EP4223468A1

EP4223468A1 - Machine and method for obtaining box-like panels

Info

Publication number: EP4223468A1
Application number: EP23155636.6A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Luigi GUERRINI
Original assignee: Isopan SpA
Current assignee: Isopan SpA
Priority date: 2022-02-08
Filing date: 2023-02-08
Publication date: 2023-08-09
Also published as: IT202200002234A1

Abstract

The present invention relates to a machine or line or system for obtaining boxed panels (BP) starting from sandwich panels (SP) with at least one sheet (SH1) coupled to a layer of insulating material (IL).

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a machine for obtaining boxed panels and a respective method.

STATE OF THE PRIOR ART

For the obtainment of buildings or constructions in general with a particular aesthetic, solutions have been proposed that use the so-called "boxed" panels, which include the main body of the sandwich panels having a sheet coupled with a layer of insulating material, but with the sheet configured so as to cover at least one edge of the layer of insulating material.
However, the methods for obtaining boxed panels are laborious and often involve high costs which are reflected in the price of the finished product.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

An object of the present invention is to provide a new machine or line for obtaining boxed panels starting from sandwich panels.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a machine or line as indicated above which is capable of making boxed panels simply and quickly.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a machine or line as indicated above which is capable of producing boxed panels with a desired configuration and dimensions.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a process for obtaining boxed panels.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a line and a method for obtaining box-shaped panels in a simple and rapid manner.
According to one aspect of the invention, a machine according to claim 1 is provided.
The dependent claims refer to preferred and advantageous embodiments of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will be more evident from the description of embodiments of the machine and process, illustrated by way of example in the attached drawings in which:

figures 1 and 2 are perspective views from respective sides of a machine according to the present invention,
figure 3 is a perspective view taken from one side of the machine of figure 1 without protective panels,
figure 4 is a side view of part of the machine of figure 1 without protection panels,
figures 5 to 11 illustrate respective steps of a method according to the present invention carried out by means of a machine in accordance with the present invention,
figures 12 and 13 show details of another embodiment of a machine according to the present invention,
figure 14 illustrates a boxed panel according to the present invention, for example obtained with a machine in accordance with the present invention, such as the machine of figure 1,
figures 15 and 16 show respective ends of the panel of figure 14,
figure 17 shows another end of the panel of figure 14, e
figure 18 shows two panels according to the present invention placed side by side.

In the accompanying drawings, identical parts or components are identified by the same reference numbers.

EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

With reference to the attached figures, a machine or line or system 1 has been illustrated for obtaining boxed sandwich panels BP starting from sandwich panels SP with at least one sheet SH1 coupled to a layer of insulating material IL.
These boxed panels BP can be used to obtain walls or roofs or a cladding or roofing unit for the same or structural components of buildings.
A sandwich panel usable according to the present invention comprises at least one main support or insulating layer or block IL, if desired made of mineral wool, expanded polyurethane, glass wool, as well as at least one metal sheet SH1, for example made of steel, if desired galvanized, pre-painted, stainless steel, or in pre-painted or natural aluminium, copper, etc. applied or adhered to at least one internal or external, in use, face of the main support or insulating layer or block IL. If desired, the sandwich panel comprises, in addition to a first metal sheet SH1 adhered to one face of the main support or insulating layer or block IL, also a second sheet SH2 adhered to the other face of said layer or block IL.
The first sheet can be substantially flat, but also with slats, micro-ribs or corrugated or with another shape.
Moreover, the main supporting or insulating layer or block IL preferably has a constant or variable thickness, for example with raised areas alternating with hollow areas, this depending on the configuration of the first sheet.
The main supporting or insulating layer has two main flat, corrugated or other shaped faces.
The first metal sheet is adhered, glued or otherwise constrained, for example by adhesive, to one of the main faces of the main supporting or insulating layer or block.
Moreover, in particular in the case in which this layer or block IL is made of mineral wool or glass wool, an internal face of the first sheet SH1 is preferably constrained, for example glued, along its entire extension in a substantially uniform way to a main face of the layer or block IL. If the layer or block IL is made of expanded polyurethane or other expandable component, then the constrain between it and the first sheet SH1 could be obtained by adhesion following the expansion of the polyurethane close to this sheet before final hardening or solidification of the polyurethane or expandable component.
Moreover, the sheet SH1 preferably has a constant thickness.
If a second sheet SH2 is foreseen, for example metallic, if desired made of steel, if desired galvanized, pre-painted, stainless steel, or of pre-painted or natural aluminum, copper, etc. applied or adhered to another main face of the layer or block IL.
The second sheet SH2, if provided, can be substantially flat, but also corrugated or with other shapes.
The second metal sheet SH2, if provided, is adhered, glued or constrained in any other way (as provided for the first sheet SH1), to a main face of the layer or block IL opposite to the constraining one of the first sheet.
In addition, the second sheet SH2 can have a constant thickness.
Clearly, the sandwich panels SP include, in addition to the main surfaces P1, P2, a front end FE, a rear end PE and two sides L1, L2, while they are boxed mainly at the front end FE and rear PE. In this regard, the edges or sides L1, L2 of a sandwich panel SP and, therefore, of a box-shaped panel BP obtained therefrom, can be engaged with the edges or sides of adjacent panels. For convenience, L1, L2 will indicate the initial edges or sides of an initial sandwich panel SP and of a respective boxed panel BP, since these elements correspond by configuration apart from the length, which in the case of the sandwich panel is greater.
In use, two box-shaped panels are put near each other at respective edges or sides L1, L2 with engagement or interlocking means or configurations (not shown in detail) of adjacent panels being engaged and constrained to each other at the main support or insulating layer or block IL and/or sheets SH1, SH2.
As far as the front and rear ends of the box-shaped panels are concerned, at the same, adjacent panels can be placed side by side or engaged in any suitable manner, if desired also by means of a suitable joint or other means.
Of course, the configuration of the sandwich panels to be box-shaped could vary from case to case, for example with one or two sheets, the one or which could be arranged to close or not the edges or sides. A machine according to the present invention can be used with panels of different sizes and types.
The machine 1 further comprise a main frame 2 defining a support surface SS, if desired substantially horizontal, for a sandwich panel during the steps of the method for obtaining a box-shaped panel BP.
The support frame 2 can define a machine front F, starting from which panels are fed into the machine 1, a rear R, opposite the front F and two sides S1, S2. Clearly, the machine 1 could be fed with respective panels starting from the front F and/or from the rear R and/or from a side S 1, S2.
As regards in particular the frame 2, it can include, among other components, a platform 2a and/or a roller conveyor 2b with idle or motorized rollers defining the support surface SS. If a platform 2a and a roller conveyor 2b are present, these components can be arranged one after the other, with the rollers of the roller conveyor 2b defining an upper sliding surface aligned with the surface defined by the platform 2a, so that a panel can pass by sliding between the platform 2a and the roller conveyor 2b and vice versa.
The frame 2 can then be provided with a component or enclosure wall 2c, if desired with a vertical arrangement which extends from one side of the platform 2a and/or to the side of the roller conveyor 2b to constitute a lateral alignment reference for the panels fed into the machine or line.
The frame 2 can then clearly have uprights and crosspieces suitably connected to each other, if desired by means of bolts, screws and/or fittings.
First cutting means 3 are then provided in the machine 1 for making a cut parallel to the support surface SS for separating a section SH3 of sheet SH1 of a sandwich panel BP from a respective part of layer of insulating material IL. The first cutting means 3 could be fixed along the advancement direction of the panels in the machine or movable between at least one first rest position and at least one second cutting position.
More particularly, the first cutting means 3 are designed to make a cut for a predefined width, for example corresponding to or greater than the width of a sandwich panel.
With reference to this aspect, the first cutting means 3 can be mounted sliding with respect to the support frame 2, for example in a horizontal direction parallel to the direction from one side S 1 to the other S2 of the machine.
Preferably, the first cutting means 3 comprise at least one blade 3a and actuation means 3b are then provided, if desired rotation actuation means 3b, of this blade.
According to the non-limiting embodiment illustrated in the figures, the blade 3a is a circular blade mounted or supported for rotation on the frame 2 or on a respective component, upright or crosspiece of the frame 2. If desired, the blade 3a is partially housed within a respective casing 3c, for example supported by a respective component, upright or cross member of the frame 2.
More particularly, the blade 3a can be pivoted to the frame 2 or to a respective casing 3c.
As regards the actuation means 3b, they can comprise a motor of any suitable type, for example electric, hydraulic, oil-hydraulic or of any other type. The motor 3b can be supported by a respective frame component 2.
With specific reference to the embodiment illustrated in the figures, the frame 2 comprises, among other components, a first shelf component 2d, starting from a surface, if desired, the bottom of which extends one or more guiding components or strips 2e on which one or more slides 3d connected and integral in movement are slidably mounted, for example by means of screws, bolts, fittings or other suitable means, with the casing 3c or in any case with a blade of the first cutting means. The component(s) or guiding strip(s) 2e and the slide(s) 3d preferably have a longitudinal extension parallel to the direction from one side S 1 to the other S2 of the machine.
A translation means 3e is then advantageously provided for controlling the sliding of the slide/s 3d along the guide component/s 2e, so as to determine the movement in the direction from one side S1 to the other S2 of the first cutting means 3.
In this regard, the translation means 3e can include a motor unit, if desired intended to control the actuation or rotation of a suitable actuation component, such as a screw in engagement, if desired by meshing, with a driven component, such as a screw nut mounted or fixed and integral with a blade 3a and with the actuation means 3b.
If desired, the casing 3c delimits a connecting section 3c1 on which a suitable pipe (not shown in the figures) can be mounted for fluid communication with a suitable suction means, such as a vacuum pump (not shown in the figures).
The machine 1 is then provided with second cutting means 4 arranged to cut the panel and in particular a respective part of the layer of insulating material IL and, if provided, the second sheet SH2 substantially orthogonally or transversely to the support surface SS.
The second cutting means 4 could be fixed in the vertical direction or movable between at least one first rest trim at a first distance from the support surface SS and at least one second cutting trim at a second distance from the support surface SS, for example less of the first distance, but greater than zero.
The second cutting means 4 (in the cutting position) act or make a cut substantially in a plane where the front or cutting end of the first cutting means 3 lies (in the cutting position) or at this plane (about 1-5 or 1-10 mm or any integer value between 1 and 10 mm or between 1 and 5 mm), so that the second cutting means 4 are designed to separate, from the remaining panel, the part of insulating material IL previously or simultaneously separated from a respective section of sheet SH1 as well as, if provided, of the second sheet SH2, by the first cutting means 3, thereby obtaining a sandwich panel without a part of insulating material and, if provided, of the second sheet SH2, substantially throughout the respective thickness and thus with a protruding sheet section SH3.
According to a variant, the second cutting means 4 are first activated and then the first cutting means 3 are activated, so that the first cutting means 3 are set to separate from the remaining panel a part of insulating material IL and, if provided, of the second sheet SH2 following the intervention of the second cutting means 4.
More specifically, the second cutting means 4 are designed to make a cut for a predefined width, for example corresponding to or greater than the width of a sandwich panel.
With reference to this aspect, the second cutting means 4 can be sliding mounted with respect to the support frame 2, for example in a horizontal direction parallel to the direction from one side S1 to the other S2 of the machine.
Preferably, the first cutting means 3 and the second cutting means 4 are integral (by means of mechanical and/or electronic arrangements) in sliding in a horizontal direction parallel to the direction from one side S1 to the other S2 of the machine, so that sliding in this direction of the same 3, 4 is commanded in unison.
Depending on the configuration of the sandwich panels SP and the "boxing" to be carried out, the cutting means 3, 4 could also cut parts of the first sheet SH1, so that, for example, it may happen that the layer of insulating material IL is not separated along its entire width from the first sheet SH1, whereby the cutting means 3, 4 also divide the first sheet SH1 into a part actually separated from the layer of insulating material IL and another end part which instead remains adhered to the part of layer of insulating material IL which is then removed together with a small piece of first sheet SH1 and, if present, with a strip from one side to the other of second sheet SH2.
This can happen, for example, if sandwich panels SP are used (see figures 14, 15 and 16) with a front end FE, a rear end PE and two sides or edges L1, L2, with the first edge or side L1 comprising a recessed portion L3, while the second edge or side L2 is defined by a protruding portion L4 which has a complementary configuration and designed to be fitted to measure into a recessed portion L3 of an adjacent panel. Such a panel will be described in more detail later.
Preferably, the second cutting means 4 comprise at least one blade 4a and actuation means 4b are then provided, if desired rotation actuation means, of this blade.
According to the non-limiting embodiment illustrated in the figures, the blade 4a is a circular blade mounted or supported for rotation on the frame 2 or on a respective component, upright or crosspiece of the frame 2. If desired, the blade 4a is partially housed within a respective casing 4c, for example supported by a respective component, upright or cross member of the frame.
More particularly, the blade 4a can be pivoted to the frame 2 or to a respective casing 4c.
As regards the actuation means 4b, they can comprise a motor of any suitable type, for example electric, hydraulic, oleodynamic or other type.
With specific reference to the embodiment shown in the figures, the frame 2 comprises, among other components, a second shelf component 2f, starting from a surface, if desired, front or rear thereof extending one or more guide components or strips 2g, one or more slides 4d connected and integral in movement are sliding mounted on the guide components or strips, for example by means of screws, bolts, fittings or other suitable means, with the casing 4c or in any case with a blade of the second cutting means 4. The component(s) or guide strip(s) 2g and the slide(s) 4d preferably have a longitudinal extension parallel to the direction from one side S1 to the other S2 of the machine.
A translation means 4e is then advantageously provided for controlling the sliding of the slide/s 4d along the guide component/s 2g, so as to cause the movement in the direction from one side to the other of the second cutting means 4.
In this regard, the translation means 4e can include a motor unit designed to control the actuation or rotation of a suitable actuation component, such as a screw in engagement, if desired by meshing, with a driven component, such as a screw nut mounted and integral with a blade 4a and with the actuation means 4b.
If desired, the casing 4c delimits a connecting section 4c1 on which a suitable pipe (not shown in the figures) can be mounted for the fluid communication with a suitable suction means, such as a vacuum pump (not shown in the figures).
According to the non-limiting embodiment illustrated in the figures, the first cutting means 3 or better a respective blade acts/acts or lies in a horizontal plane, in use.
According to the non-limiting embodiment illustrated in the figures, the second cutting means 4 or better a respective blade acts/acts or lies in a plane, in use, vertical, which is orthogonal to the front F-rear direction R and parallel to the direction from a side S1 to the other S2.
More particularly, the first cutting means 3 can act or operate substantially in a horizontal plane (not considering the thickness of the blade of the cutting means 3) slightly greater than the support surface SS. In this regard, the difference in level between the plane defined by the first cutting means 3 and the support surface SS corresponds to or is slightly greater than the thickness of the sheet of the sandwich panels on which to operate.
With regard to the non-limiting position provided for the second cutting means 4, as indicated above, they act or cut substantially in a plane in which the front or cutting end of the first cutting means 3 lies (in the second cutting position, if the first means 3 can be moved along the advancement direction of the panels) or at this plane.
Advantageously, the part or end, for example lower in use, gradually proximal to the support surface SS of the blade of the second cutting means 4 is at a distance from this surface in the millimeter range, preferably between 0.1 and 3 mm, actually corresponding to the thickness of the sheet of a sandwich panel or slightly greater than it. This clearly applies in the case where the panels are fed into the machine or line with sheet SH1 to be boxed at the bottom with respect to the insulating material IL (and sheet SH2 not to be boxed at the top), but not to the case where the panels are fed into the machine or line with sheet at the top with respect to the insulating material IL, a condition which is clearly possible, but which would require some expedients, such as in particular the arrangement of the cutting means and the handling of the folding means different from what illustrated in the figures, but falling within the scope of this patent right.
Preferably, the part gradually proximal to the front F of the blade of the first cutting means 3, if desired when moved in the direction from one side S1 to the other S2, defines a cutting line which is in a position substantially at the same distance from the front F or slightly distal from the front F with respect to the cutting line defined by the part, for example lower in use, gradually proximal to the support surface SS of the blade of the second cutting means 4, if desired when it is moved in the direction from a side S1 to the other S2.
It will be understood that in particular in the case where the blades of the first 3 and second 4 cutting means are mounted for rotation around respective axes (vertical for the first means 3 and horizontal for the second means 4 according to the non-limiting embodiment illustrated in the figures), the respective cutting part varies as the blades turn and, in the non-limiting embodiment illustrated in the figures, constitutes the part or end closest to the front of the machine of the first cutting means and the bottom part or end of the second cutting means 4, so that in the above considerations the respective cutting lines are defined by this part, which is formed during rotation by portions gradually different of the free ends of the blades.
Alternatively, the cutting means 3 and/or 4 can comprise non-circular blades, for example with a straight cutting front, but in any case the cutting line of the first cutting means 3 is in a position substantially at the same distance from the front F or slightly proximal to or distal from the front F with respect to the cutting line defined by the second cutting means 4.
Advantageously, the cutting position or trim of the first 3 and/or second 4 cutting means or of the respective blades can be adjusted in any suitable way.
The machine 1 also comprises folding means 5 which can be moved between a rest configuration and a folding configuration at least partially according to a direction orthogonal or transverse to the support surface SS, so as to carry out a folding action of a protruding section of sheet SH3 following the intervention of the first 3 and second 4 cutting means, closing or close to a free end IL1 of a respective layer of insulating material IL, so as to obtain a panel at least partially boxed BP.
The free end IL1 is the one that is exposed after the removal of a section of layer of insulating material IL and of the possible second sheet SH2 following the intervention of the cutting means 3, 4.
The folding means 5 can for example comprise a component acting from bottom to top or vice versa or also in other directions.
Preferably, the folding means 5 are arranged to come into contact and therefore (during their movement) to engage and bend a section of protruding sheet SH3, if desired while for example the remaining panel is kept substantially fixed in position (variant illustrated in figures). According to a less preferred variant, the folding means 5 are designed to come into contact and therefore (during their movement) engage and bend the main body of the panel, while a protruding sheet section SH3 is kept substantially fixed in position (variant non illustrated in the figures).
Preferably, the folding means 5 can be moved up or down between a rest configuration and a folding configuration. Even more preferably, the upward displacement is envisaged if the intervention or cutting part of the blade of the second cutting means 4 is lower or downwards (embodiment in the figures) and downwards if the intervention or cutting part of the blade of the second cutting means 4 is superior or directed upwards (embodiment not in the figures).
More specifically, the folding means 5 can comprise at least one flap or plate or thrust component 5a that can be moved manually or by means of a respective actuator 5b, for example electric, hydraulic, oleodynamic or of another type.
If desired, the flap or plate or thrust component 5a is pivoted to the frame 2, for example it is mounted in a special opening defined by the platform 2a of the same, pivoted along a respective side, for example along a direction from a side S1 to the other S2. As a function of this, the flap or plate or thrust component 5a is moved between a rest configuration, in which it is for example substantially horizontal and aligned with the platform 2a and/or roller 2b and a folding configuration, in which it is with vertical or inclined trim with respect to the horizontal and to the vertical, if desired orthogonal to the front F-rear R direction, and projects upwards from the platform 2a or roller conveyor 2b.
Preferably, the flap or thrust plate 5a extends for an extension in the direction from one side S1 to the other S2 corresponding to or greater than the width of the sandwich panels to be treated, although it could also be smaller than the latter. If desired, the width of the flap or thrust plate 5a is equal to or less than the width of the platform 2a.
The actuator 5b, if provided, can be arranged in any suitable position, for example vertical, horizontal or inclined with respect to the vertical and the horizontal.
In accordance with the non-limiting embodiment illustrated in the figures, the actuator 5b has a first component, such as a cylinder 5b1 or a rod 5b2 articulated or connected to the frame 2 and a second component, such as a rod 5b2 or a cylinder 5b1 articulated or connected to the flap or thrust plate 5a. If desired, one end of the cylinder 5b1 is pivoted to a component, for example the lower part of the frame 2, while the tip of the rod 5b1 of the actuator 5b is pivoted below the component or flap or thrust plate 5a.
Since the folding means 5 are designed to perform a bending action of a protruding section of sheet following the intervention of the first 3 and second 4 cutting means, the same will have to act on the sheet in a zone thereof corresponding to that of the sheet part itself separated by a layer of insulating material IL.
Depending on the method to be implemented, the position of the folding means 5 can of course be varied. Thus, for example, if one wishes to carry out the folding after having made the cuts, without moving the panel, then the folding means 5 will be closer to the cutting means 3, 4, while if (as shown in the figures) the folding is carried out after handling a panel already subjected to the action of the cutting means 3, 4, the folding means 5 could be more or less distant from the cutting means 3, 4.
If desired, the folding means 5 have, in the rest condition, an action surface or end lying in the same plane as the support surface SS.
At least one abutment component or wall 6a, 6b can then be provided in the machine to form an abutment ledge for the panels to define the position of the latter on the support surface SS during the operation of the cutting means 3, 4 and/or folding means 5.
The at least one abutment component 6a, 6b is preferably designed to form a contact surface for one end of the insulating material of a sandwich panel SP.
Advantageously, the at least one abutment component 6a, 6b is preferably, both in rest condition and in working condition, at a distance from the support surface SS, if desired a distance greater than the thickness of the sheet of a sandwich panel, so as not to engage or abut against the latter, in particular when the panels are fed into the machine or line with the sheet SH1 below the insulating material IL. This clearly does not apply if the panels are fed into the machine or line with the sheet SH1 above the insulating material IL.
With reference to this aspect, a first abutment component 6a can be provided for constituting an abutment ledge during the intervention of the first 3 and second 4 cutting means and/or a second abutment component 6b arranged to form an abutment ledge during the intervention of the folding means 5.
As regards the first abutment component 6a, it can comprise a block or plate defining a free abutment surface, if desired lying in a vertical plane, facing the front of the machine.
If desired, the position of the first abutment component 6a can be adjustable towards/away from the front F of the machine, preferably according to a rear R-front F direction orthogonal to the direction from one side to the other S 1-S2. With reference to this aspect, a handwheel 6c can be provided, which can be controlled manually (for example starting from the rear R) or automatically, designed to control a shaft 6d, if desired externally threaded, for engagement and movement, directly or by interposing other elements, of the first abutment component 6a. the handwheel 6c could be controllable from the rear of machine 1.
The position of the first abutment component 6a is such as to define with the plane of action of the second cutting means 4 the length of the section of layer of insulating material IL and, if provided, of the second sheet SH2 to be removed.
As far as the second abutment component 6b is concerned, it too can comprise a block or plate defining a free abutment surface, if desired lying in a vertical plane, facing the front of the machine. The free surface of the second abutment component 6b can lie, for example, in a vertical plane orthogonal to the rear R-front direction F.
If desired, the second abutment component 6b can be operated by means of a suitable actuator, for example supported by the frame, or manually, for example with suitable adjustment means.
The second actuation component 6b can for example be mounted so as to be displaceable, if desired in a direction from top to bottom.
The second abutment component 6b or rather the respective free abutment surface could be substantially aligned with the pivot line of the flap or thrust plate 5a.
Naturally, a single abutment component could also be provided, in particular in the event that the panel to be treated should not be moved after the intervention of the cutting means 3, 4 and before the intervention of the folding means 5.
If desired, the machine 1 also comprises means 7 for ejecting part of insulating material and, if provided, the second sheet SH2 separated from the cutting means 3, 4. The means for ejecting 7 can comprise, for example, a blade component suitably operated or operable (automatically or manually), which is designed to push the cut part of the insulating material and of any second sheet SH2, for example in the direction from one side S1 to the other S2.
With reference to this aspect, the machine can also comprise a chute 8 for conveying into a collection tank 9, the processing scraps consisting of the parts to be removed of the insulating material moved away or pushed by the expulsion means 7.
Advantageously, the machine 1 also includes pressing means 10 for pushing a sandwich panel towards the support surface SS, so as to removably lock the sandwich panel in a determined position during the various cutting and folding operations on this surface.
The pressing means 10 can be controlled by respective activation means 11, for example one or more actuators, if desired electric or of other types.
With reference to the embodiment illustrated in the figures, the pressing means 10 consist of a table, if desired with a horizontal arrangement, while the activation means 11 comprise one or more actuators supported by one or more respective components of the frame 2. The actuators 11 can act in a vertical direction, so as to lower/raise, when necessary, the pressing means 10 towards or away from a panel in the machine 1.
Clearly, a solution could also be envisaged with pressing means acting also or only laterally to the panels or also or only from below.
A machine according to the present invention can of course also include an electronic control unit and, if desired, sensors designed to detect, for example, the position of a panel in the machine and consequently inform the electronic control unit, so as to consequently control other machine components, such as actuators and motors.
With a machine 1 according to the present invention it is possible to implement a process for obtaining boxed panels BP starting from sandwich panels SP with at least one sheet SH1 coupled to a layer of insulating material IL.
Such a method first provides to load a sandwich panel SP onto the support surface SS and then for conveying (manually or automatically) the panel towards the cutting means and/or vice versa.
Then, the first cutting means 3 are operated, before or after their mutual approach to the sandwich panel, and thus once the sandwich panel SP has been brought into the action area of the first cutting means 3 and/or vice versa a section of sheet of the sandwich panel is separated from a respective part of layer of insulating material.
Preferably, the first cutting means 3 are operated by making them slide with respect to the support frame 2 in a horizontal direction parallel to the direction from one side S1 to the other S2 of the machine and therefore orthogonal or transverse to the front F-rear R direction, i.e. orthogonal or transverse to the feed direction of the panels in the machine. This can be obtained for example by acting on the translation means 3e.
Naturally, the step now described is not necessary, as it could be operated for example by means of a sufficiently wide blade of the first cutting means 3, or by moving the panel or in another suitable way.
At the same time or subsequently to the cut by the first cutting means 3, the second cutting means 4 are activated and then by means of the same the part of insulating material (and any second sheet SH2) is separated from the remaining panel, previously or substantially simultaneously separated from a respective section of sheet by the first cutting means 3, thereby obtaining a sandwich panel without a part of insulating material along the entire respective thickness and thus with a protruding section of sheet.
Preferably, the second cutting means 4 are operated by making them slide with respect to the support frame 2 in a horizontal direction parallel to the direction from one side S1 to the other S2 of the machine and thus orthogonal or transverse to the front F-rear R direction, i.e. the feed direction of the panels in the machine. This can be obtained for example by acting on the translation means 4e.
Naturally, the step just described is not necessary, as it could be operated for example by means of a blade of the second cutting means 4 that is sufficiently wide, or by moving the panel or in another suitable way.
As it will be possible to ascertain, the first 3 and second 4 cutting means can also be actuated and therefore carry out the respective cuts simultaneously and they can also be integral in translation or movement.
According to a variant, the second cutting means 4 are first activated and then the first cutting means 3.
Subsequently to the intervention of the cutting means 3, 4, the folding means 5 are actuated so as to fold the section of sheet SH3 protruding following the intervention of the first 3 and second 4 cutting means and thus bring it as closure or close to a free end IL1 of a respective layer of insulating material IL, so as to obtain an at least partially box-shaped panel.
The steps can then be repeated to box or close another side of the panel, if desired, opposite to the one just treated.
Of course, the process can also include other steps depending on the structure of the machine.
Thus, for example, if at least one abutment component 6a, 6b is provided, then the same is moved and brought into the working position by the intervention of the cutting means 3, 4 and/or folding means 5, before the advancement of the panel and/or means 3, 4 (for cutting), 5 (for folding).
With regard to this, a first abutment component 6a could be firstly operated, which is designed to constitute an abutment ledge for a front end of a sandwich panel SP before and/or during the intervention of the first 3 and second 4 cutting means as also a second abutment component 6b, for a front end of a sandwich panel SP devoid of part of insulating material IL, designed to form an abutment ledge before and/or during the intervention of the folding means 5.
With regard to this aspect, first the first abutment component 6a would be activated, then a panel would be advanced in the direction of the rear R on the support surface SS bringing one end of the panel against the first abutment component 6a and, subsequently, after the cutting phase by the first 3 and second 4 cutting means, a panel without part of insulating material IL could be moved on the support surface SS, for example backwards or towards the front F and therefore, after the possible actuation of the second displacement component 6b, the same panel would be moved forward again, towards the rear until it abuts, at one end thereof free from insulating material IL, against the second abutment component 6b, to then be treated by the folding means 5.
It will be understood how a displacement of the panel could also be foreseen after the intervention of the first cutting means 3 and before the action of the second cutting means 4 or after the intervention of the second cutting means 4 and before the action of the first cutting means 3.
If ejection means 7 are then provided, then the same would be actuated after the intervention of the cutting means 3, 4 so as to push the cut part of the insulating material and, if provided, of the second sheet SH2, for example in the direction from one side S 1 to the other, if desired in the eventual collection tank 8.
If the machine then also comprises pressing means 10, then once a sandwich panel SP has been brought into the cutting position and/or when a sandwich panel SP without part of insulating material IL has been brought into the folding position, if desired in abutment on a respective abutment component 6a, 6b, the pressing means 10 could be operated so that they act from above and/or from the sides and/or from below to removably lock the sandwich panel SP in a given position during the various operations cutting and/or folding on the support surface SS.
According to a variant illustrated in figures 12 and 13, the machine comprises pre-folding means including at least one deformation component 12 which acts at least partially in a direction orthogonal to the support surface SS.
The deformation component 12 is designed to carry out a pre-folding action of part of a protruding section SH1 of sheet following the intervention of the first 3 and second 4 cutting means away from a free end of a respective layer of insulating material IL and, if provided, of the second sheet SH2.
In this case, the deformation component 12 is set to be operated before the folding component 5.
According to the non-limiting embodiment illustrated in the figures, the deformation component 12 acts or bends from top to bottom.
More particularly, the deformation component 12 can comprise a handling component or plate 12a that can be moved by a respective actuator 12b, for example electric, hydraulic, oleodynamic or of another type or even manually. The actuator 12b can be arranged in any suitable trim, for example vertical, horizontal or inclined with respect to vertical and horizontal.
In accordance with the embodiment illustrated in the figures, the actuator 12b has a first component, such as a cylinder 12b1 or a rod 12b2 articulated or connected to the frame 2 and a second component, such as a rod 12b2 or an cylinder 12b 1 articulated or connected to the handling component or plate 12a.
If desired, one end of the cylinder 12b1 is pivoted to a component, for example the upper part of the frame 2, while the tip of the rod 12b1 of the actuator 12b is pivoted at the top of the component or movement plate 12a.
With regard to the non-limiting position envisaged for the deformation component 12, it acts or bends in a position proximal to the front F with respect to the cutting line of the second cutting means 4.
Depending on the method to be implemented, the position of the deformation component 12 can of course be varied.
According to this variant, the machine can comprise abutment means 13, 14 designed to constitute stop or clamp references, during the intervention of the deformation component 12, for respective parts or portions of a section of sheet protruding following the intervention of the first 3 and second 4 cutting means, so as to cause a suitable deformation by the deformation component 12.
In this regard, an upper abutment means 13 could be provided which can be moved from above towards or onto a protruding section of sheet SH1 and a respective lower abutment means 14 which can be moved from below towards or onto a protruding section of sheet.
The abutment means 13, 14 can be operated manually or automatically, i.e. by a respective actuator.
With regard to the position of the abutment means 13, 14, they can be in a position proximal to the front F or to the feeding end of the panels in the machine, with respect to the deformation component 12.
Moreover, the working position of the abutment means 13, 14 can be adjustable, so as to adjust the final folding or pre-folding position of the sheet SH1.
With reference in particular to the machine or line or system illustrated in figures 12 and 13, the same could have a single platform or roller conveyor for defining the support surface SS or even two platforms and/or roller conveyors 2a1, 2a2 supported at a distance, so that there is a space between them. These platforms and/or rollers 2a1, 2a2 could define respective portions of the support surface SS aligned or not.
With such a machine or line or system, one proceeds as indicated above with reference to the machine or line or system of figure 1, but after carrying out the cutting actions by means of the cutting means 3, 4, the deformation component 12 is activated to carry out a bending action of a first part SH4 of the section SH3 of sheet protruding following the intervention of the first 3 and second 4 cutting means away from a free end of a respective layer of insulating material IL.
Subsequently, the folding means 5 are actuated so as to bend the entire protruding section SH3 of sheet following the intervention of the deformation component 12 and thus bring it with a respective second part as a closure or close to a free end of a respective layer of insulating material, so as to obtain an at least partially boxed panel. In this case, a boxed panel would be obtained with a protruding or cantilevered section SH4 of sheet, not closing or close to the insulating material (see figures 17 and 18). Basically, the first part SH4, starting from the second part SH5, extends away from the layer of insulating material IL.
Of course, the other steps described above could also be carried out with reference to the method with a machine according to figure 1, and thus possible actuations of abutment components 6a, 6b, ejection means 7, pressing means 10 or other component.
However, if two (or even more) platforms and/or roller conveyors 2a1, 2a2 are provided as indicated above, then the panel to be treated would first be fed or moved (manually or automatically) onto a first platform and/or roller conveyor 2a1 up to reach and rest with a respective terminal section to be treated or "box" on a second platform 2a2, for example until it reaches or abuts against an abutment component 15a and/or at a position detected by a suitable sensor 15b. At this point, one would act on the terminal section by means of the cutting means 3, 4 and, if desired, by means of the pre-folding means.
Alternatively, after the intervention of the cutting means 3, 4, the panel could be moved backwards or towards the front F and then again towards the back R, for example against a respective abutment or abutment component 16a and/or at a position detected by a suitable sensor 16b, to then be subjected to the action of the pre-folding means.
Subsequently, the panel would be moved towards the front or in any case away from the cutting means 3, 4 and pre-folding means so as not to rest anymore on the second platform or roller table 2a2, but only on the first platform or roller table 2a1.
Therefore, after the possible actuation of a further abutment component 17a, the same panel would be moved forward again, towards the rear until it abuts against the second abutment component 17b and/or at a suitable sensor 15b, to then be processed by the folding means 5. During this step, the panel could for example remain only on the second platform or roller conveyor 2a2.
Of course, several folding or pre-folding components could also be arranged in a different way from what above described and illustrated in the attached figures, so that it is possible to obtain boxed panels with sheet folded or deformed in the desired way, with two, three, four or more sections bent according to processing requirements.
With a machine according to the present invention, therefore starting from a sandwich panel SP with a front end FE, a rear end PE and two sides or edges L1, L2, it is possible to remove part of the layer of insulating material IL and, if provided, of the second sheet SH2 and then box-shape or close a section, advantageously at the front end FE and/or rear end SE of a first sheet SH1 close to a free end IL1 of a respective layer of insulating material IL.
In this regard, according to the embodiment illustrated in figures 14 to 16, the first edge or side L1 of a sandwich panel comprises a hollow portion L3, while the second edge or side L2 is defined by a protruding portion L4 which has a complementary configuration and designed to be inserted, if desired to measure or with some slack, in a hollowed portion L3 of an adjacent panel.
In this non-limiting case, the protruding portion L4 has a height decreasing away from the inside of the panel or from the other side L1, with the first sheet SH1 if desired defining one or more steps SH6, SH7 at this protruding portion L4 so as to delimit progressive lowerings of the protruding portion L4. If a second sheet SH2 is also provided, it too could define a step SH8 delimiting a lowering of the protruding portion L4.
According to the panel example of figures 14, 15 and 16, two sheets SH1, SH2 are provided, arranged to close or not the edges or sides L1, L2 of the layer of insulating material IL, although the machine and the method according to the present invention can of course also be applied to the treatment of different panels.
Starting from such a panel, following the intervention of a machine according to the present invention or the development of a process in accordance with the present invention, at the protruding portion L4 of the front end FE and/or rear end RE of the panel, the cutting means 4 even cuts parts of the first sheet SH1, so that the layer of insulating material IL is not separated along its entire width from the first sheet SH1.
In this case, the cutting means 4 also perform the function of dividing, at the protruding portion L4 of the respective end FE and/or RE, the first sheet SH1 into a part SH9 effectively separated from the layer of insulating material IL and a another end part which instead remains adhered to the part of layer of insulating material IL which is removed.
Subsequently, the part SH9 of sheet SH1 cut is folded to close a free end IL1 of a respective layer of insulating material IL, so as to obtain an at least partially boxed panel BP. Basically, in this case, the first sheet SH1 would be closed or boxed or bent only for part of its extension from one side L1 to the other L2, therefore not at the protruding portion L4.
Instead, at the recessed portion L3, the bent part of the first sheet SH1 would also cover an area actually without a layer of insulating material IL and designed to receive a protruding part of an adjacent panel.
Thanks to this expedient, when boxed panels BP are approached and engaged to obtain a respective structure, such as a roof or a wall, the protruding portions L4 of the panels would be inserted into the hollow portions L3 of adjacent panels, so that the part of first sheet SH1 folded at the hollowed portions L3 would cover the layer of insulating material at the protruding portions L4 so as to obtain a boxing or overall closure of the front and/or rear ends of adjacent and constrained panels.
This would clearly depend on the type of sandwich panel that is boxed, so the present invention is not to be understood as limited to this aspect with panels having hollow portions L3 and protruding portions L4 as shown in figures 14 to 16.
However, if a machine or system like the one in figures 12 and 13 is used, then the sheet SH1, at the front end FE and/or rear PE or better a respective protruding sheet section SH3, will present, from the inside towards the outside, first a second part SH5 partially or totally covering a free end IL1 of a respective layer of insulating material IL and then the first part SH4 substantially overhanging, if desired orthogonal to the second part SH5. In essence, in this case the section SH3 would be composed of SH4 plus SH5.
Two adjacent panels placed side by side at the front ends FE and rear ends RE, could have the first parts SH4 superimposed on each other and, if desired, constrained or not by any suitable means of constraint, such as glue, rivets, screws, mechanical joint or other.
With regard to this aspect, the position of the first parts SH4 so as to allow this overlapping can be varied, for example, by regulating the working position of the abutment means 13, 14.
The object of the present invention is also a boxed sandwich panel partly as described above, preferably obtained with a machine in accordance with the present invention.
Such a panel SP therefore comprises at least one main support or insulating layer or block IL as well as at least one sheet SH1 applied or adhered to at least one main face of the main support or insulating layer or block IL.
The sandwich panel SP is then provided with a front end FE, a rear end PE and two sides L1, L2, while the sheet SH1 has at least one terminal section SH3 folded at the front end FE and/or rear PE so to cover at least part of the front and/or rear face of the main support or insulating layer or block IL.
Preferably, the terminal section SH3 comprises from the inside outwards, first a second part SH5 for partial or total coverage of an end IL1 of a respective layer of insulating material IL and then a substantially cantilever first part SH4, which is inclined or orthogonal with respect to the second part SH5.
The extension from one side L1 to the other L2 of the terminal section SH3 substantially corresponds to that of the panel SP or in any case equal to at least 70, 80% or 90% of the same. The same applies to any first part SH4.
The first part SH4 could have any suitable extension (i.e. the distance of the respective free end from its end of constraint or connection or continuity with the second part SH5), for example between 10 and 25 mm. Of course, the width of the first part SH4 from one side L1 to the other L2 is constant, but it could also be variable.
Object of the present invention is also a covering or cladding for roofs or walls comprising a plurality of box-shaped panels as indicated above, which panels are placed side by side at respective edges or sides L1, L2, engagement or interlocking means of adjacent panels being in engagement and constrain with each other.
Moreover, in the case of boxed panels so as to also have a cantilevered first part SH4, the covering or cladding would also have adjacent panels juxtaposed at the front ends FE and/or rear ends RE, with the first parts SH4 superimposed on each other and, if desired, constrained together or not by any suitable means, such as glue, rivets, screws, mechanical fitting or other.
As it will be ascertained, a machine or line for obtaining boxed panels according to the present invention allows to make boxed panels in a simple and rapid manner.
Moreover, such a machine or line allows to intervene on a panel in a precise and reliable manner, being it possible to repeat the same operations on a plurality of panels.
It will also be noted how it is possible to produce boxed panels with a desired configuration, since it is possible to vary the position or in any case the intervention of the components of the machine or line so as to effectively adapt to the dimensions of the panels to be treated as well as to any processing requirement.
Modifications and variations of the invention are possible within the scope of protection defined by the claims.

Claims

Machine or line or system for obtaining boxed panels (BP) starting from sandwich panels (SP) with at least one sheet (SH1) coupled to a layer of insulating material (IL), said machine comprising:
- a main frame (2) defining a support surface (SS) for at least one sandwich panel (SP),

- first cutting means (3) arranged to make a cut parallel to said support surface (SS) for separating a section of sheet (SH1) of a sandwich panel (SP) from a respective part of the layer of insulating material (IL),

- second cutting means (4) arranged to make a cut substantially orthogonally or transversely to said support surface (SS), said second cutting means (4) acting or making a cut in a plane where the front or end of cutting of said first cutting means (3) lies or at said plane, so that said second cutting means (4) are arranged to separate from the remaining panel the part of insulating material (IL) previously or simultaneously separated from a respective section of sheet (SH1) by the first cutting means (3) or so that said first cutting means (3) are arranged to separate from the remaining panel a part of insulating material (IL) following the intervention of the second cutting means (4), thereby obtaining a sandwich panel without a part of insulating material for the entire respective thickness and thus with a section (SH3) of protruding sheet,

- folding means (5) which can be moved between a rest configuration and a folding configuration at least partially according to a direction orthogonal or transverse to said support surface (SS), so as to carry out a folding action of a section (SH3) of protruding sheet following the intervention of the first (3) and second (4) cutting means, closing or close to a free end (IL1) of a respective layer of insulating material (IL), so as to obtain a panel at least partially boxed (BP).
Machine according to claim 1, wherein the cutting position or trim of said first and/or said second cutting means is adjustable.
Machine according to claim 1 or 2, wherein said first (3) and/or said second (4) cutting means are slidingly mounted relative to the support frame (2) in a horizontal direction parallel to the direction from a side (S1) to the other (S2) of the machine or line.
Machine according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said folding means (5) comprise at least one flap or plate or thrust component (5a) which can be moved manually or by a respective actuator (5b).
Machine according to claim 4, wherein said flap or plate or thrust component (5a) is pivoted to the frame (2).
Machine according to claim 5, wherein said flap or plate or thrust component (5a) is mounted in an opening defined by a platform (2a) of said frame (2).
Machine according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said first and/or second cutting means (3, 4) comprise at least one cutting blade (3a, 4a) and wherein means for actuating (3b, 4b) said at least one blade (3a, 4a) are provided.
Machine according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said folding means (5) are movable between a rest configuration and a folding configuration at least partially according to a direction orthogonal to said support surface (SS) and upward or downward.
Machine according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising at least one abutment component (6a, 6b) arranged to constitute an abutment ledge for a panel to define the position of the latter during the intervention of said cutting means (3, 4) and/or said folding means (5).
Machine according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising means for ejecting part of insulating material (IL) separated from said cutting means (3, 4).
Machine according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising pressing means (10) arranged to push a sandwich panel towards said support surface (SS) so as to removably lock the sandwich panel in a determined position on said surface during cutting operations by means of said cutting means (3, 4) and/or during folding operations by means said folding means (5).
Machine according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said first cutting means (3) act in a horizontal, in use, plane, while said second cutting means (4) act in a vertical, in use, plane.
Machine according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising pre-folding means including at least one deformation component (12) acting at least partially in a direction orthogonal to the support surface (SS), said deformation component (12) being arranged to carry out a pre-folding action of part of a section of protruding sheet (SH1) following the intervention of the first (3) and second (4) cutting means away from a free end of a respective layer of insulating material (IL), said deformation component (12) being designed to be operated before said folding means (5).
Machine according to claim 13, wherein said at least one deformation component (12) acts at least partially in a direction orthogonal to the support surface (SS).
Machine according to claim 13 or 14, comprising abutment means (13, 14) arranged to constitute stop or clamp references, during the intervention of said deformation component (12), for respective parts or portions of a section of a protruding sheet following the intervention of the first (3) and second (4) cutting means, so as to determine a deformation of said portion of a protruding section of sheet by means of said deformation component (12).
Method for obtaining boxed panels (BP) starting from sandwich panels (SP) with at least one sheet (SH1) coupled to a layer of insulating material (IL), said method being implemented by means of a machine according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising the following steps:
- loading a sandwich panel (SP) on said support surface (SS) and then conveying said sandwich panel (SP) towards the cutting means (3, 4) and/or vice versa,

- operating said first cutting means (3) and said second cutting means (4) so as to obtain, once the sandwich panel (SP) has been brought into the action area of the first (3) and second (4) cutting means and/or vice versa, a sandwich panel without a part of insulating material for its entire thickness and thus with a protruding section of sheet (SH3),

- operating said folding means (5) so as to fold said protruding section of sheet (SH3) following the intervention of the first (3) and second (4) cutting means and bringing it closed or close to a free end (IL1) of a respective layer of insulating material (IL), so as to obtain an at least partially boxed panel.
Method according to the preceding claim implemented by means of a machine according to any one of claims 13, 14 or 15, wherein after carrying out the cutting actions by means of the cutting means (3, 4), the deformation component (12) is activated to perform a bending action of a first part (SH4) of the protruding section (SH3) of sheet following the intervention of the first (3) and second (4) cutting means away from a free end of a respective layer of insulating material (IL), and subsequently
said folding means (5) are activated so as to fold the entire protruding section of sheet (SH3) following the intervention of the deformation component (12) thereby bringing it with a respective second part as a closure or close to a free end (IL1) of a respective layer of insulating material (IL), so as to obtain an at least partially boxed panel, this panel having a protruding or cantilevered section (SH4) of a sheet not closing or close to the insulating material.
Box-shaped sandwich panel for obtaining walls or roofs comprising at least one main support or insulating layer or block (IL) as well as at least one sheet (SH1) applied or adhered to at least one main face of the main support or insulating layer or block (IL),
said sandwich panel (SP) comprising a front end (FE), a rear end (PE) and two sides (L1, L2),

said at least one sheet (SH1) having at least one terminal section (SH3) bent at said front (FE) and/or rear (PE) end so as to cover at least part of the front and/or rear face of said main support or insulation layer or block (IL),

wherein said terminal section (SH3) comprises from the inside towards the outside, first a second part (SH5) partially or entirely covering an end (IL1) of a respective layer of insulating material (IL) and then a substantially protruding or cantilever first part (SH4) which does not close or is not close to the layer of insulating material (IL), said first part (SH4) being inclined or orthogonal with respect to the second part (SH5).
Sandwich panel according to claim 18, wherein said first part (SH4), starting from said second part (SH5), extends away from the layer of insulating material (IL).
Covering or cladding for roofs or walls comprising at least two sandwich panels according to claim 18 or 19 adjacent and placed side by side at respective front (FE) or rear (RE) ends, one of said two panels having the respective first part (SH4) superimposed on the first part (SH4) of the other of said two panels.
Covering or coating according to claim 20, wherein said panels have the first parts (SH4) constrained to one another by means of a constraining means, such as for example glue, rivets, screws or mechanical fitting.