveyor 5 'of the transit zone 4' releases its products on the output conveyor.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, and as is apparent from the foregoing, the transfer devices described in these documents occupy a lot of ground space because the pushing tools used extend out of the transit zone. on the opposite side to the accumulation surface. In addition, in the case of the input transfer device, two separate tools are required to transfer the products from the transit area to the accumulation surface, which is particularly expensive.

Thus, there remains a need in the current state of the art for an accumulation solution able to be supplied and / or released continuously while reducing its footprint and / or the associated cost.

To do this, the invention essentially proposes carrying out the transfer operation between the transit zone and the accumulation surface by means of a single tool comprising at least three longitudinal vertical walls, at least one of whose walls is movably mounted transversely within said tool. Thus, the movement of this wall within the tool can at least contribute to a pushing action of the products so as to limit the movement of the tool and therefore prevent it from extending beyond the area of the tool. while permitting, throughout the transfer, the alternative operation of the two conveyors in the transit area.

The subject of the invention is thus a device for transferring products in an industrial line for processing products in the chain, between an accumulation surface and a transit zone along the accumulation surface, said transit zone comprising at least two longitudinal conveyors spaced from a sliding sole and each intended to carry a line of products, said device comprising:

- said accumulation surface,

- the said transit zone, and

- A transfer tool between the accumulation surface and the transit zone, provided with at least three longitudinal vertical walls, and for pushing transversely longitudinal rows of products each disposed between two walls.

This device is characterized in that at least one wall of the transfer tool is mounted to move in translation on said tool along a transverse direction, for a pushing movement of said products.

Thus, the transverse displacement of at least one wall inside the tool, provides a thrust movement to perform at least part of the transfer of products.

The subject of the invention is also a method implemented by this device, namely a method for supplying products with an accumulation surface installed between two stations of an industrial line for treating chain products, from an input transit area supplied with products continuously by an inlet conveyor, said transit area comprising at least one inner longitudinal conveyor and one outer longitudinal conveyor spaced apart from a sliding floor and each intended for transporting a line of products, the transit zone along the accumulation surface at the inner longitudinal conveyor, comprising at least the cyclic reproduction of the following succession of steps:

a) supply products to the external conveyor, b) stop the products on the external conveyor, stop P supply of products from the external conveyor and supply products to the inner conveyor,

c) transversely pushing the products from the external conveyor to the sliding floor,

d) stop the products on the inner conveyor, stop the supply of products from the inner conveyor and supply products to the outer conveyor, and

e) transversely pushing the products of the inner conveyor and the sliding sole onto the accumulation surface.

This process is characterized in that steps c) and e) are carried out using the same transfer tool comprising at least three longitudinal vertical walls, and in that step c) is carried out at least at least one using a movement of at least one wall of the transfer tool within said tool.

Therefore, it is the transverse displacement of a wall inside and relative to the tool that ensures at least part of the transfer of products.

The invention also relates to another method implemented by this device, namely a method for discharging products arranged in longitudinal rows side by side on an accumulation surface installed between two stations of an industrial line of treatment of goods in a chain, up to an exit transit zone so as to discharge products continuously on an exit conveyor, said transit zone comprising at least one inner longitudinal conveyor and one outer longitudinal conveyor spaced from a sole each for transporting a line of products, the transit zone along the accumulation surface at the inner longitudinal conveyor, comprising at least the cyclic reproduction of the following succession of steps:

a) transversely pushing rows of products from the accumulation surface onto the inner conveyor and the sliding sole;

b) operate the inner conveyor to release the products on the output conveyor;

c) transversely pushing the products from the sliding sole onto the outer conveyor; d) actuate the outer conveyor to release the products on the exit conveyor and stop the inner conveyor;

steps a) and c) being performed using a single transfer tool having at least three longitudinal vertical walls.

This method is characterized in that step c) is performed at least by means of a movement of at least one wall 9 of the transfer tool 8 within said tool 8.

The invention will be better understood thanks to the description below, which is based on possible embodiments, explained in an illustrative and non-limiting manner, with reference to the appended figures, in which:

FIGS. 1 and 2 show respectively the transfer of products from a transit zone to an accumulation surface and from an accumulation surface to a transit zone, as already described in the prior art;

FIGS. 3 to 6 and 10 schematize the transfer of products from a transit zone to an accumulation surface according to various embodiments of the invention;

FIGS. 7 to 9 show schematically the transfer of products from an accumulation surface to a transit zone according to different embodiments of the invention;

- Figure 11 shows schematically and partially seen from above a transfer device provided with an accumulation surface and two transit zones;

- Figure 12 shows schematically and viewed from above a tool provided with three longitudinal walls, the two outer walls are movable (Figure 13a)) with an example of a pantograph type system that can be implemented to manage this mobility (Figures 13 (b) and (c)); and

FIG. 13 shows schematically and viewed from above a tool provided with three longitudinal walls of which an outer wall is movable (FIG. 12 a) with an example of a pantograph type system that can be implemented to manage this mobility (FIG. 12). b) and c)).

The invention therefore firstly relates to a device 1 for transferring products 2 in an industrial product processing line 2 to the chain, between an accumulation surface 3 and a transit zone 4; accumulation surface 3, said transit zone 4; 4 'comprising at least two longitudinal conveyors 5; 5 ';6;6' spaced from a sliding sole 7; 7 'and each intended to carry a line of products 2.

The accumulation surface 3, and more generally the transfer device 1, is installed between two successive stations in an industrial installation. Such an industrial plant is a production line and / or product processing 2 chain, so that works continuously. Such an installation comprises a succession of stations each dedicated to the accomplishment of a specific task.

The products 2 are generally objects of the type bottles, vials, cans or other containers, individually or in the form of bundles, in boxes or cartons.

These objects can stand in the device 1, that is to say with their largest dimension that extends vertically or substantially vertically.

The device 1 is thus located between an upstream machine and a downstream machine. Such machines may for example be a labeler and a shrinkwrapper or a filler and a packager or a packager and a palletizer.

For the purposes of the present invention, the term "accumulation surface 3" means a buffer surface receiving products that circulate between two machines that process them for example on one or more files. Such an accumulation surface 4 makes it possible that stopping the downstream machine does not cause stopping of the upstream machine and vice versa. This surface also makes it possible to manage potential differences in cadence between said two machines.

The transfer device 1 moves products 2, in particular rows of products 2, between an accumulation surface 3 and a transit zone 4; 4 ', that is to say both from a transit zone 4 4 'to an accumulation surface 3 only from an accumulation surface 3 to a transit zone 4; 4'. The device 1 thus makes it possible to feed and / or evacuate an accumulation surface 3 via a transit zone 4; 4 'which can be an input transit zone 4 or an exit transit zone 4'. This transit zone 4; 4 'is generally supplied or released continuously using a single-input or output conveyor according to whether it is respectively an input transit zone 4 or exit 4 '. The upper surface of the transit zone 4; 4 ', that is to say the surface which supports the products 2 extends in a conveying plane 15 which is in principle horizontal. This transit zone 4; 4 'extends along a longitudinal direction 16 and carries products 2 which circulate along this direction 16.

The transit zone 4; 4 'comprises at least two longitudinal conveyors 5; 5'; 6; 6 'which extend along the longitudinal direction 16, these conveyors 5; 5'; 6; 6 'being independently motorized. In other words, these conveyors 5; 5 '; 6; 6' can operate simultaneously or not and at equal or different speeds. Each of these conveyors 5; 5 '; 6; 6' is intended to carry a single file of products 2, that is to say a succession of products 2 which extends along the longitudinal direction 16 and wide of A single product 2. These conveyors 5; 5 '; 6; 6' are thus single-wire conveyors.

A sliding sole 7; 7 'is located between the at least two longitudinal conveyors 5; 5'; 6; 6 '. This sliding sole 7; 7 'extends along the longitudinal direction 16 and can generally accommodate at least one longitudinal row 9 of products 2.

As already described in applications FR1659569 and FRI 556106, such an architecture advantageously makes it possible in particular to maintain the rate of the line.

In principle, the accumulation surface 3 extends in a horizontal plane. Generally, it extends in the same plane as the upper surface of the transit zone 4; 4 '. The accumulation surface 3 makes it possible to store successive rows of products 2. These rows are transferred transversely, from or to the transit zone 4; 4 '. In other words, they are transferred in a direction of transverse transfer, that is to say an inclined direction, in particular substantially perpendicular, or even perpendicular, with respect to the longitudinal direction 16, and which extends in a horizontal plane. On the accumulation surface 3, the products 2 move along the transfer direction 17.

As indicated above, the transit zone 4; 4 'runs along the accumulation surface 3, that is to say that it lies along one of the edges of this surface 3. Preferably, the transit zone 4; 4 'extends along the entire length of the accumulation surface 3. The upper surface of the transit zone 4; 4' and the accumulation surface 3 extend from Preferably in the same conveying plane 15. In principle, the transit zone 4, 4 'and the accumulation surface 3 are abutted and flush.

The accumulation surface 3 may be embodied by a dead plate, but is preferably carried by a transverse conveyor capable of moving the products 2 which are there along the transfer direction 17.

In general, the conveyors used in the present invention are chain, belt, belt or belt conveyors which circulate around at least two windings located at the upstream and downstream ends of the conveyors.

The transfer device 1 according to the invention comprises:

said accumulation surface 3,

said transit zone 4; 4 ', and

a transfer tool 8 between the accumulation surface 3 and the transit zone 4; 4 ', provided with at least three vertical longitudinal walls 9, and intended to push transversely longitudinal rows of products 2 each placed between two 9. Such a transfer is therefore carried out in a direction transverse to said longitudinal direction.

In a general manner, the device 1 may comprise one or more accumulation surfaces 3, one or more transit zones 4, 4 'and one or more transfer tool (s). There are as many transfer tool (s) 8 as transit zone (s) 4; 4 '.

The accumulation surface 3 is preferably of rectangular shape. In this case, the transverse transfer direction 17 is generally perpendicular to the longitudinal direction 16.

The transfer tool 8 is therefore intended both to push the products 2 from a transit zone 4; 4 'to an accumulation surface 3 that from an accumulation surface 3 to a transit zone 4; 4'. This tool 8 can therefore be respectively a tool 8 for supplying or discharging an accumulation surface 3. This tool 8 pushes the products 2, more precisely rows of products 2 along a transfer direction 17 cross.

When products 2 are transferred using the tool 8, they are preferably stationary along the longitudinal direction 16 so as to reduce their risk of falling. Such a tool 8 comprises at least three longitudinal vertical walls 9. These walls therefore extend along the longitudinal direction 16 and are parallel to each other.

Preferably, they have a length substantially equal to the longitudinal dimension of the accumulation surface 3, so as to transfer rows of products 2 having a length substantially equal to the longitudinal dimension of the accumulation surface 3.

Each row 9 of products 2 is between two walls 9 of the tool 8 during its transfer.

The transfer tool 8 is generally mounted on a manipulator, in particular robotized, so as to be able to perform movements both in the transverse direction (to perform a pushing action) and vertical (to position itself in the right place before pushing products 2 and withdraw once the transverse thrust has been performed).

The transfer device 1 according to the invention is characterized in that at least one wall 9 of the transfer tool 8 is mounted to move in translation on said tool 8 along a transverse direction, in thrust of said products 2.

As described in more detail later, such mobility of at least one wall 9 within the tool advantageously allows at least to reduce the floor space of the transfer device 1. Indeed, not only the tool 8 to it alone can perform the entire transfer of products 2 between a transit zone 4; 4 'and an accumulation surface 3 without impacting the rate of the line, but this transfer can also be achieved while this tool 9 s extends barely, if at all, beyond the transit zone 4; 4 'along the transverse transfer direction 17. The tool 8 does not encroach or little on the adjacent accumulation surface 3.

The at least one movably mounted wall 9 can move in a transverse translational movement within the transfer tool 8, that is to say in a direction that comprises at least one component perpendicular to the longitudinal direction 16 .

The at least one movably mounted wall 9 is thus configured to move towards or away from the other walls 9 of the tool 8 while remaining parallel to these other walls 9. During such movement, a row 10 of products 2 is thus pushed transversely, especially without movement of the tool 8 itself. In particular, this thrust movement can be effected by moving at least the wall 9 relative to said tool 8, while the tool 8 is at a standstill. In other words, the stroke of at least the wall 9 inside and with respect to the structure of said tool 8 is long enough to come into contact with the products 2 present

It is up to the skills of those skilled in the art to set up an appropriate system for generating this mobility in translation of at least one wall 9, within the tool 8 itself.

By way of examples of such systems, mention may be made, for example, of a rack-and-pinion-type system, pulley-belt, trapezoidal screw, crank-handle, pantograph or even of walls 9 mounted on shuttles that translate on at least one linear axis. .

The number of longitudinal conveyors 5; 5 '; 6; 6' and the width of the sliding sole 7; 7 'is variable from one device 1 to the other, and can in particular be adjusted according to the configuration of the line. In particular, it can be envisaged that the device 1 feeds several machines downstream or that the device 1 is supplied by several machines upstream. It can therefore be provided that a transit zone 4, 4 'comprises, for example, four longitudinal conveyors 5; 5'; 6; 6 'in order to:

be supplied continuously by two single-input conveyors 11 bringing the products 2 of two separate upstream machines and each supplying two conveyors 5, 6 of the transit zone 4 alternately, or

continuously delivering products 2 on two single-output conveyors 12 bringing the products 2 to two separate downstream machines, the two conveyors 12 being each fed continuously by two conveyors 5 ', 6' of the transit zone 4 'operating alternately.

The transfer tool 8 is also sized accordingly, in particular in terms of number of walls 9 and tool width.

By way of example, FIG. 10 shows a device 1 in which the transit zone 4; 4 'comprises three longitudinal conveyors 5; 5';6; 6 'and a sliding sole 7; 7' able to receive two rows 2. Such a transit zone 4, 4 'can thus support five rows 10 of products 2. The other devices 1 shown in the accompanying figures consist of two conveyors longitudinals 5, 5 ';6;6' spaced apart from a sliding sole 7; 7 'adapted to receive a single longitudinal row of products 2.

Thus, according to an additional characteristic of the transfer device 1, the transit zone 4; 4 'consists of two longitudinal conveyors 5; 5'; 6; 6 'spaced from a sliding sole 7; 7'.

In this case, the transit zone 4; 4 'can support three rows of products 2, one row by conveyor 5; 5'; 6; 6 'and one row on the sliding floor 7; 7'. As it is always necessary to be able to receive or release products 2 from the transit zone 4; 4 'at the same time as to transfer products 2 to or from the accumulation surface 3 (for reasons of keeping pace), two rows of products 2 are in principle transferred simultaneously in this configuration. Consequently, the tool 8 comprises in this case, generally three or four vertical walls 9, depending on the degree of stability of the transferred products 2.

According to another additional feature of the transfer device 1, it comprises two distinct accumulation surfaces 3 disposed on either side of the transit zone 4; 4 '.

In this case, the transit zone 4; 4 'runs along two accumulation surfaces 3, an accumulation surface 3 located on one side of the transit zone 4; 4' and the other accumulation surface 3 located on the other side of the transit zone 4; 4 'with respect to the longitudinal circulation of the products 2 over the transit zone 4; 4'.

Preferably, the upper surface of the transit zone 4; 4 'and the two accumulation surfaces 3 extend in the same conveying plane 15 which is preferably horizontal. In principle the transit zone 4; 4 'is flush and flush with these two accumulation surfaces 3.

According to this characteristic, the same transit zone 4; 4 'can then be used to feed two distinct accumulation surfaces 3 into products 2 or to evacuate the products 2 accumulated on two distinct accumulation surfaces 3. The same transfer tool 8 is preferably used to carry out the transfer between the two accumulation zones 3 and the transit zone 4; 4 '.

According to another additional characteristic of the transfer device 1, the transit zone 4; 4 'is an input transit zone 4 of the products 2 on the accumulation surface 3. According to this configuration, the transfer tool 8 makes it possible to push the products 2 from the input transit zone 4 towards the accumulation surface 3.

Upstream of such an input transit zone 4, there is generally a single-wire input conveyor 11 which supplies the input transit zone 4 with products 2 from an upstream machine to the device 1. Such input conveyor 11, in principle supports a compact flow of products 2 with products 2 in contact with each other or slightly spaced, regularly or not.

In order to maintain the compactness of the flow, a deflector is arranged at the downstream end of this conveyor to orient the products 2 alternately towards one or other of the two longitudinal conveyors 5; 6 of the input transit zone 4 Thus, the input transit area is fed continuously.

The implementation of a transfer tool 8 from an inlet transit zone 4 to an accumulation surface 3 advantageously makes it possible to dispense with a thrust plate 13 (used in a known manner in addition to a thrusting tool with fixed walls type double cover 14), in particular vertical and longitudinal as shown in Figure 1 attached to transfer the products 2 to the sliding surface 7 of the input transit zone 3. The use of such a plate 13 is known in installations provided with an input transit zone 3 along an accumulation surface 4 as previously described to allow the supply of the second longitudinal input conveyor 5; 6 during the transfer of the first conveyor 5; 6 on the sliding floor 7. Such a plate 13 is generally placed outside the device 1, along the inlet transit zone 3.

As described in more detail later, and shown in the accompanying figures 3 to 6 and 10, the relative mobility of at least one of the walls 9 of the tool 8 makes it possible to perform the thrust movement of the products 2 from a longitudinal conveyor 5; 6 when stopped towards the sliding floor while supplying products 2 with another longitudinal conveyor 5; 6.

This results in a less expensive device and occupying less space on the ground. According to another additional characteristic of the transfer device 1, the transit zone 4; 4 'is an exit transit zone 4' of the products 2 of the accumulation surface 3.

According to this configuration, the transfer tool 8 makes it possible to push the products 2 from the accumulation surface 3 towards the exit transit zone 4 '.

Downstream from such an outlet transit zone 4 ', the longitudinal conveyors 5', 6 'generally meet with a single single-wire outlet conveyor 12 which releases the products 2 from the transit zone 4' of exit to drive them. to a machine downstream to the device 1. This output conveyor 12 is running continuously so as to feed the downstream machine with a good rate. The transit zone 4 'in principle frees products 2 continuously alternately from one or the other of the two longitudinal conveyors 5', 6 'of the output transit zone 4'.

The implementation of a transfer tool 8 from an accumulation surface 3 to an exit transit zone 4 'advantageously makes it possible to save space on the ground. Indeed, the thrust tool 14 comprising three fixed vertical longitudinal plates known and shown in Figure 2 extends outside the transit zone 4 'at the end of the cycle.

As represented in FIGS. 7 to 9, the relative mobility of at least one of the walls 9 of the tool 8 allows the tool 8 to remain above the device 1.

According to some embodiments, the device 1 is provided with an input transit zone 4, an accumulation surface 3 and a transit zone 4 'of exit. Such a device 1 can then be provided with one or two transfer tools 8. Preferably, such a device 1 comprises two transfer tools 8, a first dedicated to push the products 2 from the input transit zone 4 to the accumulation surface 3, and a second, dedicated to push the products 2 from the accumulation surface 3 to the exit transit area 4 '.

As indicated above, and especially when the transit zone 4; 4 'consists of two longitudinal conveyors 5; 5'; 6; 6 'spaced from a sliding sole 7; 7', the transfer tool 8 comprises preferably three or four vertical longitudinal walls 9.

The implementation of a transfer tool 8 provided with four walls 9 is particularly preferred when transferring products 2 little stable in that it is generally possible, in this configuration, to maintain each row 10 of products 2 between two walls 9 relatively close to the products 2 transferred throughout the transfer to or from the accumulation surface 3, as illustrated in particular in Figures 6 and 9 attached.

In general, when the tool 8 comprises four walls 9, the two walls 9 located on the same side of the tool 8 are not movable relative to each other. Indeed, the distance separating the two walls 9 on the left and the two walls 9 on the right is generally adjusted to the size of the products 2 to be transferred to limit any risk of falling during their transfer.

Preferably, when the tool 8 has four vertical walls:

either the two walls 9 situated on the same side of the tool 8 are movably mounted (namely the two walls 9 on the left or the two walls 9 on the right) on the tool 8,

either the four walls 9 are movably mounted on the tool 8.

According to another additional characteristic of the transfer device 1, the transfer tool 8 comprises three longitudinal vertical walls 9.

Such embodiments are shown in FIGS. 3 to 5,

7 and 8.

Such a tool 8 may thus comprise a two or three movable vertical walls 9 within the tool 8.

Preferably, only one or two of the three walls 9 are movable in translation within the tool 8.

When the tool 8 is provided with three walls 9, it comprises two side walls 9 or outer and a central wall 9.

Thus, according to another additional feature of the transfer device 1, among the three walls 9, only one of the side vertical walls 9 is movably mounted.

Such embodiments are shown in Figures 3, 5 and 7 attached. The mobility of the side wall 9 can be generated using any system for generating mobility in translation in the image of the examples mentioned above.

Alternatively, among the three walls 9, two of the lateral vertical walls 9 are movably mounted, as shown in FIGS. and 8. It may be in particular a side wall 9 and the central wall 9 in the image of FIG. 8.

However, preferably, when two of the three walls 9 are movably mounted on the tool 8, the movable walls 9 are preferably the two side walls 9, as shown in FIG. 4. Indeed, such mobility within the tool 8 can advantageously be managed with a single actuator.

Thus, according to another additional feature of the transfer device 1, among the three walls 9, only the two lateral vertical walls 9 are movably mounted, an actuator common to said two walls 9 for symmetrically modulating the distance between said side walls 9 and the central wall 9.

With such a configuration, the two corridors formed by the free space between a side wall 9 and the central wall 9 are of identical width regardless of the movements of the side walls 9. In other words, the spacing between the central wall 9 and a side wall 9 is identical to the spacing between the central wall 9 and the other side wall 9. Such a system proves particularly advantageous, since in addition to requiring a single actuator, and therefore being particularly economical, it is compatible with several product formats 2. Indeed, since the two corridors are systematically the same width, and this width is adjustable, it can be adapted to the dimensions of products 2 treated. Of course, and as detailed later in the description of the appended FIG. 4, this width is also modulated to contribute to the transfer of the products 2 between the transit zone 4; 4 'and the accumulation surface 3.

In a preferred manner, this type of configuration is carried out using a device of the pantograph type in the image of that shown in FIG. 12, which will be detailed later. Of course, any other system allowing the use of a single actuator to modulate in the same way the width of the two corridors by moving only the two side walls 9 is also suitable.

The subject of the invention is also a method implementing the device as described above, namely a method for feeding products 2 with an accumulation surface 3 installed between two stations of an industrial processing line. of products 2 to the chain, from an input transit zone 4 supplied with products 2 continuously by an input conveyor 11, said transit zone 4 comprising at least one internal longitudinal conveyor 5 and an outer longitudinal conveyor 6 spaced apart from a sliding sole 7 and each intended to carry a line of products 2, the transit zone 4 along the accumulation surface 3 at the inner longitudinal conveyor 5, comprising at least the cyclic reproduction of the succession of following steps:

a) supplying products to the outer conveyor 6, b) stopping the products on the outer conveyor 6, stopping the supply of products 2 from the outer conveyor 6 and supplying products 2 to the inner conveyor 5,

c) transversely pushing the products 2 from the outer conveyor 6 to the sliding floor 7,

d) stop the products on the inner conveyor 5, stop the supply of products 2 of the inner conveyor 5 and supply products 2 to the outer conveyor 6, and

e) transversely pushing the products 2 of the inner conveyor 5 and the sliding sole 7 onto the accumulation surface 3.

This method is characterized in that steps c) and e) are carried out using the same transfer tool 8 comprising at least three vertical longitudinal walls 9, and in that step c) is carried out at least by means of a movement of at least one wall 9 of the transfer tool 8 within said tool 8. Therefore, it is the displacement of at least one wall 9 inside and with respect to the tool 8, preferably fixed at this time, which makes it possible to operate the thrust movement of the products 2 during at least part of their transfer.

Exemplary embodiments of such feed methods are particularly illustrated in Figures 3 to 6 and 10 appended.

The input conveyor 11 is thus disposed upstream of the transit zone 4. It conveys the products 2 from an upstream machine, in the form of a single-wire flow, to the input transit zone 4. A deflector is in principle at the downstream end of this input conveyor so that it continuously supplies the transit zone 4 with products 2.

In practice, the input conveyor 11 alternately supplies each longitudinal conveyor of the transit zone 4. When the transit zone 4 is exactly comprised of two longitudinal conveyors, the input conveyor 11 alternately supplies the inner and outer conveyor 5 the transit area 4. In general, before transferring products 2 from the transit zone 4 to the accumulation surface 3, the transfer tool 8 arrives from above by means of a movement of a manipulator on which is mounted said tool 8. The tool 8 is then lowered so as to act on the products 2 by transverse thrust with at least one wall 9 placed at each end of the transit zone 4 along the direction of transfer. He is then in his initial position.

The following explanatory paragraphs to further detail the feeding process relate more specifically to a method adapted to a transit zone 4 provided with only a conveyor 5 and a conveyor 6. The principle nevertheless remains similar with a device comprising more conveyors 5, 6.

Once the longitudinal conveyor 6 supplied with products 2 and stopped, the row of products 2 therein is pushed using the tool 8 to the sliding floor 7, while the inner conveyor 5 is in the process of being procured.

This thrusting movement is performed at least by moving at least one wall 9 within the tool 8 so as to allow the supply of the conveyor 5 during thrust. According to the arrangement and the number of moving walls 9 within the tool 8, this thrusting movement is carried out solely by the displacement of one or more walls 9 within the tool 8 or else by a combined movement with tool 8 itself.

Once the longitudinal conveyor 5 supplied with products 2 and stopped, the row 10 of products 2 therein, and the row 10 of products 2 on the sliding floor 7 are pushed simultaneously to the using the tool 8 until accumulation surface 3, while the outer conveyor 6 is being supplied.

During this second thrust, the two rows 10 of products 2 are moved simultaneously by means of a transverse scanning of the manipulator of the tool 8, each row 10 being well sandwiched between two walls 9 of the tool.

The tool 8 is then placed back to its initial position so as to be ready to act when the conveyor 6 is again stopped, once its supply is completed. This return to the initial position is operated by the manipulator, rising, moving at the transit area 4 and then lowering. Meanwhile, the mobile wall (s) 9 are also placed correctly to at least contribute to the thrust of the products 2 on the sliding floor 7.

As indicated above, step c) of pushing the products 2 on the sole 7 is generated by means of a transverse movement of at least one wall 9 within the tool 8 alone or in combination with a movement of tool 8 itself.

Thus, according to a possible additional characteristic of the feed method, step c) is carried out using a combined movement of at least one wall 9 of the transfer tool 8 and the tool 8 of transfer itself.

Such embodiments are illustrated in particular in FIGS. 4 and 6.

According to another possible additional characteristic of the feed method, step c) is carried out at least by means of a simultaneous movement of two walls 9 of the transfer tool 8 within said tool 8.

Such embodiments are illustrated in particular in FIG. 4.

Another subject of the invention is another method implementing the device as described above, namely a method for discharging products 2 arranged in longitudinal rows side by side on an accumulation surface 3 installed between two stations of a chain-line product processing line 2, up to an exit transit zone 4 'so as to discharge products 2 continuously on an exit conveyor 12, said transit zone 4' comprising at least one least one inner longitudinal conveyor 5 'and one outer longitudinal conveyor 6' spaced from a sliding sole 7 'and each intended to carry a line of products 2, the transit zone 4' along the accumulation surface 3 at the level of inner longitudinal conveyor 5 ', comprising at least the cyclic reproduction of the succession of following steps:

a) transversely pushing rows of products 2 from the accumulation surface 3 onto the inner conveyor 5 'and the sliding sole 7';

b) actuate the inner conveyor 5 'to release the products 2 that are there on the output conveyor 12; c) transversely pushing the products 2 from the sliding sole 7 'to the outer conveyor 6';

d) actuate the outer conveyor 6 'to release the products 2 on the output conveyor 12 and stop the inner conveyor 5';

steps a) and c) being performed using a same transfer tool 8 having at least three longitudinal vertical walls 9;

Exemplary embodiments of such evacuation methods are particularly illustrated in Figures 7 to 9 attached.

The output conveyor 12 is therefore disposed downstream of the transit zone 4 '. The conveyors 5 ', 6' of the transit zone 4 'meet so as to be able to feed each in turn the conveyor 12. This conveyor 12 then receives the products 2 coming from the transit zone 4' to convey them to a conveyor. machine downstream to the device 1.

In general, before transferring products 2 from the accumulation surface to the transit zone 4 ', the transfer tool 8 arrives from above by means of a movement of a manipulator on which it has climbed. The tool 8 is then lowered so as to act on the products 2 by transverse thrust. In this initial position, the walls are arranged to be placed as close to the rows to be moved as shown in FIGS. 7 to 9.

The following explanatory paragraphs to further detail the evacuation process relate more specifically to a method adapted to a transit area 4 'provided with only a conveyor 5' and a conveyor 6 '. The principle nevertheless remains similar with a device comprising more conveyors 5 ', 6'.

Two longitudinal rows of products 2 arranged side by side on the accumulation surface 3 are pushed transversely respectively on the conveyor 5 'at a standstill and the sole 7' with a scan of the tool 8 generated by the manipulator who supports it. During this time, the conveyor 6 'can be in operation to release products 2 on the conveyor 12.

The conveyor 12 is then supplied with products 2 by the inner conveyor 5 'while the outer conveyor 6' is stopped. The row 10 of products 2 on the sliding floor is then pushed using the tool 8 to the conveyor 6 '.

This thrusting movement is effected at least by moving at least one wall 9 in the tool 8 so that the tool

8 does not extend beyond the transit zone 4 'along the transfer direction 17. Depending on the arrangement and the number of mobile walls 9 within the tool 8, this thrust movement can be performed only by moving one or more walls 9 within the tool 8 or by a combined movement with the tool 8 itself.

When the conveyor 5 'is released from its products 2, the conveyor 12 is then again supplied with products 2 by the inner conveyor 6'.

During this time, the tool 8 is again placed in its initial position so as to push two new rows 10 of products 2 from the accumulation surface 3 to respectively on the conveyor 5 'and the sole 7' while the conveyor 6 'is released from its products 2. This return to the initial position is operated by the manipulator, rising, moving at the accumulation surface 3 and then lowering when positioned above two rows 10 Meanwhile, the wall (s)

9 mobile (s) are also placed in their initial position.

In the embodiments of the present invention illustrated in the appended figures 3 to 11, the devices 1 shown comprise a transit zone 4; 4 'abutted and flush with an accumulation surface 3. The upper surface of the transit zone 4; 4 'which supports the products 2, as well as the accumulation surface 3 are included in the same conveying plane 15, which is horizontal.

In FIGS. 3 to 9 and 11, the transit zones 4, 4 'are formed of two longitudinal conveyors 5, 5', 6, 6 'which are single-spaced apart from a sliding floor 7, 7' able to receive a row 9 of Products 2. The transit areas 4, 4 'shown in these figures can therefore support three rows 9 of products 2 simultaneously. These transit zones 4; 4 'each comprise an inner longitudinal conveyor 5; 5' which is in contact with the accumulation surface 3 and an outer longitudinal conveyor 6; 6 'which is located at a transverse end of the device 1.

The devices 1 represented in FIGS. 3 to 6 comprise a transit zone 4 of entry, that is to say a zone on which circulate the products 2 for transfer to the accumulation surface 3. In contrast, the devices 1 shown in Figures 7 to 9 comprise a transit zone 4 'output, that is to say a zone on which the products 2 are transferred from the accumulation surface 3.

The device 1 shown in FIG. 11 has an inlet transit zone 4 and a transit transit zone 4 'spaced apart from an accumulation surface 3. The device 1 represented in this figure is in progress. evacuation, the outer longitudinal conveyor 6 'output is releasing products 2 to the output conveyor 12, while the tool 8 (not shown for the sake of clarity) is preparing to transfer two rows 10 of products 2 on the accumulation surface 3, to the inner 5 'output conveyor and the sliding sole 7'.

The device 1 represented in FIG. 10 is a device 1 for transferring products 2 from an input transit zone 4 to an accumulation surface 3. It thus notably comprises an input transit zone 4. This zone Transit 4 comprises three longitudinal single-row conveyors 5; 6; 18 and a sliding sole 7 adapted to accommodate two longitudinal rows 9 of products 2 side by side. Among the longitudinal conveyors 5; 6; 18, the inner longitudinal conveyor 5 is in contact with the accumulation surface 3, the outer longitudinal conveyor 6 is at a transverse end of the device 1 and the longitudinal conveyor 18 is located between the inner longitudinal conveyor 5 and the inner longitudinal conveyor 5. sliding sole 7.

Several examples of transfer tools 8 suitable for the present invention are shown in Figures 3 to 12 attached.

More specifically, the tools 8 shown in Figures 3, 5, 7 and 13 comprise a single movable wall 9 in a translational movement relative to the tool 8, namely, a side wall 9.

FIG. 13 shows several configurations of possible mobility of a lateral wall 9 within a three-wall tool 8. FIG. 13 a) generally illustrates a mobility of one of the side walls 9, namely the wall from the top in the diagram, in a direction orthogonal to the direction in which the walls extend 9. Such mobility is generated by means of two transverse elements perpendicular to the walls 9 may for example be belts, slides or a pantograph . This FIG. 13 also shows in detail a nonlimiting example of a possible system making it possible to generate such a movement of a lateral wall (FIG. 13b) and c)). It is a pantograph system, in which two bars are attached parallel to each other, each bar being pivotally attached at a point of the fixed central wall (A or B) and at a point of the movable side wall 9. Each of these bars is rotatably mounted around the two vertical axes on which are the respective attachment points between the bar and the movable side wall 9 and between the bar and the fixed central wall 9. A rotational movement about the vertical axis to which belongs the point A or B then causes the transverse translation of the mobile side wall 9. In particular, FIG. 13 shows a tool 8 before (a)) and after (b) movement of the mobile lateral wall 9 within the tool 8.

On the other hand, the tools 8 represented in FIGS. 4, 8 and 12 comprise two movable walls 9 in a translational movement transverse to the tool 8. More specifically, FIG. 8 illustrates a tool in which the central wall 9 as well as a side wall 9 are movable within the tool 8. FIG. 4 illustrates an embodiment in which the two side walls 9 are symmetrically movable with respect to the longitudinal central wall 9, along an direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction 16.

Finally, FIG. 12 shows several configurations of possible mobility of the two lateral walls 9 within a three-walled tool 8. FIG. 12 a) generally illustrates a mobility of the lateral walls 9, in a direction orthogonal to the direction in which the walls extend 9. Such mobility is generated by means of two transverse elements perpendicular to the walls 9 may for example be belts, slides or a pantograph.

This FIG. 12 also shows in more detail a nonlimiting example of a possible system, making it possible to generate a concerted and symmetrical movement of the two lateral walls 9 as illustrated in FIG. 4 (FIG. 12b) and c)). It is a pantograph type system, allowing, with the aid of an actuator common to the two side walls 9, to generate the movements of the two side walls 9. To do this, two bars are arranged parallel to each other, the center of each bar being pivotally attached at a point of the fixed central wall 9 (A or B), and the ends of each bar being pivotally attached respectively at a point of the first movable side wall 9 and at a point of the second movable side wall 9. Each of these bars is mounted to rotate about the three vertical axes on which are the respective attachment points between the bar and the two movable side walls 9 and between the bar and the fixed central wall 9. A rotational movement about the vertical axis to which the point A or B belongs then causes the transverse translation of the two mobile side walls 9 in which the distance between the central wall 9 and a side wall 9 is at all times equal to the distance between the central wall 9 and the other side wall 9. In particular FIG. 12 shows a tool 8 before (a)) and after (b) movement of the mobile side walls 9 within the tool 8.

Figures 6 and 9 show tools 8 comprising exactly four vertical walls 9 which are particularly used in devices 1 provided with transit areas 4, 4 'to three channels, when the transferred products 2 are unstable.

In these two figures, the four walls 9 are all movable symmetrically with respect to the center of the tool 8. A pantograph type system can for example be used to generate this type of mobility.

However, tools with four walls 9 of which only the two walls arranged on one side or the other of the tool are also movable are also conceivable.

FIG. 10 represents an exemplary tool 8 comprising five vertical longitudinal walls 9. This type of tool can be implemented in configurations in which the transit zone 4; 4 'comprises more than three traffic lanes, for example five, as in FIG. 10. For example, the tool 8 of Figure 10 comprises two walls mounted movable, namely, two walls disposed on one side of the central wall 9, but other tools 8 can be used to transfer the products 2 between a transit zone 4; 4 'to five lanes and an accumulation surface 3.

Figures 3 to 10 show the transfer of products 2 between the accumulation surface 3 and the transit zone 4; 4 '. More precisely, FIGS. 3 to 6 and 10 represent possible embodiments of transfers of products 2 during a product feed process 2 of an accumulation surface 3 from an input transit zone 4.

In FIGS. 3, 5 and 10, the step (s) c) of thrusting the products 2 from the outer conveyor 6 onto the sliding floor 7 is effected only by means of a movement of at least one On the other hand, in FIGS. 4 and 6, this (these) steps c) are also performed with a scanning movement of the tool 8 along the transfer direction 17, which is preferably perpendicular to the longitudinal direction 16.

As regards FIGS. 7 to 9, they represent possible embodiments of product transfers 2 during a product discharge process 2 from an accumulation surface 3 to an outlet transit zone 4 '.

In FIG. 8, the step (s) c) of pushing the products 2 from the sliding sole 7 to the outer conveyor 6 'is carried out only by means of a movement of at least one wall 9 within In contrast, in FIGS. 7 and 9, step c) is also performed with a scanning movement of the tool 8 along the transfer direction 17, which is preferably perpendicular to the direction longitudinal 16.

Thanks to the invention, it is thus possible to carry out the transfer between a longitudinal transit zone 4, 4 'and a transverse accumulation surface 3 which runs along this transit zone 4, 4' by means of a single transmission tool. transfer 8 which extends little, if any, beyond the transit zone 4; 4 '(at its side opposite the accumulation surface 3), while allowing a continuous supply or evacuation of products in the transit area 4.

The present invention also makes it possible to easily transfer between a transit zone 4, 4 'longitudinal and two accumulation surfaces 3 placed on either side of said transit zone 4; 4'. Indeed, during the transfer of the products 2, the tool 8 advantageously does not extend beyond the transit zone 4; 4 'along the transfer direction 17, thus simplifying the transfers between a transit zone 4, 4 'and two accumulation surfaces 3.

Claims

CLAIMING S

1. Device (1) for transferring products (2) in an industrial line of product processing (2) to the chain, between an accumulation surface (3) and a transit zone (4; 4 ') along the accumulation surface (3), said transit zone (4; 4 ') comprising at least two longitudinal conveyors (5; 5'; 6; 6 ') spaced from a sliding floor (7; 7') and intended to each carrying a line of products (2), said device (1) comprising:

said accumulation surface (3),

said transit zone (4; 4 '), and

a transfer tool (8) between the accumulation surface (3) and the transit zone (4; 4 '), provided with at least three longitudinal vertical walls (9), and intended to push transversely rows ( 10) longitudinal products (2) each disposed between two walls (9),

characterized in that

at least one wall (9) of the transfer tool (8) is mounted movably in translation on said tool (8) along a transverse direction, for a pushing movement of said products (2).

2. Transfer device (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that

the transit zone (4; 4 ') consists of two longitudinal conveyors (5; 5'; 6; 6 ') spaced apart from a sliding sole (7; 7').

Transfer device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that

it comprises two distinct accumulation surfaces (3) arranged on either side of the transit zone (4; 4 ').

4. Transfer device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that

the transit zone (4; 4 ') is an input transit zone (4) of the products (2) on the accumulation surface (3).

5. Transfer device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that

the transit zone (4; 4 ') is an exit transit zone (4') of the products (2) of the accumulation surface (3).

Transfer device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The transfer tool (8) has three longitudinal vertical walls (9).

Transfer device (1) according to claim 6, characterized in that

of the three walls (9), only one of the lateral vertical walls (9) is movably mounted.

Transfer device according to claim 6, characterized in that

of the three walls (9), only the two lateral vertical walls (9) are movably mounted, an actuator common to said two walls (9) for symmetrically modulating the distance between said side walls (9) and the wall (9). ) central.

9. A method of supplying products (2) with an accumulation surface (3) installed between two stations of an industrial line for processing products (2), from a transit zone d. feed-in (4) continuously supplied with products (2) by an inlet conveyor (11), said transit zone (4) comprising at least one inner longitudinal conveyor (5) and one outer longitudinal conveyor (6) spaced apart of a sliding sole (7) and each intended to carry a line of products (2), the transit zone (4) along the accumulation surface (3) at the inner longitudinal conveyor (5), comprising at least less the cyclic reproduction of the succession of following steps:

a) supplying products to the external conveyor (6), b) stopping the products on the external conveyor (6), stopping the supply of products (2) from the outer conveyor (6) and supplying products (2) with the inner conveyor (5)

c) transversely pushing the products (2) from the outer conveyor (6) onto the sliding floor (7),

d) stopping the products on the inner conveyor (5), stopping the supply of products (2) from the inner conveyor (5) and supplying products (2) with the outer conveyor (6), and

e) transversely pushing the products (2) of the inner conveyor (5) and the sliding sole (7) onto the accumulation surface (3);

characterized in that steps c) and e) are carried out using the same transfer tool (8) comprising at least three longitudinal vertical walls (9), and in that

step c) is performed at least by means of a movement of at least one wall (9) of the transfer tool (8) within said tool (8).

10. Feeding method according to claim 9, characterized in that

step c) is carried out by means of a combined movement of at least one wall (9) of the transfer tool (8) and the transfer tool (8) itself.

11. Feeding method according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that

step c) is performed at least by means of a simultaneous movement of two walls (9) of the transfer tool (8) within said tool (8).

12. Method for discharging products (2) arranged in longitudinal rows (10) side by side on an accumulation surface (3) installed between two stations of an industrial line for treating products (2) with the chain, to an outlet transit zone (4 ') so as to discharge products (2) continuously onto an exit conveyor (12), said transit zone (4') comprising at least one inner longitudinal conveyor (5); ') and an outer longitudinal conveyor (6') spaced from a sliding sole (7 ') and each intended to carry a line of products (2), the transit zone (4') along the accumulation surface ( 3) at the inner longitudinal conveyor (5 '), comprising at least the cyclic reproduction of the following succession of steps:

a) transversely pushing rows (10) of products (2) from the accumulation surface (3) onto the inner conveyor (5 ') and the sliding sole (7');

b) operating the inner conveyor (5 ') to release the products (2) thereon on the output conveyor (12);

c) transversely pushing the products (2) from the sliding sole (7 ') to the outer conveyor (6');

d) operating the outer conveyor (6 ') to release the products (2) on the output conveyor (12) and stop the inner conveyor

(5 '); steps a) and c) being carried out using the same tool (8) for transfer comprising at least three walls (9) vertical longitudinal;

characterized in that